Heritage 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade students took part in the district’s first ever Academic STEAM Bowl Competition held on Wednesday, October 27 at Gallardo Elementary. Like anything else, it was a little bumpy of a start but our students shined through. We had a total of nine teams participating; three teams of 3rd graders, three teams of 4th graders, and three teams of 5th graders. With this being the first time for this event, it was more of a scrimmage, or a practice, so we’re not sure of the exact winners, etc.; but we know our students performed amazingly. The next competition will be held on Wednesday, November 10 where we are confident our teams will rise to the challenge again. Great job Heritage Cardinals!
In the News
Heritage hosts Trunk or Treat
On Friday, Oct. 29, Heritage hosted its first ever Trunk or Treat event. We had a super turn out with the line of families waiting to drive though reaching almost to Campbellton Road on 1604. While they waited, a scary clown visited each car hyping up the kiddos and scaring some of the adults. When families circled around the back of the school they were treated to hot dogs and popcorn provided by our awesome PTO. Thank you PTO! Next they passed by teachers dressed in various costumes from Scooby Doo and the Gang to Disney villains, where students collected loads of candy. Thank you to all the parents and guardians that patiently waited and participated in this fun event for our students!
Introducing the 1st Grade Team
Last month you were introduced to our office staff and this month we want to introduce you to our 1st Grade Team. This strong team of women is led by Ms. Venessa Cerda, she has been at Heritage 11 years and with the district 16 years. The other members of her team are Ms. Barbi Oliver, Mrs. Angel Monroy, and Ms. Karen Tapia. The Dual Language teachers are Mrs. Diana Holguin and Mrs. Hedit Castoreno. These ladies vary from being seasoned with 20+ years teaching experience to being fresh out of college. This diverse group uses all their knowledge and skills; and together they assess, plan, and work hard to move their students ahead in math and reading.
Since last month, Heritage has welcomed another addition to our office/administrative staff. Dr. Devonna Friesenhahn is our new Academic Dean. Welcome to the team!
Pictured from left to right: Oliver, Castoreno, Holguin, Monroy, Cerda, Tapia. And pictured separately is Friesenhahn.
Office Team
We realize that since March of 2020 many parents have not been able to be on campus. We have lots of new students along with 1st and 2nd grade parents that have not met many of our staff members. For this reason, we will be showcasing a different team each month as a virtual introduction.
Our office staff consists of our principal, Ms. Puente; assistant principal, Mr. Martinez; instructional coach, Mrs. Wright; counselor, Mrs. Campos; nurse, Ms. Alvarado; secretary, Deborah Sanchez; attendance clerk, Melinda Perez; and receptionist, Sylvia Trinidad. This team of people works diligently to make sure our school runs smoothly and our students come first. They are a talented bunch with varied interests and strengths, but together they form the backbone of our team.
Pictured left to right are Sanchez, Wright, Martinez, Puente, Perez, Campos, Alvarado
9/11 Remembrance Day
One of the unique things about our school is since September 11, 2001 we have had an annual day of remembrance. Every year our students and staff members have come together to honor those who lost their lives and the first responders that still put their lives on the line. This year we were fortunate to have officers from the San Antonio Police Department and the SAPD Eagle Flight helicopter join us. We also welcomed San Antonio Fire Department firefighters. Prior to the big day, students learned the Lee Greenwood song, I’m Proud to be an American, and learned the history of 9/11. Students made cards and banners to welcome our guests and show their appreciation. As our ceremony began, a second helicopter flew overhead, taking pictures for local news outlets. A reporter from the San Antonio Express News was also on campus taking pictures and interviewing students. Students led the ceremony with pledges, a few words about 9/11 and first responders, and a moment of silence. This was followed up by Superintendent Rolando Ramirez saying a few words along with a police officer and firefighter speaking to the students. Students were encouraged to read, work hard, and follow their dreams. This annual Heritage tradition is something students look forward to and were heard talking about for days afterwards.
STEAM in Specials Classes & at the HS Game
With our district adding STEAM to the academic components that make up a well rounded education, Heritage has chosen to include STEAM in its Specials Rotations. In addition, STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, & Math) was offered to students district wide this summer and many of our students took part, enjoying every day. Recently, two of our students had the opportunity to go behind the scenes at a Southside HS football game on September 17, where they assisted high school students on the field and in the booth of the jumbotron. In the daily Music, Art, and PE classes teachers have been including different aspects of STEAM into their lessons. Music class has offered students an opportunity to learn about vibrations and sound waves. Art class has been using the Engineering Design Process to plan, create, and modify their art pieces. While in PE, students have been using movement to push themselves into a deeper understanding of their bodies. The rest of the year will see five of the body systems taught during Specials and also an additional lesson taught to non-intramural athletes once a week (while the athletes practice). These vocabulary rich lessons will benefit our students throughout their lifetimes as they see anything is possible as long as you have a problem solving mentality.