November 5, 2014
By Joyce Currington
Developing positive thoughts takes training, which begins in a child’s early years. Each year the Zapata Lions Club distributes dictionaries to the 3rd Grade students in each of the four Elementary Schools. Over 300 dictionaries were accepted with smiles by students and will be used in the classroom. These dictionaries are not school property – they are the personal property of the student. Third grade teacher, Rosa Maria Garza will assisting these students in learning to use their new dictionaries during the rest of this school year. Lions Club President, Aurelio Villarreal, explains why the third grade is targeted for this project, “At third grade, students change from learning to read to Reading to Learn.”
 A. L. Benavides Elementary (ALBES) in San Ygnacio is rated as an Exemplary School, Student to Teacher ratio is an important feature in learning, with only nine students in third grade, ALBES offers lots of one-on-one learning experience. An invitation went out to parents in Zapata County to have their children transferred to ALBES. Transportation would be offered to the students making this move..
The District is making many changes this year. Superintendent Raul Nuques and the school board trustees are a united group. Some of the exciting changes include, a fine arts program, Mariachi is back, theatric arts in middle school and much more. The program for at risk students is flourishing – getting the needed help to attain graduation and aim for college and a successful career. ZCISD is nearing the half-way mark for the 2104/2015 school year and there are many positive thoughts that are going to show results at the end of the term.
The current Board includes, Ricardo X. Ramirez, President; Anselmo Trevino, Jr , Vice-President.; Dora Martinez, Secretary; and members, Jose M. Flores, Jr.; Diego Gonzalez, Jr.; Manuel Gonzalez, Jr.; Veronica Gonzalez.
Photo:Lions dictionary distribution at ALBES. Rosa Maria Garza, 3rd grade teacher; Lions members Steve Sanchez, Iko Gonzalez, Aurelio Villarreal, Lions President; Ana M. Martinez, ALBES Principal; Ray Del Bosque and Danny Gonzalez, Lions members. Photo provided by ALBES.