DENTON ISD

Top graduates and educators honored

The Denton school district’s top graduates and educators of influence were recently honored by district officials and the Denton Public School Foundation.

Ten graduating seniors from each of the district’s three high schools were selected and recognized for their achievements in academics or their combination of school spirit, effort and achievements throughout their high school careers. The students also named educators who provided the greatest influence in their lives.

Denton ISD students and educators selected were:

DENTON HIGH SCHOOL

GUYER HIGH SCHOOL

RYAN HIGH SCHOOL

Denton High School

Two students receive national Discus Awards

Denton High School students Christina Burtch and Sara Kangas recently received Discus Awards for their all-around work in and out of the classroom.

The two joined a select group of high school students from across the country recognized with the online-based award. A joint partnership between Campus Direct and Recognition Media, the Discus Awards recognize students who excel in at least three of 10 key attributes, including academics, arts, athletics, community service, faith, government, environmentalism, technology, work and other achievements.

A board selects recipients from each state, with a winner named each month. Annually, a select group of the monthly recipients are awarded a $2,000 scholarship.

Christina Burtch, a graduating senior, earned the award for her ability to balance several of the key attributes in her academic and social life. She is a two-time captain of the girls varsity soccer team and captain of the Bronco drum line.

Sara Kangas was singled out for her leadership qualities in and out of school, as well as her academic success. The graduating senior was named a salutatorian of the Denton High Class of 2010, is a member of the National Honor Society, National Spanish Honor Society, and was honored with the school’s Green Cord, which signifies more than 100 community service hours.

Band instructor awarded fellowship

Denton High School band instructor and director Jesse Woolery recently received a Perry R. Bass fellowship award.

Woolery, who serves as jazz band director and assistant band director, will receive a $2,500 stipend to help offset the cost of his graduate degree. He is currently a student at Texas Woman’s University, pursuing a Master of Arts degree in music.

Under his direction, the Denton High jazz band has grown in size, performed at the Texas Music Educators Association convention and won numerous awards. Woolery, a University of North Texas graduate, joined the school staff in 2007.

The fellowship award is open to students, specifically music educators, who have completed one semester toward a master’s or doctorate degree at UNT, TWU, Texas Christian University or the University of Texas at Arlington. It is donated in memory of Texas philanthropist Perry R. Bass.

Guyer High School

Student recognized as a student of excellence

Michael Fischer, a student at Guyer High School, was recently named a student of excellence by the U.S. Achievement Academy. Fischer was recognized for achievement in mathematics.

Less than 10 percent of American high school students are recognized by the academy with its students of excellence award.

Fischer was recommended for the honor by Guyer High School math teacher Kay Stensgard.

The academy said standards for being selected as a student of excellence include academic performance, interest and aptitude, leadership qualities, responsibility, enthusiasm, motivation to learn and improve, attitude and cooperative spirit, dependability and recommendation from a qualified sponsor.

Fischer is the son of Chris and Kelly Fischer of Corinth.