Mesquite ISD Superintendent

The Value of Public Education

2012-01-25T09:26:00.001-06:00

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

2012-01-12T09:39:00.001-06:00

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.

Thoughts for the Holidays

2011-12-14T08:44:00.001-06:00

At this time of year, there are many occasions to remind us of our good fortune. Veteran’s Day is certainly among those, along with Pearl Harbor Day, which was just last week. Add that to the upcoming season, and truly we find many reasons to be appreciative of what we have in spite of the current sluggish economy. As a leader of MISD, I am thankful for our students who come ready to learn each and every day, and I am thankful for the parents or other family members of those students who emphasize the importance of a good education. From the bus driver who picks up and delivers school children to those on the campuses and in the offices providing support services, I am thankful for the commitment of each one.

May you have a special time with family and friends over the holidays.

MISD Board Fights for Equity

2011-11-22T10:27:00.000-06:00

MISD has talked about equity in school finance for many years. However, under the current system, our district is in the bottom 20% when districts are ranked highest per student funding to lowest. That means some districts within close proximity to us may receive $1000 or more per student than MISD does. If all districts must meet the same high student expectation, which we are, we must have equitable resources for our students. This inequity is what led our Board to the decision to join the Texas Taxpayer and Student Equity Coalition lawsuit against the state of Texas. Please check out our website for more information on how school finance works in Texas.

Honoring Our Veterans

2011-11-10T16:06:00.001-06:00

For the past few weeks, we have recognized our MISD graduates who are veterans with video tributes at our football games. A compilation of the videos from all the high school campuses can be viewed at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pAR3HR7qaoE.

Though there are other activities planned throughout the community to commemorate the sacrifices and contributions made by all, I hope this will be a reminder to thank the veterans we know for their service to our country. They are deserving of our appreciation. Pass it forward.

Mesquite ISD Studying Lawsuit Issues

2011-10-12T16:30:00.002-05:00

Recent headlines have read that Texas school districts are filing a lawsuit against the State because of the school finance system. Though we have not made the decision whether to support this suit either as a plaintiff and/or financially, we are studying the issues very carefully. Mesquite receives revenue that is below the state average and far below what some districts receive. We believe that this is wrong and that there must be equity within the system if we are all to be held accountable to the same standard—which we are. Senator Bob Deuell said it best when he remarked, “… I hope this commitment to end [target revenue] maintains because it's difficult to defend a system that sends a message that some children are worth less than others.”

Our students deserve access to the same resources that other students have. We will continue to monitor the progress.

Good News to Start the School Year

2011-09-21T09:24:00.004-05:00

Our year has gotten off to a great start for many reasons. One example is that State Comptroller Susan Combs visited our district last Thursday to present MISD with an award because we are one of 23 districts in the state to achieve the highest rating on FAST (Financial Allocation for the State of Texas) for two consecutive years. (There are more than 1,000 districts in Texas.) The bottom line of this report is that our spending is efficient while our academic achievement is high. Another event was one that occurred yesterday morning at West Mesquite High School. It was the kick-off event for Destination: Graduation, a program sponsored by United Way. Both North and West Mesquite High Schools were selected for participation in this generous grant program. There are other great things, too; but these are two of the most recent. Although the media typically focuses on the negative or controversial aspects of news, it is nice to see these two recognitions get the attention they deserve. Please share the good word with others.

Remembering 9/11

2011-09-09T10:10:00.001-05:00

The attack on the World Trade Centers and Pentagon was a defining moment for those old enough to remember September 11, 2001. We all can recall where we were at that moment in time when we realized that the first crash was much more than a plane crash. As we reflect on that event, may we always cherish and appreciate the freedom and opportunities we have as American citizens because of the sacrifices of others.

Happy Holidays!

2010-12-15T15:44:00.000-06:00

Happy holidays! This is the time of year when we look back on the year and appreciate the good things in our lives.

2010 was an amazing year for MISD. From our outstanding athletic teams that went deep into the playoffs this fall to our Recognized district rating, we are so proud of the year’s accomplishments. Everything that we achieve we earn as a team. It takes all of us – at school and at home – working together to make good things happen.

We extend our appreciation to all MISD families and the entire community for the extraordinary support you give to our district and our outstanding students. We look forward to the great things that will happen in 2011!

Preparing Students to Succeed in a Digital World

2010-08-25T15:12:00.003-05:00

One of Mesquite ISD’s goals is to infuse 21st century skills throughout the district, integrating technology as a tool for problem-solving and creativity. This summer, our principals had the privilege of working with Alan November, an internationally recognized expert in the area of preparing students to succeed in a digital world. With his guidance, we are incorporating key strategies into our classrooms so that students are able learn and develop critical skills using the most current technology.

In your opinion, what knowledge, skills and values will our community’s graduates need to function effectively in the interconnected world of the 21st century?

Mesquite ISD's Vision

2010-05-07T11:46:00.001-05:00

Our School Board recently held its annual planning session to discuss the district’s vision, mission and goals. During that meeting, the Board expressed its desire to hear feedback from the community regarding the district’s vision, which is “Quest for Excellence – Success for All Students.” What does this phrase mean to you? Do you think it is an appropriate vision for the district to embrace? Do you see this vision reflected on our campuses? Share your thoughts.

The Importance of Education

2010-04-09T15:31:00.001-05:00

In Mesquite ISD, our mission is to educate all students and empower them to expand their opportunities. We believe that education is the most important factor in determining each child’s future. As parents, what are your thoughts on the importance of education and the role it plays?

Children's Social Media Use

2010-02-16T10:04:00.000-06:00

More and more students are using technology for social networking. Outlets like Twitter, Facebook and MySpace are important tools for communication; however, sometimes these tools and others like them can be used in negatives ways that hurt others. Do you believe parents should monitor their children’s social networking activities? If so, how often should parents take a look at these profiles and pages?

Happy New Year!

2010-01-05T11:01:00.008-06:00

One of the most appealing aspects of a new year is the opportunity to start fresh with a clean slate. Whenever January rolls around the calendar, all of us get the chance to make a change or go in a different direction.

For students who have not been successful thus far, now is the perfect time to turn that trend around and start on a new path. What have you and your children decided to do differently this year? How are you refocusing yourselves to make the rest of the school year is the best it can be?

Parent Involvement

2009-08-22T08:15:00.006-05:00

Research shows that students who are involved in school activities and organizations are more successful students. The Mesquite ISD has a wide variety of opportunities for students of all grade levels to be involved in activities ranging from fine arts and athletics to special interest clubs and community service groups.

Many of these activities include opportunities for you, the parent, to be involved, as well. From serving in the booster club to helping design costumes, showing an interest in your child (and your child’ s school) reaffirms the positive choices they make.

Parents may be reluctant to volunteer, wanting to give their child space. But children quickly appreciate the interest you show in them and their activities. I’m sure there are lots of parents out there who would love to share how this experience has helped their child succeed. So tell us. What success have you witnessed by becoming involved in your child’s education? What would you tell a parent who wants to be more involved?

Summer Activities

2009-05-27T14:16:00.002-05:00

As we approach the end of the school year, remember that education doesn’t stop when the summer break begins. For example, Mesquite ISD Community Education and the City of Mesquite offer summer courses, workshops and activities that keep children learning while they are having fun. Perhaps the best summer activity to keep our brains sharp is reading for pleasure or reading to your very young children – even those who have not yet entered kindergarten. Please take a moment to respond to this blog entry by sharing ways that you encourage your own children to keep learning throughout the summer months.

Exploring Optional Flexible Year Program

2009-03-04T17:38:00.004-06:00

Our district’s vision includes success for all students, and we are constantly looking for new and innovative ways to ensure that every student reaches his or her fullest potential. One such idea that has caught our attention is what is called the “Optional Flexible Year Program” – or OFYP. Under this state-allowed program, school districts may adopt a modified school calendar that would allow students who have passed the TAKS to attend up to 10 fewer school days during the regular school year. Students who do not pass the TAKS would attend school on the remaining 10 days and receive special individualized or small group instruction to help them pass those sections of the test that were causing them difficulty. Another option is that districts may use OFYP for credit recovery. In this scenario, students who are not passing a class would have the opportunity to demonstrate mastery of the subject within those 10 days and possibly receive credit for the course, within certain guidelines. Right now, we are only examining this opportunity for our high school students. By offering these students extra help in a smaller class setting during the regular school year, our hope is that we can help them to pass their courses and the TAKS to graduate on time.

At this point, we are still looking into this option. What do you think? I would like to hear your thoughts, as parents, on how this program would be received by our community. Please share your ideas as to whether this type of approach would benefit our students.

Home and School Partnership

2009-01-21T08:51:00.004-06:00

I was recently asked about my wish for Mesquite ISD students in 2009. I answered, “That all of our students will resolve to take advantage of the opportunities they have to learn each and every day.” Now that we are well into January and the second spring semester, I am confident that our students and our district will realize continued success this year. Great things are ahead! To quote our new President, “Yes, we can!”

However, as educators, our influence often stretches only part of the way on the path to achievement. Research shows that the home and school partnership plays a vital role in the success of each student. As we enter the second half of the school year, I am interested to hear your suggestions on how we can strengthen this partnership between us. As parents, how do you encourage your children to take advantage of the opportunities they have at school to learn and achieve? What can you share with other parents that will help them to support their own children? And what can our schools do to make our relationship more productive?

Blog Policy

2008-10-21T15:29:00.008-05:00

Welcome to the Mesquite ISD Superintendent's Blog. Please review our guidelines below before submitting a comment.

New to blogging?
A blog is literally a web log – an online record, or log,of someone’s thoughts and opinions updated frequently. The majority of blogs allow visitors to join in by adding their own responses (or comments) to posts by the author (blogger.) Most search engines now offer an option to search blogs, and many individuals choose to get their news and information from blogs.

If you want to respond to a post, click on the link underneath the entry. This will bring up a page where you can submit your comment.

Commenting on this blog
The Mesquite ISD Superintendent's Blog is available for all visitors to add their comments to posts. Please keep these comments relevant to the entry in question, and bear in mind that very long comments may put off fellow users.

All posting of comments on this blog are at the discretion of the author and editors. The intent of this policy is not to keep any negative or critical information from being posted, but to protect the privacy and rights of Mesquite ISD staff and students. To clarify, we will not post comments that reference specific employees or students. It is our policy to review all comments before publishing, partly to reduce the possibility of spam comments and partly to ensure comments are in line with our blog commenting guidelines set out below.

We will update comments as often as we can during our operating hours – 8:00 AM-4:30 PM Monday to Friday.

Blog commenting guidelines
We welcome all comments and look forward to what you have to say. However, we will not publish comments that:

Break the law or encourage others to do so. This includes respecting copyright and fair use laws. If you are talking about somebody else’s work, reference this or the person, and where possible include a link.
Include profanity, threatening words, harsh words, vulgar language, or inappropriate language or content. This includes remarks that are racist, homophobic and sexist as well as those that contain obscenities or are sexually explicit.
Include specific allegations, a personal attack or accusations about a student, parent, employee or community member.
Include private information about a student, parent, employee or community member including directory information, disciplinary issues, personnel issues, etc.
Do not show proper consideration for others’ privacy or are considered likely to offend or provoke others – i.e. don’t pick fights or goad others into inflammatory debates.
Are spam – i.e. repeatedly posting the same comment or comments that are simply advertising/promoting a service or product.
Reporters and other persons seeking responses to questions or requests are asked to send questions to the Public Information Office and to refrain from submitting questios as comments.

In addition, links within your comments should be relevant to the post. Comments containing links to web sites falling into the categories above will not be published.

We reserve the right to not post comments or remove any comment at any time, for any reason.

Feedback
We welcome your feedback. If you have a comment or wish to report an inappropriate comment, please email us at info@mesquiteisd.org.

Disclaimer
The author's comments are her own and do not necessarily represent the MISD’s positions, strategies or opinions. The authors, editors and the MISD are not responsible for the content on web sites linked to from this blog.