Board Report

A Message from the Board President
Aspiring Eagle Scout and Others Honored
View from the SAC
Board Joins Read Across America Campaign
Early Childhood and Exceptional Education Updates
Overview of Legislative Issues Affecting TUSD
Social Work Month
New Academic Calendars Adopted
Norms of Behavior for the Governing Board (from Policy 9200)
Spotlight on Excellence
Movie Ticket Winner

A Message from the Board President

This is my opportunity to acknowledge the extraordinary efforts of TUSD staff members who recently demonstrated a commitment to the safety and well-being of our students when bus driver Rufino Galla was wounded while transporting Borton Primary Magnet School students.

The efficiency and compassion of staff, particularly the Transportation Department, Borton Principal Teri Melendez and staff, and all other employees who provided support and counseling, represents what makes TUSD the great district that it is. Our best wishes go out to Mr. Galla for a quick recovery. His bravery and responsible actions will long be remembered.

Taking care of and educating our students ­ from oldest to youngest ­ is why TUSD exists. At the March meeting, Dr. Bob Wortman presented to the Governing Board TUSD's model of developmentally appropriate, standards-based early childhood education.

While playing the BOLD! Game and focusing on student achievement, we must remember the importance of providing such developmentally appropriate curriculum for our very youngest students. Thanks to the teachers of four- and five-year-olds who provide the foundation for successful schooling.

The TUSD/TEA Joint Task Force recommendations concerning salary equity also were presented at the March meeting. We currently are researching the legal ramifications regarding this report.

As always, I invite all TUSD employees and community members to attend monthly Governing Board meetings to learn about such new initiatives firsthand, as well as to address questions and comments to Board members through the Call to the Audience.

This 45-minute segment of every meeting serves as an important communication vehicle. Please remember that this forum is designed to provide direct communication with the Board. It is suggested that you first exercise all other available district communication channels for more immediate feedback and action.

Recently, I researched ethics statements and policies for educational groups. I thought you might be interested in our own norms for Governing Board behavior (see next page).

Finally, please join us at the April 9 Governing Board meeting, when the naming of TUSD's newest schools and the appointment of new principals will be on the agenda.

Mary Belle McCorkle, Ed.D.

More articles in this month's report...