As the frosty mornings of January unfold, we're warmed by the opportunity to celebrate an integral part of our educational community during School Board Recognition Month. This year's theme, "Leadership for Tomorrow's Texas," aptly captures the forward-thinking and dedicated service of our school board trustees here at Victoria Independent School District.
In a role often unsung but crucially important, our school board trustees perform a balancing act of governance and advocacy that profoundly influences our children's futures. Their decisions touch every aspect of our schools—from the curriculum taught in our classrooms to the facilities where students learn and play. This January, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to these public servants who devote countless hours to governing our district.
Trustees' Impact on Victoria ISD
Our trustees have demonstrated exceptional leadership and effectiveness this school year, achieving significant milestones that deserve our recognition:
Prioritized the development of Employee Compensation Plan Version One to retain high-quality staff.
Approved the lowest tax rate in 30 years in August 2023.
Oversaw the construction of the new Mission Valley Elementary School, ensuring the project remains on time and on budget.
Took time to personally recognize high-performing students at the annual Board Excellence Awards.
Conducted a comprehensive superintendent search and successfully appointed Superintendent of Schools, Sheila Collazo.
Toured multiple facilities and actively supported the continued implementation of a master facilities plan.
Participated in board training sessions with a focus on student instruction and outcomes.
Supported campus initiatives to increase student attendance.
Backed efforts to reduce student disciplinary infractions across campuses.
Each of these achievements underscores the trustees' commitment to not just maintaining but elevating the educational standards of our district.
Understanding the Role of Our School Board
Local school board responsibilities are vast and varied, grouping into five pivotal areas:
Setting Goals and Priorities: Our trustees establish strategic outcomes that address both current and future educational needs, constantly monitoring the district's progress towards these goals.
Policy Oversight: Through continuous review and adoption of policies, the board ensures our operations reflect the highest standards of educational excellence and governance.
Superintendent Evaluation: Selecting and evaluating the superintendent, our trustees guarantee that our district's leadership is both effective and aligned with our community’s values, needs, and expectations.
Financial Management: Adopting the annual budget and setting appropriate tax rates, they manage resources prudently to support educational programs and infrastructure.
Community Communication: Essential to their role is an ongoing dialogue with you, the community. Our trustees not only listen but actively seek your voice to inform their decisions.
Elected to Lead
School district trustees are elected by you—the community. Each vote cast in school board elections reflects a trust in their vision and dedication to our children's education. Serving staggered terms of three or four years, trustees ensure stability and continuity in leadership, which is essential for long-term planning and implementation.
Join Us in Gratitude
This January, as we recognize the pivotal contributions of our school board trustees, let's remember the significant impact of their decisions on our children's daily educational experiences and future opportunities. We encourage every member of our community to reach out and express appreciation for their ongoing commitment and visionary leadership.
We invite you to learn more about the work of our school board and their accomplishments by visiting our district website at [insert URL]. Join us in celebrating these community leaders whose dedication is shaping tomorrow's Texas.
Ashley Alvarez is the executive director of communications and public relations at Victoria ISD.