Skip to main content
  2. Superintendent's Blog
  3. Volume 2, Issue 8: 11/22/24

Volume 2, Issue 8: 11/22/24

by Superintendent's Blog

Posted on November 22, 2024

Volume 2, Issue 8: 11/22/24

Greetings Bulldogs! Happy Friday.

Just a friendly reminder that TISD will be closed next week as we celebrate the Thanksgiving Holiday.

Substitute Appreciation Day:

I want to make sure I do not miss the opportunity to thank all of our community members who sub in Thorndale ISD. Schools across the state struggle to find subs for when their staff are out sick, supporting their children/family or taking a personal day, at training/professional development, or any other reason for being out. 

When that happens it creates a HUGE issue for morale and the stamina of staff. People end up sacrificing their own time to cover and fill in. Having such a robust group of great people who willingly come sign up and show up to cover our classes when the need arises is such a blessing. 

THANK YOU. THANK YOU. THANK YOU to our substitute teachers.

TISD Alumni Spotlight November:

November Alumni Spotlight: Brandy Jordan, Class of 1995

This month, we are excited to spotlight Brandy Jordan, a standout member of the Thorndale High School Class of 1995. Brandy’s journey, from a student involved in multiple school activities to becoming a global leader in Human Resources, showcases her dedication, determination, and love for her community.

At Thorndale, Brandy was highly involved both athletically and academically. She competed in volleyball, basketball, and track while excelling in One Act Play, CX Debate, and Extemporaneous Speaking. Her passion for debate and public speaking laid the foundation for her future career, where communication and leadership skills would play a significant role.

Following graduation, Brandy attended Stephen F. Austin State University in Nacogdoches, TX, where she majored in Speech Communications and Political Science. From there, her career began in the fast-paced world of state politics when she joined the Texas Legislative Council during the 2001 redistricting session. It was an exciting time, but after the session ended, Brandy transitioned into customer service roles with American Achievement Corporation, where she honed her skills in client relations.

In 2003, Brandy found her passion for Human Resources when she joined the HR team at American Achievement Corporation. As a recruiter, she discovered her love for supporting employees and helping them succeed. From there, she moved to Fuddruckers, where she led HR efforts for corporate-owned restaurants across the United States.

Seventeen years ago, she joined Walmart as an HR Manager in San Marcos, TX, overseeing 15 stores in central Texas. Brandy quickly fell in love with Walmart’s mission to save people money so they can live better lives. This mission resonated with her own values, which were instilled during her time at Thorndale ISD. Over the next decade, Brandy climbed the ranks, moving to Bentonville, AR, where she held HR leadership roles overseeing Walmart stores across the East and West Coasts.

In 2021, Brandy took on an international challenge, joining Walmart’s Global Sourcing team. As the Vice President, People Partner, she now supports Walmart associates in over 20 countries, including Canada, Chile, China, Mexico, Central America, and South Africa. Her role involves leading global talent strategies, supporting employee development, and aligning HR initiatives with Walmart’s international business objectives. Over the last year, her work has taken her to places like India, Vietnam, Australia, Bangladesh, and Dubai, where she’s gained valuable insights into diverse cultures and markets.

Despite her busy schedule, Brandy finds time to enjoy life outside of work. She loves spending time with friends by the pool, exploring the scenic hiking trails of Northwest Arkansas, and catching up with her family. She’s also kept on her toes by her two beloved dogs: Guinness, a black and tan bloodhound with a big personality, and Heineken, a feisty miniature dachshund.

Looking back, Brandy credits her roots in Thorndale for much of her success. She fondly remembers the tight-knit community and the life lessons she learned from her teachers, who challenged her to strive for excellence. In particular, she credits Mrs. Culp, Mr. Green, Mr. Hoines, and Mrs. Doherty for shaping her into the leader she is today. "Mrs. Doherty, you are missed, and you’re the reason I know how to argue and make a clear point in meetings today. Thank you to Heather Klotz for putting up with all of us and helping us grow into productive adults," she adds.

Her advice to current students? "Dream big and never settle. Don’t let anyone tell you that just because you didn’t go to a big high school or Ivy League college you can’t achieve your dreams. Hard work and determination will take you anywhere you want to go. And remember, Thorndale will always be there to welcome you home."

Brandy’s journey from Thorndale to global leadership at Walmart is a testament to the values of hard work and community. Her story reminds us that no matter where life takes you, the lessons and support from your hometown stay with you forever. We are incredibly proud of Brandy Jordan and look forward to seeing where her journey takes her next!

Thank you, Brandy, for being an inspiring example of what it means to be a Thorndale Bulldog.

Nominate a TISD alumni for an upcoming highlight by scanning the QR code or visiting https://forms.gle/fxupqaC6yLNd1M6n8 .

To read about prior Alumni Spotlight individuals, click here: TISD Alumni Spotlight 

Visit to Texas State Technical College:

THS juniors and seniors had the opportunity to attend the TSTC Discovery Day in Hutto yesterday. During our visit, students toured the facility and learned about all the different programs offered on campus.

FFA Updates:

Thorndale FFA had 30 members compete at the Brushy Creek District LDE contest on Friday. Below are the results:

Greenhand Creed Speaker 

  • Bradley Werner- 6th place

Senior Creed Speaker 

  • Irene Flores- 5th place

Senior Quiz- 5th place

  • Miranda Moody- 7th individually

  • Garrett Schramm- 14th individually

  • Ethan Schramm- 19th individually

  • Jocelyn Castillo

Radio Broadcasting- 4th place

  • Adalyn Hodgson

  • Audrie Jordan

  • Becca Thomas

Greenhand Quiz- 3rd place

  • Julissa Castillo- 3rd individually

  • Karley Breithaupt- 7th individually

  • Audryna Vega- 9th individually

  • Aubrey Tibbits- 18th individually

Greenhand Chapter Conducting- 1st place, advancing to Area

  • Braelynn Bleeker

Senior Chapter Conducting- 1st place, advancing to Area

  • Riley Clinard

  • Allyson Gerren

  • Keira Hagedorn

  • Bethany Preusse

  • Alayna Ramirez

  • Riley Shock

  • Aiyanna Stevenson

  • Jordyn Stutts

Please congratulate these members when you see them and wish our two area teams luck as they will compete at the Area XII contest tomorrow, Saturday, November 23rd at East View High School.

  • Reagan Cooper

  • Taylor Faske

  • Katie Hejl

  • Colby McAnulty

  • Sydney Owen

  • Maryetta Owens

  • Cameron Quebe

  • Cheyenne Stevenson

Football Updates:

Football had a big win in their first round of playoff games versus Riesel. The final score was 41-35. The Bulldogs travel to La Grange tonight to take on a top-ranked in the state Refugio.

Boys Basketball Updates:

Boys basketball started their season off right. Both middle school teams beat Milano

  • 7th Grade Won 59-23

  • 8th Grade Won 33-21

And the Maroon JH Boys beat Rockdale 30-25.

Girls Basketball Updates:

The MS Lady Dog Basketball teams traveled to Milano and brought home the WINS Thursday night!

  • The gold team won a nail-biter 18-16

  • The maroon team won 39-16

On Tuesday, the Lady Dog Basketball made a varsity-only trip to Snook and won 43-35. 

On Saturday the 16th the Lady Dogs fell to Caldwell 34-29. 
The JV Lady Dogs played 3 games in Caldwell at the Caldwell Lady Hornet JV Tournament where they went 2-1 to finish in 2nd place!

  • In game 1 they lost to Burton, the tournament champs, 29-13.

  • In game 2 they beat Elgin 30-10.

  • In game 3, they beat Rockdale 21-12.

Junior High Girls had a district opener vs. Bartlett and got two great wins!

  • 7th Grade dominated Bartlett in a 40-8 victory!

  • 8th Grade took over the game against Bartlett in a 44-7 victory!

Varsity had their season opener vs. Somerville where they played tight defense and hit six 3-pointers on their way to a 57-12 win. 

Middle School Hospitality Class:

Today, the TMS Hospitality team got into the fall spirit and learned how to make delicious pumpkin rolls! A fun, hands-on experience that’s sure to be a hit this season! 

Thorndale Elementary Kindness Club:

Thorndale Elementary received a grant from the UGLI Foundation to combat bullying and cyberbullying. The kids put that to good use after forming a kindness club and are working on projects to spread kindness! We all know the world could use a bit more of that these days.

Special Guest Reader to Pre-K:

It doesn’t get much better than reading to Pre-K! Ms. Peggy got PreK ready for Thanksgiving break with story time!

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Most sincerely,

Zack Kleypas
Superintendent
Thorndale ISD
#TISDStrivingForExcellence

“Keep improving, always, in all ways.”