Southwest ISD approves initial targeted improvement plans for three middle schools
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Summary
After a public hearing, the board gave initial approval to targeted improvement plans for McNair, Resnick and Scobie middle schools, backed by a School Improvement PLC grant to fund daily PLCs, coaching, and curriculum implementation supports to raise TEA performance ratings.
At a public hearing and subsequent board action, Southwest ISD trustees gave initial approval to targeted improvement plans for McNair, Resnick and Scobie middle schools for the 2025–26 school year.
Lisa, the district presenter, told the board the plans are tied to a School Improvement PLC grant that funds technical assistance for professional learning communities (PLCs), including at least 20 PLC sessions during the school year, a PLC facilitator at each campus, coaching through a gradual-release model and learning walks for campus leadership. "These targeted improvement plans are required by TEA," she said, and the grant supports high‑fidelity implementation of the district's instructional materials, including Bluebonnet Math and the HMH science curriculum.
Why it matters: TEA identification carries escalating requirements. Lisa said McNair improved from prior ratings to a B in 2025 and is not identified for targeted support in 2025 but will still submit a plan under the grant. Resnick, identified for comprehensive support in 2024, made large gains in the closing‑gaps domain but still had a one‑year unacceptable count and two years with a D; Lisa warned a third D in 2026 would require a state‑mandated turnaround plan. Scobie also rose to a B and is aiming for an A in the coming year.
Details of campus focus areas: McNair emphasized schoolwide behavioral expectations and cultural routines (instructional framework 3.1) and daily use of high‑quality instructional materials (4.1) to support Bluebonnet Math and HMH science. Resnick prioritized building teacher capacity through observation/feedback cycles (5.2) and daily data‑driven instruction via Data Talks (5.3). Scobie selected developing campus instructional leaders (1.1) and professional development for effective classroom instruction (5.1), with weekly leadership meetings and daily PLCs.
Board action: The board moved, seconded, and approved the initial plans by voice vote. The presenter said the plans will be submitted to the Texas Education Agency as required and staff will return with follow‑up as implementation continues.
Next step: The district will implement the PLC schedule, continue learning walks and report progress to the board and TEA; the plans are intended to improve alignment to TEKS and increase student outcomes.