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Parents, teachers say Manor ISD changes have weakened Early College supports
Summary
Parents and teachers told the Manor ISD board Oct. 27 that recent staffing and structural changes have weakened the district's Early College program, leaving families uncertain about college-course scheduling and students without dedicated counseling or community spaces.
Parents and a teacher told the Manor Independent School District board during public comment on Oct. 27 that changes to the district's Early College program have undermined supports for students and families.
Kristen Turpin, a parent, said the Early College program —was once the district's proudest achievement— and that recent —dismantling of the program, staff reductions, and staff not familiar with the needs of early college have created confusion, frustration, and a loss of identity for students, teachers, and families.— She described closed student spaces, a shuttered coffee shop and increases in —graffiti, vaping, and drug use— in some areas of the campus and said some students report feeling unsafe in restrooms.
Courtney Walker, who identified herself as a parent, said the program's name and structure appear to have been changed and that combining campuses has —diluted the structure and attention that helps these students succeed.— She said families and students lack consistent information about required classes, TSI scheduling for ACC classes, and graduation pathways.
Both speakers called for a return to dedicated Early College staffing and counseling, smaller cohorts, clearer communication with families and restoration of student spaces that build community. Their remarks were made during the public-comment period, for which the board noted no action can be taken immediately under the Open Meetings Act.
The board did not take any immediate action on the comments during the meeting. Trustees heard the remarks in public comment and continued with the evening's agenda, including informational presentations on assessment and campus turnaround plans.
Speakers: Kristen Turpin, Parent (public comment; first referenced 00:76:32) Courtney Walker, Parent (public comment; first referenced 00:84:00)
Why it matters: Manor Early College serves students pursuing college-level coursework while in high school. Parents and staff described operational and staffing changes that they say are interfering with students' access to counseling, scheduling and the supports required for college courses. The board heard the concerns during public comment but did not vote on program changes at the meeting.
