Together, we will customize learning experiences so that every student is continuously challenged to advance their knowledge and ability in every classroom, in every school, every day.
EAST CENTRAL ISD BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Monique Presas, President
Emilio Carrasco, Vice President
Dell Braziel, Secretary
John Massengale, Trustee
Ginger Friesenhahn, Trustee
Victor Garza,Trustee
James Mulkey, Trustee
Roland Toscano, Superintendent of Schools
Our Vision
We envision an inclusive, exceptional school system that teaches all children to read critically, write compellingly, think logically, and solve problems creatively. We prepare students for life by equipping them with the ability to earn credentials they find appealing and valuable in today’s economy.
EAST CENTRAL ISD SCHOOLS
Harmony Elementary
Highland Forest Elementary
Honor Elementary
Oak Crest Elementary
Pecan Valley STEM Academy
Salado Elementary
Sinclair Elementary
Tradition Elementary
Heritage Middle School
Legacy Middle School
East Central High School
CAST Lead High School
Bexar County Learning Center/Restorative
Transitional Center
For more information, please visit www.ecisd.net/schools.
LETTER FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT
Roland Toscano Superintendent of Schools for East Central ISD
Dear East Central ISD Community,
I want to express my heartfelt appreciation for your ongoing support and active participation in shaping our community’s most valuable asset—our children and their education. We recognize that a well-prepared workforce is essential to the strength of our economy, regardless of whether our graduates enter the private, public or non-profit sectors.
At East Central ISD, we take your aspirations for your children seriously. Our mission is to develop resilient, goal-oriented graduates who are ready for life beyond high school and equipped with a strong work ethic. To achieve this, we hold ourselves accountable—not just to state test scores, but also to the high standards set by our community. We believe that by assessing more than standardized results, we can better reflect the true value of public education in our district. Furthermore, we are committed to continuous improvement, ensuring that we not only meet but exceed your expectations.
The 2024 Community-Based Accountability System (CBAS) report highlights the current status of each of our educational pillars and our plans for continued growth. It serves as a cornerstone of our long-term strategy, reaffirming our commitment to student success. Your feedback remains vital, and we view your expectations as key indicators of our progress and quality. We are dedicated to meeting and exceeding these expectations.
Sincerely,
Roland Toscano Superintendent of Schools for East Central ISD
(210)634-6100
@rotoec
roland.toscano@ecisd.net
ENGAGED AND WELL-ROUNDED STUDENTS
East Central ISD will empower all students through diverse experiences beyond the classroom.
CHOICE SCHOOLS
FAMILIES CAN CHOOSE THE BEST-FIT CAMPUSES
East Central ISD has opened six district-wide choice schools. The first choice schools—Oak Crest Dual Language Academy, Salado Dual Language Academy and Salado Leadership Academy—opened in the 2019-2020 school year. CAST Lead High School followed in the
P-TECH in Health Science welcomed its inaugural group of ninth-grade students. The Pecan
CAST LEAD STUDENT WINS THE RATHER PRIZE
The Rather Prize is a prestigious $10,000 award given to a student, teacher, community organization or administrator in Texas with the most innovative idea to improve education in the state.
Gracie Polasek, a CAST Lead High School student, is the 2024 Rather Prize winner.
Gracie’s visionary idea is the “Creativity Cove” – a space designed to nurture student-led projects and foster creativity without limits. This dynamic venue will also engage the community, promoting collaboration and innovation. Gracie’s experience working with Indeco, a company specializing in designing educational spaces, inspired her to create this unique concept.
Gracie’s Creativity Cove will be a vibrant hub for student innovation and community collaboration, turning her vision into a transformative space for all.
The Creativity Cove is a place that will know no bounds and creativity will flourish.
--Gracie Polasek
THE RATHER PRIZE CHALLENGES PARTICIPANTS TO ANSWER THE QUESTION, “WHAT IS YOUR IDEA TO IMPROVE EDUCATION IN TEXAS?”
Gracie Polasek is pictured with (L-R) Dr. Kevin Foster, Martin Rather and Dan Rather at South by Southwest® (SXSW®) in Austin.
DUAL LANGUAGE STUDENTS CAN EARN HIGH SCHOOL LANGUAGE CREDIT
Since 2019, East Central ISD’s Dual Language Immersion Academies have implemented an 80/20 model that promotes bilingualism and biliteracy.
These innovative schools of choice, located at Salado Elementary and Oak Crest Elementary, serve emergent and non-emergent bilingual students. They offer a challenging academic curriculum in English and Spanish. By fostering proficiency in two languages, the program prepares students for future college and career success and helps emergent bilinguals meet the reclassification criteria necessary for thriving in English instruction.
2023-2024
STUDENTS EARNED HIGH SCHOOL CREDIT
In partnership with the ECISD Bilingual/ESL Department, these academies allow students to earn one of the two required LOTE (Languages Other Than English) credits for high school graduation. Students must meet three specific program requirements to obtain this credit, as shown in the table below.
Five consecutive years in a Dual Language Immersion Program.
The student must achieve proficiency in both English and Spanish as demonstrated by scores of proficient or higher in the reading and speaking domains on language proficiency or achievement tests in both languages
Achieve high levels of academic competence as demonstrated by performance of meet or masters grade level on both the mathematics and reading State of Texas Assessment of Academic Readiness (STAAR) in English or Spanish, as applicable in at least one grade level.
OUR DUAL LANGUAGE ACADEMIES FOLLOW A COMPREHENSIVE 80/20 MODEL THAT PROMOTES BILINGUALISM AND BILITERACY.
ECISD LAUNCHES CREATIVE INITIATIVES TO BOOST STUDENT ATTENDANCE
For the 2023-2024 school year, ECISD aimed to reach a 94% average daily attendance rate. While this goal was not fully achieved, the district saw improvement over previous years, with a 91.30% average. This percentage is a modest decline from 2022-2023, when attendance reached 92.3%, but a significant improvement from the 2021-2022 school year, when attendance had dropped to 88.6%.
This upward trend shows that the district's efforts are making a difference, but there is still work to be done to reach the target.
To encourage better attendance and foster a culture of accountability, ECISD launched several creative initiatives throughout the year.
The school year began with the 20-Day Attendance Challenge— Battle of the Grades, a friendly competition pitting different campuses against each other to promote regular attendance.
(Continued on the next page.)
Video testimonials from local news personalities were shared with families via ParentLink and social media platforms, highlighting the importance of attending school consistently. September's Attendance Awareness Month brought even more focus to the goal. The district integrated activities into the curriculum to emphasize the significance of good attendance and further built momentum with ongoing challenges throughout the year. In December, just before the holiday break, another Attendance Challenge took place, with winners rewarded with gift cards and celebratory parties.
The spirit of competition continued into March with the March Madness Attendance Challenge Tournament, where Salado Elementary emerged victorious with an impressive 97% attendance rate. In May, the district hosted one more attendance push before the school year ended, reinforcing the message of showing up and finishing strong.
Improving attendance is crucial for student success at all grade levels. For younger students, consistent attendance helps establish strong foundational skills, social development and learning routines. Regular attendance becomes even more essential at the middle and high school levels, directly impacting academic performance and graduation rates.
SPOTLIGHT
PROJECT GRANT FUNDS
WORK-BASED
LEARNING
East Central ISD received $10,000 from Texas A&M University’s Work-Based Learning Project through their Center on Disability & Development and Texas Workforce Solutions Vocational Rehabilitation Services. The project provides authentic work experiences for adult students, focusing on employability skills.
Our 18+ Bridge and STEP programs choose a real-world work experience each month. For example, in December, students created and sold sugar scrubs as holiday gifts to families.
SPOTLIGHT
SPECIAL OLYMPICS
On April 25, 2024, East Central staff, students, parents and th community joined at Bulldog Stadium in Somerset, Texas, to celebrate and support our students in the Special Olympics.
Our students are excited to participate in the annua Special Olympics, an event we've been part of for over eight years, with excitement growing every yea
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STUDENT
SAFETY
AND WELL-BEING
East Central ISD will provide an environment that ensures students feel accepted, safe and supported, emotionally and physically.
PROMOTING WELLNESS
ECISD ENHANCES MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT FOR STUDENTS
Addressing student mental health needs is crucial, as these challenges can significantly impact a student's ability to focus and engage. This challenge, in turn, can lead to a decline in academic performance, highlighting the urgent need for mental health support in schools.
With the rise of social media and the isolating effects of the COVID pandemic, the district recognized a growing need for more robust mental health support within schools. This need prompted partnerships with community experts in clinical counseling and therapeutic services, enabling the district to reach more students than ever before.
DISTRICT MENTAL HEALTH PARTNERSHIPS AND GRANT AWARDS HAVE ALLOWED US TO SERVICE STUDENTS’ INDIVIDUAL NEEDS THROUGH CLINICAL SERVICES.
RESEARCH SHOWS THAT EARLY INTERVENTION IN MENTAL HEALTH
STUDENTS
Students individually case managed by Communities In Schools (CIS) Site Coordinators. 840 70 83
STUDENTS
Additional ECHS students supported by funding through the Bexar County Department of Behavioral Health
Students received 733 on-campus counseling sessions through Project Access, part of our CIS mental health support.
Students referred through school counselors for on campus clinical counseling to address grief, anxiety, coping mechanisms, suicide ideation, anger, depression and other trauma.
Students participated in individual clinical counseling after a disciplinary incident as part of their Restorative Transitional Center plan 44 18 20+
STUDENTS
60+
STUDENTS
Students participated in a small group music therapy program called Healthy & Harmony, learning to express their emotions through rhythms and use music as a coping mechanism
Students participated in substance abuse prevention presentations as part of their Restorative Transitional Center plan.
Students were referred through school counselors districtwide for state-funded counseling services from Texas Child Health Access Through Telemedicine
Referrals were assessed and received telehealth services from TCHATT (Some parents chose another route for supporting their student, sometimes preferring in person counseling ) 201 56
STUDENTS
205
Students from ECHS & CAST Lead participated in Youth Aware of Mental Health.
ECISD ENHANCES SCHOOL CLIMATE WITH COORDINATED BEHAVIOR SUPPORT SYSTEMS
Robust and coordinated behavior systems benefit the school climate by promoting positive behaviors, empowering teachers in classroom management and significantly reducing disruptions to learning. ECISD leadership is working hard to build capacity in teachers and administrators across the district through a common systemic approach to behavior. Our defined strategic approach includes—
Building strong connections
Recognizing and addressing behaviors
Closing behavioral skills gaps
Campuses receive ongoing coaching and support from district staff in these areas and teachers are equipped with visual tools to help them implement.
The Brag Board is a visual tool for recognizing positive behaviors.
Students demonstrating safe, respectful, and responsible behaviors sign the Brag Board.
Once the Brag Board is filled, the class reaches its goal and celebrates. Each completed class Brag Board contributes to the school-wide goal.
When the school-wide goal is achieved, the entire campus celebrates.
VISUAL TOOL REMINDS STAFF OF DAILY GREETING ROUTINE
SPOTLIGHT
HANDLE WITH CARE PROGRAM
The Handle With Care program is designed to provide immediate support to children exposed to trauma by connecting law enforcement with schools. When officers encounter a child at a crime or accident scene, they identify the child and notify the school, allowing educators to provide the necessary support.
This initiative aims to mitigate the adverse effects of trauma on children's well-being and academic success.
Handle With Care connects law enforcement and schools to support children exposed to trauma, helping mitigate its adverse effects on their well-being and learning.
SPOTLIGHT
SUPPORTING FAMILIES IN NEED
At East Central ISD, we are deeply committed to supporting families in need within our community. We understand that crises can arise unexpectedly, and our mission is to provide timely assistance and resources to those facing challenges.
When Heritage Middle School learned about a family in crisis during winter break, the staff quickly mobilized to assist. They also contacted Southeast Baptist Church to secure additional resources and financial support for the family Mrs Carrasco, the school's secretary, played a pivotal role in coordinating these efforts, demonstrating exceptional dedication and compassion and showing the personal touch that is a hallmark of our community's support efforts.
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STUDENT LEARNING AND PROGRESS
East Central ISD will provide meaningful and interesting learning experiences, ensuring that all students reach their goals.
STUDENT GROWTH
30+ TEACHERS RECOGNIZED FOR EXCEPTIONAL PROGRESS
This year, a special team from the district surprised over 30 outstanding teachers who achieved remarkable results.
These educators guided many students to make significant academic progress—one year or more (+1+)—in reading and/or math.
While all of our teachers work hard to teach a rigorous curriculum, students in these classes showed exceptional growth in their learning, a true reflection of the educators' dedication and teaching prowess.
We are committed to ensuring that every student is college—and career-ready. To prepare students for success beyond high school, we aim to maximize their growth each school year.
RECOGNIZING TEACHERS BOOSTS MORALE, PROMOTES BEST PRACTICES, STRENGTHENS COMMUNITY TRUST, AND HIGHLIGHTS THE DIRECT IMPACT OF QUALITY TEACHING ON STUDENT SUCCESS.
EDUCATORS AND PARENTS HAVE A CRUCIAL ROLE
A growth mindset shapes how students approach learning, challenges and setbacks. By believing that abilities can improve with effort, students become more resilient and motivated to tackle obstacles head-on. This mindset fosters engagement and persistence, driving academic success.
Educators and parents play a crucial role in cultivating a growth mindset. By encouraging these attitudes early, students are prepared for success in school and their future careers, helping them thrive in all areas of life.
Students with a growth mindset view mistakes as learning opportunities and welcome feedback. This adaptability enhances problem-solving skills and fosters a deeper love for learning.
STUDENTS ARE SCREENED IN SEPTEMBER, JANUARY, AND MAY TO MEASURE THEIR GROWTH THROUGHOUT THE YEAR AND IDENTIFY AREAS FOR SUPPORT.
EIGHTH-GRADERS EARN HIGH SCHOOL CREDIT
EIGHTH GRADERS EARNING HIGH SCHOOL CREDIT
640
ALGEBRA 293 BIOLOGY
East Central ISD proudly recognizes a record number of students who have earned high school credits before even entering high school. This achievement reflects our commitment to providing rigorous academic opportunities and ensuring students are well-prepared for their future educational paths.
Our Algebra initiative for eighth graders has been instrumental in fostering mathematical understanding and readiness, but we are also seeing remarkable growth in the number of students earning Biology credit.
This dual achievement underscores the effectiveness of our curriculum and our educators’ dedication to nurturing student success in various subjects.
BOOSTING MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT
When seeking a partner for the Project AWARE grant, the Communities in Schools (CIS) CEO selected a district ready to integrate its programming into the Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS).
East Central ISD was chosen because its improvement plan emphasizes targeted interventions for attendance, behavior and academics. This plan aligns perfectly with the grant’s objectives.
The federal Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration AWARE grant enhances mental health support and individualized case management throughout the district.
This partnership is a proactive step toward addressing our students’ mental health needs. It’s a testament to our commitment to ensuring they have access to the resources necessary for their well-being and academic success.
The grant was awarded for the 2023-2024 school year, with groundwork beginning in Spring 2024. This initiative will leverage CIS, Region 20 resources and the Office of Mental Health Coordination at Health and Human Services to elevate our students’ mental health services and support systems.
Grant Goals:
95% of case-managed students will remain in school.
90% of students will be promoted to the next grade or graduate.
80% of students will demonstrate improvements in academics, behavior, and attendance.
CLINICALCOUNSELORS
CLINICAL COUNSELORS PROVIDE ONCAMPUS MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELING FOR CASELOADS OF 45 STUDENTS EACH.
COMMUNITY SPECIALIST
THIS ROLE CONNECTS SCHOOLS WITH RESOURCES TO ADDRESS BASIC NEEDS SUCH AS FOOD, CLOTHING, TUTORING, STUDENT CLUBS, ELECTRICITY ASSISTANCE AND REFERRALS .
COMMUNITY EDUCATOR
THIS POSITION OFFERS GUIDANCE FOR PARENTS, GUARDIANS AND SCHOOL STAFF TO BETTER UNDERSTAND MENTAL HEALTH AND SUPPORT STUDENT NEEDS.
POST-SECONDARY READINESS
East Central ISD will prepare students for citizenship, employment and future success; ensuring students are real-world ready.
PREPARING FOR POST-SECONDARY LIFE
ECISD GRADUATES ACHIEVE RECORD
POST-SECONDARY READINESS
East Central ISD focuses on preparing students for all aspects of post-secondary life, ensuring they have choices after graduation. East Central High School and CAST Lead High School staff worked diligently this school year to help graduates achieve post-secondary readiness.
Students who met one of nine indicators of readiness were honored with a lapel pin, a symbol of their hard work and dedication, to wear on their regalia during graduation.
The district provided over 600 pins to recognize students for meeting their goals.
Students could meet an indicator of post-secondary readiness through various means, including--
SAT, ACT and TSI assessments
Texas College Bridge Platform
College Preparation Math or English
Dual credit courses
Earning an Industry-Based Certification
Enlisting in the Armed Forces
SUMMER INTERNSHIPS PREPARE STUDENTS FOR FUTURE CAREERS
Work-based learning (WBL) is a vital component of the educational experience at East Central ISD, where we strive to prepare students for successful lives after graduation.
Since 2016, ECISD has offered summer internship opportunities for currently enrolled students, enhancing their career readiness.
In the summer of 2024, the district hosted 26 junior and senior students across various departments, pushing the total number of summer interns to over 115 since the program’s inception. These internships provide students with valuable experiences that align with their career goals and often lead to full-time employment after graduation.
NATALIE SALAZAR
As a summer intern with the Summer@ECISD program, Natalie Salazar participated in the Education and Training Program at East Central High School, earning her Education Aide Certification. After graduating, she enrolled at Texas A&M University-San Antonio to pursue her teaching degree. While completing her studies, she was hired as an instructional assistant in Pre-K at Harmony Elementary.
ELECTRATHON TEAM POWERS INNOVATION WITH DESIGN
The East Central High School Electrathon team used the Engineering Design Process to create their fourth electric car this year. The students spent the year building their race vehicles from the ground up. Utilizing laws of Physics, Engineering, Mathematics, and so much more, they can fine-tune the cars for maximum speed and battery longevity through races.
The team competes in the Alamo City Electrathon (ACE) Race each year and has won numerous times.
This year, they provided a service to the Alamo City Electrathon by assembling cars to deliver to local schools beginning Electrathon programs.
The East Central Team goes further than just racing! This year, the students on the team also designed and generated the awards handed out at the San Antonio ACE Race.
IN ADDITION TO THE LOCAL RACE,
SPOTLIGHT
TAMUSA “I’M FIRST” SUMMIT
Since 2020, the ECISD Bilingual/ESL Department, in partnership with the district’s College, Career, and Military Readiness (CCMR) program and Texas A&M University-San Antonio, has provided valuable opportunities to firstgeneration college students through the I’m First Summit. This initiative equips students and their families with essential resources for navigating higher education.
The summit has also contributed to record-breaking TASFA (Texas Application for State Financial Aid) completions, ensuring greater access to financial aid for students.
Every year, 20-30 students attend the summit, and in recent years, parents have been invited to join, gaining insights to support their children better.
SPOTLIGHT
FUTURE READY BEXAR COUNTY YOUTH SUMMIT
The ECISD Bilingual/ESL Department and CAST Lead High School, in collaboration with the district’s College, Career, and Military Readiness (CCMR) program, took over 50 juniors and 50 seniors to Northeast Lakeview College for UP Partnership’s Future Ready Bexar County Youth Summit. In partnership with San Antonio’s three systems change networks and Workforce Solutions Alamo, this event helps local high school students prepare for life after graduation.
Students participated in College 101 and Career/Degree
Exploration workshops and a Job Fair/College Expo featuring colleges, universities, employers and support services.
They learned valuable information about financial aid, college life, career planning and pathways to success.
5
QUALITY AND COMMITMENT OF STAFF
East Central ISD will ensure the highest quality workforce to provide the best possible student outcomes for the community.
BUILDING TOMORROW’S TEACHERS
ECISD RESIDENCY PROGRAM CULTIVATES
FUTURE
EDUCATORS
The ECISD residency program places residents as co-teachers alongside experienced mentors, reducing student-to-teacher ratios and enhancing individualized instruction.
This initiative addresses immediate staffing needs and establishes a sustainable pathway for preparing qualified educators dedicated to excellence within the district.
The residency program began as a pilot in the 2022-2023 school year at CAST Lead High School, with full implementation during the 2023-2024 school year.
Of the eight residents, six were hired as full-time teachers for the 2024-2025 school year, and one was hired as a paraprofessional while completing her certification.
3 SCHOOLS
11 ANTICIPANTED RESIDENTS 2023-2024 SCHOOL YEAR
6 RESIDENTS
INSPIRING INSTITUTE KICKS OFF SCHOOL YEAR
The ECISD Bilingual/ESL Department proudly launches the school year by bringing together Dual Language Immersion Academies and Languages Other Than English (LOTE) teachers for a motivational event to celebrate achievements, share district data, and set student success goals.
The ECISD Bilingual/ESL Department initiated the Bilingual Institute in 2019 as an annual event to begin the school year.
Participants include: Administrators
Teachers
Instructional Assistants
Educators from Dual Language
Immersion Academies (specifically Salado and Oak Crest)
ESL teachers
LOTE teachers from middle and high schools
The event includes:
An inspiring message from the Superintendent.
A motivational keynote speaker. District data. Goals.
THE BILINGUAL INSTITUTE CELEBRATES ACHIEVEMENTS AND SETS NEW MILESTONES FOR STUDENT SUCCESS.
The Bilingual Institute serves as a vital platform to unite educators from various language programs within the district, fostering collaboration and inspiration.
This annual event not only highlights achievements but also focuses on setting new milestones for student success.
The motivational speaker is critical in inspiring attendees to embrace positive actions and offering fresh perspectives to make challenges more manageable. Their real-life experiences resonate with the audience, setting a positive tone for the year ahead.
Together, we are committed to excellence in education.
NATIONAL BOARD CERTIFICATION COHORTS
ELEVATE TEACHER EXCELLENCE
ECISD recognizes the vital link between teacher performance and student growth and provides valuable networking opportunities for teachers pursuing National Board Certification, the highest and most respected credential in education. Certified teachers benefit through TEA’s Teacher Incentive Allotment, receiving stipends that enhance retirement benefits.
First cohort of National Board Certification launched in the 2022-2023 school year
Support for the program is offered at no cost to participating employees
Initial participation included 10 teachers, which doubled to 20 teachers in 2023-2024.
SPOTLIGHT
KATY DYLLA
Katy Dylla, the first teacher in East Central ISD to achieve National Board Certification, has taken on the role of cohort facilitator. She provides invaluable support and guidance to current participants pursuing their certification. Drawing from her own experience, she offers mentorship and advice to help teachers navigate the rigorous process.
ECISD CULTIVATES FUTURE LEADERS THROUGH ASPIRING
PRINCIPALS ACADEMY
ECISD is dedicated to cultivating the next generation of leaders and administrators through a comprehensive leadership development program, the Aspiring Principals Academy. District and campus staff aspiring to build their leadership skills and advance into administrative roles participate in a year-long cohort. They receive mentorship from experienced principals, handson leadership experiences and targeted professional development. This program equips future leaders with the tools to drive positive outcomes for students, teachers and the community.
HANDS-ON LEARNING
FOCUS ON GROWTH
Leadership workshops are held in district training rooms, complemented by on-the-job training and projects at ECISD campuses
ECISD is dedicated to cultivating a leadership development organization that
2023-2024
SCHOOL YEAR
20
PARTICIPANTS
11 ARE NOW IN CAMPUS OR DISTRICT LEADERSHIP POSITIONS
Kasey Beckett, an Aspiring Principals Academy Cohort 1 graduate, was named Principal Fellow for Valor Middle School, opening in fall 2026.
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND PARTNERSHHIPS
East Central ISD will seek and maintain strong community engagement and partnerships with community organizations.
INITIATIVE STRENGTHENS SUPPORT SERVICES
BUILDING SKILLS, FOSTERING CONNECTIONS AND ENHANCING STUDENT SUCCESS
PARTICIPANTS
The ECISD Bilingual/ESL Department has joined forces with Restore Education to enhance our Child Nutrition and Custodial departments by providing vital ESL classes, Paraprofessional Educator training, and pathways to substitute teaching roles.
Since the inception of ESL classes in 2019, participation has surged, leading to the development of specialized programs designed to meet the unique needs of cafeteria and custodial staff.
This initiative has proven to be instrumental in tackling the substitute shortage within our Dual Language Immersion (DLI) and Languages Other Than English (LOTE) programs.
We are particularly proud of the success stories from this program, including one grandmother, whom the National Adult Education Honor Society recognized for her dedication to learning English outside of class hours.
THIS INITIATIVE HAS BENEFITED COMMUNITY MEMBERS, PARENTS, AND FAMILIES, WHICH ALIGNS WITH OUR COMMITMENT TO INCREASING FAMILY AND COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT.
THREE MORE ECISD SCHOOLS EARN TEXAS PURPLE STAR CAMPUS HONOR
Three additional ECISD schools— East Central High School, CAST Lead High School and Pecan Valley STEM Academy—have achieved the Texas Purple Star Campus honor from the Texas Education Agency (TEA).
All the campuses in our district have now earned the Purple Star designation.
The Purple Star Campus designation recognizes Texas schools that show their support and commitment to meeting the unique needs of militaryconnected students and their families.
This special honor was created by the 86th Texas Legislature through SB 1557 and further described in agency rule (19 TAC, § 61.1063), effective April 9, 2020. Every fall, TEA awards the Purple Star Campus designation to campuses that apply and meet established criteria.
100% ECISD CAMPUSES WITH TEXAS PURPLE STAR DESIGNATION
CAST LEAD HIGH SCHOOL HOSTS ITS INAUGURAL MARKET DAY
On Saturday, March 23, CAST Lead High School proudly hosted its inaugural Market Day, a vibrant event that brought together the school community and local businesses. Parents, students and faculty made this event possible.
Key highlights of the event included:
Essential Resources:
Families received support through donations from the San Antonio Food Bank, ensuring access to essential resources for those in need.
Local Artisans:
The event featured booths from local artisans, showcasing a diverse range of handmade goods and crafts, promoting community engagement and supporting local talent.
Food Trucks:
Attendees enjoyed delicious offerings from various food trucks, adding a culinary flair.
Student Participation:
CAST Lead students showcased their entrepreneurial spirit by selling homemade treats, drinks and unique crafts at several booths. Their involvement added a personal touch to the event and allowed them to engage with the community.
THE EVENT FOSTERED COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT BY BRINGING TOGETHER PARENTS, STUDENTS, LOCAL ARTISANS, FOOD TRUCKS AND THE SAN ANTONIO FOOD BANK.
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FISCAL AND OPERATIONAL SYSTEMS
East Central ISD will optimize District resources for operational efficiency and student success.
FINANCIAL INTEGRITY RATING SYSTEM OF TEXAS
ECISD RECEIVED A SUPERIOR ACHIEVEMENT RATING, SCORING A 100
The state’s school financial accountability rating system, known as the School Financial Integrity Rating System of Texas (FIRST), ensures that Texas public schools are held accountable for the quality of their financial management practices and that they improve them.
The system is designed to encourage Texas public schools to manage their financial resources to provide the maximum allocation possible for direct instructional purposes.
East Central ISD received a Superior Achievement rating of 100 based on the financial data for 2022-2023.
Since the inception of the Texas Education Agency’s FIRST Report, East Central ISD has achieved a Superior Achievement rating.
INNOVATIVE MEDICAL PLAN EXPANDS EMPLOYEE WELLNESS
Employee wellness is a top priority for the East Central ISD. Since the launch of the selffunded medical plan on September 1, 2020, the district has continually expanded access to affordable, high-quality healthcare.
In partnership with CareATC, ECISD offers free primary care to employees and their dependents enrolled in the district's medical plan. All employees and dependents have access to free telemedicine through Recuro. The Recuro service added free virtual behavioral/mental health visits in 2023-2024.
ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY SCHOOL
EMERGENCY RELIEF (ESSER)
FUNDS SUPPORTED PANDEMIC
RECOVERY EFFORTS
Congress established the Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) funds in response to the pandemic to help schools reopen safely, address learning loss and support other critical needs.
ESSER III, the final round of federal relief funding, was distributed to assist schools in their continued recovery efforts.
All ESSER III funds had to be allocated by September 2023, with the requirement to be fully spent by September 2024.
$15,094,097
PROVIDING NUTRITIOUS MEALS AND EXCITING PROGRAMS TO SUPPORT HEALTH
The mission of the Child Nutrition Department at East Central ISD is to support the success of our students by providing nutritious, well-balanced meals in a healthy and welcoming environment. Here are some key highlights from the 2023-2024 school year:
Hornet Food Show
November 14 at East Central High School (ECHS)
Students sampled new dishes and voted for their favorites.
National School Lunch Week
October 9-13
An annual celebration promoting healthy school lunches with opportunities for students and staff to participate.
School Breakfast Week
March 4-8 (Theme: Surf’s Up)
Celebrating the importance of a healthy breakfast with fun, themed activities.
School Lunch Hero Day
Friday, May 3
Honoring the dedicated staff who keep our cafeterias running smoothly.
