November/December 2024 Texas School Business

71

YEARS

The News Magazine for Public Education in Texas

Texas School Business

NOV/DEC

2024

Bellville’s Nicole Poenitzsch 2024 Texas Superintendent of the Year

Also in this issue:

2024 Outstanding School Board Donna ISD 2024 TSPRA Key Communicator Walter Jackson

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Texas School Business NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024

10 Cover Story

14

2024 Superintendent of the Year

Bellville ISD's Nicole Poenitzsch leads with a strong work ethic

by Dacia Rivers

2024 Outstanding School Board Board of trustees for Donna ISD receives highest honor

17 2024 Key Communicator TSPRA names Walter Jackson 2024 Key Communicator

12 2024 Texas Superintendent of the Year Finalists 16 2024 Honor Boards Departments

Columns

8 Who’s News 24 Calendar 29 Ad Index

5 From the Editor

by Dacia Rivers

Photo Feature

19 School administrators and trustees gather for txEDCON24

7 The Law Dawg— Unleashed

by Jim Walsh 20 The Arts —

by Allison Suarez 29 The Back Page

by Riney Jordan

The views expressed by columnists and contributing writers do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher or Texas School Business advertisers.

The publisher also makes no endorsement of the advertisers or advertisements in this publication.

Texas School Business NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024

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From the editor

I

n this issue of Texas School Business, I am happy to introduce you to Texas’ 2024 Superintendent of the Year, Dr. Nicole Poenitzsch. We’ve also got a feature on this year’s Outstanding Board, Donna ISD, which you can find on page 14. This issue includes a highlight on TSPRA’s Key Communicator, Dr. Walter Jackson of La Porte ISD. Keep your eyes on your inboxes next month, when we will publish our annual Bragging Rights edition, where we shine a spotlight on the innovative programs at 12 outstanding Texas school districts.

In our effort to highlight the outstanding things going on in Texas’ public schools, we are always looking for story ideas. If you’d like to see your district highlighted in these pages, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me at drivers@texasschoolbusiness.com.

Texas School Business

Dacia Rivers Editorial Director

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024 Volume LXXI, Issue 6 406 East 11th Street Austin, Texas 78701 Phone: 512-477-6361 www.texasschoolbusiness.com EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

Dacia Rivers DESIGN

Phaedra Strecher COLUMNISTS

Riney Jordan Allison Suarez Jim Walsh ADVERTISING SALES

Jennifer Garrido

TEXAS ASSOCIATION OF SCHOOL ADMINISTRATORS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Kevin Brown

DIRECTOR, COMMUNICATIONS & MARKETING

Amy Francisco

Texas School Business (ISSN 0563-2978) is published online bimonthly with a special edition, Bragging Rights, in December, by the Texas Association of School Administrators. © Copyright 2024 Texas Association of School Administrators

Texas School Business NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024

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THE LAW DAWG – UNLEASHED

“Please don’t tell my parents ….”

by Jim Walsh

C

alifornia is the first state to pass a statewide ban on the “outing” of the sexual orientation or gender identity of a student. The law says that school employees or contractors “shall not be required to disclose any information related to a pupil’s sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression to any other person without the pupil’s consent unless otherwise required by state or federal law.” Likewise, school boards may not “enact or enforce any policy, rule, or administrative regulation that would require” such a disclosure.

There are two important values at stake on this issue: student privacy and parental rights and responsibilities. This law tells us which value California thinks is more important. According to the Map Advancement Project (www.lgbtmap.org) there are eight states that have made the opposite decision: requiring educators to “out” gay or transgender students to their parents: Alabama, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, North Carolina, North Dakota, South Carolina and Tennessee.

Texas has not spoken directly to this issue; however, Texas has very strong protections for parental rights. Consider: Section 26 of the Education Code opens with the sweeping statement that “Parents are partners with educators, administrators, and school district boards of trustees in their children’s education.” T.E.C. 26.001(a).

Partners don’t keep secrets from each other.

Chapter 26 of the Code digs deeper with Section 26.008: (a) A parent is entitled to full information regarding the school activities of a parent’s child except as provided by Section 38.004. [38.004 is about child abuse investigations].

(b) An attempt by any school district employee to encourage or coerce a child to withhold information from the child’s parent is grounds for discipline under Section 21.104, 21, 156, or 21.211, as applicable.

On top of that, there is FERPA along with language in Chapter 26 of the Education Code guaranteeing parents access to all records of the school district. Texas law clearly encourages transparency with parents about what is happening at school.

Most of the case law addressing student privacy involves sexuality. In one case, a police officer arrested two young men (17 and 18 years old) in a parked car. The arrest was for underage drinking, but during the questioning, the young men admitted that they were in the car for the purpose of having sex. The officer threatened to inform the grandfather of the 18-year old, Marcus Wayman, of this. When released from police custody, young Mr. Wayman went home and killed himself.

His mother sued for the invasion of her son’s privacy and was vindicated by the 3rd Circuit: It is difficult to imagine a more private matter than one’s sexuality and a less likely probability that the government would have a legitimate interest in disclosure of sexual identity. Sterling v. Borough of Minersville, 232 F.3d 190 (3rd Cir. 2000).

But it’s not quite so clear when the case arises in the school context, and the disclosure of private information is to the parent. Consider our 5th Circuit case on this. The suit alleged that two

There are two important values at stake on this issue: student privacy and parental rights and responsibilities.

coaches had “outed” a gay student to her mother. Since the suit was against the coaches individually, they were able to assert the “qualified immunity” defense.

And it worked. The court held that this disclosure, to the mother, in the context of a discussion of school related matters, did not violate a right of privacy that was “clearly established.” Wyatt v. Fletcher, 718 F.3d 496 (5th Cir. 2013).

These are murky waters, to be navigated carefully, with legal counsel and with a clear understanding of the specific facts relevant to your situation.

JIM WALSH is an attorney with Walsh Gallegos Treviño Russo & Kyle PC. He can be reached at jwalsh@wabsa.com. You can also follow him on Twitter: @jwalshtxlawdawg.

Texas School Business NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024

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Who’s News Aldine ISD A new chief communications officer has been named for the district. Sheila Adams brings 25 years of experience to her new position, previously working in the private sector and as chief communications officer for Lufkin ISD. She holds a degree in speech communication from Stephen F. Austin State University.

Bastrop ISD Bastrop ISD’s new director of fine arts, Jerry Gee Cordova, has almost two decades of experience in fine arts, beginning as an administrator and teacher artist for the Los Angeles Opera. He served as head choir director in North East ISD in San Antonio and at Round Rock ISD’s Hopewell Middle School and was most recently was Manor ISD’s fine arts coordinator. He earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Texas at San Antonio, and holds two master’s degrees, from the University of Texas and the University of Southern California.

Brookesmith ISD Damon Wilson has been

A new superintendent has been named for Carroll ISD. Jeremy Glenn has 24 years of experience in public education, including serving in the lead position at Nacogdoches and Waxahachie ISDs and as a principal and assistant superintendent in Trinity ISD.

Coppell ISD The new principal of Denton Creek Elementary School, Yanet Cardoza, was most recently a language acquisition specialist for the district and previously served in other districts as a principal, assistant principal and bilingual teacher.

Emily Witt has been named Coppell High

School’s girls’ athletics coordinator and softball coach, coming to her new school from George Ranch High in Lamar CISD, where she was head softball coach for the past three years.

Duncanville ISD New superintendent Lamar Goree previously led Caddo Parish Public Schools in Louisiana. Prior to that, he was a teacher in Georgia, then worked in Texas as an administrator in Fort Worth and Mansfield ISDs. He received his bachelor’s degree from Morehouse College and his master’s degree from the University of Texas at Arlington, from which his doctorate in educational leadership and policy studies was also conferred.

named Brookesmith ISD’s principal. He is a 31-year education professional with previous experience as a teacher, coach, principal and superintendent in Blanket, Bangs and Early ISDs.

El Paso ISD

Canadian ISD

Michelle Apsey has been promoted from

The new academic year began with Julia McMains in place as superintendent of Canadian ISD. Most recently superintendent of Eustace ISD, she previously held central office administrative positions in Palacios and Mansfield ISDs and was an adjunct professor at Stephen F. Austin State University.

Carroll ISD The district has announced the hiring of Riley Dodge as executive director of athletics.

He has served as head football coach and boys’ athletics coordinator for Carroll High School since 2018, positions he will continue to fill in addition to his new district duties.

He previously coached in Northwest and Flower Mound ISDs and was an offensive analyst for the University of Texas.

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Texas School Business NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024

Now serving as principal of Crockett Elementary School is Devin Acosta, who most recently led Milam Elementary. She previously worked as an assistant principal and instructional coach in El Paso’s Canutillo ISD. assistant principal to principal of Milam Elementary School. She previously was assistant principal of Tinajero PK-8 School and Putnam Elementary.

David Ayala has accepted the role of

executive director of operations support services, bringing over 20 years of experience in construction and facilities management to his new position. He most recently worked as a senior project manager in the private sector and, prior to that, was director of facilities and operations at Fabens ISD. The district’s new director of transportation is Kathy Cisneros, an employee of the district for 24 years. She previously served as transportation coordinator.

Newly appointed executive director of talent acquisition and personnel administration Jill Crossley most recently served the district as director of elementary school personnel

and recruiting. She holds a master’s degree in education from Bloomsburg University and a second master’s degree, in library and information sciences, from the University of North Texas.

The new principal of the Center for Career and Technology Education is Nicholas DeSantis, a 15-year educator who began his career in Rochester, NY. He joined El Paso ISD in 2010, where he has worked as a teacher, head baseball coach, assistant principal and principal. He received his master’s degree in education from the University of Rochester.

The district announces the appointment of Amanda Sanchez-Munoz as director of special education and special education support services. She brings more than two decades of experience to her new position, including serving as director of special education at Gregory-Portland and San Elizario ISDs. She holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Texas at El Paso.

Now leading Guillen Middle School is Leticia Terrazas, who has over a decade of experience in administrative roles. She is the former principal of Desert Wind PK-8 School and Cooper Elementary.

Micaela Varela, a product of El Paso ISD

schools and a 26-year district employee, now leads Hornedo Middle School as principal.

She earned her bachelor’s degree from Texas Tech University and her master’s degree in education from the University of Texas at El Paso.

Fort Bend ISD Tiffany Agina, new principal of Schiff

Elementary School, is a 17-year educator who previously worked in the district as a teacher and assistant principal. She is a graduate of the University of Houston with a master’s degree in educational management from the University of Houston Clear Lake.

Tiffany Williams is now principal of Hunters

Glen Elementary School, where she most recently served as assistant principal.

She has a bachelor’s degree from the University of Houston and a master’s degree in educational leadership from Lamar University.

Frisco ISD Carrie Dellinger is now

principal of Bright Academy after serving as campus assistant principal. She has been with the district since 2003, also working as a teacher and as principal of Sparks Elementary.

Now serving as principal of Memorial High School is Brooke Fesco, who comes to her new job from Liberty High, where she spent two years as associate principal.

She began her career in 2003 as an art teacher and coach before becoming assistant principal of Lone Star High in 2017.

Christy Garza has joined

Christie Elementary School as principal after 10 years at Taylor Elementary. The 21-year educator has also worked as a special education teacher, counselor and assistant principal.

After two years as assistant principal of Liscano Elementary, Sanam Sherali has been named the school’s principal. She has spent her 10-year career in Frisco ISD, also working as an elementary teacher and curriculum writer.

The new principal of Sparks Elementary School, Courtney Sinclair, comes to Frisco from Coppell ISD, where she was an assistant principal. Prior to that, she worked in Garland ISD. Whitney Wells has been

promoted from Minett Elementary School assistant principal to principal.

Initially a second grade teacher at Prestonwood Christian Academy, she also taught kindergarten, third and fifth grades.

Former Taylor Elementary School assistant principal Annie White is now campus principal. She began her career at Shawnee Trail Elementary and has spent 10 years as a kindergarten and second grade teacher.

Granbury ISD Ann Dixon now serves

as the district’s interim superintendent. Her fifty-year career in education began at Somerset ISD, and she went on to serve as superintendent of 20 Texas districts and as interim superintendent in Midland, Galveston and San Marcos ISDs. She is a graduate of Oklahoma State University with master’s and doctoral degrees from the University of Texas at San Antonio.

Henrietta ISD The district’s new superintendent is Jaime Clark. She comes to Henrietta from Lewisville ISD, where she was chief of elementary schools. She earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Tarleton State University.

Former Cigarroa High School girls’ basketball coach and assistant campus athletic director Mary Encinas has been promoted to assistant district athletic director.

In her 12-year career, she has been a career and technical education teacher as well as a coach. She received her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Texas A&M International University.

Rogelio Garcia has been

Killeen ISD Killeen ISD has named Terri Osborne deputy superintendent of curriculum, instruction and school leadership. She has held administrative posts in Houston-area districts since 2018, working as a high school principal and special projects coordinator in Humble ISD and as assistant superintendent of secondary schools in Aldine ISD. In addition, she was principal of Manor ISD’s Early College High School from 2016 to 2018. She is a graduate of Texas Tech University and earned two master’s degrees and a doctorate from Texas A&M University at Commerce.

Lago Vista ISD Janda Castillo is the new

principal of Lago Vista High School after serving as an assistant principal and principal in Round Rock ISD. She earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Schreiner University.

The new assistant principal of Lago Vista High School, Dusty Kinslow, previously taught and coached in Jim Ned CISD and Pflugerville ISD. She joined Lago Vista ISD as an AP English teacher, going on to serve as a school counselor.

The district’s newly hired band director is Jennifer Vowles, who comes to Texas from Salem, Ore., where she was head band director at Sprague High School. Before her time in Oregon, she was band director in Carrollton-Farmers Branch ISD.

Laredo ISD New Gallego Elementary School principal Amber Almanza is a product of Laredo ISD schools who went on to graduate Texas A&M University, earning a master’s degree in educational leadership. She began her career in 2007 as a teacher in the district, taking her first administrative position in 2020.

named the district’s assistant superintendent for curriculum, instruction and assessment. He has spent the past three years as executive director for college, career and military readiness, advanced academics and schools of innovation. With over 25 years of experience, he has also been a teacher, coach and counselor. He is a graduate of Laredo ISD schools with a bachelor’s degree from the University of Texas at San Antonio and a master’s degree in counseling from Texas A&M International University.

After serving as Sanchez/ Ochoa Elementary School’s assistant principal for six years, Marcia Martinez has been promoted to principal.

A graduate of Texas A&M International University, from which she also earned her master’s degree in early childhood and bilingual education, she has spent her career in Laredo ISD. Margarita Peña is the new

director of student health services. After receiving her nursing degree from Texas A&M International University, she worked in the private sector before joining Laredo ISD as a school nurse.

Leander ISD The district’s new assistant superintendent of advanced academics and pathways, Dustin Binnicker, has joined Leander ISD from Waxahachie ISD, where he was assistant superintendent of learning. His bachelor’s degree was awarded from Park University and his master’s degree in educational administration from the University of Texas at Arlington. He earned his doctorate in educational leadership from the University of Texas. ► See Who’s News, page 22

Texas School Business NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024

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2024 Superintendent of the Year

“I found my purpose in education and I wanted to have as much of an impact and be as involved as possible.”

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Texas School Business NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024

Nicole Poenitzsch of Bellville ISD leads with a strong work ethic

by Dacia Rivers

I

mother also had her teaching certificate.

Yet, Poenitzsch says she didn’t plan on being a teacher when she started her education.

Poenitzsch comes from a family of educators. Her great grandmother was a teacher and administrator, her grandmother taught second grade, and her

Changing college majors three times, Poenitzsch worked her way up in hotel hospitality while in school before realizing she didn’t truly have a passion for the field.

Inspired by a 92-year-old classmate in a

n September, the Texas Association of School Boards (TASB) named Nicole Poenitzsch, superintendent of Bellville ISD for the past six years, as Texas’ 2024 Superintendent of the Year

2024 Superintendent of the Year literature class who called himself a lifelong learner, Poenitzsch decided to give teaching a try after graduating with her bachelor’s degree.

“I never looked back,” she says. “I loved it so much, and I’m glad that moment of reflection set me on this path.”

Poenitzsch continued her education and her work in the district simultaneously, earning her master’s and doctoral degrees while serving as a middle school assistant principal, elementary principal and assistant superintendent before taking her current position. She says the move into administration came from a love of being involved in leadership and finding her calling.

“I found my purpose in education and I wanted to have as much of an impact and be as involved as possible,” she says. “I knew it was a lifetime path, and I knew that leadership was part of that path.

While her husband might joke that Poenitzsch has no hobbies, she says her work is largely her hobby because she feels so passionate about it. She points to a Horace Mann quote that she finds particularly inspiring in her work: “Education, then beyond all other devices of human origin, is the great equalizer of the conditions of men, the balance-wheel of the social machinery.”

For Poenitzsch, the most important part of her role as a superintendent is providing and creating opportunities for students. In her work, she aims to open doors to things students might not otherwise know about or even believe are possible for them. She is driven by a strong work ethic, a trait she says was handed down to her from her father.

“My dad taught me the value of hard work and that no job is too big or too small,” she says. “I think every role is valuable and taking pride and working hard to do whatever is necessary to support the success of others is fulfilling for me.”

Another trait that helps Poenitzsch in her leadership position is her ability to work with others. As superintendent, she is always open to and eager for ideas from teachers, students, or anyone in the district who wants to start a conversation.

“In terms of the success we’ve had in our

district, the only credit I will take is working in a way that allows people the space to do work they are passionate about and then supporting their development and ideas and encouraging their work,” Poenitzsch says. “I work to create an environment and conditions where people can grow, develop and feel valued.”

In a job that can be extremely challenging, Poenitzsch stays focused because she says she enjoys doing hard things. She thrives on challenge, recently finishing a Half Ironman triathlon. While she recognizes that hard work is rewarding, she also knows that sometimes, even the strongest, hardest working people need rest.

“Some of the best advice I ever got was, you can take pride in carrying a heavy load, but even those who carry a heavy load have to set it down once in a while.”

Poenitzsch is reenergized by spending time with her family — her husband and their four children. She is mindful to check in on how she’s doing, taking the time to put down that weight when needed and take a break.

Being named Superintendent of the Year came as a surprise to Poenitzsch, who describes the experience as surreal. She says one of her biggest faults is not believing in herself, and receiving the call notifying her that she was a finalist evoked a strong emotional reaction.

“I never would have envisioned that this would be a moment I’m living in right now.

I’m loving every moment of it.”

One of the sweetest reactions to the news came when Poenitzsch returned to Bellville after receiving the honor. The district worked to put together a surprise pep rally in her honor, with all 2,300 students, including the band, football players and cheerleaders, along with district staff, board members and parents, celebrating the accomplishment.

“It was the most heartwarming moment of my life,” Poenitzsch says. “I am really grateful that I feel like arriving in this moment in my career is a great reflection of a great fit with our team and our district community.”

Texas School Business NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024

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2024 Superintendent of the Year Finalists

Kimberley Cantu Kimberley Cantu has been superintendent in Mansfield ISD since 2019. She has spent the last 25 of her 32 years in education working in MISD. Mansfield has an enrollment of more than 35,000 students and is located outside of Fort Worth. Cantu is passionate about providing numerous opportunities to students in MISD, preparing them for careers, college or whatever comes next.

Darryl Henson Darryl Henson became superintendent in Marlin ISD in 2020. The district serves 880 students and is located in Central Texas. Henson began his career in education as a fourth-grade teacher. In his time in MISD, Henson has helped bring the district from an F rating in 2019 to a B in 2022.

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Texas School Business NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024

2024 Superintendent of the Year Finalists

Gonzalo Salazar Gonzalo Salazar has served as superintendent in Los Fresnos CISD since 2006. Located in the Rio Grande Valley, LFCISD serves more than 10,300 students. Salazar has a 36-year career in education, with the last 25 years in Los Fresnos. In his time leading the district, Salazar has helped Los Fresnos create safety, technology and long-range facility plans.

Brad Owen Brad Owen has held the superintendency in Burkburnett ISD since 2020. He has been with the district for 26 years, also serving as a teacher, coach and campus-level administrator. Located along the Oklahoma border, Burkburnett has an enrollment of more than 3,300 students. As superintendent, Owens is committed to building a positive culture through the districts’ offices and classrooms.

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▲ From left to right: Eva Castillo-Watts, board member; Fernando Castillo, president; Dr. Maricela Valdez, board member; Eloy Avila, board member; Dr. Angela D. Dominguez, superintendent of schools; Jose Rogelio Reyna, vice-president; Ida M. Garcia, secretary; Jose Luis Valdez, board member.

2024 Outstanding Board

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Texas School Business NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024

Donna ISD Board of Trustees

2024 Outstanding Board

“We are incredibly fortunate to have seven trustees who are relentless in their efforts to do what is best for students.”

—Superintendent Angela Dominguez

T

ASA has named the Donna ISD Board of Trustees the 2024 Outstanding School Board — the top honor in the TASA School Board Awards program, which has honored Texas school boards that have demonstrated commitment to their students and to their communities since 1971. The program is sponsored this year by Gulf Coast Educators Federal Credit Union.

The Donna ISD school board was chosen from among five finalists interviewed by a committee of Texas school administrators.

The committee was impressed by how the board has come together to earn their community’s trust and by their ability to maximize the opportunities that will make the greatest impact on student outcomes.

“They have a true passion not only for helping students but for eliminating poverty in their community, and that’s why student achievement is so important to them,” said members of the selection committee. “This board is about creating the future by changing the trajectory of their students through learning and student outcomes, and that’s something that’s really exciting to see.”

The committee commended the Donna ISD board for “knowing their goals and knowing their data” and for aligning their budget and the allocation of resources with their shared vision. “They are clearly focused, and as a result, they have seen amazing student outcomes.”

The committee also said that the board’s goal of getting students college-and-career ready is obvious but that “their realization that it starts with early education as a building block to a strong foundation” is what will make their success sustainable over time.

In her nomination of the board for this award, Superintendent Angela Dominguez said: “Donna ISD board members see their role as an act of service and advocacy. We are incredibly fortunate to have seven trustees who are relentless in their efforts to do what is best for students. There is no doubt that our board members believe in the mission of Donna ISD and they are fully invested in our number-one outcome of graduating all students per their expected graduation date ready for college, career, or the military. They routinely engage with students, staff, and community in positive ways.”

Donna ISD is a public school district serving approximately 13,000 students in Donna, Texas, in Education Service Center Region 1 (the Rio Grande Valley). Donna ISD has about 2,300 employees and two high schools, four middle schools, and 13 elementary schools.

This is the first time in the award program’s history that the Donna ISD school board has received the Outstanding Board award or been chosen as a finalist.

Texas School Business NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024

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2024 Honor Boards Burkburnett ISD From left to right: Robin Bachert, vice president; Dr. Brad Owen, superintendent; Doug Smith, trustee; Keith Myers, president; Jimmy Beeson, trustee; Frank Andrajack, trustee; Les Healton, secretary; Terry Klipp, trustee.

Corpus Christi ISD Standing (l to r): Eric Villarreal, P.E., assistant secretary; Jane D. Bell, trustee; Dr. Roland Hernandez, superintendent of schools; Marty Bell, trustee.

Seated (l to r): Dolly Gonzales Trolley, secretary; S. Jaime Arredondo, vice president; Don Clark, president; Alice Upshaw Hawkins, trustee.

Grand Prairie ISD Standing (l to r): Nancy Bridges, trustee; David Espinosa, trustee; Terry Brooks, trustee; Gloria Carrillo, trustee.

Seated (l to r): Emily Liles, secretary; Bryan Parra, vice president; Amber Moffitt, president; Dr. Jorge L. Arredondo, superintendent of schools.

Klein ISD From left to right: Ronnie K. Anderson, trustee; Rob Ellis, trustee; Chris Todd, trustee; Dr. Jenny McGown, superintendent; Dustin Creager, vice president; Cathy M. Arellano, president; Dustin Qualls, trustee; Doug James, secretary.

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Texas School Business NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024

2024 KEY Texas School Public COMMUNICATOR Relations Association

TSPRA names Walter Jackson as 2024 Key Communicator

E

ach year, the Texas School Public Relations Association (TSPRA) honors someone who has contributed significantly to the field of public school communications with the association’s Key Communicator Award. The recipient may be a legislator, superintendent, or professional in any field who has improved school communications or a member of TSPRA who has contributed outstanding service to the profession of public school communications.

Walter Jackson, superintendent of La Porte ISD, has been named TSPRA’s 2024 Key Communicator. The award is sponsored by CESO, The Center for Effective School Operations.

Recognized for his significant contributions to public school communications, Jackson is a leader dedicated to equitable education, student success, and professional development for educators.

“Dr. Jackson is a great teacher, leader, and communicator who promotes success for his students, staff, and community,” said Bobby Ott, superintendent in Temple ISD. “He describes himself as a ‘cultural strategist’ and ‘equity warrior.’ He seeks opportunities for students to take advantage of public education while pursuing the American Dream. He believes students are only afforded school one time, and he believes it is the role of the professional educators to make it the most positive and impactful experience for them.”

Jackson’s impact extends beyond La Porte ISD through his roles on the UIL Legislative Council, TASA Executive Committee, and

AASA Governing Board, demonstrating his dedication to fostering communication and advocacy for public education.

“As a respected educator and advocate for education, Dr. Jackson has consistently demonstrated exceptional communication skills,” said Charles Breithaupt, executive director of the University Interscholastic League (UIL). “His exceptional ability to effectively articulate the needs and concerns of educational stakeholders has been instrumental in shaping legislation that enhances the educational experience for all students. His strong advocacy for equitable access to resources and quality education has earned him immense respect within the education community.”

Under Jackson’s leadership, La Porte ISD established Project Launch, a partnership with the University of Houston-Clear Lake, allowing fifth and sixth graders to enroll in STEM-based college courses. He also successfully led the passage of a $235 million bond, navigating economic challenges and garnering broad community support.

Jackson’s mentorship has guided many aspiring superintendents to achieve their goals, further demonstrating his commitment to the future of education.

Kevin Brown, TASA executive director, remarked, “Dr. Jackson is an authentic leader and a great public speaker, speaking truth to power.

He is respected not only by me but also by his peers across the state.”

Texas School Business NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024

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COMING SOON! Look for our 18th annual Bragging Rights issue, coming to your inbox in December

texasschoolbusiness.com 18

Texas School Business NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024

Photo Feature

SCHOOL ADMINISTRATORS AND TRUSTEES GATHER FOR TXEDCON24 This fall, the Texas Association of School Boards (TASB) and Texas Association of School Administrators (TASA) held their annual joint convention, the largest gathering of public education policy makers in the state.

◄ Convention attendees from Texas City and Liberty-Eylau ISDs meet up.

▲ Speaker John Maxwell addresses the crowd with a talk on developing positive school district culture.

▲ TASA President Martha Salazar-Zamora welcomes txEDCON attendees.

▲ Convention goers pause for a quick group photo.

▲ Tomball ISD students perform for txEDCON guests. ◄ Astronaut José Hernández speaks at the first general session. ▲ The exhibit hall offers numerous opportunities for networking.

▲ Students from Canutillo ISD perform for the crowd with students from El Paso, Fabens, Socorro and Ysleta ISDs.

▼ txEDCON attendees from Hutto and Lancaster ISDs share a moment.

Texas School Business NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024

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THE ARTS

News in fine arts education

Students in Tomball ISD enjoy many opportunities to pursue their interests in the fine arts.

The magic of student collaboration: When fine arts minds unite, innovation takes flight

by Allison Suarez

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Texas School Business NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024

T

here’s a certain magic that happens when students come together, merging their individual talents and perspectives into a collective force.

For any individual, 20 minutes of magic is all you really need in order to immerse yourself in a symphony of talent and to truly be inspired by Destination Excellence.

For Tomball ISD fine arts students, this magic was a collaborative creation that celebrated the talent and creativity of young individuals across a variety of grade levels and art disciplines.

This magic was a representation of unity and teamwork, and it was presented on one of the largest stages in Texas public education.

A gifted portrayal of how a Tomball ISD student successfully navigates excellence, this performance leveraged student strengths, highlighted successes, and navigated a journey of education that led them to their future.

Countdown to liftoff Tomball ISD is a supportive environment led by Superintendent Dr. Martha SalazarZamora who also holds the position of TASA President. Under her state leadership, TISD students represented their school district as the student performance during the First General Session at TASA/TASB txEDCON24.

Dr. Salazar-Zamora’s visionary mindset set in as she began preparing for this coveted student performance. With so many ways to portray Tomball ISD and the success of its students, she leaned heavily on newly hired Director of Fine Arts Paulette Tomlinson for creative direction.

“Dr. Z assigned my final interview presentation to include a concept and plan for this production,” Tomlinson recalled.

“At the time, I was living outside of the Houston area, but had fallen in love with Space City. I knew “Destination Excellence” from my research on Tomball to prepare for my interview, and what physical destination could be more ambitious than space?!”

We have liftoff A tiny spark of an idea about space led Tomball ISD fine arts students to dream, explore and lift off.

Students were selected and represented all areas of the district. With a short window to prepare, collaboration between students and staff began.

Honing their imagination, students collaborated on the written script where they expressed reasons why they love attending school here and shared unique experiences and perspectives. They also executed choreography and led musical selections.

Not only did they write and select but they designed and led the sound, lighting, and technology and created original artwork specifically for this production to illustrate “Destination District” where in fact, each attendee of the conference left with a small piece of art.

Students were a part of creating the show from the very beginning, which allowed them the rare opportunity for real-world experience in show concept and design.

And while the students gained much experience leading the voice of this production, the teachers were incredible guides and had the opportunity to showcase their own creativity. A solid percentage of the music for this production was composed specifically for this show by Peter Jagdeo, the orchestra director at Tomball Memorial High School. Through this creative process, students contributed by commissioning a piece, reading from a manuscript, and learning how a composer edits his or her work to reach the final product.

Failure is not an option The collaboration not only fueled impressive artistry but allowed students and staff to experience challenges, which ultimately led to successful solutions and imaginative growth.

With more than 250 students involved and 30 staff members leading the charge, the collective belief in Team Tomball was put to the test.

“The coordination of students and teachers on so many different campuses with different schedules was one of our largest obstacles to face,” Tomlinson said. “Space to rehearse was another issue. Our technical theater students studied the stage diagram provided by TASA/TASB and mapped out the stage on the cafeteria floor at Tomball Memorial High School. Every rehearsal was there, using classrooms for individual group practice and the cafeteria for full company run-throughs.”

Students represented Symphony Orchestra, Secondary and Elementary Choir, Electric String Ensemble, Elementary Handbell Choir, Steel Band, Marching Bands, Theatre, Drill Teams, Color Guard, and Visual Arts.

A student’s perspective Tomball ISD Fine Arts thrives on collaboration. It creates a sense of community and belonging.

Students learn when working together that the real magic doesn’t happen in isolation but in the synergy of shared ideas and effort.

“This performance stood out amongst others because of just the sheer scope of it,” said TMHS senior cast member Kellen Highfield. “It’s not every day that you get to work on a passion project with every single art department of every single school across the district. It truly felt as though

we were surrounded by the most talented people Tomball ISD has to offer.”

And through Highfield’s experience, he was able to serve as one of the mentors, offering insight to support and help grow the younger students in their craft.

“I was a little shy at the beginning in front of the high school theater students,” said OIS sixth grader and cast member Sadie Warnasch. “They all knew each other and it took a little while for me to get comfortable around them, but they were very welcoming and gave me tips on how to project my voice and use clearer pronunciation. Their encouragement really helped build my confidence on stage.”

Together, these fine arts students achieved more than imagined, turning their collective curiosity into innovation and dreams into reality.

“As actors, it is very rare that we get to portray our own stories,” said TMHS senior cast member Catie Seal. “Instead of acting as a character, this performance presented us with the opportunity to show our pride for our community and what it stands for.

While it can certainly be daunting to be given a chance to share what our district has to offer on such a large scale, it was incredibly rewarding to be a part of a production that so many people have poured love into.”

Success beyond measure Behind every awe-inspiring performance, there’s a story of grit, determination, and hours of preparation.

For this group, preparation was key with a full week of rehearsals in early June and six additional rehearsal days over the next three months, 250 students and 30 staff members reached orbit.

The magic that captivated the audience of leaders in public education that day was real.

“Once the audience truly immersed themselves in the style of performance that we provided, it no longer became a presentation,” said Highfield. “It became a love letter to the schools and city that most of us have been able to call our home throughout our whole lives. Although everything we say and do is scripted and rehearsed, the passion for our home and art can be felt through everything we do.”

ALLISON SUAREZ is Tomball ISD’s director of communications.

Texas School Business NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024

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Who’s News ◄ Continued from page 9

After 11 years as Leander ISD’s director of state assessment, accountability and academic measures, Brenda Cruz has transitioned to the role of assistant superintendent of empowered learning. Before her most recent position, she worked as a principal and assistant principal in the district. She received her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Texas State University.

Reed Elementary School’s new principal, Cynthia Griggs, most recently served in the same capacity at Round Rock ISD’s Gattis Elementary in Round Rock ISD. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Texas State University, where she also completed her master’s degree. She is at work on her doctorate in educational leadership and policy at the University of Texas.

After serving as principal of Leander Middle School since 2019, Josh Haug now leads Glenn High School. A graduate of Leander High School, he began his career in the district in 2006. He earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Texas and his master’s degree in educational administration from Lamar University.

Tom Robbins, a longtime

Leander administrator, is now principal of Leander Middle School. He has been with the district since 2010, working as an associate and assistant principal. He completed his bachelor’s degree at Texas State University and his master’s degree in educational administration from Lamar University.

Lockhart ISD Jamee Griebel has been named the inaugural

principal of Borchert Loop Elementary School, slated to open in August of 2025.

A graduate of Lockhart High School, she received her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Texas State University. She has served as principal of Plum Creek Elementary since 2016.

Cristina Vazquez has been chosen to lead

Strawn Elementary School as principal. She has served as associate principal of Lockhart Junior High since 2022 and prior to that worked as an assistant principal, director of bilingual, ESL and federal programs and

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Texas School Business NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024

bilingual coordinator for the district. Before coming to Lockhart in 2016, she worked for the Texas Education Agency. Her bachelor’s and master’s degrees were completed at Texas State University.

McKinney ISD McKinney ISD has announced the appointment of Jenny McGowan as senior director of elementary teaching and learning. She brings 19 years of experience to her new role, including 10 years as an administrator. She has served as the district’s director of professional learning since 2022. She received her bachelor’s degree from Texas Tech University and her master’s degree in educational leadership from Dallas Baptist University.

Northside ISD (San Antonio) The district announces the following administrative appointments: • Tanya Harris, director of technology and infrastructure services; • Enrique Jimenez, executive director of construction and engineering; • Raymond Medina, director of technology and IT services; • Cody Miller, director of adult and community education; • Elizabeth Sanchez-Lopez, director of fine arts; • Matthew Scherwitz, principal, Los Reyes Elementary School.

Round Rock ISD Faezana Ali is the new

Manor ISD Presidential Meadows Elementary School has welcomed Tamica Allen as its principal. She comes to Manor from Hutto ISD, where she was assistant principal of Hutto High School after beginning her career in Austin ISD. New chief financial officer Moises Santiago has joined Manor ISD from Wimberley ISD, where he served in the same capacity since 2019.

Prior to that, he was Uvalde ISD’s chief finance officer, La Pryor ISD’s business manager and director of finance for Crystal City.

Fernanda Travagliante has

been named Manor ISD’s director of transportation.

She began her career in San Antonio’s North East ISD, where she was a transportation supervisor since 2014. She holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Western Governors University.

Mission CISD The district’s new superintendent is Cris Valdez, who served in that position on an interim basis in 2017 and 2018. An educator for 32 years, she most recently was deputy director for curriculum, instruction and assessment at ESC Region 1.

principal of Gattis Elementary School. She brings more than 10 years of experience to her new job, having served as a teacher and department chair and, since 2021, as assistant principal of Cedar Ridge High School. She earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Texas and a master’s degree in educational leadership from Texas State University.

The new principal of Deerpark Middle School is Reynaldo Garcia, who has led the school on an interim basis since the beginning of the academic year. He is a 33-year educator who has worked in Round Rock, Austin, Seguin and Harlingen ISDs as a school turn-around consultant, teacher, director and assistant principal.

He holds a master’s degree from Stephen F. Austin State University and a doctorate from the University of Texas.

The district’s new chief of access and opportunity is Kayren Gray, who served in that position on an interim basis since April.

She previously worked as a teacher and assistant principal in Killeen ISD and as an administrative supervisor in Austin ISD. She received her bachelor’s degree from Texas A&M University Central Texas and her master’s degree in educational administration from Lamar University.

Shawn Miller is now principal

of Cedar Ridge High School, coming to Round Rock from Leander ISD, where he led Glenn High School. Prior to that, he was an administrator in Wylie ISD. He holds bachelor’s degree and master’s degrees from Texas State University and a second master’s degree, in special education, from

Texas A&M University at Commerce. His doctorate in educational leadership was conferred from the University of North Texas.

Canyon Vista Middle School has welcomed their new principal, Laura Terry-Brown.

She has been an educator for 15 years, beginning as a math teacher in the district and going on to serve as assistant principal at Ridgeview Middle School and associate principal of Westwood IB World High School. She is a graduate of Lamar University with a master’s degree in educational leadership from the University of Texas.

Round Rock ISD has announced the hiring of Ryan Urrutia as chief of the district’s police department.

He comes to Round Rock from El Paso, where he spent the past 28 years with the El Paso County Sheriff ’s Department, most recently as an assistant chief deputy.

Sherman ISD The district’s new superintendent, Thomas O’Neal previously served as principal of Fairview Elementary and Sherman High School.

Now in his 32nd year as an educator, he also worked in Anna ISD as a principal and deputy and assistant superintendent, rejoining Sherman ISD in

Who’s News

2022 as deputy superintendent. He holds a doctorate in educational leadership from the University of North Texas.

Spring ISD The district’s newly appointed civic engagement coordinator, Dajauneke Minor, previously worked as a voter educator and outreach specialist.

She earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Houston Downtown and her master’s degree in public administration from Texas Southern University.

Temple ISD Now serving as executive director of communications is Jon Wallin, who joined the district in 2021 as its public information officer. A graduate of Baylor University, he began his career at local television stations before spending 22 years as sports information director at the University of Mary Hardin Baylor.

United ISD (Laredo) The district announces the appointment of Gerardo Cruz as superintendent. Until taking on his new responsibilities, he spent his 27-year career with Laredo ISD, where he worked

as a teacher, coordinator, supervisor and principal before being promoted to assistant superintendent for human resources and, subsequently, for curriculum, instruction and assessment. He is a graduate of Texas A&M University International, where he also earned his master’s degree. His doctorate in education administration was awarded from Texas A&M University.

Waco ISD Former University High School principal Alonzo McAdoo has been promoted to executive director of secondary education.

Prior to his most recent assignment, he led Carver Middle School.

Ysleta ISD (El Paso) Ysleta ISD has announced the appointment of Daniel Gutierrez as principal of Hanks High School.

He returns to the district after leading East Montana Middle School in El Paso’s Clint ISD. After earning his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Texas at El Paso, he worked as a coach and AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) coordinator at Horizon High School WHERE and as assistant principal of Ysleta Middle School and Del Valle High School. ◀

e v a h you

Do good news to share about you r district?

Send news items for Who’s News directly to news@texasschoolbusiness.com Texas School Business NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024

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Calendar Professional development & events N OV E M B E R November 8 TASBO Six-Step Process Workshop ESC Region 19, El Paso For more info, (512) 462-1711. www.tasbo.org Cost: Members, $325; nonmembers, $400.

TASBO Workshop: Construction Purchasing Law Harris County Department of Education, Houston For more info, (512) 462-1711. www.tasbo.org Cost: Members, $210; nonmembers, $285.

November 11 TASBO Six-Step Process Workshop ESC Region 11, Austin For more info, (512) 462-1711. www.tasbo.org Cost: Members, $325; nonmembers, $400.

TASBO Workshop: Financial Coding for Texas Schools ESC Region 10, Richardson For more info, (512) 462-1711. www.tasbo.org Cost: Members, $210; nonmembers, $285.

November 12 TASA/N2 Learning Assistant Principal Leadership Academy, North Houston area cohort (session 3 of 6) Cypress-Fairbanks ISD, Cypress For more info, (972) 515-2268. www.n2learning.org Cost: $1,000 for all six sessions.

TASA/N2 Learning Assistant Principal Leadership Academy, Wichita Falls area cohort (session 3 of 6) Wichita Falls ISD, Wichita Falls For more info, (972) 515-2268. www.n2learning.org Cost: $1,000 for all six sessions.

TASB Fall Legal Seminar Holiday Inn, Tyler For more info, (512) 467-0222 or (800) 880-1650. www.tasb.org Cost: $195.

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TASBO Workshop: Energy Management 6320 Research Road, Frisco For more info, (512) 462-1711. www.tasbo.org Cost: Members, $210; nonmembers, $285.

TASBO Workshop: Intro to Transportation Frisco ISD, Frisco For more info, (512) 462-1711. www.tasbo.org Cost: Members, $210; nonmembers, $285.

TASBO Workshop: Intro to TRS: Collaboration of HR and Payroll Azle ISD, Azle For more info, (512) 462-1711. www.tasbo.org Cost: Members, $210; nonmembers, $285.

TASBO Workshop: Intro to TRS: Collaboration of HR and Payroll ESC 1, Edinburg For more info, (512) 462-1711. www.tasbo.org Cost: Members, $210; nonmembers, $285.

November 12-13 TASBO Accounting and Finance Academy Marriott Hotel and Conference Center, Allen For more info, (512) 462-1711. www.tasbo.org Cost: Members, $335; nonmembers, $410.

November 12-14 TASA Level 1 CMAT Training Online For more info, (512) 477-6361. www.tasanet.org Cost: Members, $800; nonmembers, $900.

TASA Small Schools Network (session 1 of 4) Cumby ISD, Cumby For more info, (512) 477-6361. www.tasanet.org Cost: For all events: Superintendent only, $500; each additional attendee, $500 (up to three).

Texas School Business NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024

November 13 TASA/N2 Learning Assistant Principal Leadership Academy, East Texas area cohort (session 3 of 6) Tyler ISD, Tyler For more info, (972) 515-2268. www.n2learning.org Cost: $1,000 for all six sessions.

TASA/N2 Learning Assistant Principal Leadership Academy, San Antonio area cohort (session 3 of 6) North East ISD, San Antonio For more info, (972) 515-2268. www.n2learning.org Cost: $1,000 for all six sessions.

TASBO Workshop: Financial Coding for Texas Schools Amarillo ISD, Amarillo For more info, (512) 462-1711. www.tasbo.org Cost: Members, $210; nonmembers, $285.

TASBO Workshop: Purchasing Overview for Management Amarillo ISD, Amarillo For more info, (512) 462-1711. www.tasbo.org Cost: Members, $210; nonmembers, $285.

TASBO Six-Step Process Workshop ESC Region 15, San Angelo For more info, (512) 462-1711. www.tasbo.org Cost: Members, $325; nonmembers, $400.

TASSP Regional Meeting, Region 10 Spring Creek Barbecue, Richardson For more info, (512) 443-2100. www.tassp.org November 13-14 TASB Workshop: Service Record Management Online For more info, (512) 467-0222 or (800)580-8272. www.tasb.org Cost: $195.

TASBO School Operations Conference Marriott Hotel and Conference Center, Allen For more info, (512) 462-1711. www.tasbo.org Cost: Members, $350; nonmembers, $425.

November 13-16 Leadership TASB Class of 2025 (session 2of 5) Location TBA, El Paso For more info, (512) 467-0222 or (800) 580-8272. www.tasb.org November 14 TASA/N2 Learning Assistant Principal Leadership Academy, Austin area cohort (session 3 of 6) Georgetown ISD, Georgetown For more info, (972) 515-2268. www.n2learning.org Cost: $1,000 for all six sessions.

TASA/N2 Learning Assistant Principal Leadership Academy, Corpus Christi area cohort (session 3 of 6) Corpus Christi ISD, Corpus Christi For more info, (972) 515-2268. www.n2learning.org Cost: $1,000 for all six sessions.

TASA/N2 Learning Assistant Principal Leadership Academy, North Dallas area cohort (session 3 of 6) McKinney ISD, McKinney For more info, (972) 515-2268. www.n2learning.org Cost: $1,000 for all six sessions.

TASB Student Solutions Webinar Series: ARD Committee 101 Online For more info, (512) 467-0222 or (800) 580-8272. www.tasb.org TASBO Workshop: Business Ethics Amarillo ISD, Amarillo For more info, (512) 462-1711. www.tasbo.org Cost: Members, $210; nonmembers, $285.

TASBO Workshop: Foundation for Accountability ESC Region 18, Midland For more info, (512) 462-1711. www.tasbo.org Cost: Members, $210; nonmembers, $285.

TASBO Workshop: Fringe Benefits: Are They Taxable or Not? Online For more info, (512) 462-1711. www.tasbo.org Cost: Members, $85; nonmembers, $160.

TASBO Workshop: Overview of PEIMS for All Stakeholders Amarillo ISD, Amarillo For more info, (512) 462-1711. www.tasbo.org Cost: Members, $210; nonmembers, $285.

November 15 TASBO Workshop: Managing Federal Grant Funds ESC Region 20, San Antonio For more info, (512) 462-1711. www.tasbo.org Cost: Members, $210; nonmembers, $285.

November 16 TASB Fall Legal Seminar Courtyard by Marriott, South Padre Island For more info, (512) 467-0222 or (800) 580-8272. www.tasb.org Cost: $195.

November 18 TASBO Workshop: Construction Purchasing Law Allen ISD, Allen For more info, (512) 462-1711. www.tasbo.org Cost: Members, $210; nonmembers, $285.

TASPA Workshop: Understanding Special Education HOUSSE Hutto ISD, Hutto For more info, (512) 494-9353. www.taspa.org November 18-19 TASB Advanced HR Seminar TASB offices, Austin For more info, (512) 467-0222 or (800) 580-8272. www.tasb.org Cost: Early registration (until Nov. 1): $385; late registration (closes Nov. 14): $450.

November 19 TASA/TASB/TASBO Budget Cohort for District Leaders (session 3 of 9) Webinar For more info, (512) 462-1711 www.tasbo.org/budget-cohort Cost: $3,750 for a team of up to four people from one district; two additional participants may attend for $500 each.

TASB Workshop: Asbestos Designated Person ESC Region 11, White Settlement For more info, (512) 467-0222 or (800) 580-8272. www.tasb.org TASBO Workshop: Leading with Technology: Executive Insights Online For more info, (512) 462-1711. www.tasbo.org Cost: Members, $85; nonmembers, $160.

November 19-20 TASA/N2 Learning Executive Leadership Institute (session 2 of 4) Hilton Post Oak, Houston For more info, (972) 515-2268. www.n2learning.org Cost: $4,500 for all four sessions.

TASA/N2 Learning Principals’ Institute (session 3 of 6) Hilton Post Oak, Houston For more info, (972) 515-2268. www.n2learning.org Cost: $6,000 for all six sessions.

November 20 TASB Workshop: Integrated Pest Management ESC Region 11, White Settlement For more info, (512) 467-0222 or (800) 580-8272. www.tasb.org TASB SHARS Matters Webinar Series: The SHARS Settlement/ Reconciliation Process Online For more info, (512) 467-0222 or (800) 580-8272. www.tasb.org TASSP Regional Meeting, Region 14 ESC Region 14, Abilene For more info, (512) 443-2100. www.tassp.org

D EC E M B E R December 3 TASA School Transformation Network (session 3 of 6) Virtual event For more info, (512) 477-6361. www.tasanet.org Cost: Participants from districts with fewer than 500 students, $150; 500-1,499 students, $225; 1,500 to 4,999 students, $300; 5,000 to 9,999 students, $375; 10,000 to 49,999 students, $450; 50,000+ students, $500; regional ESCs, $225.

December 4-7 TAHPERD Annual Convention Moody Gardens, Galveston For more info, (512) 459-1299. www.tahperd.org Cost: Pre-registration (Oct. 2-Nov. 1): Professional and associate members, $190; retired members, $55; student members, $45; out-of-state attendees, $190.

Late registration (Nov. 2-Dec. 2): Professional and associate members, $210; retired members, $65; student members, $55; out-ofstate attendees, $210.

TASA/N2 Learning Assistant Principal Leadership Academy, South Dallas area cohort (session 3 of 6) Duncanville ISD, Duncanville For more info, (972) 515-2268. www.n2learning.org Cost: $1,000 for all six sessions.

TASA/N2 Learning Assistant Principal Leadership Academy, South Houston area cohort (session 3 of 6) Clear Creek ISD, Webster For more info, (972) 515-2268. www.n2learning.org Cost: $1,000 for all six sessions.

December 5 TASBO Workshop: Effortless ESSER Annual Reporting Online For more info, (512) 462-1711. www.tasbo.org Cost: Members, $85; nonmembers; $160.

TASBO Workshop: Getting Things Done TASBO offices, Austin For more info, (512) 462-1711. www.tasbo.org Cost: Members, $375; nonmembers, $450.

December 5-6 TARS/TAMS/Moak Casey Legislative Conference Sheraton Georgetown, Georgetown For more info, (325) 372-5821. www.tarsed.org Cost: TAMS/TARS members, $200; nonmembers, $275.

December 3-4 TASB Workshop: Spending Wisely: The Intersection of Staffing and Pay Online For more info, (512) 467-0222 or (800) 580-8272. www.tasb.org Cost: $225.

December 6 TASBO Workshop: Districtwide Risk Assessment Online For more info, (512) 462-1711. www.tasbo.org Cost: Members, $85; nonmembers, $160.

December 4 TASA/N2 Learning Assistant Principal Leadership Academy, virtual cohort (session 3 of 6) Virtual event For more info, (972) 515-2268. www.n2learning.org Cost: $1,000 for all six sessions.

TASBO Workshop: Financial Coding for Texas Schools ESC Region 8, Pittsburg For more info, (512) 462-1711. www.tasbo.org Cost: Members, $210; nonmembers, $285.

TASSP Regional Meeting, Region 3 Online For more info, (512) 443-2100. www.tassp.org December 4-5 TASA Future-Ready Superintendents Leadership Network (session 2 of 3) Terrell ISD, Terrell For more info, (512) 477-6361. www.tasanet.org

TASBO Workshop: Introduction to M&O Aledo ISD, Aledo For more info, (512) 462-1711. www.tasbo.org Cost: Members, $210; nonmembers, $285.

December 10 TASB Workshop: Asbestos Designated Person ESC Region 1, Edinburg For more info, (512) 467-0222 or (800) 580-8272. www.tasb.org TASBO Workshop: Managing State Allotment Programs ESC Region 20, San Antonio For more info, (512) 462-1711. www.tasbo.org Cost: Members, $210; nonmembers, $285.

December 4-6 TAGT Annual Conference Marriott Rivercenter, San Antonio For more info, (512) 499-8248. www.txgifted.org

► See Calendar, page 26 Texas School Business NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024

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◄ Continued from page 25 December 11 TASB Workshop: Integrated Pest Management ESC Region 1, Edinburg For more info, (512) 467-0222 or (800) 580-8272. www.tasb.org TASBO Workshop: Financial Coding for Texas Schools ESC 14, Abilene For more info, (512) 462-1711. www.tasbo.org Cost: Members, $210; nonmembers, $285.

December 12 TASBO Workshop: Financial Coding for Texas Schools ESC 11, Edinburg For more info, (512) 462-1711. www.tasbo.org Cost: Members, $210; nonmembers, $285.

TASBO Workshop: Purchasing Overview for Management ESC Region 8, Pittsburg For more info, (512) 462-1711. www.tasbo.org Cost: Members, $210; nonmembers, $285.

TASSP Regional Meeting, Region 1 United High School, Laredo For more info, (512) 443-2100. www.tassp.org December 13 TASBO Workshop: Purchasing Overview for Management Aledo ISD, Aledo For more info, (512) 462-1711. www.tasbo.org Cost: Members, $210; nonmembers, $285.

December 17 TASA/TASB/TASBO Budget Cohort for District Leaders (session 4 of 9) Webinar For more info, (512) 462-1711 www.tasbo.org/budget-cohort Cost: $3,750 for a team of up to four people from one district; two additional participants may attend at the rate of $500 each.

TASBO Workshop: Budget and Financial Planning ESC Region 10, Richardson For more info, (512) 462-1711. www.tasbo.org Cost: Members, $210; nonmembers, $285.

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Texas School Business NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024

December 18 TASB SHARS Matters Webinar Series: The Impact of Policy Changes on SHARS Funding Online For more info, (512) 467-0222 or (800) 580-8272. www.tasb.org

JA N UA RY January 8 TASBO Workshop: Financial Coding for Texas Schools Azle ISD, Azle For more info, (512) 462-1711. www.tasbo.org Cost: Members, $210; nonmembers, $285.

January 8-9 Texas ASCD Curriculum Leadership Academy 47 (session 3 of 3) Hurst-Euless-Bedford ISD, Bedford For more info, (512) 477-8200 or (800) 717-2723. www.txascd.org January 9 TASB Student Solutions Webinar Series: Understanding Disability Law Online For more info, (512) 467-0222 or (800) 580-8272. www.tasb.org January 10 TASBO Workshop: Budget and Financial Planning Harris County Department of Education, Houston For more info, (512) 462-1711. www.tasbo.org Cost: Members, $210; nonmembers, $285.

January 13 TASBO Six-Step Process Workshop ESC 14, Abilene For more info, (512) 462-1711. www.tasbo.org Cost: Members, $325; nonmembers, $400.

January 14 TASB Workshop: Asbestos Designated Person TASB offices, Austin For more info, (512) 467-0222 or (800) 580-8272. www.tasb.org TASBO Workshop: Financial Coding for Texas Schools Harris County Department of Education, Houston For more info, (512) 462-1711. www.tasbo.org Cost: Members, $210; nonmembers, $285.

TASBO Workshop: Purchasing Overview for Management ESC 7, Kilgore For more info, (512) 462-1711. www.tasbo.org Cost: Members, $210; nonmembers, $285.

January 15 TASBO Workshop: Compensation Management Aledo ISD, Aledo For more info, (512) 462-1711. www.tasbo.org Cost: Members, $210; nonmembers, $285.

January 15-16 Texas ASCD Curriculum Leadership Academy 48 (session 1 of 3) Dripping Springs ISD, Dripping Springs For more info, (512) 477-8200 or (800) 717-2723. www.txascd.org January 16 TASA/N2 Learning Assistant Principal Leadership Academy, Austin area cohort (session 4 of 6) Georgetown ISD, Georgetown For more info, (972) 515-2268. www.n2learning.org Cost: $1,000 for all six sessions.

TASA/N2 Learning Assistant Principal Leadership Academy, Wichita Falls area cohort (session 4 of 6) Wichita Falls ISD, Wichita Falls For more info, (972) 515-2268. www.n2learning.org Cost: $1,000 for all six sessions.

TASBO Workshop: Budget and Financial Planning Pflugerville ISD, Pflugerville For more info, (512) 462-1711. www.tasbo.org Cost: Members, $210; nonmembers, $285.

January 22 TASA/N2 Learning Assistant Principal Leadership Academy, East Texas area cohort (session 4 of 6) Tyler ISD, Tyler For more info, (972) 515-2268. www.n2learning.org Cost: $1,000 for all six sessions.

TASA/N2 Learning Assistant Principal Leadership Academy, San Antonio area cohort (session 4 of 6) North East ISD, San Antonio For more info, (972) 515-2268. www.n2learning.org Cost: $1,000 for all six sessions.

TASB Workshop: Implementing an Intervention Plan Online For more info, (512) 467-0222 or (800) 580-8272. www.tasb.org Cost: $150.

TASBO Six-Step Process Workshop ESC 3, Victoria For more info, (512) 462-1711. www.tasbo.org Cost: Members, $325; nonmembers, $400.

January 17 TASBO Six-Step Process Workshop ESC Region 20, San Antonio For more info, (512) 462-1711. www.tasbo.org Cost: Members, $325; nonmembers, $400.

TASBO Workshop: Personnel Fundamentals Marriott Westchase, Houston For more info, (512) 462-1711. www.tasbo.org Cost: Members, $235; nonmembers, $310.

TASBO Workshop: Financial Coding for Texas Schools ESC Region 7, Kilgore For more info, (512) 462-1711. www.tasbo.org Cost: Members, $210; nonmembers, $285.

January 21 TASA/N2 Learning Assistant Principal Leadership Academy, North Houston area cohort (session 4 of 6) Cypress-Fairbanks ISD, Cypress For more info, (972) 515-2268. www.n2learning.org Cost: $1,000 for all six sessions.

January 23 Fast Growth Texas Lunch and Learn Online For more info, (512) 536-1206. www.fastgrowthtexas.org TASA/N2 Learning Assistant Principal Leadership Academy, Corpus Christi area cohort (session 4 of 6) Corpus Christi ISD, Corpus Christi For more info, (972) 515-2268. www.n2learning.org Cost: $1,000 for all six sessions.

TASA/N2 Learning Assistant Principal Leadership Academy, North Dallas area cohort (session 4 of 6) McKinney ISD, McKinney For more info, (972) 515-2268. www.n2learning.org Cost: $1,000 for all six sessions.

January 23-24 TASBO Personnel Academy Marriott Westchase, Houston For more info, (512) 462-1711. www.tasbo.org Cost: Members, $335; nonmembers, $410.

January 24-26 TCWSE Annual Conference Convention Center, Austin For more info, (512) 477-6361. www.tcwse.org Cost: Early Bird registration (through Dec. 6): Members, $275; student and retired members, $250; nonmember educational entity: $325; nonmember non-educational entity: $400.

After Dec. 6: Members, $300; student and retired members, $300; nonmember educational entity, $375; nonmember noneducational entity, $425.

January 26 TASA/TASBO School Finance Budget Boot Camp Convention Center, Austin For more info, (512) 477-6361. www.tasanet.org Cost: $200 through Jan.15; $250 on-site.

January 26-29 TASA Aspiring Superintendents Academy (in conjunction with the TASA Midwinter Conference) Convention Center, Austin For more info, (512) 477-6361. www.tasanet.org Cost: $225 through Jan. 15; $275 on-site.

TASA Midwinter Conference Convention Center, Austin For more info, (512) 477-6361. www.tasamidwinter.org Cost: Members affiliated with an educational entity, $485 (through Dec. 6), $515 (Dec.7-Jan. 15), $585 (Jan. 26-28); nonmembers affiliated with an educational entity, $585 (through Dec. 6), $615 (Dec. 7-Jan. 15), $685 (Jan. 26-28); members not affiliated with an educational entity, $585 (through Dec. 6), $615 (Dec. 7-Jan. 15), $685 (Jan. 26-28); nonmembers not affiliated with an educational entity, $885 (through Dec. 6), $915 (Dec. 7-Jan. 15), $985 (Jan. 26-28); student members, $240 (all phases of registration).

January 27 TASA/TASB/TASBO Budget Cohort for Texas District Leaders (session 5 of 9) Convention Center, Austin (during the TASA Midwinter Conference) For more info, (512) 462-1711. www.tasbo.org/budget-cohort Cost: $3,750 for a team of up to four people from one district; two additional participants may attend at the rate of $500 each.

January 27-28 TASA/N2 Learning Principals’ Institute (session 4 of 6) Convention Center, Austin For more info, (972) 515-2268. www.n2learning.org Cost: $6,000 for all six sessions.

TASB Texas Federal Advocacy Conference Willard Intercontinental Hotel, Washington, D.C. For more info, (512) 467-0222 or (800) 580-8272. www.tasb.org January 30 TASBO Workshop: Managing for Performance Excellence ESC 18, Midland For more info, (512) 462-1711. www.tasbo.org Cost: Members, $210; nonmembers, $285.

F E B R UA RY February 2-4 TASSP Assistant/Aspiring Principal Workshop Hilton Airport, Austin For more info, (512) 443-2100. www.tassp.org TXCA Annual Conference Convention Center, Galveston For more info, (512) 472-3403. www.txca.org February 3 TASBO Workshop: Approaches to Management and Leadership ESC 1, Edinburg For more info, (512) 462-1711. www.tasbo.org Cost: Members, $210; nonmembers, $285.

February 3-5 TCASE Great Ideas Conference Marriott Hotel, Austin For more info, (512) 474-4492 or (888) 433-4492. www.tcase.org Cost: Early Bird registration for main conference only (through Dec. 13): Members, $485; nonmembers, $560. Early Bird registration for main and preconference (through Dec. 13):

Members, $575; nonmembers, $650. Regular registration for main conference only (after Dec. 13): Members, $545; nonmembers, $635. Regular registration for main and pre-conference (after Dec. 13): Members, $620; nonmembers, $710.

February 4 TASA/N2 Learning Assistant Principal Leadership Academy, South Dallas area cohort (session 4 of 6) Duncanville ISD, Duncanville For more info, (972) 515-2268. www.n2learning.org Cost: $1,000 for all six sessions.

TASA/N2 Learning Assistant Principal Leadership Academy, South Houston area cohort (session 4 of 6) Clear Creek ISD, Webster For more info, (972) 515-2268. www.n2learning.org Cost: $1,000 for all six sessions.

TASBO Workshop: USDA Policies and Initiatives: Enhancing Agricultural Insights Online For more info, (512) 462-1711. www.tasbo.org Cost: Members, $85; nonmembers, $160.

February 5 TASA/N2 Learning Assistant Principal Leadership Academy, virtual cohort (session 4 of 6) Virtual event For more info, (972) 515-2268. www.n2learning.org Cost: $1,000 for all six sessions.

TASBO Six-Step Process Workshop ESC 12, Waco For more info, (512) 462-1711. www.tasbo.org Cost: Members, $325; nonmembers, $400.

TASBO Workshop: Business Ethics ESC Region 10, Richardson For more info, (512) 462-1711. www.tasbo.org Cost: Members, $210; nonmembers, $285.

February 5-6 TASB Workshop: Recruiting and Retaining School Employees Online For more info, (512) 467-0222 or (800) 580-8272. www.tasb.org Cost: $225.

Texas ASCD Curriculum Leadership Academy 48 (session 2 of 3) Dripping Springs ISD, Dripping Springs For more info, (512) 477-8200 or (800) 717-2723. www.txascd.org Texas ASCD Curriculum Leadership Academy 49 (session 1 of 3) Willis ISD, Willis For more info, (512) 477-8200 or (800) 717-2723. www.txascd.org February 6 TASBO Six-Step Process Workshop ESC Region 10, Richardson For more info, (512) 462-1711. www.tasbo.org Cost: Members, $325; nonmembers, $400.

February 7 TASBO Workshop: Effective Communications Harris County Department of Education For more info, (512) 462-1711. www.tasbo.org Cost: Members, $210; nonmembers, $285.

TASBO Workshop: Purchasing Standards and Specifications Dallas ISD, Dallas For more info, (512) 462-1711. www.tasbo.org Cost: Members, $210; nonmembers, $285.

February 8 TRTA Retirement Seminar Odessa College, Odessa For more info, (512) 476-1622 or (800) 880-1650. www.trta.org February 10 TASBO Six-Step Process Workshop ESC Region 2, Corpus Christi For more info, (512) 462-1711. www.tasbo.org Cost: Members, $325; nonmembers, $400.

TASBO Workshop: Managing Federal Grant Funds ESC 6, Huntsville For more info, (512) 462-1711. www.tasbo.org Cost: Members, $210; nonmembers, $285.

► See Calendar, page 28 Texas School Business NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024

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◄ Continued from page 27 February 11 TASA School Transformation Network (session 4 of 6) Virtual event For more info, (512) 477-6361. www.tasanet.org Cost: Participants from districts with fewer than 500 students, $150; 500 to1,4999 students, $225; 1,500 to 4,999 students, $300; 5,000 to 9,999 students, $375; 10,000 to 49,999 students, $450; 50,000+ students, $500; regional ESCs, $225.

TASA Small Schools Network (session 3 of 4) Online For more info, (512) 477-6361. www.tasanet.org TASBO Workshop: Purchasing Compliance Federal Fund Expenditures EDGAR ESC Region 6, Huntsville For more info, (512) 462-1711. www.tasbo.org Cost: Members, $210; nonmembers, $285.

February 12-16 TABSE Annual Conference Moody Gardens, Galveston No phone number provided. www.tabse.net February 17 TASPA Workshop: Certification Fundamentals Chapel Hill ISD, Tyler For more info, (512) 494-9353. www.taspa.org TASPA Workshop: Understanding Special Education HOUSSE Chapel Hill ISD, Tyler For more info, (512) 494-9353. www.taspa.org February 17-20 TSPRA Annual Conference Grand Hyatt River Walk, San Antonio For more info, (512) 474-9107. www.tspra.org February 18 TASA/TASB Legislative Conference Downright Austin Renaissance, Austin For more info, (512) 467-0222 https://bit.ly/tasa-tasb-legeconf Cost: No charge for TASA/ TASB members.

TASA Virtual Book Study (session 1 of 6) Virtual event For more info, (512) 477-6361. www.tasanet.org TASA/N2 Learning Assistant Principal Leadership Academy, North Houston area cohort (session 5 of 6) Cypress-Fairbanks ISD, Cypress For more info, (972) 515-2268. www.n2learning.org Cost: $1,000 for all six sessions.

TASA/N2 Learning Assistant Principal Leadership Academy, Wichita Falls area cohort (session 5 of 6) Wichita Falls ISD, Wichita Falls For more info, (972) 515-2268. www.n2learning.org Cost: $1,000 for all six sessions.

TASB Workshop: Asbestos Designated Person ESC Region 6, Victoria For more info, (512) 467-0222 or (800) 580-8272. www.tasb.org February 18-19 FGSC Annual Conference Downright Austin Renaissance, Austin For more info, (512) 536-1206. www.fastgrowthtexas.org February 19 TASA/N2 Learning Assistant Principal Leadership Academy, East Texas area cohort (session 5 of 6) Tyler ISD, Tyler For more info, (972) 515-2268. www.n2learning.org Cost: $1,000 for all six sessions.

TASA/N2 Learning Assistant Principal Leadership Academy, San Antonio area cohort (session 5 of 6) North East ISD, San Antonio For more info, (972) 515-2268. www.n2learning.org Cost: $1,000 for all six sessions.

TASB Workshop: Integrated Pest Management ESC Region 3, Victoria For more info, (512) 467-0222 or (800) 580-8272. www.tasb.org

February 19-20 TASA First-Time Superintendents Academy (session 4 of 4) Austin Marriott North, Round Rock For more info, (512) 477-6361. www.tasanet.org Cost: Members, $245 per session; nonmembers, $295 per session.

February 19-22 Leadership TASB Class of 2025 (session 3 of 5) Location TBA, Austin For more info, (512) 467-0222 or (800) 580-8272. www.tasb.org February 20 TASA/N2 Learning Assistant Principal Leadership Academy, Corpus Christi area cohort (session 5 of 6) Corpus Christi ISD, Corpus Christi For more info, (972) 515-2268. www.n2learning.org Cost: $1,000 for all six sessions.

TASA/N2 Learning Assistant Principal Leadership Academy, North Dallas area cohort (session 5 of 6) McKinney ISD, McKinney For more info, (972) 515-2268. www.n2learning.org Cost: $1,000 for all six sessions.

February 20-21 TASB Conference for Administrative Professionals TASB offices, Austin For more info, (512) 467-0222 or (800) 580-8272. www.tasb.org Cost: $180.

February 24 THSCA Leadership Summit Esports Stadium, Arlington For more info, (512) 392-3741. www.thsca.com February 24-28 TASBO Engage Annual Conference Convention Center, Austin For more info, (512) 462-1711. www.tasbo.org February 25 TASA/TASB/TASBO Budget Cohort for Texas District Leaders (session 6 of 9) Convention Center, Austin (during the TASBO Engage Conference) For more info, (512) 462-1711. www.tasbo.org/budget-cohort Cost: $3,750 for a team of up to four people from one district; two additional participants may attend at the rate of $500 each.

February 25-26 TASA/N2 Learning Executive Leadership Institute (session 3 of 4) Hilton Post Oak, Houston For more info, (972) 515-2268. www.n2learning.org Cost: $4,500 for all four sessions.

TASA/N2 Learning Principals’ Institute (session 5 of 6) Hilton Post Oak, Houston For more info, (972) 515-2268. www.n2learning.org Cost: $6,000 for all six sessions.

February 26-27 TASA Future-Ready Superintendents Leadership Network (session 3 of 3) Bellville and Royal ISDs, Bellville and Pattison For more info, (512) 477-6361. www.tasanet.org TASB Workshop: Understanding Compensation in Schools Online For more info, (512) 467-0222 or (800) 580-8272. www.tasb.org Cost: $225.

February 27 TASA/N2 Learning Assistant Principal Leadership Academy, Austin area cohort (session 5 of 6) Georgetown ISD, Georgetown For more info, (972) 515-2268. www.n2learning.org Cost: $1,000 for all six sessions. ◄

Train your brain.

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Texas School Business NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024

THE BACK PAGE

A struggling little boy named Al

by Riney Jordan

A

s I have said so many times in the past, never give up on a child, no matter how problematic they appear to be.

I read recently of a young boy named Al. Now Al was one of those students who had difficulty socializing with the other students. It was not uncommon for him to be bullied by some of the other students.

Teachers referred to him as being slow and inattentive. Oh, he might do fairly well in some subjects and then absolutely drop the bottom out of another one.

And, as you might suspect, he came from an unusual household. Neither of his parents were highly educated and they couldn’t read well, so he suffered in that respect while he was home. His father owned a small electrical business, but that eventually failed. As a result, financial stress to the household became a major problem.

When Al was about 10 years old, he met Mr. Talmud. He was a family friend who had been invited for dinner one evening.

Talmud took a special interest in the young boy, and he was fascinated by his curiosity and potential.

The family recognized the fact that young Al was really enjoying learning with Mr. Talmud, so they invited him once a week to come for dinner and then tutor their son for an hour or two after dinner.

Ten-year-old Al could hardly wait for that evening to arrive each week. Mr. Talmud began to bring books that were interesting to Al, such as mathematics and science.

Talmud, who was not a licensed instructor, realized that Al’s critical thinking needed nurturing perhaps more than anything, so he encouraged him to ask questions and to continue to pursue his love of knowledge.

Who could have ever dreamed that this young man would become so proficient in the area of mathematics and science.

This is really sounding remarkable, isn’t it! Well, at this part of our story, it takes a rather surprising turn. Al dropped out of school and our story could have ended there.

So often I have told teachers that one of our most important and critical responsibilities is to determine each child’s God-given gifts and develop them as much as we possibly can. We are truly doing our students a disservice when we fail to discover those gifts and follow up with love, resources, and encouragement.

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TASA..........................................................30 tasanet.org TASA Midwinter Conference ......... 6 tasamidwinter.org TASB Energy Cooperative................2 tasb.org/electricity TASPA.......................................................... 5 taspa.org TMEA............................................................4 tmea.org Texas Political Subdivisions..........18 tpspool.org Texas School Business..............18, 23 texasschoolbusiness.com

No doubt, you were as curious as I was to find out what happened to Al as he grew up.

Well, let me just take a moment to punch in a few key words in my computer to see if we can find out what happened to little Al, who was once described as a “lazy dog.”

Oh, here it is right here! I discovered it almost immediately when I typed in his name and that of Mr. Talmud. Let’s see … he studied a short time later at the Swiss Federal Polytechnic Institute in Zürich. He began to make groundbreaking contributions there and eventually developed something called the “Theory of Relativity.” In 1921, he was awarded the prestigious Nobel Prize in Physics.

By now, you have no doubt realized that our little Al became the renowned Dr. Albert Einstein, who gives much of the credit for his success to a non-certified mentor named Max Talmud who chose unselfishly to encourage and help cultivate the curiosity and creativity that would lead to one of the greatest minds in the last century.

So today, don’t overlook the future Einsteins in your life.

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RINEY JORDAN is the author of two books and a frequent public speaker. To invite him to speak at your convocation, graduation or awards banquet, visit www.rineyjordan.com.

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