AISD Hosts Legislative Breakfast

Disponible en:

On Dec. 13, Aldine ISD hosted a Legislative Breakfast at Davis High School for state lawmakers who serve the Aldine community.

State Representatives Sylvester Turner and Armando Walle attended the event, along with representatives from State Senator Dan Patrick’s office and State Senator John Whitmire’s office. Sylvia García, a candidate for the Senate 6 seat formerly held by State Senator Mario Gallegos, also attended the event.

Dr. Bamberg proposed changes in testing and graduation requirements that would reduce the number of end of course (EOC) exams required for graduation. A revised graduation plan would allow students opportunities for courses in high school that would prepare them for certification and licensure to obtain jobs that pay above minimum wage after high school. Bamberg also proposed fewer tests at the elementary level. She shared finance information with the lawmakers and their representatives and said the district supports a more equitable funding system that provides adequate resources [including funding for Student Success Initiative (SSI) and remediation] to ensure that students graduate prepared for college or a career as defined by the State of Texas.

Assistant Superintendent of Finance Anne-Marie Hazzan provided an overview of the district’s finances. She stated the district is in sound financial shape due to the cuts Aldine ISD has made over the last five years and an increase in the fund balance. She also presented a five-year plan that, with the school board’s approval, will undertake one-time construction and maintenance projects that were delayed due to budget cuts, hire additional teachers and provide funding for one-time technology and infrastructure projects.

Bamberg also related that the district supports legislation that would return local control of school start dates, and continue district flexibility in developing and implementing an effective student management plan.

Also present at the breakfast were Aldine ISD Trustees Rick Ogden, Merlin Griggs, Marine Jones, Steve Mead, Rose Avalos, Dr. Viola M. García and Dr. Alton Smith. Bamberg’s cabinet comprised of deputy, assistant and area superintendents also attended the breakfast.