I’ve always believed in public schools. I also believe that, when a community joins forces, education can be improved for all children. In District 3, we are seeing the hard work of teachers, parents and students pay off. We are seeing schools that make our community proud!
We are not talking about random pockets of excellence. Progress can be seen in all of our District 3 schools. Our list of schools earning the Texas Education Agency’s ranking of “Exemplary” or “Recognized” is growing. Hexter Elementary recently was awarded the U.S. Department of Education’s 2009 No Child Left Behind—Blue Ribbon Schools Award.
As a trustee, I find it quite rewarding to watch students benefit from the improved learning environments and leadership. Each day, I witness and learn about the challenges that our teachers and principals face. I strive to use this understanding to promote change that will lead to educational excellence. For example, we have worked hard to establish a vertical alignment of our schools. That means that we create stronger ties between elementary schools that feed into middle schools and middle schools that feed into high schools. The learning program must flow logically and consistently from year to year so that a students’ learning continues to expand.
I am thankful for the opportunity to advocate for the community. I strive to collaborate with my peers on the board so that we can achieve the best possible outcome. I research every issue that comes before me. I keep in touch with my constituents and make sure to be accessible to anyone who wants to discuss a school matter. I believe we can make our children successful and improve the quality of life for all residents of our city by working together. Trust, commitment, transparency, accountability and thinking outside-the-box are elements needed to reach this goal. I wholeheartedly encourage all residents of neighborhoods to support their schools, even if they do not have a child enrolled there. Together, we can weather the many challenges we are still to face.
-Leigh Ann