KSST Sent These Questions to District 12 BOE Candidates: Pam Little’s Responses
Here are the questions and responses given by candidate Pam Little.
If proposed school vouchers legislation passes, how would it affect district 12?
A lot of how it would affect District 12 depends on the language in the bill. I support parents having the decision to choose their child’s education opportunities. Some superintendents indicated it might not have that much financial affect as the students receiving the funds are already in private schools. What I don’t want to see are “pop up” private schools in the rural areas that are not accredited just for the purpose of getting voucher monies.
How would the alternate plan to vouchers, called the Education Emancipation Act, affect the district?
The State Board of Education does not vote on bills only the legislature. In an initial review of this bill, I think it makes more sense as one of the major concerns from private school parents is government interference in the private schools. Also, it would depend on the amount of the tax exemption.
Do you think School Districts should cooperate with home school families to let their children participate in public school athletics and other programs?
Most of my homeschool parents do not want their children involved with public schools. They have indicated there are many sports opportunities outside of public schools homeschoolers in which homeschoolers can participate. I think also there might be a liability issue if the child is not enrolled in the school district.
Some people are calling for Public Schools to include financial literacy education for all students. Is this an obtainable goal, or are public schools currently overwhelmed?
The State Board of Education has already approved a financial literacy course as part of the required economics course for graduation.
If elected, what would you hope would be key accomplishments of the board during your years of service?
Developing Social Studies standards that instill American Exceptionalism and the richness of Texas history in students. Approving Math standards that focus more on the basics and getting the right answer – a blend with critical thinking. Continue to approve instructional materials to assist in improving reading, writing and math. With a 20-year career in educational publishing working with the State Board of Education to develop materials and from serving for 5 years I have the experience needed to get these standards where they need to be.
Recently, several arrests have been made in Texas involving school district staff/educators involved in sexual misconduct with students. Do you think this is somehow linked to districts having trouble finding qualified employees/teachers?
It’s sad that we have seen so many of these incidents lately. It maybe that the lack of qualified teachers is an underlying cause. I also think the Texas Education Agency needs to be more diligent in keeping accurate records of these incidents. One individual who had already been sentenced to 131 years in prison for sexual misconduct still had a certificate showing as active and not revoked.
Dinner Bell for May 22nd, 2024
Money Law Firm was founded in 2013 by Brent Money to focus on clients with business, real estate and probate needs. In 2016 recognizing the need for title options, the law firm became a title office providing closing real estate options. Originally located in Greenville, the firm added offices in Sulphur Springs, Emory, Prosper, Sherman and Terrell with the law firm providing premier real estate and probate legal services and Money Title offering seamless real estate transactions.
Money Law and Title contacted Dinner Bell in 2022 to become a Community Partner. That was realized in 2023 with the firm partnering with Dinner Bell for six appearances and scheduling three in 2024. For their support and interest in the Dinner Bell Feeding Ministry a great big debt of appreciation is extended.
GRAB and GO with a meal from the distribution area under the covered driveway (porte cochere) on the Northeast corner of the First United Methodist Church campus starting around 10:30 on Wednesday.
MENU
Mexican Lasagna
Mexican Hominy
Garden Salad
Tortillas
Sponge Cake with Praline Topping
TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF BY FOLLOWING SAFE HEALTH PRACTICES. WASH YOUR HANDS OFTEN. WEAR MASKS WHERE REQUIRED. GET INOCULATED AND BOOSTED!
DINNER BELL CARES ABOUT YOUR HEALTH!!!
Sponsorships on Sale Soon for 5th Annual Designer Handbag Bingo
May 14, 2024 – Sulphur Springs, TX –
The Hopkins County Health Care (HCHC) Foundation’s Designer Handbag Bingo is set for Thursday, August 8. This popular event is expected to be a sellout.
Sponsorships will be available for purchase on Monday, May 20 at handbagbingo24.GiveSmart.com. Two levels, $2,500 and $1,500, include a reserved table for 8 players. The $500 and $250 include advertising benefits but no tickets or table.
Last year, 539 people played for designer bags. This year, organizers hope to accommodate even more players.
“We have been blessed with the popularity of this event. It has allowed the Foundation to provide lifesaving medical care in Hopkins County. In particular, it has funded the last 4 years of the free mammography clinic we host in October.” says Foundation Chair Maleta Reynolds.
Tables for 8 will go on sale on Saturday, June 22 for $575 while individual tickets will go on sale on Saturday, July 13 for $60 each.
The Hopkins County Health Care Foundation was founded in 1997 to support and improve local healthcare for the benefit of the residents. The Foundation is an IRS 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization.
Visit handbagbingo24.givesmart.com for more information, email [email protected], or call 903-438-4799.
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Dinner Bell for May 15th, 2024
The Dial Study Club was formed in 1951 when Junior Waverly Club realized the need for an additional study club for young women. Gretchen Dial was their sponsor and recognizing her many community endeavors caused them to name the new organization the Dial Study Club. She was a member of Waverly Club for 50 years. She served as secretary to Senator John Crawford during the first World War. At the Waverly Clubs request he was helpful in the securing of a $10,000 Carnegie Foundation Grant which enabled the city to establish the Carnegie Library in Sulphur Springs.
The Dial Study Club membership is blessed with young women who believe in community improvement and involvement in actions and activities that make Sulphur Springs an ideal place to raise their families. Being a Community Partner with the Dinner Bell Feeding Ministry attests to the club’s desire to help their neighbors. Dinner Bell is thankful they have decided to participate.
GRAB and GO with a meal from the distribution area under the covered driveway (porte cochere) on the Northeast corner of the First United Methodist Church campus starting around 10:30 on Wednesday.
MENU
Chicken and Rice Casserole
Zucchini
Garden Salad
Buttered French Bread Slices
20 Minute Chocolate Cake (aka Texas Sheet Cake)
TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF BY FOLLOWING SAFE HEALTH PRACTICES. WASH YOUR HANDS OFTEN. WEAR MASKS WHERE REQUIRED. GET INOCULATED AND BOOSTED!
DINNER BELL CARES ABOUT YOUR HEALTH!!!
Sulphur Springs Public Library’s Hope Cain sat Down Again with John Mark in this Second Cup of Coffee
In this episode of A Second Cup of Coffee with John Mark Dempsey, John Mark had another chat with Sulphur Springs Public Library Director Hope Cain. The two discuss some of the new books available to the public in the library now. They also discuss titles that have been ordered and are on their way. There’s also chit chat about a title that is so popular the library can’t keep it on the shelf. Give the video a watch and learn what’s coming to your Sulphur Springs Public Library!
*Update* Sulphur Springs High School Lady Cats Take on Aubrey in Playoffs in Nevada
May 14, 2024 – KSST has been the voice of Sulphur Springs Wildcats sports since 1947. John Mark Dempsey and Tony Flippin will bring you the Playoffs game between the Lady Cats and Aubrey at Community High School in Nevada, Texas.
The game has now been changed to Friday, May 17, 2024. First pitch is scheduled for 7:00pm. If you can’t attend the game in person, be sure to tune in to KSST, 1230AM, for the live broadcast. We will video the game for playback at a later date and time. Go Lady Cats!
New Appraisals and How to File an Online Protest
May 14, 2024 – Most everyone in Hopkins County has received their 2024 property appraisal from the Hopkins County Appraisal District, and most everyone in Hopkins County has seen the value of their property go up. Higher valuations mean higher tax burdens, and some taxpayers will wish to file a protest to have their appraisal revisited by staff. Making an Online Protest is now available through the Hopkins County Appraisal District (HCAD) website, but doing so can be cumbersome. The deadline to file a protest in any form is May 31, 2024.
To file an Online Protest you must FIRST search for the property by either name, address, or property ID. Enter your information in the search bar at the top of the HCAD home page. Once you find the correct property continue by clicking on “View Property”. Once on the property page, click on the active link “File Notice of Protest for this Property” located on the right side of the property page. This will take you to the form to file an online protest. Answer the questions on that form including checking the appropriate box(es) in the “Reason for Protest” section. Once completed, you will be prompted to “electronically sign” the form to submit.
Although the deadline to file a protest is May 31, 2024. The Hopkins County Appraisal District staff will be working well up into October evaluating each of the protests. Some corrections to appraisals may be resolved by telephone, but in person hearings will be scheduled as well.
The Hopkins County Appraisal District is located at 109 College St. in Sulphur Springs and can be reached at (903) 885-2173.
Aggravated Robbery Suspects Sought
May 14, 2024 – At approximately 10:30 p.m. on 5-13-2024, an Aggravated Robbery was committed at Super Handy, 1401 College St. Two suspects, who appeared to be black males, entered the store wearing hoodies, masks, and gloves. One of the suspects brandished a firearm and demanded money from the store clerk. The store clerk handed over the money and suspects fled the store through the adjoining neighborhood. A K9 unit was utilized, but was unsuccessful in locating suspects.
The incident was captured on video. If anyone has information about this incident, please contact Lt. Rusty Stillwagoner at 903-885-6438 or you can remain anonymous through Crime Stoppers at 903-885-2020. Crime Stoppers offers a reward of up to $1000 dollars for information leading to an arrest.
Green Pond Memorial Day Services to be held May 19th
May 13, 2024 – Green Pond Memorial Day Services to be held Sunday, May 19, 2024. Services are scheduled to begin at 10:30 am. The guest speaker will be B J Tear. A covered dish lunch will be held following the services. The public is invited.
Proper Hay Storage is Crucial for Preserving Hay from Moisture by Mario Villarino
May 13, 2024 – Texas A&M AgriLife Extension provides comprehensive guidance on protecting hay from rain to maintain its quality and nutritional value. Proper hay storage is crucial for preserving hay from moisture, as exposure to rain can lead to mold growth, nutrient loss, and decreased palatability. Here’s an in-depth look at strategies recommended by AgriLife Extension:
Covered Storage: Utilizing covered storage facilities is the most effective way to protect hay from rain. Barns, sheds, or hay storage buildings offer excellent protection from moisture. These structures should have proper ventilation to prevent condensation buildup, which can contribute to mold growth.
Tarps and Covers: When covered storage isn’t available, using tarps or plastic covers is essential. Covering hay stacks or bales with waterproof tarps or plastic sheets can shield them from rainwater. Ensure the covers extend beyond the edges of the hay to prevent water infiltration. Proper anchoring of tarps is critical to withstand wind and prevent water pooling.
Elevated Storage: Storing hay off the ground on pallets, wooden rails, or racks can help prevent moisture absorption from the soil. Elevating hay allows for better airflow underneath, reducing the risk of mold growth. Additionally, it prevents hay from sitting in pooled water during heavy rains.
Tarp Maintenance: Regular inspection and maintenance of tarps are necessary to ensure their effectiveness in rain protection. Check for tears, holes, or damage that could compromise waterproofing. Replace or repair damaged tarps promptly to maintain hay quality.
Timely Harvesting: Harvesting hay during periods of dry weather is crucial for minimizing moisture content. Delaying harvest until after rainfall increases the risk of wet hay, which is prone to mold and nutrient loss. Monitor weather forecasts and plan hay harvesting accordingly to avoid rain.
Properly Ventilated Storage: Adequate ventilation in storage facilities is essential for reducing moisture buildup. Proper airflow helps to prevent condensation and mold growth. Ensure vents are unobstructed and consider installing fans to improve air circulation.
Hay Tarping Techniques: When covering hay with tarps, employ proper tarping techniques to maximize rain protection. Overlap tarps sufficiently to prevent water seepage between seams. Use weights or ropes to secure tarps tightly and prevent wind displacement.
Regular Monitoring: Regularly inspect stored hay for signs of moisture or mold growth. Check underneath tarps for any water accumulation or leaks. Promptly address any issues to prevent further damage to the hay.
By implementing these strategies, farmers and ranchers can effectively protect their hay from rain and preserve its quality for feeding livestock throughout the year. AgriLife Extension provides valuable resources and expertise to assist producers in implementing best practices for hay preservation. For more information on this or any other agricultural topic please contact the Hopkins County Extension Office at 903-885-3443 or email me at [email protected].
