Jump to content

Sandra Day O'Connor High School (Texas): Difference between revisions

Add links
Coordinates: 29°33′10″N 98°40′03″W / 29.552703°N 98.667526°W / 29.552703; -98.667526
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Browse history interactively
← Previous edit
Content deleted Content added
VisualWikitext
No edit summary
Tags: Mobile edit Mobile web edit
update nces stats
 
(139 intermediate revisions by 63 users not shown)
Line 1: Line 1:
{{Use dmy dates|date=January 2020}}
{{Infobox School
{{Infobox school
|name = Sandra Day O'Connor High School
|image = Sandra Day O'Connor High School.jpg
| name = Sandra Day O'Connor High School
|imagesize = 250px
| image = File:O’Connor HS library.jpg
|streetaddress = 12221 Leslie Road
| caption = Larry Martin Library
|city = [[Helotes, Texas|Helotes]]
| streetaddress = 12221 Leslie Road
|state = Texas
| city = [[Helotes, Texas|Helotes]]
|district = [[Northside Independent School District]]
| state = Texas
|county = [[Bexar County, Texas|Bexar County]]
| zipcode = 78023
|zipcode = 78023
| county = [[Bexar County, Texas|Bexar County]]
| country = [[United States]]
|superintendent = Dr. Brian Woods
| coordinates = {{coord|29.552703| -98.667526|type:edu_region:US-TX|display=inline,title}}
|principal = Jackie Horras
| founded = 1998
|viceprincipal = Ryan Purtell
|schooltype = [[High school#United States|High School]]
| schooltype = [[High school#United States|High School]]
| fundingtype = [[Public school (government funded)|Public]]
|colors = {{color box|#002366}} {{color box|#c5b358}} {{color box|#FFFFFF}}<br/> [[Navy Blue]], [[Vegas Gold]], and [[White]]
|mascot = [[Panthera|Panthers]]
| communities = Greater Helotes, TX
| enrollment = 2,586 (2023-2024)<ref name=NCES>{{cite web |title=O'CONNOR H S |url=https://nces.ed.gov/ccd/schoolsearch/school_detail.asp?ID=483312007808 |publisher=[[National Center for Educational Statistics]] |access-date=December 22, 2024}}</ref>
|free_label_1 = Rival school
|free_1 = [[Louis D. Brandeis High School]]
| district = [[Northside Independent School District]]
| grades = 9–12
|free_2 = <span style="color:black;"> [[University Interscholastic League|UIL 5A Division I]] </span>
|newspaper = The Prowler
| staff = 153.52 (FTE)<ref name=NCES/>
|hex1 = 000080
| ratio = 16.84<ref name=NCES/>
| superintendent = Dr. Brian T. Woods<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://nisd.net/administration/superintendent |title=Northside ISD Superintendent |access-date=13 March 2018 |archive-date=12 March 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180312083200/https://nisd.net/administration/superintendent |url-status=dead }}</ref>
|hex2 = D4AF37
|grades = 9–12
| principal = Robert Martinez<br />Chad Bohlken
|founded = 1998
| principal_label1 = Associate Principal
| principal1 = Jason Christian<br />Thomas Johnson
|enrollment = 3,094
| head_name = Academic Dean/Programs Coordinator
|homepage = [http://nisd.net/oconnor/ nisd.net/oconnor]
| head = Jennifer Bishop<br />Bryan Hawkins
|coordinates = {{coord|29.552703| -98.667526|type:edu_region:US-TX|display=inline,title}}
| head_name2 = Assistant Principal
|fundingtype = [[Public school (government funded)|Public]]
| head2 = Amanda Thornton<br />Cynthia Barrett
| mascot = [[Panthera|Panthers]]
| colors = {{color box|#002366}} {{color box|#c5b358}} {{color box|#FFFFFF}}<br /> [[Navy Blue]], [[Vegas Gold]], and [[White]]
| conference = [[University Interscholastic League|UIL]] Class AAAAAA
| free_label_1 = Sports District
| free_1 = 28-6A
| feeders = Folks MS<br />Garcia MS<br />Jefferson MS<br />Stevenson MS
| free_label_2 = Rival school
| free_2 = [[Louis D. Brandeis High School]]
| free_3 = <span style="color:black;"> [[University Interscholastic League|UIL 6A]] </span>
| newspaper = The Prowler
| homepage = [https://nisd.net/oconnor/ official website]
}}
}}


'''Sandra Day O'Connor High School''' is a [[public high school]] in [[Helotes, Texas|Helotes]], [[Texas]], [[United States]], in the [[San Antonio metropolitan area]]. It is a part of the [[Northside Independent School District]] (NISD).
'''Sandra Day O'Connor High School''' is a [[public high school]] in [[Helotes, Texas|Helotes]], [[Texas]], [[United States]], in the [[San Antonio metropolitan area]]. It is a part of the [[Northside Independent School District]].


==Overview==
==Overview==
Opened in 1998, O'Connor High School followed the tradition of all the Northside ISD high schools in being named after a Supreme Court justice, [[Sandra Day O'Connor]], who served from 1981 to 2006 and was the first female justice on [[United States Supreme Court]]. The school colors are navy blue, white and old gold and the mascot is the Panther. The principal was Larry Martin until 2010 when Jacqueline Horras became the new and current principal. O'Connor High School serves the entire town of [[Helotes, Texas|Helotes]] and a small part of the larger central city of [[San Antonio]]. Feeder schools come from half of Garcia, Jefferson, Stinson, Folks, and Stevenson Middle Schools. The campus comprises over 15 limestone buildings and the walkways are mostly outdoors. In 2009, the school was rated "[[Texas Education Agency accountability ratings system|recognized]]" by the [[Texas Education Agency]], and continues to hold this rating today.<ref>{{Cite web|url= http://ritter.tea.state.tx.us/perfreport/account/2009/index.html |title= 2009 Accountability Rating System |publisher= Texas Education Agency}}</ref>[[File:Bexar Helotes.svg|thumb|220px|alt=text|Map of Helotes, Texas]].
Opened in 1998, O'Connor High School followed the tradition of all the Northside high schools in being named after a [[Supreme Court justice]], [[Sandra Day O'Connor]], who served from 1981 to 2006, and was the first female justice on [[United States Supreme Court]]. The school colors are navy blue, white, and old gold, and the mascot is the Panther. The first principal was Dr. Ken Patranella, who served from 1998 to 2003. He was succeeded by Mr. Larry Martin, who served as principal from 2003 to 2009. The O'Connor library is named in Mr. Martin's honor. Mr. Robert Martinez is the current principal. O'Connor High School serves the entire town of [[Helotes, Texas|Helotes]] along with parts of unincorporated [[Bexar County]] and the larger central city of [[San Antonio]]. For the 2021-2022 school year, the school was given an "A" by the [[Texas Education Agency]].<ref>{{cite web |title=TEA |url=https://rptsvr1.tea.texas.gov/cgi/sas/broker?_service=marykay&_program=perfrept.perfmast.sas&_debug=0&ccyy=2022&lev=C&id=015915016&prgopt=reports%2Fsrc%2Fsrc.sas |publisher=[[Texas Education Agency]] |access-date=16 February 2024}}</ref>


In keeping with a low building scale with respect to the rural surroundings, the campus was designed by Marmon Mok, LLP with a "village concept" and now consists of 15 separate main buildings connected by covered walkways, and 7 buildings for the FFA program. Metal roofs, limestone colored split face [[Concrete masonry unit|CMU]], and steel siding were used to follow the German Hill Country vernacular style. The campus features a 990-seat auditorium and an 1800-seat competition gymnasium. The electrical feeders and chilled/hot water piping to the buildings are located above the [[soffits]] of canopies connecting each building, avoiding costly trenching. To meet an aggressive construction schedule, [[Pre-engineered building|pre-engineered]] steel frames were used for all common buildings while classroom buildings G, H, J, and F use a combination of structural steel and [[reinforced concrete]].<ref name="Marmon Mok">http://marmonmok.com/content/uploads/2015/12/EDUCATIONARCHITECTURE2ndEdition.pdf {{Bare URL PDF|date=March 2022}}</ref>
==Athletics==
O'Connor is classified as a UIL 6A high school. Students can participate in a wide variety of school sports. These sports include:<ref>[http://www.theathleticsdepartment.com/schools/San-Antonio-OConnor/ The Athletics Department]</ref>


To accommodate a student population larger than the 2,400 designed for, a new building including a band hall and dance studio and the multipurpose AG building was built and the cafeteria expanded in 2003. New walkway and bus loop canopies, a canopy to create a covered eating area, and the stair tower for building H were also built in 2003, along with the blacktop marching pad, expansion of the brick-paved courtyard area, and the addition of another [[chiller]]. Two new AG barns were built in 2007, and a new two-story classroom building (F) was built in 2012. Despite the additions and the construction of [[Louis D. Brandeis High School]], O’Connor has experienced overcrowding since its opening and has always had over 30 classes in portable buildings.<ref name="Historical imagery">{{Cite web|url=https://www.historicaerials.com/viewer|title = Historic Aerials: Viewer}}</ref>

==Athletics==
Students can participate in a wide variety of UIL 6A school sports including:<ref>[https://ocpanthers.weebly.com/ O'Connor Athletics]</ref>
*[[Baseball]]
*[[Baseball]]
*[[Basketball]]
*[[Basketball]]
*[[Cheerleading]]
*[[Cheerleading]]
*[[Cross country running|Cross Country]]
*[[Cross country running|Cross Country]]
*[[American football|Football]]
*[[American football|Football]] (Freshman, JV, & Varsity)
*Goldusters [[Dance]] Team
*Goldusters [[Dance Team]]
*Dazzler [[Drill team|Drill Team]]
*Starduster [[Pep squad|Pep Squad]]
*Starduster [[Pep squad|Pep Squad]]
*[[Golf]]
*[[Golf]]
Line 52: Line 68:
*[[Volleyball]]
*[[Volleyball]]


Most school sports house practices and home games at O'Connor High itself, however, the football team, soccer team, and swimming & diving team uses The Dub Farris Athletic Complex off of Loop 1604 and Bamberger Trail for practice and home venues.
Most school sports have practices and home games at O'Connor High itself. However, the football team, soccer team, and swimming & diving team uses the Dub Farris Athletic Complex off of Loop 1604 and Bamberger Trail for practice and home venues.


==Agriculture Science & Technology Academy (ASTA)==
==FFA==
In 2021, Northside ISD opened its 7th Magnet High School at Sandra Day O'Connor HS. Previously, students residing in NISD, but not in the O'Connor Zone could apply to a very selective amount of spots for the Agriculture Endorsement. The Northside Board unanimously voted to establish the Agriculture Science & Technology Academy at O'Connor HS. Every year, a class of 250 Freshman residing outside of O'Connor are permitted to attend O'Connor through a lottery system. O'Connor offers 9 Industry Based Certifications through the new magnet school:
O'Connor has the largest and most expansive FFA complex in the Northside Independent School District. The Agriculture Department at O'Connor is a unique program in which students learn a wide variety of agricultural techniques in a hands-on environment. Any students residing in NISD are able to transfer from their zoned high school to attend O'Connor to participate in the agriculture program. The O'Connor [[National FFA Organization|FFA]] is one of the largest in the [[Texas FFA Association]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.nisd.net/oconnor/organizations/clubs/FFAweb/teachers.htm |title=Agriculture Science Teachers |author= |date= |work= |publisher=nisd.net |accessdate=23 September 2010}}</ref>


* Texas Beef Quality Assurance Certification
==Band==
* Texas Certified Nursery Professional Certification
The Sandra Day O'Connor High School Marching Band has been in existence since the school was open. O'Connor High School had one of Texas' largest marching bands, with over 360 members at its height, and was led by Mr. Wallace Dierolf from its inception until 2004. It is now headed by Mr. Roland Sandoval. After Dierolf's retirement, the school's newly built multipurpose facility, containing both a band hall and a dance studio, was named after him. After the opening of Louis D. Brandeis High School, the band's numbers had dropped to 230. Since then, the band has reached 380 members. Under the direction of George G. Garza, the O'Connor Drumline placed first at the national PASIC indoor marching competition in Columbus, OH in November 2005.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.thepantherband.com/directors.asp |title=Directors |author= |date= |work= |publisher= |accessdate= |deadurl=yes |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20081015135333/http://www.thepantherband.com/Directors.asp |archivedate=15 October 2008 }}</ref> Wesley Perkins is the high brass specialist and an associate director. The newest director was Thomas Kober, however, he is no longer with the Panther Band. Mr. Jaime Ramos joined the Panther Band in 2016 as an Associate Director and has been a great addition to the staff.<ref>http://thepantherband.com/about-us/the-directors/</ref>
* Texas State Floral Certification
* [[American Welding Society]] Certification
* [[Southwest Airlines]] Professional Communications Certification
* Professional Financial Literacy Certification
* Hunter Safety Certification
* Boater Education Certification
* Certified Veterinary Assistant Certification.


ASTA has its own Administration Team Chad Bohlken serves as the Principal, Thomas Johnson is the Associate Principal, and Bryan Hawkins is the Program Coordinator. The Northside Bond of 2022 allocated $19,100,000 for Agriculture Science Expansion including new barns.
In the 2008 marching season, the Panther Band advanced to the Texas 5A State Marching Competition for the first time. Their UIL show was entitled "Things That Go Pop", an entertaining medley written by Key Poulan. The show included variations on the classic "[[Pop Goes The Weasel]]" melody, as well as colorful balloons, bubbles, and various popping sounds from the front ensemble.


O'Connor has the largest and most expansive Future Farmers of America complex in the Northside Independent School District. The Agriculture Department at O'Connor is a unique program in which students learn a wide variety of agricultural techniques in a hands-on environment. Any students residing in the Northside Independent School District are able to transfer from their zoned high school to attend O'Connor to participate in the agriculture program. The O'Connor [[National FFA Organization]] is one of the largest in the [[Texas FFA Association]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.nisd.net/oconnor/organizations/clubs/FFAweb/teachers.htm|title=Agriculture Science Teachers|publisher=nisd.net|access-date=23 September 2010|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100621025748/http://nisd.net/oconnor/organizations/clubs/FFAweb/teachers.htm|archive-date=21 June 2010}}</ref>
In the 2010 marching season, the Panther Band would once again advance to the Texas 5A State Marching Competition. Their UIL show was entitled "Phobia: What are YOU afraid of?" a show composed of movements that portray some common phobias in today's society, Written by Key Poulan.


==Band==
In the 2012 marching season, the Panther Band finished 2nd place in the Area Marching Contest Finals, and advanced to the Texas 5A State Marching Competition for the third time in a row. They placed 22nd out of 38 bands, again the best in school history. Their UIL show was entitled "Rain" by Daniel Montoya Jr.
The Sandra Day O'Connor High School Marching Band has been in existence since the school was opened, and it is one of the largest high school marching bands in Texas, with over 360 members at its height. The band was led by Wallace Dierolf from its inception until 2004. After Dierolf's retirement, the school's newly built multipurpose facility, containing both a band hall and a dance studio, was named after him. When [[Louis D. Brandeis High School]] opened in 2008, the band's numbers dropped to 230, but grew back to 380 members. During the [[COVID-19 pandemic]], the band's numbers slightly dropped to 250 due to some members leaving and the [[social distancing]] protocols that were in effect. When Dierolf retired, Roland Sandoval took his place and led the band from 2004 to 2018. The current head director is Alfonso Alvarado. Associate Directors are Gabriel Valdéz, Michael Bradford, and José Marín.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://thepantherband.com/about-us/the-directors/ |title=O'Connor Band Director Biographies |access-date=1 December 2016 |archive-date=29 October 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161029132531/http://thepantherband.com/about-us/the-directors/ |url-status=dead }}</ref>


{| class="wikitable sortable"
In the 2014 marching season, the Panther Band placed 1st in their area, making school history, and advanced to the Texas 6A state Marching Competition for the 4th time in a row. They placed 28th out of 37 bands. Their UIL show was entitled "Between Heaven and Earth" by Daniel Montoya Jr.
|-
! Year !! Theme !! Musical Composer !! Drill Writer !! Notable Achievements
|-
| 2001 || "Homage: Three Tapestries" || || ||
|-
| 2002 || "Riverdance" || || ||
|-
| 2003 || "Fiddler on the Roof" || || ||
|-
| 2008 || "Things That Go Pop" || Key Poulan || Roland Sandoval || Advanced to State Competition for the first time, Placed 26th out of 31 bands
|-
| 2009 || "BOO! In a Darkened Hall" || Key Poulan || Roland Sandoval ||
|-
| 2010 || "Phobia: What Are You Afraid Of?" || Key Poulan || Roland Sandoval || Advanced to the State Competition, Placed 33rd out of 36 bands; 20th out of 53 bands at BOA San Antonio Super Regional
|-
| 2011 || "Chrysalis: A Journey Within" || Aaron Guidry || Roland Sandoval || 27th out of 59 bands at BOA San Antonio Super Regional
|-
| 2012 || "Rain" || Daniel Montoya Jr. || Roland Sandoval || 2nd place in Area, Advanced to State Competition, Placed 22nd out of 38 bands; 28th out of 62 bands at BOA San Antonio Super Regional
|-
| 2013 || "Zombie Apocalypse" || Daniel Montoya Jr. || Roland Sandoval || 44th out of 64 bands at BOA San Antonio Super Regional
|-
| 2014 || "Between Heaven and Earth" || Daniel Montoya Jr. || Roland Sandoval || 1st place in Area, Advanced to State Competition, Placed 28th out of 37 bands; 40th out of 64 bands at BOA San Antonio Super Regional
|-
| 2015 || "Access Denied" || Daniel Montoya Jr. || Roland Sandoval || 40th out of 59 bands at BOA San Antonio Super Regional
|-
| 2016 || "The Living Sea" || Ron Ellis || Roland Sandoval || 32nd out of 63 bands at BOA San Antonio Super Regional
|-
| 2017 || "Welcome to the Jungle" || Ron Ellis || Roland Sandoval || 35th out of 68 bands at BOA San Antonio Super Regional
|-
| 2018 || "iFly" || Cesar Gonzales || Brandon Smith || 58th out of 84 bands at BOA San Antonio Super Regional
|-
| 2019 || "More Than Machine" || Cesar Gonzales || Brandon Smith || 46th out of 84 bands at BOA San Antonio Super Regional
|-
| 2020 || "Dreams" || Cesar Gonzales || Brandon Smith || (non-competitive season due to the [[COVID-19 pandemic]])
|-
| 2021 || "The Fairest of Them All" || Cesar Gonzales || Brandon Smith || 41st out of 72 bands at BOA San Antonio Super Regional
|}


==Theatre==
==Theatre==
{{unreferenced section|date=August 2021}}
The O'Connor theatre program was pioneered by the Drama Department director Deann Fleming's (whom has since retired) senior one-act project. It allows fourth-year theatre students to direct their own shows and produce them through via the [[International Thespian Society]] at the [http://www.texasthespians.org/index.php/en/ Texas State] and [http://schooltheatre.org/events/thespianfestival International Thespian Festival] s.
The O'Connor theatre program was pioneered by the Drama Department director Deann Fleming's (whom has since retired) senior one-act project. It allows fourth-year theatre students to direct their own shows and produce them through via the [[International Thespian Society]] at the [http://www.texasthespians.org/ Texas State] and [[International Thespian Festival]]s.

Mrs. Fleming's first year at O'Connor included performances of: [[Foxfire (play)|Foxfire]], [[Any Number Can Die]], [[Oklahoma!|Oklahoma]], and [[The Grapes of Wrath (play)|The Grapes of Wrath]]. Year two would consist of [[Noises Off|Noises Off!]], [[The Music Man]], [[Steel_Magnolias_(play)|Steel Magnolias]] and [[Of Mice and Men (play)|Of Mice and Men]].

The production of "[[Of Mice and Men]]" in the 1999-2000 season would be a great success for the school. Two members of the ensemble would go on to win scholarships for their roles in the production, however they would not use them. The cast competed in the Selena Auditorium at the [[American Bank Center]] in [[Corpus Christi, Texas|Corpus Christi, TX]], and won Regionals securing a trip to the [[International Thespian Festival]]. The show was featured twice in Lincoln, and the ensamble, production staff, and Mrs. Fleming received great positive from the reviewers.


In addition, the drama students participate as Korny Klowns in the annual Helotes festival [[Cornyval]], an event that allows the students to express themselves creatively and humorously while providing a service to the [[Helotes, Texas|Helotes]] community. The Drama Department is a 6A participant in The [[University Interscholastic League]].
Arguably the most successful phase of O'Connor theatre would come with the arrival of new director and theatre prodigy, Cody Eoff. Mr. Eoff, a true visionary way ahead of his time, would soon guide a fresh new team of bright young talent into the department's most exciting and popular seasons ever, including Tony-worthy performances for actors in [[The Diviners (play)|The Diviners]], [[All My Sons]], and [[The Kentucky Cycle]]: Fire in the Hole, which would be seen at the UIL Regionals at [[Ronald_Reagan_High_School_(San_Antonio,_Texas)|Ronald Reagan High School]]. Notable senior one-act plays from this era include [http://www.samuelfrench.com/p/9016/bad-day-at-gophers-breath-a A Bad Day at Gopher's Breath] and the 2003 production of "[http://www.amazon.com/Two-plays-Wilberto-L-Canton/dp/0805927069 El Juego Sagrado]" by Wilberto Canton, a Spanish piece. The show would go on to be showcased at the [[International Thespian Festival]] in [[Lincoln, Nebraska]] as the first ever student-directed show from a Texas school.
In addition, the drama students participate as Korny Klowns in the annual Helotes festival [[Cornyval]], an event that allows the students to express themselves creatively and humorously while providing a service to the [[Helotes, Texas|Helotes]] community. The Drama Department is a 5A participant in The [[University Interscholastic League]].


The O'Connor theatre program is currently a part of the Thespian Society Troupe #5872.
The O'Connor theatre program is currently a part of the Texas Thespian Society Troupe #5872.


==Air Force ROTC==
==Air Force JROTC==
{{unreferenced section|date=August 2021}}
O'Connor activated their [[Air Force JROTC]] detachment (TX-20082) for the 2008-2009 school year. The current Senior Aerospace Science Instructor (SASI) is Major Eric Cox (USAF ret.) and The Aerospace Science Instructors (ASIs) are MSgt Ralph Perez (USAF ret.) and MSgt. William Andujar (USAF ret.). In 2012 the JROTC department, along with the Math department, moved into a newly constructed permanent facility on the northwest side of the campus.
O'Connor activated their [[Air Force JROTC]] detachment (TX-20082) for the 2008–2009 school year. The current Senior Aerospace Science Instructor is LtCol Jesus Ramos (USAF ret.) and The Aerospace Science Instructor is MSgt Ralph Perez (USAF ret.). In 2012 the JROTC department, along with the Math department, moved into a newly constructed permanent facility on the northwest side of the campus.


JROTC performs ceremonial Color Guard and Saber Guard for numerous school and Civic Organizations. They have 13 teams that compete at the local, state and national levels. Those teams are Cyber Patriot, Rocketry, Marksmanship, female and male Physical Training, Female and Male Color Guard, Armed Drill and Unarmed Drill, Orienteering and Academic Bowl. They have won numerous awards over the school year.
JROTC performs ceremonial Color Guard and Honor Guard for numerous school and Civic Organizations. They have 13 teams that compete at the local, state and national levels. Those teams are Cyber Patriot, Marksmanship, female and male Physical Training, Female and Male Color Guard, Armed Drill and Unarmed Drill, and Academic Bowl. They have won numerous awards over the school year.


Notable awards for the 16/17 school year. Physical Training placed in the top three of every competition they entered this year, with the female team capturing First overall in 6 of 12 competitions. O' Connor captured the coveted title of overall Grand Champions at Somerset and Kennedy H.S. Drill Meets. Marksmanship placed first at the Lee H.S. Invitational, Wagner, Clark, Kennedy H.S. O'Connor placed a team of 4 shooters and an individual shooter in the Air Force National 3 position Championships in Feb, then 2 shooters qualified for the JROTC Nationals in March. O'Connor competed at the National Drill Championships in Daytona Beach, Florida in May 2017.
Notable awards for the 2016–2017 school year. Physical training placed in the top three of every competition they entered this year, with the female team capturing first overall in six of twelve competitions. O'Connor captured the coveted title of overall Grand Champions at Somerset and Kennedy H.S. Drill Meets. Marksmanship placed first at the Lee H.S. Invitational, Wagner, Clark, Kennedy H.S. O'Connor placed a team of 4 shooters and an individual shooter in the Air Force National 3 position Championships in Feb, then 2 shooters qualified for the JROTC Nationals in March. O'Connor competed at the National Drill Championships in Daytona Beach, Florida in May 2017.


JROTC detachments are required to perform community service in addition to teaching an Air Force approved curriculum. OC cadets performed over 4,270 hours of community service in the 16/17 school year.They are frequent volunteers at the San Antonio Food Bank, have a long-standing relationship with the Helotes Cornyval Association and Scholarship Beauty Pageant and participate in 6-8 Elementary School Carnivals for NISD schools. They instituted a training program for Kuentz Elementary School's Safety Patrol Squad that raises and lowers the flags every day.
JROTC detachments are required to perform community service in addition to teaching an Air Force approved curriculum. Cadets performed over 4,270 hours of community service in the 2016–2017 school year. They are frequent volunteers at the San Antonio Food Bank, have a long-standing relationship with the Helotes Cornyval Association and Scholarship Beauty Pageant and participate in 6-8 Elementary School Carnivals for Northside Independent School District schools. They instituted a training program for Kuentz Elementary School's Safety Patrol Squad that raises and lowers the flags every day.


==Notable alumni==
==Notable alumni==
*[[Boone Logan]] (c/o 2002) - [[Major League Baseball]] Pitcher for the [[Colorado Rockies]] .<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=loganbo02|title = Boone Logan Stas| publisher=Baseball Almanac |accessdate= December 10, 2012}}</ref>
*[[Boone Logan]] (Class of 2002) - Major League Baseball pitcher.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.baseball-almanac.com/players/player.php?p=loganbo02 |title=Boone Logan MLB Stats |publisher=Baseball Almanac |access-date=10 December 2012}}</ref>
*[[Justin Olsen]] (c/o 2005) - [[2010 Winter Olympics]] Gold Medalist on U.S. Bobsled team, led by [[Steve Holcomb]]
*[[Justin Olsen]] (Class of 2005) - 2010 Winter Olympic Gold Medalist for the U.S. in four-man Bobsleigh<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.olympic.org/vancouver-2010/bobsleigh |title=Vancouver 2010 Bobsleigh |access-date=11 March 2018}}</ref>
*[[Simran Jeet Singh]] (Class of 2002) - educator, writer, and activist; 2016 Northside Independent School District Pillar of Respect<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.nisd.net/community/pillars |title=Dr. Simran Jeet Singh – Northside Independent School District |access-date=28 October 2018}}</ref>
*[[JC Caylen]] (Class of 2011) - Actor and YouTube personality


==References==
==References==
Line 97: Line 157:


==External links==
==External links==
* [http://www.nisd.net/oconnor/ Sandra Day O'Connor High School] &mdash; official site
* [https://nisd.net/oconnor/ Sandra Day O'Connor High School official website]
* [http://www.nisd.net Northside ISD official website]


{{Northside ISD}}
{{Northside ISD}}


{{authority control}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=September 2010}}


{{DEFAULTSORT:Sandra Day O'connor High School (Helotes, Texas)}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Sandra Day O'connor High School (Helotes, Texas)}}

Latest revision as of 22:05, 22 December 2024

Sandra Day O'Connor High School
Larry Martin Library
Address
Map
12221 Leslie Road

Helotes
,
Bexar County
,
Texas
78023

United States
Coordinates29°33′10″N 98°40′03″W / 29.552703°N 98.667526°W / 29.552703; -98.667526
Information
School typePublic, High School
Founded1998
School districtNorthside Independent School District
SuperintendentDr. Brian T. Woods[2]
PrincipalRobert Martinez
Chad Bohlken
Associate PrincipalJason Christian
Thomas Johnson
Academic Dean/Programs CoordinatorJennifer Bishop
Bryan Hawkins
Assistant PrincipalAmanda Thornton
Cynthia Barrett
Staff153.52 (FTE)[1]
Grades9–12
Enrollment2,586 (2023-2024)[1]
Student to teacher ratio16.84[1]
Color(s)     
Navy Blue, Vegas Gold, and White
Athletics conferenceUIL Class AAAAAA
MascotPanthers
NewspaperThe Prowler
Communities servedGreater Helotes, TX
Feeder schoolsFolks MS
Garcia MS
Jefferson MS
Stevenson MS
Sports District28-6A
Rival schoolLouis D. Brandeis High School
Websiteofficial website

Sandra Day O'Connor High School is a public high school in Helotes, Texas, United States, in the San Antonio metropolitan area. It is a part of the Northside Independent School District.

Overview

[edit]

Opened in 1998, O'Connor High School followed the tradition of all the Northside high schools in being named after a Supreme Court justice, Sandra Day O'Connor, who served from 1981 to 2006, and was the first female justice on United States Supreme Court. The school colors are navy blue, white, and old gold, and the mascot is the Panther. The first principal was Dr. Ken Patranella, who served from 1998 to 2003. He was succeeded by Mr. Larry Martin, who served as principal from 2003 to 2009. The O'Connor library is named in Mr. Martin's honor. Mr. Robert Martinez is the current principal. O'Connor High School serves the entire town of Helotes along with parts of unincorporated Bexar County and the larger central city of San Antonio. For the 2021-2022 school year, the school was given an "A" by the Texas Education Agency.[3]

In keeping with a low building scale with respect to the rural surroundings, the campus was designed by Marmon Mok, LLP with a "village concept" and now consists of 15 separate main buildings connected by covered walkways, and 7 buildings for the FFA program. Metal roofs, limestone colored split face CMU, and steel siding were used to follow the German Hill Country vernacular style. The campus features a 990-seat auditorium and an 1800-seat competition gymnasium. The electrical feeders and chilled/hot water piping to the buildings are located above the soffits of canopies connecting each building, avoiding costly trenching. To meet an aggressive construction schedule, pre-engineered steel frames were used for all common buildings while classroom buildings G, H, J, and F use a combination of structural steel and reinforced concrete.[4]

To accommodate a student population larger than the 2,400 designed for, a new building including a band hall and dance studio and the multipurpose AG building was built and the cafeteria expanded in 2003. New walkway and bus loop canopies, a canopy to create a covered eating area, and the stair tower for building H were also built in 2003, along with the blacktop marching pad, expansion of the brick-paved courtyard area, and the addition of another chiller. Two new AG barns were built in 2007, and a new two-story classroom building (F) was built in 2012. Despite the additions and the construction of Louis D. Brandeis High School, O’Connor has experienced overcrowding since its opening and has always had over 30 classes in portable buildings.[5]

Athletics

[edit]

Students can participate in a wide variety of UIL 6A school sports including:[6]

Most school sports have practices and home games at O'Connor High itself. However, the football team, soccer team, and swimming & diving team uses the Dub Farris Athletic Complex off of Loop 1604 and Bamberger Trail for practice and home venues.

Agriculture Science & Technology Academy (ASTA)

[edit]

In 2021, Northside ISD opened its 7th Magnet High School at Sandra Day O'Connor HS. Previously, students residing in NISD, but not in the O'Connor Zone could apply to a very selective amount of spots for the Agriculture Endorsement. The Northside Board unanimously voted to establish the Agriculture Science & Technology Academy at O'Connor HS. Every year, a class of 250 Freshman residing outside of O'Connor are permitted to attend O'Connor through a lottery system. O'Connor offers 9 Industry Based Certifications through the new magnet school:

  • Texas Beef Quality Assurance Certification
  • Texas Certified Nursery Professional Certification
  • Texas State Floral Certification
  • American Welding Society Certification
  • Southwest Airlines Professional Communications Certification
  • Professional Financial Literacy Certification
  • Hunter Safety Certification
  • Boater Education Certification
  • Certified Veterinary Assistant Certification.

ASTA has its own Administration Team Chad Bohlken serves as the Principal, Thomas Johnson is the Associate Principal, and Bryan Hawkins is the Program Coordinator. The Northside Bond of 2022 allocated $19,100,000 for Agriculture Science Expansion including new barns.

O'Connor has the largest and most expansive Future Farmers of America complex in the Northside Independent School District. The Agriculture Department at O'Connor is a unique program in which students learn a wide variety of agricultural techniques in a hands-on environment. Any students residing in the Northside Independent School District are able to transfer from their zoned high school to attend O'Connor to participate in the agriculture program. The O'Connor National FFA Organization is one of the largest in the Texas FFA Association.[7]

Band

[edit]

The Sandra Day O'Connor High School Marching Band has been in existence since the school was opened, and it is one of the largest high school marching bands in Texas, with over 360 members at its height. The band was led by Wallace Dierolf from its inception until 2004. After Dierolf's retirement, the school's newly built multipurpose facility, containing both a band hall and a dance studio, was named after him. When Louis D. Brandeis High School opened in 2008, the band's numbers dropped to 230, but grew back to 380 members. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the band's numbers slightly dropped to 250 due to some members leaving and the social distancing protocols that were in effect. When Dierolf retired, Roland Sandoval took his place and led the band from 2004 to 2018. The current head director is Alfonso Alvarado. Associate Directors are Gabriel Valdéz, Michael Bradford, and José Marín.[8]

Year Theme Musical Composer Drill Writer Notable Achievements
2001 "Homage: Three Tapestries"
2002 "Riverdance"
2003 "Fiddler on the Roof"
2008 "Things That Go Pop" Key Poulan Roland Sandoval Advanced to State Competition for the first time, Placed 26th out of 31 bands
2009 "BOO! In a Darkened Hall" Key Poulan Roland Sandoval
2010 "Phobia: What Are You Afraid Of?" Key Poulan Roland Sandoval Advanced to the State Competition, Placed 33rd out of 36 bands; 20th out of 53 bands at BOA San Antonio Super Regional
2011 "Chrysalis: A Journey Within" Aaron Guidry Roland Sandoval 27th out of 59 bands at BOA San Antonio Super Regional
2012 "Rain" Daniel Montoya Jr. Roland Sandoval 2nd place in Area, Advanced to State Competition, Placed 22nd out of 38 bands; 28th out of 62 bands at BOA San Antonio Super Regional
2013 "Zombie Apocalypse" Daniel Montoya Jr. Roland Sandoval 44th out of 64 bands at BOA San Antonio Super Regional
2014 "Between Heaven and Earth" Daniel Montoya Jr. Roland Sandoval 1st place in Area, Advanced to State Competition, Placed 28th out of 37 bands; 40th out of 64 bands at BOA San Antonio Super Regional
2015 "Access Denied" Daniel Montoya Jr. Roland Sandoval 40th out of 59 bands at BOA San Antonio Super Regional
2016 "The Living Sea" Ron Ellis Roland Sandoval 32nd out of 63 bands at BOA San Antonio Super Regional
2017 "Welcome to the Jungle" Ron Ellis Roland Sandoval 35th out of 68 bands at BOA San Antonio Super Regional
2018 "iFly" Cesar Gonzales Brandon Smith 58th out of 84 bands at BOA San Antonio Super Regional
2019 "More Than Machine" Cesar Gonzales Brandon Smith 46th out of 84 bands at BOA San Antonio Super Regional
2020 "Dreams" Cesar Gonzales Brandon Smith (non-competitive season due to the COVID-19 pandemic)
2021 "The Fairest of Them All" Cesar Gonzales Brandon Smith 41st out of 72 bands at BOA San Antonio Super Regional

Theatre

[edit]

The O'Connor theatre program was pioneered by the Drama Department director Deann Fleming's (whom has since retired) senior one-act project. It allows fourth-year theatre students to direct their own shows and produce them through via the International Thespian Society at the Texas State and International Thespian Festivals.

In addition, the drama students participate as Korny Klowns in the annual Helotes festival Cornyval, an event that allows the students to express themselves creatively and humorously while providing a service to the Helotes community. The Drama Department is a 6A participant in The University Interscholastic League.

The O'Connor theatre program is currently a part of the Texas Thespian Society Troupe #5872.

Air Force JROTC

[edit]

O'Connor activated their Air Force JROTC detachment (TX-20082) for the 2008–2009 school year. The current Senior Aerospace Science Instructor is LtCol Jesus Ramos (USAF ret.) and The Aerospace Science Instructor is MSgt Ralph Perez (USAF ret.). In 2012 the JROTC department, along with the Math department, moved into a newly constructed permanent facility on the northwest side of the campus.

JROTC performs ceremonial Color Guard and Honor Guard for numerous school and Civic Organizations. They have 13 teams that compete at the local, state and national levels. Those teams are Cyber Patriot, Marksmanship, female and male Physical Training, Female and Male Color Guard, Armed Drill and Unarmed Drill, and Academic Bowl. They have won numerous awards over the school year.

Notable awards for the 2016–2017 school year. Physical training placed in the top three of every competition they entered this year, with the female team capturing first overall in six of twelve competitions. O'Connor captured the coveted title of overall Grand Champions at Somerset and Kennedy H.S. Drill Meets. Marksmanship placed first at the Lee H.S. Invitational, Wagner, Clark, Kennedy H.S. O'Connor placed a team of 4 shooters and an individual shooter in the Air Force National 3 position Championships in Feb, then 2 shooters qualified for the JROTC Nationals in March. O'Connor competed at the National Drill Championships in Daytona Beach, Florida in May 2017.

JROTC detachments are required to perform community service in addition to teaching an Air Force approved curriculum. Cadets performed over 4,270 hours of community service in the 2016–2017 school year. They are frequent volunteers at the San Antonio Food Bank, have a long-standing relationship with the Helotes Cornyval Association and Scholarship Beauty Pageant and participate in 6-8 Elementary School Carnivals for Northside Independent School District schools. They instituted a training program for Kuentz Elementary School's Safety Patrol Squad that raises and lowers the flags every day.

Notable alumni

[edit]
  • Boone Logan (Class of 2002) - Major League Baseball pitcher.[9]
  • Justin Olsen (Class of 2005) - 2010 Winter Olympic Gold Medalist for the U.S. in four-man Bobsleigh[10]
  • Simran Jeet Singh (Class of 2002) - educator, writer, and activist; 2016 Northside Independent School District Pillar of Respect[11]
  • JC Caylen (Class of 2011) - Actor and YouTube personality

References

[edit]
  1. ^ a b c "O'CONNOR H S". National Center for Educational Statistics. Retrieved 22 December 2024.
  2. ^ "Northside ISD Superintendent". Archived from the original on 12 March 2018. Retrieved 13 March 2018.
  3. ^ "TEA". Texas Education Agency. Retrieved 16 February 2024.
  4. ^ http://marmonmok.com/content/uploads/2015/12/EDUCATIONARCHITECTURE2ndEdition.pdf [bare URL PDF]
  5. ^ "Historic Aerials: Viewer".
  6. ^ O'Connor Athletics
  7. ^ "Agriculture Science Teachers". nisd.net. Archived from the original on 21 June 2010. Retrieved 23 September 2010.
  8. ^ "O'Connor Band Director Biographies". Archived from the original on 29 October 2016. Retrieved 1 December 2016.
  9. ^ "Boone Logan MLB Stats". Baseball Almanac. Retrieved 10 December 2012.
  10. ^ "Vancouver 2010 Bobsleigh". Retrieved 11 March 2018.
  11. ^ "Dr. Simran Jeet Singh – Northside Independent School District". Retrieved 28 October 2018.
[edit]
Retrieved from "https://en.wikipedia.org/enwiki/w/index.php?title=Sandra_Day_O%27Connor_High_School_(Texas)&oldid=1264667255"