Our Texas Legislators are back in session for the third time this year. Both the Texas Senate and Texas House are in the midst of discussions pertaining to education.
School vouchers are a top priority for Governor Abbott. The Senate has approved a school voucher bill. The House has filed their own version of a voucher bill, which contains certain protections for public school districts. Neither the Senate nor the House have agreed on these bills at this time, which could change on any given day. Both bills have implications for public school funding, so districts are currently in a holding pattern.
As a public school district, Levelland ISD is not in favor of a voucher bill. Vouchers are also being referred to as education savings accounts. Vouchers, by any name, would be bad for Texas public school children and families, public school employees, public schools in general and even communities.
Levelland ISD is held to accountability standards and measures for every department, program, and action, including finance. We strive to achieve compliance and excellence, and be transparent, in all accountability measures. Vouchers, which would divert tax payer funds to private and home school programs, should also include the same accountability measures. Some even argue that vouchers do little to expand opportunities for students and could result in increased segregation of students.
As we begin to plan for the 2024-2025 school year, a survey has been distributed to gather input on the Levelland ISD district calendar. Many school districts have moved to a fourday instructional calendar in lieu of the traditional five-day instructional calendar.
A change such as this results in numerous questions and details to work through. There is most definitely support and also opposition for a calendar change. If you have not already done so, we encourage you to complete the survey, which will close on November 3, 2023. The survey is available via the following link: https://forms.gle/ bmsKnD9wwjQRK2AV6. The survey can also be accessed via official Levelland ISD social media outlets.
The school year at Levelland ISD has progressed quickly. Our staff and students have been productive and working hard. The holidays will be here soon and we will finish up the first semester in less than two months. At this time of the year we choose to operate in a positive manner. Thinking positive goes a long way and impacts daily actions. There is always good to been seen and found, if that is what you are looking for. Expect Excellence.