SDN: August 28, 2025

A call for help

(Seguin) -- The Christian Cupboard in Seguin is calling on Seguin Daily News readers for help. Executive Director Regina Lee says the pantry is running low on a few essentials – those items include macaroni and cheese, canned green beans, and clean egg cartons. Lee says she hopes residents will step up with donations so they can fill their shelves as soon as possible. The Christian Cupboard is located at 516 North Camp Street. The food pantry is open Mondays through Thursdays from 9 to 11:30 a.m. Donations can also be dropped off 24/7 utilizing the donation box located on the north end of the building.

Beyond the letter grade: Seguin ISD reacts to 2025 accountability scores

(Seguin) -- With the Texas Education Agency’s 2025 A–F accountability ratings now public, the focus has shifted from the letter grades themselves to what it all means for the Seguin ISD. The A–F Accountability System was established in 2017 by the Texas Legislature through House Bill 22. Ratings are based on three areas: Student Achievement, School Progress, and Closing the Gaps.

Last week, the Seguin Daily News reported that Seguin ISD

received a districtwide letter grade of D, reflecting uneven performances across its campuses.

This week, the Seguin Daily News spoke with Seguin ISD Superintendent Jack Lee, who is beginning his first school year with the district. Dr. Lee says while the scores are not where the district wants them to be, he reminds the community that the ratings provide an opportunity to reflect and chart a stronger course forward.

Scores, pg. 2

Seguin man arrested for aggravated assault

(Seguin) – A man has been arrested in connection with a recent assault that reportedly left one person seriously injured.

Seguin Police say on Tuesday, officers took Anthony Torres, 38, into custody on a charge of aggravated assault causing serious bodily injury.

Officials say the charge stems from an incident reported the night of Aug. 18, when officers were dispatched to the Varsity, located at 956 W. Court Street, for an assault in progress. Officers say when they arrived at the scene, they saw multiple vehicles leaving and located the 48-year-old victim, a Seguin man.

They say an initial investigation by officers helped develop the suspect’s information. Working with CID, investigators say they secured an arrest warrant for Torres. He was then taken into custody without incident and transported to the Guadalupe County Jail.

Scores, continued.

“Accountability is just that. It’s the state’s way of determining a one-time high stakes test that students have to take third grade all the way through high school and determine how they believe a school is performing overall. I’m quick to say that it is a high stakes test because it is. It’s a one-time shot. It’s that one test that happens in the spring and every bit of data is determined off of that one time, one single shot test that occurs. Now accountability, I’ll be the first to admit that as superintendent, I am not afraid of accountability. In fact, I welcome accountability in ratings. That is one way for communities to see how they believe, the state believes that their school is functioning. It just doesn’t tell the whole story,” said Dr. Lee.

Dr. Lee says among the most promising snapshots of the district’s work were at the elementary level, including the Ball Early Childhood Center. He points to encouraging signs where several campuses showed meaningful growth.

“Out of 7 elementary schools, we had five elementary schools overall that saw an increase in their overall accountability. Jefferson Avenue Elementary who jumped from a 52 which was an F up to an 84 – B overall. Their increase there is very much attributed to academic growth – the name of the game of getting your students to grow from where they were last year in that high stakes test to where they are at the current year when they took that. So, we saw a significant jump there at Jefferson because of that academic growth. Koennecke also saw a fairly substantial increase. They went from a 69 – a D overall to an 81. They also saw a fairly significant increase in closing the gaps. That particular domain –domain 3 of the accountability system which is very much based on reading and math and whether students are hitting the Meets –not just the Approaches but if they are hitting Meets or above. For McQueeney, they jumped from a C – a 76 up to an 80. Vogel jumped from a 60 -D – all the way up to a 79 – a C. They were very close to that

B. Again, academic growth, closing the gaps is that area where they saw some significant increases and then at Weinert, we saw a jump from 61 to a 76. Theirs was attributed more to student achievement rather than growth,” said Dr. Lee.

Dr. Lee says the two remaining elementary schools, however, reported a decline.

“We had two elementary schools where saw a decline in their scores. Rodriguez and Patlan -- they saw a little bit of a decline in the work that they had going on there. Some of that was related to student achievement – just how well students did overall on that STAAR test and then some on academic growth as part of that work. It just tells us that we have some work to do on those campuses,” said Dr. Lee

Meanwhile, Dr. Lee acknowledged the greatest challenges remain at the secondary level where Jim Barnes Middle School was rated an F; A.J. Briesemeister earned a C and where Seguin High School, the district’s largest campus, received a D.

Scores, pg. 3

Scores, continued.

“AJB, Breezy, we saw an increase from a 66 – a D - up to a 76. Theirs was not necessarily student growth as much as it was the student achievement –overall STAAR scores and then closing the gaps -- that Meets level for reading and math specifically. Barnes, we saw a decline in. They went from a 60 –D – down to a 55 which is an F. It’s the only campus in the district that scored an F. Theirs, the decline, was primarily related to student achievement more than anything else and then we saw a little bit of a decline at the high school. They went from a 69 as a D to a 64 as a D. Theirs was really more related towards closing the gaps. We saw a decline in students that hit Meets. Theirs  includes a little bit more --- an accountability than other campuses because they have the CCMR component – College, Career, Military Readineses. That data is always lacking data. It’s going to be two years behind. The state has a tendency to change some of those requirements on us after the fact. It’s like a football game. Changing in the middle of the game – 3rd quarter, you suddenly change the rules. They have done that a couple of times. I don’t say that as an excuse because we’ve got to play the game like anyone else and be smart and we want to provide the absolute best for our students,” said Dr. Lee. Also, while no other campus in Seguin ISD earned an A under the TEA’s accountability system, it should be noted that the MercerBlumberg Learning Center once

again led the district with the top rating. This is at least the second year in a row that the learning center has received an A.

Dr. Lee also applauded the individual distinctions that several campuses earned across different academic areas. He says these schools are recognized for their respective work.

“We have four campuses across the district that ended up with Distinction Designations and that means that the state has placed our campuses in a comparative group of other campuses across the state that are similar demographics, similar make-up of the school district. We have four campuses that all saw academic achievement in those distinction designations. Jefferson, Koennecke and McQueeney all received The Top 25 Percent Comparative Academic Growth – that means that compared to other districts, they were in the top 25 percent of the growth that occurred and then Patlan, who I mentioned earlier as one of those campuses that we saw a little bit of a decrease from one year to the next – Patlan still – even with a little bit of that decrease, ended up with four separate Distinction Designations. They received Distinctions in academic achievement in reading and language arts, academic achievement in math – they also got Top 25 Percent Comparative Academic Growth and then PostSecondary Readiness,” said Dr. Lee.

Despite the overall grade, Lee said Seguin ISD has several strengths worth highlighting, particularly in its dedicated staff, innovative

programs, and student resilience.

He says the Seguin ISD has outstanding educators who are deeply invested in the schools.

He also acknowledged the weaknesses reflected in the accountability report.

He says the district must do better at closing gaps, especially at the secondary level. Dr. Lee says that means not just raising test scores but ensuring every student is on track to graduate and is prepared for life after high school.

“Being a new superintendent, everybody is also trying to feel me out a little bit trying. They are trying to see how I operate – what I believe in, what I think it’s important. I think it’s critical for our community to know that I’m a straight shooter. I’m an honest guy. I’m not happy with an overall district rating of a 66. I’m not happy with campuses that are not performing at the level that they should perform at -- not because I think we have bad people or anyone who is not doing the job at the highest level or anything like that -- I just care deeply about kids. I care deeply about making sure they have exactly what they need to be successful. And while I may not agree with the one-time high stakes testing environment, that is what the state has put into place and we are going to respond to it appropriately,” said Dr. Lee.

The Texas Education Agency (TEA) earlier this month released these long-awaited 2025 A–F accountability ratings for schools and districts, restoring a system that had been on hold for two years due to legal challenges.

Lady Matadors sweep past Fox Tech

(Seguin) -- The Seguin Lady Matadors completed their second district sweep in as many matches with a three-set victory over San Antonio Fox Tech on Tuesday at Goldie Harris Gym.

The Lady Mats took down the Lady Buffaloes, 25-5, 25-10, 25-22. On the stat sheet for the Lady Matadors, freshman outside hitter Kassidy Dailey led Seguin with five service aces. Senior setter Gisele Morales came up with a team-leading 23 assists. Junior outside hitter Ellie Anderson paced the Lady Mats with 16

kills.

Following the match, Seguin head coach Ashley Farris talked about the impact Anderson has at the net.

“She’s just so dominant,” Farris said of her outside hitter. “She’s hard to stop especially when she’s in rhythm with (setter) Gisele. There’s nothing that can stop her. She’s doing a phenomenal job.

“It’s really great to see because she’s been so selfless the last two years playing a different position. She had to be in the middle because we

didn’t have another middle. I’m so proud of her and so thankful for her to be so selfless.”

Seguin will host the Matador Classic volleyball tournament starting on Thursday. The Lady Mats will play their first match of the tournament tomorrow at 9 a.m. at Goldie Harris Gym.

The Lady Matadors, 2-0 in District 27-5A, will get back to district play at San Antonio Lanier next Tuesday.

In other area volleyball action, both Navarro and Marion won matches on Tuesday.

Schriewer

Jerry Wayne Schriewer, age 75 of Seguin, passed away on August 16, 2025. Jerry was born on December 29, 1949 in Seguin, Texas to Lorene (Koepp) and Warren Alvin Schriewer.

Jerry is preceded in death by his loving wife of 50 years, Patricia “Pat” “GG” Schriewer, and his parents.

Survivors include his daughters, Kimberly Phillips, and Tracy Landin and husband Manuel; son, Kaeleb Schriewer and wife, Meagan; grandchildren, Sieanna Taylor, Layne Phillips and wife Kelsey, Jacob Landin, Alexa (Lexi) Schriewer, and Makenna Schriewer; great-grandson, Julius Hernandez; brothers,

Jimmy Schriewer and wife Betty, and Russell Schriewer and wife Dawn; sister, Debbie Lowe; numerous nieces and nephews, other loving family members and many friends.

A memorial service celebrating Jerry’s life will be held on Friday, August 29, 2025 at 10 a.m. at Emanuel’s Lutheran Church with the Reverend Marcus Bigott officiating. A reception will follow in the fellowship hall.

The family would like to thank the staff of River Bend and the staff of Elara Hospice for their loving care of Jerry.

Memorial contributions may be made to Emanuel’s Lutheran Church, 206 N. Travis, Seguin, Texas, 78155.

You are invited to sign the guest book at www.treshewell.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Tres Hewell Mortuary, 165 Tor Dr., Seguin, Texas, 78155, 830-549-5912.

New Mexico Man Diagnosed With Plague

(Undated) -- A New Mexico man is recovering after being discharged from the hospital with the plague. According to the New Mexico Department of Health, a 43-year-old man from Valencia County was hospitalized with the condition, marking the state’s first human case this year. Health officials believe the patient may have been exposed while camping in Rio Arriba County, but additional details have not been provided at this time. The CDC says the plague is treatable with commonly available antibiotics and the chances of full recovery are higher if a patient seeks medical care early.

Trump Administration Threatens Federal Sex Education Funding

(Washington, DC) -- The Trump administration is threatening to restrict federal grant funding from dozens of states over sex education programs. HHS’s Administration for Children and Families says it’s putting 46 states, U.S. territories and Washington, D.C. “on notice” to remove “all references to gender ideology” from their Personal Responsibility Education Program within 60 days. The teen pregnancy prevention and sexual health initiative was created by the Affordable Care Act, and states stand to lose more than 81-million-dollars in federal grant funding if they do not make the requested changes.

Mediterranean Diet Plus Exercise Credited With Lowering Type 2 Diabetes Risk

(Cambridge, MA) -- A major six-year trial involving Harvard University and 23 Spanish hospitals is providing more encouraging news about the Mediterranean diet. It showed that older adults who combined the diet with regular exercise had a 31-percent lower risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. The study involved nearly five-thousand people ages 55 to 75 who were overweight and had metabolic syndrome. The Mediterranean diet is heavy on fruits and vegetables, nuts and seeds, olive oil and fish but a limited amount of meat. Another newly-published study found that it may also protect against Alzheimer’s disease. U.S. News & World Report has rated the Mediterrean diet the world’s best eight years in a row, including in 2025.

Hostess Chocolate Ding Dongs Recalled Due To Potential Mold Contamination

(Orrville, OH) -- J.M. Smucker Company, which owns Hostess products, is recalling its beloved Chocolate Ding Dongs due to potential mold contamination. The affected snacks come in two-count, ten-count and 16-count packages with a “best by” date between August 30th and September 3rd and have specific UPC Codes. The company says don’t eat those Ding Dongs because of the risk of ingesting mycotoxins. Consumers are being given two options, either throw them out the chocolate ones or return them to the store where you bought them for a full refund. They say the problem was caused by a mechanical issue in the manufacturing process at its plant in Emporia, Kansas.

August

Canned Good Drive to Support Flood Victims

Refuge III will be hosting a Canned Good Drive throughout the month of August to benefit flood victims. Donations can be dropped off at 7535 Elm Creek Rd. For more information or directions, contact Lorraine Davis at 210-548-8780.

Seguin Construction Trades Booster Club Social

The Seguin Construction Trades Booster Club will be hosting a Social at 5:30 p.m. on August 28 at The Seguin School Yard, 225 N. Saunders St., Seguin. This evening event will highlight updates about the club’s mission, celebrate donors and sponsors, and invite new friends to become part of the growing community. The gathering will run until 7:30 p.m. and offers an opportunity for connection, impact, and appreciation.

Goodbye Summer All Media Art Show at Seguin Art League

The Seguin Art League will be hosting the Goodbye Summer All Media Art Show submission drop-off from 10:00 a.m. to noon on August 30 at 104 S. Austin Street, Seguin. The show is open to all artists 18 and over, with an entry fee of $15 per artwork for members and $20 per artwork for non-members. A reception and award ceremony will take place from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Wednesday, September 3. The exhibit will remain on display through October 11. Awards will be presented in photography, 2D, and 3D categories. For more details, visit seguinartleague.com or call 830-305-0472.

September

First Friday Feast

The Geronimo Lions will be hosting the First Friday Feast from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on September 5 at 390 Cordova Rd, Seguin. Guests can enjoy a $20 steak or fish dinner, with proceeds benefiting the Geronimo Fire Department. Entertainment will be provided by Madelyn Abrameit. Payment can be made by cash, check, or credit card at the door.

Women and Ministry Talk with Virginia Gonzales

The ladies of Forest Hills Baptist Church will be hosting Women and Ministry Talk with Virginia Gonzales at 11 a.m. on September 6 at 8251 FM 1117, south of Seguin. Virginia Gonzales, who has spent over 50 years ministering alongside her husband, Dr. Rudy Gonzales, will share her insight into women and serving in ministry. A light lunch will be provided. For more information, email nancykissiar@gmail.com.

Guada-Coma ICA Chapter Meeting

The Independent Cattlemen’s Association of Texas will be hosting the Guada-Coma ICA Chapter Meeting at 6:30 PM on September 15th at Seguin Cattle Company, 2424 TX-46, Seguin, TX 78155. All producers are welcome. A beef meal will be provided, and the evening program will feature Bobby Nix with Merck Animal Health discussing fall cattle needs. Door prizes will be available.

Financial Peace University Classes at Faith Lutheran Church

The Faith Lutheran Church will be hosting Financial Peace University classes at 4:00 p.m. on September 7 at 1326 E. Cedar, Seguin. The course, developed by financial expert Dave Ramsey, offers tools and

strategies for effective money management. Special discounted pricing is available for the first 20 participants who register and pay. Childcare will be provided. For more information, call 830-379-7036.

Finding Perspective in Beginning Watercolors Class at Seguin Art League

The Seguin Art League will be hosting How to Find Perspective in your Beginning Watercolors at 1 p.m. on September 10 at the Seguin Art League. The class runs until 4 p.m. and will focus on creating a barn landscape while exploring perspective techniques and the use of resist. It is limited to five students, ages 18 and older, and costs $50 with supplies included. For more information, call 830-305-0472 or visit 104 S. Austin Street in Seguin

Unwind Your Drawing Skills: Two-Point Perspective

The Seguin Art League will be hosting Unwind Your Drawing Skills: Two-Point Perspective at 5:30 p.m. on September 12 at 104 S. Austin. This class will guide participants through the fundamentals of two-point linear perspective, concluding with the creation of a cityscape drawing. The session is limited to ten participants aged 18 and older, and the cost is $20 with basic supplies included. For more information, call 830-305-0472 or visit seguinartleague.com.

To ensure non-profit organization’s meetings and events appear in this calendar, send information to: communitycalendar@ kwed1580.com, or drop off the information at the Seguin Daily News/KWED offices located at 609 E. Court St. in Seguin. For best results, submit information at least two weeks prior to the event.