During a recent school board meeting, several key updates and discussions highlighted the ongoing initiatives and challenges within the district.
Dr. Eldridge opened the meeting with a celebration of Creekview High School's recent sports victory, emphasizing the importance of school spirit and attendance. He reminded attendees that September is Attendance Awareness Month, stressing that student attendance directly impacts funding and educational outcomes. He praised staff members Hope Keene and Chris Julian for their efforts in securing the district's selection as a Texas Education Agency (TEA) innovation cohort, a significant honor that will involve further collaboration and initiatives.
The board also announced plans to serve meals to students across campuses, starting next week, as a way to foster community engagement. Additionally, a social media campaign aimed at promoting attendance was introduced, highlighting the critical role of consistent school participation in student learning.
The Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) reported a strong membership of over 4,195, with several schools surpassing their previous year's numbers. They are organizing a donation drive for MetroCrest, focusing on essential items such as clothing and toiletries, and will host a fall training event for board members interested in PTA service.
The Education Foundation shared positive news about their fundraising efforts, reporting a 54% increase in donations compared to the previous year, totaling $311,000. This funding has impacted over 24,000 students through various grants, marking a significant achievement for the foundation.
In a poignant moment, teacher Susie Nark addressed the board, expressing concerns about the emotional toll of teacher reassignments on students and staff. She highlighted the challenges faced when a teacher is moved after establishing bonds with their class, urging the board to consider policy adjustments to better manage such transitions in the future.
The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue supporting both students and educators, as the board navigates the complexities of school operations and community engagement.