Hillcrest Elementary Staff Advocates for Snacks Amid District Inequities

Michelle Cardenas, a dedicated educator at Hillcrest Elementary, passionately advocated for the reinstatement of snacks for pre-kindergarten and kindergarten students during the recent Del Valle ISD Board meeting. Cardenas, who has spent 19 years in the district, highlighted the importance of community and collaboration among staff, emphasizing that Hillcrest has achieved an "A" rating due to its family-like atmosphere and respect for all voices.

However, Cardenas raised a critical concern regarding the district's recent decision to stop providing snacks, which has led to inequities among campuses. While some schools have managed to secure donations, others are struggling, leaving teachers to purchase snacks out of their own pockets or relying on parents. "Now we have inequities in the district," she stated, underscoring the urgent need for a consistent snack program to support all students.

In her presentation, Cardenas shared her experience of quickly mobilizing community support to gather snacks for her students, but noted that not all campuses have been as fortunate. She provided detailed comparisons of snack costs from the cafeteria versus those purchased through donations, illustrating the financial challenges faced by teachers and the potential health risks associated with allergies.

Following Cardenas, Jessica Marquez expressed gratitude for the district's support and collaboration, particularly highlighting a recent meeting with district administration that fostered positive communication. Marquez's remarks reflected a growing sense of community and teamwork within the district, which was echoed by other speakers who praised the board's efforts to engage with parents and staff.

As the meeting progressed, the board members were reminded of the importance of transparency and open dialogue, with attendees expressing hope for continued collaboration to address the needs of all students in Del Valle ISD. The discussions underscored a collective commitment to ensuring that every child has access to essential resources, reinforcing the district's mission to provide equitable education for all.