The district started the school year with several new faces.
For paraprofessional Brooke Pope, joining the district is not only a career move but also a family opportunity.
“I expect to learn, grow and build positive relationships with both students and staff,” Pope said.
Math teacher Shawn Rice said the small-town atmosphere of Archer City was a factor in his coming back here.
“I really like Archer’s small-town environment and how I feel like I know the students and parents,” Rice said. “I also think there are high academic standards for students and staff, which allows me to teach more challenging material at a faster pace.”
Coach Kevin Wright moved to AC from an even smaller school, and he said that he has high expectations for the year.
“I believe our students will rise to the occasion in whatever it is we are doing. Be it academic, athletic, band, or one-act play, our Wildcats will always grow and improve,” Wright said.
Paraprofessional Stormy Cornell said she hopes for good things from this school year.
“I expect to learn alongside the students as well as offer support and help where it may be needed most,” Cornell said.
First-grade teacher Marklie Strange grew up in Archer County.
“My dad was the constable for Archer County precinct 1 until he passed in April, and he always told me how great Archer City was, and I knew as I graduated college, this was the place I wanted to be,” Strange said.
Coheley, who has been in education for more than three decades, said he was looking forward to being a part of the winning atmosphere at ACISD.
“I think I bring experience in a winning attitude. This is my 32nd year in this profession,” Coheley said.
Pope said she had a positive first impression, and both the staff and students have been very welcoming.
“What I have enjoyed most so far is seeing the students I work with grow, gain confidence and celebrate their successes big and small,” Pope said.
Librarian and third-grade teacher Amanda Williams is returning to ACISD.
“I have lived in Archer City for 22 years and I worked in ACISD for 12 years prior to this year,” Williams said. “When I left ACISD in 2019, I became an assistant principal and then a principal.”
Rice said one of the things he is most eager about this year is teaching advanced groups.
“I am excited about the opportunities that come with the smaller class sizes and teaching the more specialized groups like the advanced seventh-grade math and UIL math teams,” Rice said.
Strange said she is excited about the future and the traditions that make Archer City unique.
“I love the traditions of AC and am so excited to get to be a part of them,” Strange said.