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    <title>Ysleta ISD - News</title>
    <link>http://news.yisd.net</link>
    <description>News and Announcements from Ysleta Independent School District in El Paso, TX</description>
    <copyright>Copyright Ysleta ISD 2009. All rights reserved.</copyright>
    <ttl>30</ttl>
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      <title><![CDATA[YISD Closed for Holiday: November 23-27]]></title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p>We wish you and your family a happy and safe Thanksgiving holiday.<br /><br />The District will be closed from November 23-27, 2009. Classes will resume Monday, November 30, 2009.</p>]]></description>
      <link>http://news.yisd.net/story.aspx?id=251</link>
      <guid>http://news.yisd.net/story.aspx?id=251</guid>
      <pubDate>Fri, 20 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[City of El Paso 2009 H1N1 Flu Vaccine Clinic]]></title>
      <description><![CDATA[<a href="http://www2.yisd.net/education/components/docmgr/download.php?sectiondetailid=151080&fileitem=44346&catfilter=9957">http://www2.yisd.net/education/components/docmgr/download.php?sectiondetailid=151080&fileitem=44346&catfilter=9957</a>]]></description>
      <link>http://www2.yisd.net/education/components/docmgr/download.php?sectiondetailid=151080&amp;fileitem=44346&amp;catfilter=9957</link>
      <guid>http://www2.yisd.net/education/components/docmgr/download.php?sectiondetailid=151080&amp;fileitem=44346&amp;catfilter=9957</guid>
      <pubDate>Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[Parkland Elementary student to participate in NFL's Punt, Pass and Kick contest]]></title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p>Matthew Porras, a 6th grade student from Parkland Elementary, is the regional winner of the Punt, Pass and Kick in his age group.&nbsp;&nbsp;He will participate in the NFL's Punt, Pass and Kick contest during the Cowboys vs. Redskins game on 11/22/2009 during Halftime. &nbsp;&nbsp;He competed in the Sun Bowl October 13, 2009.&nbsp;&nbsp; He beat out other students from Odessa, Lubbock and other cities in West Texas in the 10 and 11 year old division. &nbsp;&nbsp;His combined score for a punt, pass and kick was 278 points during the contest.</p>]]></description>
      <link>http://news.yisd.net/story.aspx?id=248</link>
      <guid>http://news.yisd.net/story.aspx?id=248</guid>
      <pubDate>Tue, 17 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[YISD story featured in AVID website]]></title>
      <description><![CDATA[Eastwood Knolls AVID students have been featured in the "AVID World" section of the AVID website.<br />Hundreds of entries were submitted and our school was choosen. <br /> Please view the following link to view the full story!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.avidonline.org/info/?tabid=2&ID=559#angels">AVID "Angels in the Outfield"</a>]]></description>
      <link>http://news.yisd.net/story.aspx?id=246</link>
      <guid>http://news.yisd.net/story.aspx?id=246</guid>
      <pubDate>Thu, 12 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[6 YISD students win National Bus Safety Week poster contest]]></title>
      <description><![CDATA[ <span style="color: black;">The Ysleta Independent School District celebrated National Bus Safety Week Oct. 19 through 23. As part of the celebrations, a poster contest was held for students across the district. The following students were the winners of the contest:</span><br /> <br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: black;">Mesa Vista&nbsp; </span><br /> <span style="color: black;">Samuel Sambrano-Healler&nbsp; </span><br /> <span style="color: black;">Christina Ybañez&nbsp; </span><br /> <span style="color: black;">Juan Navarro</span><br /> <br /> <span style="font-weight: bold;">Lebarron Park&nbsp; </span><br /> Jocelyn Gutierrez&nbsp; <br /> Kaitlyn Cano&nbsp; <br /> <br /> <span style="font-weight: bold;">Alicia Chacon</span>&nbsp; <br /> Annabelle Cordero&nbsp; <span style="font-weight: bold;">&nbsp; </span><br />]]></description>
      <link>http://news.yisd.net/story.aspx?id=237</link>
      <guid>http://news.yisd.net/story.aspx?id=237</guid>
      <pubDate>Tue, 10 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[Del Valle High School Marching Band Advances to State Competition]]></title>
      <description><![CDATA[ The Del Valle High School marching band has advanced to the UIL State Marching Band Co<span style="font-weight: bold;">n</span>test on Nov. 3 at the Alamodome in San Antonio. They placed fourth out of 20 marching bands in the preliminary round of the 4A Area competition and were one of five bands that advanced to the state contest. The Del Valle band is one of 21 bands total competing in San Antonio.<br /><br /> There are 200 students in the Del Valle marching band, which is directed by Manny Gamez . Assistant directors are Armando Martinez, Nick Flood and Jeremy Isley. This will be the band’s third appearance at the state competition in the last nine years. The title of their show is “An Act of Vengeance.”<br /><br /> The Riverside High School marching band also competed at the area competition and placed 13<sup>th</sup> in the preliminary round.<br /> <br />]]></description>
      <link>http://news.yisd.net/story.aspx?id=234</link>
      <guid>http://news.yisd.net/story.aspx?id=234</guid>
      <pubDate>Thu, 29 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[UPDATED: Employee Health Benefits Plan]]></title>
      <description><![CDATA[ 1.&nbsp; <a href="http://www2.yisd.net/education/components/docmgr/download.php?sectiondetailid=143166&fileitem=43293">Updated YISD Employee Benefits 10-28-09</a><br /> <br /> 2.&nbsp; <a href="http://www2.yisd.net/education/components/docmgr/download.php?sectiondetailid=143166&fileitem=42905">Flu Shots Update</a><br /> <br /> 3.&nbsp; <a href="http://www2.yisd.net/education/components/docmgr/download.php?sectiondetailid=143166&fileitem=42878">Updated YISD Employee Benefits</a><br /> <br /> 4.&nbsp; <a href="http://www2.yisd.net/education/components/docmgr/download.php?sectiondetailid=143166&fileitem=42553">Employee Health Benefits Plan Update (10/16/09)</a><br /><br /> 5.&nbsp; <a href="http://www2.yisd.net/education/components/docmgr/download.php?sectiondetailid=143166&fileitem=42411&catfilter=8433">Employee Health Benefits Plan Update (10/9/09)</a><br /> <br /> 6.&nbsp; <a href="http://www2.yisd.net/education/components/docmgr/download.php?sectiondetailid=143166&fileitem=41803">Employee Health Benefits Advance Information Presentation </a><br /> <br /> 7.&nbsp; <a href="http://www2.yisd.net/education/components/docmgr/download.php?sectiondetailid=143166&fileitem=41407">Employee Health Benefits Plan Update (9/24/09) </a><br /> <br /> 8.&nbsp; <a href="http://www2.yisd.net/education/components/docmgr/download.php?sectiondetailid=143166&fileitem=41408">Employee Notification of New Health Plans</a> <br /> <br /> 9.&nbsp; <a href="http://www2.yisd.net/education/components/docmgr/download.php?sectiondetailid=143166&fileitem=41410">FAQ for Employees re HSA </a><br /> <br /> 10.&nbsp; <a href="http://www2.yisd.net/education/components/docmgr/download.php?sectiondetailid=143166&fileitem=41409">Enrollment Schedule Flyer 2009 </a><br /> <br /> 11.&nbsp; <a href="http://news.yisd.net/story.aspx?id=175">YISD Wellness Clinic Update </a><br /> <br /> 12.&nbsp; <a href="http://www2.yisd.net/education/components/docmgr/download.php?sectiondetailid=143166&fileitem=41611">HSA Information </a><br /> <br /> 13.&nbsp; <a href="http://www2.yisd.net/education/components/docmgr/download.php?sectiondetailid=143166&fileitem=41612">Express Scripts Drug Preventive Care List 2009 </a><br /> <br /> 14.&nbsp; <a href="http://www2.yisd.net/education/components/docmgr/download.php?sectiondetailid=143166&fileitem=41614">CHIP Application and Information </a><br /> <br /> 15.&nbsp; <a href="http://www2.yisd.net/education/components/docmgr/download.php?sectiondetailid=143166&fileitem=41615">&nbsp;Special Package Plan Schedule of Benefits </a><br /> <br /> 16.&nbsp; <a href="http://www2.yisd.net/education/components/docmgr/download.php?sectiondetailid=143166&fileitem=41792">Health Plan Q&amp;A </a><br /> <br /> 17.&nbsp; <a href="http://www2.yisd.net/education/components/docmgr/download.php?sectiondetailid=143166&fileitem=36256">Ysleta ISD Employee Benefits FAQ Sheet </a><br /> <br /> 18.&nbsp; <a href="http://www2.yisd.net/education/components/docmgr/download.php?sectiondetailid=143166&fileitem=42205">Training Session Request Form </a><br /> <br /> 19.&nbsp; <a href="http://www2.yisd.net/education/components/docmgr/download.php?sectiondetailid=143166&fileitem=42412">Key Facts About H1N1 Flu Vaccine</a><br /> <br /> 20.&nbsp; <a href="http://www2.yisd.net/education/components/docmgr/download.php?sectiondetailid=143166&fileitem=42406">Flu Shot Dates </a><br /> <br /> 21.&nbsp; <a href="http://www2.yisd.net/education/components/docmgr/download.php?sectiondetailid=143166&fileitem=42404">Know Your Benefits </a><br /><br /> 22.&nbsp; <a href="http://www2.yisd.net/education/components/docmgr/download.php?sectiondetailid=143166&fileitem=42405">Glossary </a><br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br />]]></description>
      <link>http://news.yisd.net/story.aspx?id=211</link>
      <guid>http://news.yisd.net/story.aspx?id=211</guid>
      <pubDate>Wed, 28 Oct 2009 12:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[YISD earns netTrekker award for safe Internet usage]]></title>
      <description><![CDATA[The Ysleta Independent School District received a Top 100 Safe Search Award from netTrekker. The district was recognized for ranking in the top 100 districts for keeping students safe online with outstanding netTrekker usage during the 2008-2009 school year. The district was also awarded for extremely successful districtwide implementation of netTrekker. YISD was ranked sixth in the nation and second in Texas in netTrekker usage. <br /><br />NetTrekker is an educational Internet search tool used by K-12 educators and students. It connects users to standards-aligned digital resources and technology tools specifically designed for engaging students in a learning experience to meet their unique needs.<br />]]></description>
      <link>http://news.yisd.net/story.aspx?id=232</link>
      <guid>http://news.yisd.net/story.aspx?id=232</guid>
      <pubDate>Wed, 28 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[YISD secretary honored at UTEP football game]]></title>
      <description><![CDATA[Three breast cancer survivors were honored at the UTEP-Tulsa football game Wednesday, October 21 in the Sun Bowl. One of those survivors was YISD secretary Dolores Armendariz. <br /> Armendariz, who works in the Facilities and Construction office in Central Office, was diagnosed with cancer on Aug. 5 and had a mastectomy on Aug. 25. She has just recently begun chemotherapy. Despite the life changing events that she has undergone, Armendariz remains positive and sees her ordeal as a blessing.<br /><br /> “It gives you a different perspective on life. I feel blessed in a way because … I consider this a second chance,” Armendariz said.<br /><br /> She said her diagnosis has given her a chance to reflect on life, take it day by day and use her “gift of gab” to spread a message of hope and inspiration.<br /><br /> “I’m willing to share my story so others know not to be afraid, so they don’t live in fear, so they know to enjoy what you have.”<br /><br /> Armendariz, who has worked with YISD for four years, said once she was diagnosed, she and her husband visited the Susan G. Komen office and met with outreach manager Maria Sanchez. Sanchez was inspired by Armendariz’s strength. Armendariz said Sanchez has been offering her support and guidance ever since that first meeting. When Sanchez was given the opportunity to honor cancer victims at the UTEP game, she approached Armendariz because she left a strong impression on her.<br /><br /> “She said that we made an impact on her because I went in with my husband and we were trying to get educated (on breast cancer awareness),” Armendariz said.<br /><br /> Her biggest supporter, she said, has been her husband. “He has been my rock. When I started the chemo, he was the one who was reading up on it and would tell me you need to do this or this,” Armendariz said. He has been instrumental in helping her get through it all.<br /><br /> The diagnosis, surgery and chemo has been tough, she said, mostly because people don’t know what to say. “But it turns you to faith and it teaches you to appreciate each day.” <br /> <br />]]></description>
      <link>http://news.yisd.net/story.aspx?id=219</link>
      <guid>http://news.yisd.net/story.aspx?id=219</guid>
      <pubDate>Thu, 22 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[Following an infection]]></title>
      <description><![CDATA[]]></description>
      <link>http://www2.yisd.net/education/components/docmgr/download.php?sectiondetailid=143166&amp;fileitem=42930</link>
      <guid>http://www2.yisd.net/education/components/docmgr/download.php?sectiondetailid=143166&amp;fileitem=42930</guid>
      <pubDate>Wed, 21 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[Immunize El Paso Temporarily Halts Flu Shot Clinics]]></title>
      <description><![CDATA[<font>FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <br><br>CONTACT: <br>Dusty Warden, Outreach Coordinator <br>Mobile: 915-727-0898 <br>Office: 915-533-3414 x10<br><br><br><span style="font-weight: bold;">Immunize El Paso Temporarily Halts Flu Shot Clinics</span><br><br>(EL PASO, TX) October 20, 2009 – Immunize El Paso has had to cease flu vaccination clinics for foreseeable future. Manufacturer delays in shipping vaccine due to H1N1 vaccine production has stricken clinics nationwide and has now begun to have an effect on El Paso clinics. Clinic staff from Immunize El Paso has been in contact with the vaccine manufacturers on a daily basis to ensure they can continue receiving vaccine to fulfill the needs of our clinics. <br>“We have used all of our leverage to avoid running out of vaccine two other times this flu season, but it appears that we can be without vaccine this entire week” said Dusty Warden, Outreach Coordinator for Immunize El Paso. <br><br>“We have been assured that our entire order of over 20,000 doses will be delivered, but just not on the originally proposed timeline.” Warden continued. <br><br>Officials advise that everyone seeking a seasonal flu vaccination should be able to receive one, however patience will be required. The seasonal flu is typically at its highest January through April. <br><br>The immunization group has delivered over 13,000 doses of injectable and nasal-mist vaccine. Immunize El Paso will inform the public once additional vaccine supplies are obtained and can resume their public outreach schedule, which is anticipated by the end of this week. <br><br><br><span style="font-style: italic;">About us… </span><br>Immunize El Paso is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization dedicated to promoting health and safety in El Paso County, serving to the metro and rural areas of the borderland. Immunize El Paso works in partnership with the City of El Paso Department of Public Health in immunization projects across the city. For more information, you can reach us at the above listed information.<br></font>]]></description>
      <link>http://news.yisd.net/story.aspx?id=215</link>
      <guid>http://news.yisd.net/story.aspx?id=215</guid>
      <pubDate>Tue, 20 Oct 2009 14:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[Celebrate Global Handwashing Day]]></title>
      <description><![CDATA[Today is Global Handwashing Day. Get involved! Wash your hands and encourage others to practice good handwashing habits.<br /><br />The driving theme for Global Handwashing Day is children and schools, and the main objectives of this global celebration are:<br /><br />·&nbsp;Foster and support a global and local culture of handwashing with soap.<br />·&nbsp;Shine a spotlight on the state of handwashing in each country.<br />·&nbsp;Raise awareness about the benefits of handwashing with soap. <br /><br />Although people around the world wash their hands with water, few wash their hands with soap at the critical occasions. More handwashing with soap means lower rates of infectious disease: Clean Hands Save Lives!<br /><br />Initiated in 2008 by the Global Public-Private Partnership for Handwashing with Soap, Global Handwashing Day is endorsed by a wide array of governments, international institutions, civil society organizations, NGOs, private companies and individuals around the globe.<br /><br />Also, the Pan American Health Organization/ WorldHealth Organization, in collaboration with a long list of partners, is inviting the schools in the Americas to establish a World Guinness Record of the number of students washing their hands with soap and water at noon on Thursday,October 15, 2009.&nbsp;<br /><br />]]></description>
      <link>http://news.yisd.net/story.aspx?id=214</link>
      <guid>http://news.yisd.net/story.aspx?id=214</guid>
      <pubDate>Thu, 15 Oct 2009 14:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[Know What to do to Prevent Pandemic Flu]]></title>
      <description><![CDATA[<a href="http://www2.yisd.net/education/components/docmgr/default.php?sectiondetailid=151080&catfilter=ALL#showDoc">Click here to learn how to prevent Pandemic Flu"</a>]]></description>
      <link>http://www2.yisd.net/education/components/docmgr/default.php?sectiondetailid=151080&amp;catfilter=ALL#showDoc</link>
      <guid>http://www2.yisd.net/education/components/docmgr/default.php?sectiondetailid=151080&amp;catfilter=ALL#showDoc</guid>
      <pubDate>Wed, 07 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[Pebble Hills Celebrates Return Home]]></title>
      <description><![CDATA[<span style="font-style: italic;">By Christy Flores-Jones<br />YISD Website<br />9/30/09</span><br /><br /><span style="color: black;">Principal Robert Martinez officially welcomed back his students, parents, faculty and staff to Pebble Hills Elementary School at a grand opening celebration on Sept. 22. The grand opening and tour of the building was held in conjunction with the school’s first parent night.</span><br /><br /> <span style="color: black;">Martinez thanked parents, staff and district employees for their help in moving students from Pebble Hills to the former Parkland Elementary and then back again. The students, faculty and staff were forced to spend last school year at Parkland Elementary in Northeast El Paso after mold was found in Pebble Hills. <br /><br />Martinez was very appreciative for the numerous individuals in the district and the community who helped when the school needed them most. “People I had never even met before came out to help,” he said.<br /><br />Board members Beth Riggs and Liza Montelongo also thanked the Pebble Hills community for their patience and cooperation. Montelongo congratulated the students and staff for the fact that despite the challenging year, the school still emerged as a TEA Recognized campus.<br /><br />Superintendent of Schools Michael Zolkoski also recognized the students and staff for their perseverance and for not losing focus on education. He thanked parents, Martinez and his staff, the transportation and maintenance departments for supporting the students. Zolkoski said he hoped the students and staff are enjoying the improvements to the school.<br /><br />After the mold was discovered in the school last year, it was immediately removed. Maintenance crews spent last year repairing and renovating the building. Improvements included new r</span>efrigerated air conditioning, a new paint job, upgraded lighting, upgraded fire and sprinkler system and an expanded library.]]></description>
      <link>http://news.yisd.net/story.aspx?id=207</link>
      <guid>http://news.yisd.net/story.aspx?id=207</guid>
      <pubDate>Mon, 05 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[New Goodwill store at Riverside HS]]></title>
      <description><![CDATA[<span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic; color: black;">By Christy Flores-Jones</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic; color: black;">YISD Website</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic; color: black;">9/29/09</span><br /><br /><span style="color: black;">A&nbsp;new Goodwill store opened at Riverside High School on Sept. 24 as part of a YISD/Goodwill partnership. The store will The YISD/Goodwill project is the first of its kind and the only one in the nation. </span><br /><br /><span style="color: black;">&quot;We've been working on this for two and a half years, so to see it come together is amazing,&quot; said Tom Andrews, president and CEO of Goodwill Industries of El Paso Inc.</span><br /><br /><span style="color: black;">The Riverside High School based Goodwill store is a fully operational Goodwill store that is open for business to students, YISD personnel and the general public. It will be &nbsp;an innovative high-school transition program, which provides students with cognitive deficiencies, and who are nearing high school completion and/or graduation, with training and job skills development. </span><br /><span style="color: black;">&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="color: black;">&quot;The best part of the store is that it will give students real on-the-job training without them having to leave the campus,&quot; said Michael Zolkoski, YISD superintendent.<br /><br />Participating students of the YISD/Goodwill Project will be under the supervision of a Goodwill store manager, as well as, supported by the YISD Special Education Department. &nbsp;Goodwill employees will work closely with students, teachers and support personnel to teach student participants the intricacies of the retail industry and skills necessary to successfully operate a successful Goodwill store. </span><br /><br /><span style="color: black;">&quot;The store at Riverside will help students learn skills for the future and gain employment after graduation,&quot; Andrews said.<br /><br />As student participants near graduation and/or the completion of the program, Goodwill Industries of El Paso will assign a Job Developer who will work with and collaborate with the student, parents/guardians and school faculty to assist the student in finding a job that best suits the student’s strengths, acquired job skills and preferences. <br />The Ysleta ISD/Goodwill partnership stands as a monument promoting persistence, determination and innovation and is proud of the collaborative efforts with Goodwill Industries of El Paso Inc. <br /><br /></span><br />]]></description>
      <link>http://news.yisd.net/story.aspx?id=204</link>
      <guid>http://news.yisd.net/story.aspx?id=204</guid>
      <pubDate>Thu, 01 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[Parents, community members attend meeting on proposed bridge]]></title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p>About 80 people attended a community meeting at Riverside High School regarding a proposed port of entry in the Ysleta Independent School District. YISD board president Marty Reyes conducted the meeting to talk to citizens about the possible plan to build a new international bridge in the Ysleta area. If a bridge is built in that area it could have a major impact on schools and neighborhoods in YISD, board members have said. Several constituents spoke up to voice their concerns and to ask Reyes questions about the possible construction of the bridge. She urged residents to continue to voice their opposition to the bridge, sign petitions, write to City Council representatives and talk to their neighbors about the bridge plan.</p><a href="http://www2.yisd.net/education/components/docmgr/download.php?sectiondetailid=73880&amp;fileitem=41431">Download a copy of the PowerPoint presentation from the meeting.</a><br><br><a href="http://www2.yisd.net/education/components/docmgr/download.php?sectiondetailid=73880&amp;fileitem=41791">El Paso - Juarez Transportation Link Map</a><br>]]></description>
      <link>http://news.yisd.net/story.aspx?id=202</link>
      <guid>http://news.yisd.net/story.aspx?id=202</guid>
      <pubDate>Wed, 30 Sep 2009 10:30:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[Pebble Hills Elementary School Grand Opening]]></title>
      <description><![CDATA[<span style="font-weight: bold;">WHAT:</span> &nbsp;Pebble Hills Elementary School Grand Opening<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">WHEN:</span>&nbsp; <span style="font-weight: bold;">5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 22, 2009</span>.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">WHERE:</span> &nbsp;Gym at Pebble Hills Elementary School, 11145 Edgemere Blvd.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">DETAILS:</span>&nbsp; Parents are invited to this grand opening celebration for Pebble Hills Elementary School. The students, faculty and staff are back in Pebble Hills after attending classes last school year at the former Parkland Elementary School. The students and staff were relocated after mold was found in Pebble Hills.<br />]]></description>
      <link>http://news.yisd.net/story.aspx?id=182</link>
      <guid>http://news.yisd.net/story.aspx?id=182</guid>
      <pubDate>Fri, 18 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[Presa Elementary adopts dual language program ]]></title>
      <description><![CDATA[<b>Presa Elementary adopts dual-language program</b><br /><br /><b>Sgt. Marcie C. Wright<br />5th Armored Bde., First Army Div. West</b><br /><br />In today’s society, bilingualism is becoming more of a necessity than an option. The promotion of such an educational program in Texas has been spotlighted in educational publications, as it proves successful for students, academically and socially.<br /><br />Presa Elementary School continues its climb, stepping up another rung on the ladder to success with the inception of the dual-language program this academic year.<br /><br />“The program is about capitalizing on the strengths of the children instead of taking away what they came with, like language and culture,” said Cindy Sizemore, dual-language coordinator for the Ysleta Independent School District. “It gives students a sense of purpose … because they help one another.<br /><br />“The goal is by the end of their experience, the children are bi-literate and bilingual,” she said.<br /><br />Devon Sizemore, a dual-language student attending Alicia Chiacon Elementary School, said he enjoys the program “because I can understand what people are saying, even when they are not speaking English.”<br /><br />A day of a student in the dual-language program may consist of social studies and math being taught in Spanish, while science and language arts are taught in English. Students learn to read and write in both languages, and physical education is taught in both languages on different days.<br /><br />The dual-language program started in 1997 with the Ysleta District and continues today with 23 campuses, now adding Presa to their lineup.<br /><br />It was last year when Principal Rosa Lujan came aboard and she has since raised the students’ scores by raising their morale. She said she believes she can make a difference, and through positive motivation she is determined to bring the status of Presa higher than it was when she arrived.<br /><br />“There are going to be some changes here,” she said. “I want to take Presa to the highest level. I want them all to be commended.<br /><br />Studies show that students enrolled in the dual-language program score higher on state tests than any other school learning option, including English only and English as a Second Language program students.<br /><br />The cost of the dual-language program is roughly the same as it is to host an ESL program at a school. The main requirement that costs money is a stipend of $1,500 per bilingual teacher. Also, textbooks must be in English and in Spanish, and at the elementary level, the state provides the books at no extra cost.<br /><br />The teaching staff went through a two-day initial training session in mid-July where they learned how it feels to be an elementary student learning in a language they do not understand.<br /><br />For instance, they were taught a science lesson involving color combinations, data charts and individual presentations – all in German.<br /><br />“We did that in German so that they can understand what it feels like for the students in their classroom who do not understand either the Spanish or the English. No matter what time a day it is, part of your class is working in the language that they’re learning,” said Sizemore, who doubled as the German- speaking teacher.<br /><br />“This training was about learning the techniques to make the language understandable and the content understandable, so they could learn how to teach without having to translate,” she said.<br /><br />Lujan explained the Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills testing in relation to the program.<br /><br />“For third and fourth grade, we test in Spanish because it is a core of the program,” said Lujan. “When the student moves up to fifth grade, it’ll be in English.”<br /><br />The success of the program can be measured with the success of the students. According to Devon, he took his TAKS test in Spanish and received commended scores in reading and math, and was one point away in writing.<br /><br />Devon also mentioned his and his friends’ interest in starting a comic book, and how cool it would be if it were in three different languages, like English, Spanish and Japanese or German.<br /><br />Noticeably, the children in the curriculum do not see the constraints that others might.  Being a part of the program helps Devon see that his possibilities are not limited unless he puts limits on himself.<br /><br />The staff at Presa Elementary are happy to embark on this as part of their new beginnings and adjustments for positive change there. The principal expressed her joy in it all.<br /><br />“I’m so excited to be starting this new program,” Lujan said.  More information about the dual language program can be found at <a href="www.texastwoway.com">www.texastwoway.com.</a><br /><br /><br /><br />Sgt. Marcie C. Wright<br />5th Armored Bde., First Army Div. West<br />News article published by The Monitor, Ft Bliss Newspaper<br /><br />]]></description>
      <link>http://news.yisd.net/story.aspx?id=180</link>
      <guid>http://news.yisd.net/story.aspx?id=180</guid>
      <pubDate>Thu, 17 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[YISD Wellness Clinic Update]]></title>
      <description><![CDATA[The YISD Wellness Clinic has experienced unprecedented success since its grand opening in late February. The clinic has serviced a total of 2052 employees and eligible dependents through the end of August. The number of visits per month is approximately 340, including the two full weeks the District was closed during that time period.<br><br>The YISD Wellness Clinic is open Monday through Friday, according to the District school calendar. The clinic is available for YISD employees and eligible dependents covered under the YISD Employee Health Benefits Plan.&nbsp; No appointment is necessary; however, wait times may vary according to patient load. All services are provided at no cost to the employee and/or eligible covered dependent. Lab draws are only performed on Tuesday from 8:30-11:30 am by Clinical Pathology Laboratories (CPL). <b>As a reminder, please present a picture ID and current YISD Employee Health Benefits Plan ID card at sign in. Please call ahead in the afternoon hours to ensure the clinic is still able to take additional patients due to limited space and increased utilization of services.<br><br></b><table style="border: 1px solid ; padding: 3px;" align="center"><tbody><tr><td style="border: 1px solid ; padding: 3px;"><b>Days</b><br></td><td style="border: 1px solid ; padding: 3px;"><b>Times</b><br></td><td style="border: 1px solid ; padding: 3px;"><b>Activities</b><br></td></tr><tr><td style="border: 1px solid ; padding: 3px;">Monday</td><td style="border: 1px solid ; padding: 3px;">8:30am-12:45pm; 2:00pm-5:00pm</td><td style="border: 1px solid ; padding: 3px;">Walk-in clinic</td></tr><tr><td style="border: 1px solid ; padding: 3px;">Tuesday<br></td><td style="border: 1px solid ; padding: 3px;">8:30am-11:30am&nbsp;&nbsp; <br></td><td style="border: 1px solid ; padding: 3px;">Lab draws only</td></tr><tr><td style="border: 1px solid ; padding: 3px;">Tuesday<br></td><td style="border: 1px solid ; padding: 3px;">11:30am-12:45pm; 2:00pm-5:00pm</td><td style="border: 1px solid ; padding: 3px;">Walk-in clinic</td></tr><tr><td style="border: 1px solid ; padding: 3px;">Wednesday<br></td><td style="border: 1px solid ; padding: 3px;">8:30am-12:45pm; 2:00pm-5:00pm</td><td style="border: 1px solid ; padding: 3px;">Walk-in clinic</td></tr><tr><td style="border: 1px solid ; padding: 3px;">Thursday<br></td><td style="border: 1px solid ; padding: 3px;">8:30am-12:45pm; 2:00pm-5:00pm</td><td style="border: 1px solid ; padding: 3px;">Walk-in clinic</td></tr><tr><td style="border: 1px solid ; padding: 3px;">Friday<br></td><td style="border: 1px solid ; padding: 3px;">8:30am-12:45pm; 2:00pm-5:00pm</td><td style="border: 1px solid ; padding: 3px;">Walk-in clinic</td></tr></tbody></table><br>The clinic is unable to provide immunizations, X-Rays, EKG’s and/or other such services that are normally provided in a hospital or outpatient setting. <b>The clinic is not here to take the place of your primary care physician.</b> Regular treatment with a primary healthcare provider is essential for chronic health conditions for which constant monitoring and/or ongoing treatment must be provided, such as: diabetes, high/low blood pressure, high cholesterol, and asthma.<br><br>The clinic is strictly for non-emergency health care needs, for example:<br><ul style="list-style-type: disc; list-style-image: none; list-style-position: outside; margin-left: 20px;"><li>Bladder infections </li><li>Coughs, colds, sinus infections </li><li>Earaches, fever, sore throats </li><li>Minor injuries </li><li>Rashes, skin infections</li><li>Preventive health/wellness screenings/weight management</li><li>Glucose and Blood pressure monitoring (does not replace physician monitoring of your condition)</li><li>Workers’ Compensation injuries that do not require more than first-aid treatment</li></ul><br>For medical emergencies that require immediate attention, please call 911 or go to the nearest Emergency Department. Some of these conditions are:<br><ul style="list-style-type: disc; list-style-image: none; list-style-position: outside; margin-left: 20px;"><li>Uncontrolled bleeding </li><li>Chest pain </li><li>Severe shortness of breath </li><li>Head injuries </li><li>Pregnancy complications </li><li>Poisonings </li><li>Seizures </li><li>Serious mental health conditions </li><li>Severe pain</li><li>Chronic conditions</li><li>Fractures/broken bones</li><li>Deep lacerations</li><li>Signs of stroke or heart attack</li></ul><br><b>Please keep in mind that flu season is just around the corner … remember to practice good hand washing techniques, and to cover your coughs/sneezes. </b><br><br>]]></description>
      <link>http://news.yisd.net/story.aspx?id=175</link>
      <guid>http://news.yisd.net/story.aspx?id=175</guid>
      <pubDate>Wed, 16 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[YISD Public Auction to be held September 19]]></title>
      <description><![CDATA[<strong>YSLETA ISD AUCTION</strong> of surplus inventory to be held September 19, 2009 starting at 9:00am at 7944 Yermoland.  Doors open at 8:30am. Cash only, same day pickup.  For more info call 434-0245.<br /><br />For a complete listing of items, see <a href="http://www2.yisd.net/education/components/docmgr/download.php?sectiondetailid=73880&fileitem=40741&catfilter=1701">this list</a>.<br /><br /><br /><br /><em>Neil Waxman TAL#12930</em>]]></description>
      <link>http://news.yisd.net/story.aspx?id=174</link>
      <guid>http://news.yisd.net/story.aspx?id=174</guid>
      <pubDate>Tue, 15 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[Watch President Barack Obama's message to America's Youth]]></title>
      <description><![CDATA[]]></description>
      <link>http://www.yisd.net/obama</link>
      <guid>http://www.yisd.net/obama</guid>
      <pubDate>Fri, 11 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[Bond Update: What your money has paid for at YISD]]></title>
      <description><![CDATA[]]></description>
      <link>http://www2.yisd.net/education/components/docmgr/download.php?sectiondetailid=73880&amp;fileitem=40185</link>
      <guid>http://www2.yisd.net/education/components/docmgr/download.php?sectiondetailid=73880&amp;fileitem=40185</guid>
      <pubDate>Tue, 08 Sep 2009 08:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[Nation’s top doctors speak to students at Bel Air High School ]]></title>
      <description><![CDATA[<p>Some of the nation’s leading physicians came together in the Sun City to inspire local high school students to follow in their footsteps.  This was part of the “Doctors Back to School Visit” sponsored by the Commission to End Health Care Disparities. The presidents of the American Medical, National Medical, and National Hispanic Medical Associations visited Bel Air High School on Wednesday, September 2, 2009 to speak to nearly 400 students in an effort to increase the number of students from underrepresented groups to join the medical field. <br /><br />The keynote speakers included Dr. Willarda Edwards who is the newly elected President of the National Medical Association. She is also a Bel Air High School graduate and a UTEP graduate. Also addressing the students was Dr. J. James Rohack, the President of the American Medical Association. He, too, is a graduate of UTEP.</p><p>Doctors in Attendance included:<br />  Dr. Diana Natalicio, UTEP President<br />  Dr. Anny Morrobel-Sosa, Dean of the College of Science, UTEP<br />  Dr. Robert Kirken, Department Head, Biological Sciences, UTEP<br />Dr. Donna Ekal, Associate Provost, UTEP <br />Robyn Chatman, MD Ohio State Medical Association<br />  Frances Dunston, MD Morehouse School of Medicine<br />  Arthur Fleming, MD Network of Ethnic Physician Organizations<br />  Eric Jerome, MD, FACP Association of Haitian Physicians Abroad<br />  Michael Kutnick, AMA – Minority Affairs Consortium<br />  Hector Lopez, DO, American Osteopathic Association<br />  Tanya Lopez, AMA – Physician Health and Health Care Disparities<br />  Diana Ramos, MD, MPH California Medical Association Foundation<br />  Norma Rodgers, PhD, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio<br />  J. James Rohack, MD, American Medical Association<br />  Robert Wooten, PA American Academy of Physician Assistants</p>]]></description>
      <link>http://news.yisd.net/story.aspx?id=163</link>
      <guid>http://news.yisd.net/story.aspx?id=163</guid>
      <pubDate>Tue, 08 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[Introducing Wiley Bear!]]></title>
      <description><![CDATA[]]></description>
      <link>http://www.yisd.net/wiley/</link>
      <guid>http://www.yisd.net/wiley/</guid>
      <pubDate>Tue, 01 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[State enacts emergency rule for vaccinations]]></title>
      <description><![CDATA[The Texas Department of State Health Services has issued an emergency rule effective August 24, 2009, that permits schools to provisionally enroll students that may not have had certain required immunizations. Under the emergency rule, <b>students who are required to have, but have not yet received one or more of these three vaccinations may be provisionally enrolled in school through September 30, 2009</b>. A student is not required to be vaccinated according to the schedule for the three vaccines until October 1, 2009.&nbsp; The schedule for one or more of the vaccines may be delayed beyond October 1, 2009, for good cause determined by the commissioner of the department.<br /><br />This emergency rule applies to the requirements relating to:<br /><br />1)&nbsp;meningococcal vaccine;&nbsp; <br /><br />2)&nbsp;tetanus/diptheria/pertussis (Tdap) vaccines for Texas students entering 7th grade and boosters for students entering grades 8-12; and<br /><br />3)&nbsp;varicella vaccine for students entering kindergarten and those entering 7th grade<br /><br />However, please do not delay in ensuring that your child is up to date on his or her vaccinations.<br /><br />Thank you.]]></description>
      <link>http://news.yisd.net/story.aspx?id=156</link>
      <guid>http://news.yisd.net/story.aspx?id=156</guid>
      <pubDate>Mon, 31 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[Fall School Bus Routes]]></title>
      <description><![CDATA[]]></description>
      <link>http://www2.yisd.net/education/components/docmgr/default.php?sectiondetailid=147104&amp;</link>
      <guid>http://www2.yisd.net/education/components/docmgr/default.php?sectiondetailid=147104&amp;</guid>
      <pubDate>Mon, 24 Aug 2009 12:00:01 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[New teachers get acquainted with YISD]]></title>
      <description><![CDATA[New teachers in the Ysleta Independent School District attended orientation meetings this week to learn about the district and get prepared for the coming school year. About 150 new teachers were hired this school year.  The first day of school is August 24. ]]></description>
      <link>http://news.yisd.net/story.aspx?id=141</link>
      <guid>http://news.yisd.net/story.aspx?id=141</guid>
      <pubDate>Wed, 19 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[Immunize your children before school starts]]></title>
      <description><![CDATA[All students must be fully vaccinated before classes begin. Please ensure that your child is up-to-date on their vaccinations before the first day of school on August 24. The City of El Paso Department of Public Health and Community Services are offering immunizations at the following clinics below. The City Health Department Clinics do have the MCV, Tdap and Varicella vaccines. Please call for an appointment.<br><br><b>Henderson Health Center </b><br>721 S. Mesa (01) <br>(915) 534-2533<br>(915) 541-8718 FAX<br>Open Tuesday -Friday &amp; Open 4th Saturday of Month<br>Closed 3rd Tuesday of the Month<br><br><b>Tigua Outreach Center</b><br>7862 San Jose Rd. (15) <br>(915) 591-2050/ (915) 591-2391 <br>(915) 592-2167 FAX <br>Open Tuesday-Friday &amp; Open 2nd and 3rd Saturday of Month <br>Closed 3rd Tuesday of Month <br><br><b>Northeast Health Center </b><br>5587 Transmountain Rd. (24) <br>(915) 755-3775<br>(915) 755-3838 <br>(915) 755-2315 FAX <br>Open Tuesday -Friday &amp; Open 2nd Saturday of Month<br>Closed 2nd Tuesday of the Month <br><br><b>Ysleta Health Center</b><br>110 Candelaria Rd (07)<br>(915) 859-7141 / (915) 859-7152<br>(915) 858-7570 FAX<br>Open Tuesday -Friday &amp; 15t Saturday of Month<br>Closed 1st Tuesday of the Month except when month has 5 Saturdays <br><br><br><b>Westside Health Center </b><br>5195 Mace (12) <br>(915) 833-0439<br>(915) 585-9344<br>(915) 584-8415 FAX<br>Open Tuesday -Friday &amp; 4th Saturday of Month Closed 4th Tuesday of the Month<br><br><br><b>STD Clinic </b><br>5115 EI Paso Dr. Ste (25) <br>&nbsp;Providing TDAP &amp; HPV Vaccines ONLY <br>Open Monday -Thursday <br><br><br><div align="center"><b>$10 for 1 shot </b><br><b>$20 for 2 shots of more </b><br><b>APPOINTMENT CALL CENTER </b><br><b>(915) 771-5822 OR (915) 771-5818 </b><br><b>All Clinics Now Open 7:00 am-5:30 pm with Last Appointment at 4:30 pm </b><br><b>Bring Birth Certificate, Photo ID, and Immunization Record </b><br></div><br>]]></description>
      <link>http://news.yisd.net/story.aspx?id=140</link>
      <guid>http://news.yisd.net/story.aspx?id=140</guid>
      <pubDate>Thu, 13 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[Principals prepare for the new school year]]></title>
      <description><![CDATA[Bel Air Assistant Principal David Fernandez, Loma Terrace Principal Susana Gonzalez and North Loop Principal Anthony Fraga show their team spirit at the August 6-7 Administrators' Retreat at Parkland High School. Principals and assistant principals were busy preparing for the coming school year at the two-day meeting. Superintendent Michael Zolkoski and other staff from central office presented information on a variety of topics including instructional strategies, security, technology and athletics to help the administrators gear up for the 2009-2010 school year.]]></description>
      <link>http://news.yisd.net/story.aspx?id=139</link>
      <guid>http://news.yisd.net/story.aspx?id=139</guid>
      <pubDate>Wed, 12 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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      <title><![CDATA[YISD Preliminary Adequate Yearly Progress Ratings Released ]]></title>
      <description><![CDATA[ &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2009 Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) – Preliminary Ratings for the Ysleta Independent School District were released on August 6, 2009. The District and ninety-five percent of the District’s campuses rated under the federal accountability system met AYP. &nbsp;These ratings have increased since 2008, when the District and 14 schools did not meet AYP.<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Table 1 summarizes the preliminary ratings released today by the Texas Education Agency.&nbsp; The three campuses that did not meet AYP in 2009 were Hanks High School, Eastwood High School and Eastwood Middle School.&nbsp; Six campuses were not evaluated under the federal system.<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Under the federal rating system, Hanks High School will enter Stage 2 and Eastwood Middle School will enter Stage 1. Eastwood High School will enter Year 1 which is a warning year and has no sanctions. The District plans to vigorously appeal the ratings for Hanks High School and Eastwood Middle School. <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Superintendent Michael Zolkoski states, “Ysleta ISD’s gains attest to the dedication our teachers, principals and administrators have in providing a quality education for all students in Ysleta. Meeting AYP is just one milestone that Ysleta has set in the preparation of our students as holistic learners.”<br /><br /><img src="http://news.yisd.net/pictures/storyimgs/20090806043800.gif"  />]]></description>
      <link>http://news.yisd.net/story.aspx?id=134</link>
      <guid>http://news.yisd.net/story.aspx?id=134</guid>
      <pubDate>Fri, 07 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
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