Dear Parents and Guardians:
Late last week, SISD received a letter from the Texas Education Agency (TEA) regarding Snyder Junior High School. In the letter, TEA identified potential punitive sanctions facing SISD: the commissioner of education shall either appoint a board of managers for the district or force the closure of SJHS. This letter is the first step in what will be a long process to determine what, if any, sanctions are placed on our district.
I understand the concern among the community. It concerns me too. I can easily argue that statewide data proves the state accountability system is severely biased against poverty and diversity. However, that does not change our current situation.
SISD is challenging the Improvement Required status assigned to SJHS based on 2018-2019 STAAR testing data. TEA should make a decision on our appeal in December. Our administrators, teachers, and school board have complied with all recommended actions by TEA, and I am prepared and eager for an open discussion with them about the district. With that said, our teachers and students need your support and encouragement. A letter grade cannot represent our students’ progress or their potential. Our students, your children, are more than a letter grade from a standardized test! Staff and students across the district are accomplishing great successes every day.
I can guarantee our school board and staff remains committed to providing our students with the best education possible. In the meantime, I am in close communication with TEA to report ongoing progress and programs addressing teacher retention, student academic progress and enrichment programs, teacher support, and parent and community involvement.
As partners in education, I ask that you please reach out to me directly with your suggestions, questions, and concerns. You are welcome to call me at 325-574-8900 or email ebland@snyderisd.net.
Sincerely,
Eddie Bland, Ed.D.
S.I.S.D. Superintendent