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Banks Junior High

Dr. Dickey's Newsletter 2-2-2026

Posted Date: 02/01/26 (01:52 PM)


Gator

Gator Gazette

Dr. Dickey's Newsletter

February 2, 2026
 

What's Happening Around the SWAMP!

Good afternoon, Banks families,

This week, our campus will continue with additional benchmark assessments as we gather important data to guide instruction and support student growth. These benchmarks help us reflect on progress and ensure we are meeting the needs of every learner. Thank you for partnering with us by helping students arrive rested, prepared, and encouraged to do their best each day.

We are also proud to recognize National School Counselors Week and celebrate Mr. Kracker, Mrs. Rauda, and Mrs. Keller for the care, guidance, and advocacy they provide our students and families. Their impact reaches far beyond academics, and we are grateful for the role they play in making Banks a place where students feel supported and seen.

Dr. Dickey

 

Green Track Unites in Support of Blue Track Families

Our Green Track schools are united in support of our Blue Track families during this time. We stand together, ready to walk alongside our families and offer care in meaningful, practical ways.

For those who have asked how they can help, Green Track schools have created a shared Amazon wishlist with items and support that can help meet immediate needs:

All donations will be collected and shared among Blue Track campuses to support families in need.

Thank you for being a community that shows up with compassion, generosity, and heart. Together, we take care of our own.
 
Men Who Cook Donations

2025–2026 Campus Climate Survey Opens February 4

Our annual Campus Climate Survey opens February 4–27, and we want to hear from you.
This survey allows students, staff, and families to share feedback about their campus experience. The information collected helps guide important decisions at both the campus and district level, including resource allocation, professional learning, and future planning.

This year’s survey has been shortened and streamlined based on feedback to make it quicker and easier to complete.

Participation matters. When more voices are represented, the data becomes more meaningful and helps us better support our students and staff.

Please take a few minutes to complete the survey when it becomes available and encourage others to do the same. Your input truly makes a difference.

Thank you for partnering with us and helping ensure every voice is heard.

Dr. Dickey

 
NJHS Dance
 

Ella Banks Junior High Site-Based Decision-Making Committee

We invite parents, community members, and business leaders to help shape our campus by joining the site-based decision-making committee. Please share your interest and relevant background below.

 

READ BOWL – Campus Reading Challenge

We are excited to share that Brett Waller and Donna Deerfield will be hosting a READ BOWL, a campus-wide reading challenge designed to motivate students and celebrate reading.

This will be a competition between Gator Den classes, adding a fun and engaging element for our students. Please see the attached document for full details about the READ BOWL.
ELA teachers will be passing out reading logs on Monday.

At this time, we simply ask that all staff and families encourage students to read and participate.

Thank you for your support in helping build a strong reading culture across our campus.

Best regards,
Brett Waller & Donna Deerfield
READ Bowl Flyer
Read Bowl Parent Info Guide
Student Reading Log
 

Staff of the Month Spotlight

DECEMBER

EJ

Elodie Jenkins

Name & Position:
Elodie Jenkins, Theatre Teacher

Years in Education: 
1 (but I was a student teacher and substitute for two years before).

My favorite thing about Banks:
It feels like a big family. I feel supported, celebrated, and valued every day! 

My students would be surprised to know…
I got to hang out backstage with Taylor Swift after her 1989 concert when I was in the 8th grade!

Favorite snack or treat: 
Chocolate

Best piece of advice I’ve ever received:
Being good to people is a wonderful legacy to leave behind.

When I’m not at school, you’ll find me… 
Baking something with my sourdough starter!

My personal motto or “teacher truth”:
The best performances aren't flawless, they're fearless.
Estella

Estella

Name & Position:
Estela Lopez Custodian

Years in Education:
8 years working for LCISD

Favorite thing about Banks:
All teachers and the front office.

My students would be surprised to know:
I am the Gator of the month.

Favorite snack or treat:
I like all the sweet snacks.

Best piece of advice I've ever received:
Be patient at all times.

When I'm not at school, you'll find me:
At home.

My personal motto or "teacher truth":
Always stay true to myself.
 
Accessing Library Materials
 
Breakfast Menu-January
Lunch Menu-January
Add Money to Lunch Account HERE
 

NJHS Applications Opening Soon!

The application period for the National Junior Honor Society (NJHS) will soon open! NJHS recognizes students who demonstrate strong character, leadership, service, and citizenship. Eligible students are encouraged to apply during the open application window and take this opportunity to showcase their achievements and commitment to making a positive impact in our school and community. Applications will be available in the counselors suite or room B232 starting on 2/17 and must be returned by end of school on 3/6.

Week of February 2nd

2/2/2026:
  • National School Counselor's Week
  • Texas Military Heroe's Day

2/3/2026:
  • FFA Meeting @ Tomas @ 6:30 PM

2/4/2026:
  • 8th Grade Science Spring Benchmark
  • TSA Meeting @ 5:00 PM

2/5/2026:
  • 8th Grade Social Studies Spring Benchmark
  • Basketball @ Banks (CRUZ)

2/6/2026:
  • TSA Regionals @ 5:00 PM

2/7/2026:
  • TSA Regionals @ Cinco Ranch

 

🎉Save the date! EBJH MSA's inaugural Iftar Ramadan Dinner

🎉Save the date! EBJH MSA's inaugural Iftar Ramadan dinner will be on Friday, February 20, 2026, insha' Allah. 

 
Upload Enrollment Paperwork
Early Bird Yearbook Orders
Sponsorship Level Flyer

Sponsorship Links

 

Rules Around the SWAMP

LCISD Policy and EBJH Rules

Tardy Policy

DRESS CODE

  • Reminder hats are not to be worn indoors unless for religious reasons. We have been seeing a lot of baseball caps. Please leave these for the outdoors.
  • ID Badges are a part of the dress code, and consequences for repeated printing and not wearing badges will be given.
  • NO SLIDES of any type are to be worn.
  • Shorts: at this time, we are asking for mid-thigh; many girls differ in height.

Need a Replacement Lanyard?

Students who need to purchase a replacement lanyard for their ID badge can do so online. Parents may also purchase on behalf of their student.

Dress Code
Cell Phone Policy
Cell Phone-Spanish

What's Happening Around the SWAMP?

Clubs and Organizations

 
TSA Dates (Jan & Feb)
Student Club

Counselor's Corner

Check-in with Mr. Kracker, Mrs. Keller, and Mrs. Rauda

Fairness
Newsletter
 

Gifted & Talented

GT Parent Referrals

Athletics

Schedules and Upcoming Events

 
Go Fan-Ticket Link!
 
Girls BB Wag 13
NEW
Emeralds 2
 
Cheer
 
Girls BB Practice Schedule
Soccer
7th Grade Girls Soccer
Boys Soccer
 
GTHS Cheer Tryouts
Track & Field
Games
Lady Gator BB
Texas Kids First Insurance
 

Get Involved

Volunteer News and Upcoming Needs and Events

Contact Information

EBJH Leadership Team
 
2025-2026 LCISD Instructional Calendar