Welcome to the Young Scholars
Student Portfolio Showcase
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What is Young Scholars
What is Young Scholars
The Young Scholars Program is an initiative of LISD that provides enrichment and extension for third through fifth grade advanced learners who are not enrolled in the Dual Language or Gifted and Talented programs. Young Scholars are students who stand out in their classrooms as high achievers and are often leaders among their peers. As a district, we believe it is our responsiblity to expand upon what these students learn in the classroom, to recognize their abilities, and to build self-confidence. The Young Scholars Program is designed to do just that. Participation in Young Scholars is criteria based and by invitiation. Sessions for these students are divided into units of study connecting to core curricular areas. Young Scholars is one example of the many opportunities provided by LISD for recognizing student success and potential.
Meet the team
Meet the team
Lisa Haglund
Advanced Academics CoordinatorLisa Haglund is state certified in teaching art and biology. In the 33 years that span her teaching career, she has worked with students of all ages, ranging from second grade beginners to 12th grade Advanced Placement art students. Lisa now teaches the art and STEM components of the Young Scholars program and oversees the administration of the program. As an artist and a naturalist, Lisa's interests pair well with her love for children in this program. When she is not teaching, she can be found creating in her studio, enjoying the outdoors or playing with one or more of her 11 grandchildren.
Stacey McCarty
Director of Professional and Digital LearningStacey McCarty has spent 33 years in education, with the last 20 in Ed Tech. She taught students of all ages from first to 8th grade and discovered her knack for instructional technology in the 90's. She earned her master's degree in Technology Curriculum and Instruction and is passionate about technology education and integration for all students. Stacey loves to empower teachers and students with the technology tools and experience that they need to be successful. Stacey enjoys time with her family, antiquing and reading a good book.
Dr. Amanda Smith
Digital Learning SpecialistDr. Amanda Smith is passionate about digital learning, engaging lessons with augmented reality, and coding robots. She was a Special Education Teacher for 7 years before her love of utilizing assistive technology helped her earn a position as a Digital Learning Specialist. Dr. Smith is a graduate of Lufkin ISD and enjoys teaching the next generation of exceptional students!
Misty Spencer
Digital Learning SpecialistMisty Spencer is state certified in Family and Consumer Science, English/Language Arts, Social Studies, and Health. She spent the first 14 years in education teaching students ranging from 5th-12th grade, before she earned her master's degree in Educational Technology Leadership as a Digital Learning Specialist. As a Digital Learning Specialist, she works with teachers and elementary students to incorporate and apply traditional learning styles with digital platforms in a format called blended learning. When she isn't working, she enjoys baking, baseball and spending time with her friends and family.
April Sebesta
Digital Learning SpecialistApril Sebesta has dedicated 20 passionate years to her career in education at LISD. She received her B.S. degree from Texas A&M University, later completing a master’s degree in Educational Leadership. She spent 7 years in the classroom grades 3-5, before advancing to various leadership roles including Curriculum Specialist, Assistant Principal, and Building Principal, prior to her current role as Digital Learning Specialist. April’s background in teaching, leading, and passion for building leaders, allows her to connect with teachers and students to enrich learning through digital formats. In her free time, April enjoys spending time with her husband and daughter, traveling, and relaxing with friends.
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