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The Lake Highlands High School PTA hosted an end of year luncheon May 6 and presented awards to deserving teachers, staff, and volunteers. “We wanted to recognize those who have given the gift of their time and abilities in the interest of students,” said Awards Chairman Jeanne Spreier.
Math teacher Robert Rowe presented a Life Membership in PTA to fellow teacher Frank Gidwani saying, “he provides a pleasurable learning environment and challenges each student to meet the high expectations he sets for them and for himself.” Rowe called the former LHHS varsity soccer coach and current Calculus Bowl team leader “an excellent role model,” and he praised Gidwani for “teaching self discipline and time management in addition to math skills.”
When he rose to accept his award, Gidwani surprised Rowe by presenting a Life Membership to him as well, calling Rowe “Mr. Positive” and “a mentor to many.”
PTA board member Cheryl Zreet presented a Life Membership to Dr. Ken Taylor, head of the science department. “Dr. Taylor has been recognized as LH Outstanding Teacher of the Year by the Exchange Club.” Said Zreet, “he has been asked to introduce many valedictorians and has been invited often to the Top Ten luncheon.” Zreet presented him with a lunch from Taco Bueno, knowing that his students describe him as a “Bueno-head.”
“Humor has kept me afloat over the years,” replied Dr. Taylor as he thanked the PTA. “The greatest success a teacher can have is to see success of his students.”
Suzanne Schwenn was given a Life Membership for many years of inspiring students. Former student Laura Toler, now a sophomore at Texas Tech, sent a letter praising Schwenn for devotion to her students. "Every ounce of confidence I owe to you," she said.
Brett Chumbley presented the Wildcat Award to LH parents Bryan and Gayle McCrory, who “exemplify spirit of Lake Highlands in every way. They are everyone’s neighbor, and they are perfect examples of servant leadership.”
“We came here and bought a house not knowing what LH was all about,” responded Bryan. “Now we recognize that we have something very unique here in Lake Highlands.”
Nancy Sales presented a Wildcat Award to Nancy Kay Jones, owner of Journeyer Books. “Nancy is a 1975 graduate of LHHS and has been a tireless supporter of LHHS,” said Sales. “By providing books for our children, she spoiled us and made our lives easier.”
Former PTA president Paula Davis presented an Extended Service Award to Laurie Bubel, who she said “was born with a checkbook and a spreadsheet in her hands. Laurie has served 18 years, ten of those as treasurer of one PTA or another. She is a Wildcat Supporter of the highest caliber.”
“I have moved on,” responded Bubel. “Now I am the treasurer of the Aggie Moms Club.”
Next, retiring principal Dr. Bob Iden presented an Extended Service Award to executive assistant, Karen Clardy. “Karen embodies the spirit of the Extended Service award. She is the best ambassador the school could ever have.”
Clardy, recently treated for cancer, thanked the crowd. “I have received 400 get well cards - that’s Lake Highlands!”
In another turnabout, Clardy then presented Iden with what she called the “Extended Stay Award”. “He is an absolutely amazing man,” she said. “I have seen first hand how incredibly warm and caring he is.”
In accepting the award, Iden thanked his teachers. “It’s phenomenal how well our school does and how well our students do.” As an example, he recognized the school’s 57th individual state champion, sophomore gymnast Sarie Morrison.
In closing, PTA president Meg Henderson asked Iden to stay two more years until her third child, sophomore Margaret, graduates. Iden, who was recently hospitalized for a heart attack, feigned heart palpitations. Kidding aside, Iden said after his retirement, “the strong spirit of this community will endure forever.” When asked how he’ll keep busy, he responded “does anyone need their lawn mowed?”
