Austin Independent School District (AISD) is taking significant steps to address educational gaps and improve student outcomes, as highlighted in the Board Information Session held on August 14, 2025. A key focus of the meeting was the ongoing efforts to enhance literacy and support for students, particularly those in special education.

Trustee Singh emphasized the need for innovative solutions to engage parents and bridge existing gaps in student performance. He noted that while teachers are working tirelessly, the results are not meeting expectations, prompting a call for alternative strategies, such as Saturday school, to involve parents more effectively in their children's education.

The meeting also showcased positive trends in literacy growth across various student groups, with several trustees expressing optimism about the progress made over the past year. However, concerns were raised regarding the lack of significant growth when comparing different school years, particularly in the fall-to-spring assessments. The district's leadership acknowledged these concerns and committed to providing more detailed data on campus-specific growth scores.

A highlight of the discussion was the introduction of Lighthouse Schools, which receive intensive coaching and support to foster collaboration and best practices among educators. These schools serve as models for other campuses, allowing instructional leaders to observe and learn from successful strategies. The current Lighthouse Schools include Barrington, Pecan Springs, Harris, Jordan, Houston, and Go Valley.

Trustees also stressed the importance of disaggregating data for special education students to better understand their unique challenges and progress. This approach aims to ensure that expectations remain high for all students, regardless of their learning disabilities. The district plans to refine its data collection methods to provide clearer insights into the performance of students with specific disabilities, such as dyslexia.

In conclusion, the AISD Board is committed to continuous improvement in educational outcomes, with a focus on innovative solutions and data-driven strategies. As the district moves forward, the emphasis will remain on collaboration, targeted support, and high expectations for all students, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to succeed.