Alma Heights community discusses safety concerns and communication gaps in schools

The recent District Education Advisory Council Meeting held by Alamo Heights Independent School District (ISD) on April 2, 2025, highlighted key insights into the community's perceptions of school safety and communication effectiveness. The discussions revealed a strong sense of pride among parents and respect for teachers, but also raised concerns about student safety and the relevance of school publications.

One of the most significant topics addressed was the overall sentiment of respect felt by teachers and pride expressed by parents regarding their students' education in Alamo Heights. Participants noted that while the majority of feedback was positive, there were notable discrepancies in how teachers felt supported across different schools. Specifically, teachers at Cambridge reported feeling less respected by parents compared to their counterparts at the high school, indicating a potential area for improvement in community engagement.

Another critical issue discussed was the effectiveness of school communications. The council examined the school views publication, revealing that less than 50% of families engage with the printed material. This statistic prompted suggestions to consider transitioning to more digital communication methods, which could not only enhance engagement but also reduce printing costs.

Safety in schools emerged as a pressing concern, particularly among high school and middle school students. Participants expressed alarm over survey results indicating that a significant number of students do not feel safe at school, with reports of bullying still present. The council emphasized that a safe learning environment is essential for academic success, highlighting the need for ongoing discussions and strategies to address these safety concerns.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the importance of fostering a supportive educational environment while addressing safety and communication challenges. As the Alamo Heights ISD moves forward, the insights gathered from this meeting will be crucial in shaping policies and initiatives aimed at enhancing the overall educational experience for students and families in the district.