How the West Knew They

Mattered

Once upon a time there was a Texas State Representative whom lived in Odessa, Texas. G.E. “Buddy” West was a voice for the community at the State Capitol in Austin. He was loving and generous in all he accomplished. Shirley West supported her husband in each endeavor over the years as well as being another spokesperson for the people.

Later, three new schools were built to accommodate the growth during the Oil Boom in Ector County. One of the schools was named in honor of G.E. “Buddy” West.

Linda Subia expedited the movement of West Elementary by exploring all the areas in the U.S. that were pioneers in 21st century learning. She traveled far and near and met famous educators like Ron Clark. She studied hours upon hours to set the foundation for the environment that would house teachers, students, and parents. Individuals and teams that would matter to each other and the world.

Along the way she recruited members to join her expedition to settle at West Elementary.

There was Mercedes Shirley who decided to stake a claim at West. She would assist Ms. Subia. Side by side they searched for individuals who were dedicated, disciplined, dependable, and determined to make a difference in the world. They would each be dreamers and innovators in their own way.

Teachers from across Texas and the nation packed up their treasured belonging and left their homes in hopes of a great future at West Elementary. The search brought them from states far from Texas. Teachers from Spain who relocated to West, so they could also make a mark in the future of West. Each person novice and experienced that joined the wagon train had talents and knowledge to share.

Kristen Garcia would encourage West to be genuine and understanding citizens as she searched for candidates that would receive awards of merit and honor. She was sure that there were times she would have to set us straight and show us that the D-bug was the answer to conflicts. Coach Gonzalez and Coach Falcon made a commitment to keep us all fit while Michal Taylor gave us an anthem to unite us in song. A record of our journey would be recorded by Abigail Regalado using all the tools of the era.

West became a more than just a group of individuals. They were a community that learned to communicate and solve dilemmas West encountered with critical thinking and creativity. Some days were tiring at West Elementary, but with the help of their trusty curriculum cowgirl, LaLonnie King, they did not give up! Each person did their part and worked hard. West realized they had to collaborate so they would not defeated by obstacles. Perseverance and devotion drove them to work for those who mattered the most and the final destination.

The West became a team and was given supplies for survival and journals to record our path along the way. Nurse Trice kept each person’s wellness in check. The custodians made West shine for the students, teachers, families, and communities.

These pioneers in 21st century education are INOVATORS, DREAMERS, and THEY EACH MATTER. They are CHAMPions who are AVID leaders in Ector County Independent School District.

This is how the West was ONE! The rest of the story is unwritten and left for the leaders at West to tell.