The Value of Public Education

On Thursday night and Friday I attended an Institute at the Cowan Center. Ninety-five year old Dr. Louise Cowan gave a wonderful 45-minute lecture on leadership in education. One of the things she shared with us was the value of public education. In this time when public education is criticized so often, it was nice to hear someone remark that education is a gift and is the heart of civilization. Indeed, Dr. Cowan continued, it is the hope for the future. If we all thought of education in those terms, would our conversations be different? If so, in what way?

New Beginnings and New Challenges for the New Year

This is the time of year for making resolutions to improve in some way as well as an opportunity for new beginnings. Students have a chance to get a fresh start if they need to give their study habits or grades more attention or perhaps practice more to perfect a skill or talent.

Of course, this semester brings the state testing program, as well; it includes STAAR for students in grades 3 – 8 and the end-of-course tests for current 9th graders. Each freshman who began the 9th grade this year will take four tests that will count as exit-level exams. Our district has posted information about STAAR on our website, provided information to students, and is preparing to send a letter home to parents/guardians. We want to be sure everyone has the necessary information to help our students be successful. If you have a need for communication that we have not addressed, please send us your suggestions. STAAR is much more rigorous than TAKS and will require more effort from all of us. Thank you for your support in helping our students achieve higher levels of learning.