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Joe's Commentaries
Joe Smith: Lorena and Orange Grove Ratify Tax Rate - September 3, 2010
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I wish everyone a safe and happy Labor Day Weekend - I need to start mine a little early today and am not writing a commentary, but will give you a quick TRE update. Yesterday, 2 districts had TREs ratified. Congratulations to Lorena and Orange Grove school districts! Celina ISD will have one tomorrow and then, next Saturday, September 11, Brock, Calallen, Coppell, Millsap, Robstown, Tolar, Tuloso - Midway and Weatherford will go to the polls. (Updated September 3 10:30am)
|
DISTRICT |
RESULTS |
FOR |
AGAINST |
Total |
PERCENT |
|
Lorena |
RATIFIED |
795 |
244 |
1039 |
76% |
| Orange Grove |
RATIFIED |
182 |
11 |
193 |
94.3% |
- Total Districts on list - 68
- TREs held - 19
- TREs Ratified 15 (78.95%)
The TexasISD TRE list is on the Lone Finalist (subscription) - js - webmaster@texasisd.com |
New! September 2 - 10:00 AM - Paytek - Free Check Recovery - Go To Meeting - This is a great opportunity get more information in a very informal setting. - Registration
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Congratulations to the following New Supers:
David Baxter, Assistant Superintendent at Crockett ISD, has been named New Super of Kennard ISD.
Allen Law, Superintendent of Moody ISD, has been named New Super of Giddings ISD.
Dan Trevino, La Feria ISD Assistant Superintendent, has been named New Super of Mercedes ISD. |
Sep 3, 2010, 09:00
Joe Smith: School Bus Seat Belts - September 2, 2010
| Yesterday, I said I would give you an update on the available funding related to school bus seat belts; I did find additional information. However, I am not able to tell you how to apply for this money. - It appears this may become a voluntary program and funding will be based on priorities I list below.
Lone Finalist members, click on ‘View Article’ to access this commentary. Past commentaries, links and charts are on The Lone Finalist. To join, contact Vickie@texasisd.com, call 936-622-3411 or sign up online (click on The Lone Finalist tile in the left blue margin). |
New! September 2 - 10:00 AM - Paytek - Free Check Recovery - Go To Meeting - This is a great opportunity get more information in a very informal setting. - Registration
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Congratulations to the following New Supers:
David Baxter, Assistant Superintendent at Crockett ISD, has been named New Super of Kennard ISD.
Allen Law, Superintendent of Moody ISD, has been named New Super of Giddings ISD.
Dan Trevino, La Feria ISD Assistant Superintendent, has been named New Super of Mercedes ISD. |
[ View Article ]
Sep 2, 2010, 09:00
Joe Smith: Incentives for Efficiency and Seat Belts Without Funding - September 1, 2010
| The Texas education news today is overwhelmingly about school bus seat belt funding - or the lack of - and Governor Perry’s school incentive plan. Most newspapers, blogs and TV stations have rudimentary information based on the press releases. |
Lone Finalist members, click on ‘View Article’ to access this commentary. Past commentaries, links and charts are on The Lone Finalist. To join, contact Vickie@texasisd.com, call 936-622-3411 or sign up online (click on The Lone Finalist tile in the left blue margin).
New! September 2 - 10:00 AM - Paytek - Free Check Recovery - Go To Meeting - This is a great opportunity get more information in a very informal setting. - Registration
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Congratulations to the following New Supers:
David Baxter, Assistant Superintendent at Crockett ISD, has been named New Super of Kennard ISD.
Allen Law, Superintendent of Moody ISD, has been named New Super of Giddings ISD.
Dan Trevino, La Feria ISD Assistant Superintendent, has been named New Super of Mercedes ISD.
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[ View Article ]
Sep 1, 2010, 09:00
Joe Smith: Aledo, Castleberry, Crosbyton, Gladewater and Sweetwater Ratify Tax Rates on Saturday - August 31, 2010
Update on TRE’s - I need to expand my commentary title from yesterday; I missed Crosbyton CISD, which also had a successful TRE on Saturday, August 28. The title should read: “Aledo, Castleberry, Crosbyton, Gladewater and Sweetwater Ratify Tax Rates on Saturday”. Our updated list now has 67 districts having TREs and we are likely not finished with updates as some boards have meetings tonight.
Lone Finalist members, click on ‘View Article’ to access this commentary. Past commentaries, links and charts are on The Lone Finalist. To join, contact Vickie@texasisd.com, call 936-622-3411 or sign up online (click on The Lone Finalist tile in the left blue margin). |
New! September 2 - 10:00 AM - Paytek - Free Check Recovery - Go To Meeting - This is a great opportunity get more information in a very informal setting. - Registration
Congratulations to the following New Supers:
David Baxter, Assistant Superintendent at Crockett ISD, has been named New Super of Kennard ISD.
Allen Law, Superintendent of Moody ISD, has been named New Super of Giddings ISD.
Dan Trevino, La Feria ISD Assistant Superintendent, has been named New Super of Mercedes ISD.
[ View Article ]
Aug 31, 2010, 09:00
Joe Smith: Aledo, Castleberry, Gladewater and Sweetwater ISDs Ratify Tax Rates on Saturday - August 30, 2010
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All TREs held Saturday, August 28, were ratified. However, Aledo’s was “super ratified” with 88% of those who went to the polls voting favorably for the proposed tax rate. |
New! September 2 - 10:00 AM - Paytek - Free Check Recovery - Go To Meeting - This is a great opportunity get more information in a very informal setting. - Registration
|
Congratulations to the following New Supers:
David Baxter, Assistant Superintendent at Crockett ISD, has been named New Super of Kennard ISD.
Allen Law, Superintendent of Moody ISD, has been named New Super of Giddings ISD.
Dan Trevino, La Feria ISD Assistant Superintendent, has been named New Super of Mercedes ISD.
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Aug 30, 2010, 09:00
Joe Smith: Statewide Campaign Starts Today: Press release from Aledo ISD - Read and Share - August 27, 2010
| The Aledo Independent School District board of trustees has launched a new statewide initiative to urge lawmakers to "Make Education a Priority" this legislative session. The initiative is an effort to raise awareness of the growing financial crisis that public school districts are facing and encourage state legislators to work with local school board members and other stakeholders to find a solution. |
Lone Finalist members, click on ‘View Article’ to access this commentary. Past commentaries, links and charts are on The Lone Finalist. To join, contact Vickie@texasisd.com, call 936-622-3411 or sign up online (click on The Lone Finalist tile in the left blue margin).
New! September 2 - 10:00 AM - Paytek - Free Check Recovery - Go To Meeting - This is a great opportunity get more information in a very informal setting. - Registration
If you can't make this meeting, we hold one every month. Here are is the schedule.
10/07, 11/04, & 12/02. Go to the registration link to express interest in any of these dates.
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Congratulations to the following New Supers:
John O' Brien, Administrator at Van Vleck ISD, has been named New Super at Van Vleck ISD.
Robin Ryan, Chief Academic Officer at Dallas ISD, has been named New Super at Grapevine - Colleyville ISD.
Dr. Janet Patton, New Braunfels ISD Assistant Superintendent, has been named New Super at Rock Springs ISD.
John Emshoff, Boyd ISD High School Principal has been named New Super at Boyd ISD.
James Rice, Perrin Whitt CISD Superintendent has been named New Super at Northside ISD. (Vernon)
Rod Townsend, Hico ISD Superintendent, has been named New Super at Decatur ISD.
Jennifer Jones, Principal at Martins Mill ISD, has been named New Super at Fruitvale ISD.
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[ View Article ]
Aug 27, 2010, 09:00
Joe Smith: “Those Motions We Must Use to Adopt Tax Rates” - August 26, 2010
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If you become confused and get the feeling that the Truth-in-Taxation requirements for school districts are a conglomerate of unrelated and conflicting laws and rules that convey little to the public about the district’s tax rate or financial condition, I am with you. Nevertheless, you still have to make the postings and be able to explain them. Some of these rules are formulas that may have had meaning at one time, but with changes in school funding, they fall short of meeting their original purpose which was to communicate to constituents. They certainly fall short of any goals to create transparency of theschool district tax setting process for taxpayers.
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New! September 2 - 10:00 AM - Paytek - Free Check Recovery - Go To Meeting - This is a great opportunity get more information in a very informal setting. - Registration
|
Congratulations to the following New Supers:
John O' Brien, Administrator at Van Vleck ISD, has been named New Super at Van Vleck ISD.
Robin Ryan, Chief Academic Officer at Dallas ISD, has been named New Super at Grapevine - Colleyville ISD.
Dr. Janet Patton, New Braunfels ISD Assistant Superintendent, has been named New Super at Rock Springs ISD.
John Emshoff, Boyd ISD High School Principal has been named New Super at Boyd ISD.
James Rice, Perrin Whitt CISD Superintendent has been named New Super at Northside ISD. (Vernon)
Rod Townsend, Hico ISD Superintendent, has been named New Super at Decatur ISD.
Jennifer Jones, Principal at Martins Mill ISD, has been named New Super at Fruitvale ISD. |
Aug 26, 2010, 09:00
Joe Smith: TRE Update: 80% Ratification Rate in 2010 - August 25, 2010
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My recent discussions with superintendents and CFO’s have not changed my impression that a successful Tax Ratification Election may be the most formidable task Texas superintendents will face. We are at the beginning of the 2010 election cycle, I have scheduled weekly commentary updates as local elections are held. |
New! September 2 - 10:00 AM - Paytek - Free Check Recovery - Go To Meeting - This is a great opportunity get more information in a very informal setting. - Registration
|
Congratulations to the following New Supers:
John O' Brien, Administrator at Van Vleck ISD, has been named New Super at Van Vleck ISD.
Robin Ryan, Chief Academic Officer at Dallas ISD, has been named New Super at Grapevine - Colleyville ISD.
Dr. Janet Patton, New Braunfels ISD Assistant Superintendent, has been named New Super at Rock Springs ISD.
John Emshoff, Boyd ISD High School Principal has been named New Super at Boyd ISD.
James Rice, Perrin Whitt CISD Superintendent has been named New Super at Northside ISD. (Vernon)
Rod Townsend, Hico ISD Superintendent, has been named New Super at Decatur ISD.
Jennifer Jones, Principal at Martins Mill ISD, has been named New Super at Fruitvale ISD. |
Aug 25, 2010, 09:00
Joe Smith: First Day of School - August 24, 2010
The 10/11 school year has begun for most students in Texas a few have other start dates. The first day of school in Texas involves almost 5 million students, plus school employees, parents of students and numerous others. When it is all said and done, it takes the whole state working together to get this massive undertaking accomplished successfully. In reading articles across the state this morning about the first day of school, I think you got it done in spite of record-breaking heatwaves across the state (it was 108 degrees, a record at the DFW airport). Mixed with the activity of the first day of school were numerous districts setting tax rates, adopting budgets, and some calling bond elections and/or Tax Ratification Elections all happening on the first day of school across the great state of Texas. The articles today, related to the first day of school, make a great point about the impact that public education has on local communities and the state of Texas. It is profound.
Lone Finalist members, click on ‘View Article’ to access this commentary. Past commentaries, links and charts are on The Lone Finalist. To join, contact Vickie@texasisd.com, call 936-622-3411 or sign up online (click on The Lone Finalist tile in the left blue margin). |
New! September 2 - 10:00 AM - Paytek - Free Check Recovery - Go To Meeting - This is a great opportunity get more information in a very informal setting. - Registration
|
Congratulations to the following New Supers:
John O' Brien, Administrator at Van Vleck ISD, has been named New Super at Van Vleck ISD.
Robin Ryan, Chief Academic Officer at Dallas ISD, has been named New Super at Grapevine - Colleyville ISD.
Dr. Janet Patton, New Braunfels ISD Assistant Superintendent, has been named New Super at Rock Springs ISD.
John Emshoff, Boyd ISD High School Principal has been named New Super at Boyd ISD.
James Rice, Perrin Whitt CISD Superintendent has been named New Super at Northside ISD. (Vernon)
Rod Townsend, Hico ISD Superintendent, has been named New Super at Decatur ISD.
Jennifer Jones, Principal at Martins Mill ISD, has been named New Super at Fruitvale ISD. |
[ View Article ]
Aug 24, 2010, 09:00
Joe Smith: Thank You, Aledo ISD School Board - Part 2 - August 23, 2010
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I am adding a few additional comments to Friday’s important commentary. If you read the commentary on Friday, great; if not, do so today. I am looking forward to the the “Make Education A Priority” campaign which will invite all Texas School Districts to adopt the same resolution - creating a unified voice. I see it working as individual districts use the resolutions and letter writing campaign to build public awareness with opportunities to get involved, participate, and support our local schools. The goal is one unified message shared by all school districts in Texas that addresses school finance at its core. |
New! September 2 - 10:00 AM - Paytek - Free Check Recovery - Go To Meeting - This is a great opportunity get more information in a very informal setting. - Registration
|
Congratulations to the following New Supers:
John O' Brien, Administrator at Van Vleck ISD, has been named New Super at Van Vleck ISD.
Robin Ryan, Chief Academic Officer at Dallas ISD, has been named New Super at Grapevine - Colleyville ISD.
Dr. Janet Patton, New Braunfels ISD Assistant Superintendent, has been named New Super at Rock Springs ISD.
John Emshoff, Boyd ISD High School Principal has been named New Super at Boyd ISD.
James Rice, Perrin Whitt CISD Superintendent has been named New Super at Northside ISD. (Vernon)
Rod Townsend, Hico ISD Superintendent, has been named New Super at Decatur ISD.
Jennifer Jones, Principal at Martins Mill ISD, has been named New Super at Fruitvale ISD. |
Aug 23, 2010, 09:00
Joe Smith: Thank You, Aledo ISD School Board! - August 20, 2010
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I applaud the leadership from the Aledo ISD school board dedicated to making education a priority. "Make Education a Priority" is an Aledo ISD Board of Trustee adopted campaign, a grassroots effort that is growing into a statewide initiative. |
New! September 2 - 10:00 AM - Paytek - Free Check Recovery - Go To Meeting - This is a great opportunity get more information in a very informal setting. - Registration
|
Congratulations to the following New Supers:
John O' Brien, Administrator at Van Vleck ISD, has been named New Super at Van Vleck ISD.
Robin Ryan, Chief Academic Officer at Dallas ISD, has been named New Super at Grapevine - Colleyville ISD.
Dr. Janet Patton, New Braunfels ISD Assistant Superintendent, has been named New Super at Rock Springs ISD.
John Emshoff, Boyd ISD High School Principal has been named New Super at Boyd ISD.
James Rice, Perrin Whitt CISD Superintendent has been named New Super at Northside ISD. (Vernon)
Rod Townsend, Hico ISD Superintendent, has been named New Super at Decatur ISD.
Jennifer Jones, Principal at Martins Mill ISD, has been named New Super at Fruitvale ISD.
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Aug 20, 2010, 09:00
Joe Smith: Updated Information: Texas School District Allocations from $830 million Education Jobs Bill - August 18 & 19, 2010
Reposting yesterday's commentary due to high level of interest - js
Moak, Casey provided the following information and a link to “Revised Printouts under Federal Jobs Bill” by Amanda Brownson on their website with the following note: |
New! September 2 - 10:00 AM - Paytek - Free Check Recovery - Go To Meeting - This is a great opportunity get more information in a very informal setting. - Registration
|
Congratulations to the following New Supers:
John O' Brien, Administrator at Van Vleck ISD, has been named New Super at Van Vleck ISD.
Robin Ryan, Chief Academic Officer at Dallas ISD, has been named New Super at Grapevine - Colleyville ISD.
Dr. Janet Patton, New Braunfels ISD Assistant Superintendent, has been named New Super at Rock Springs ISD.
John Emshoff, Boyd ISD High School Principal has been named New Super at Boyd ISD.
James Rice, Perrin Whitt CISD Superintendent has been named New Super at Northside ISD. (Vernon)
Rod Townsend, Hico ISD Superintendent, has been named New Super at Decatur ISD.
Jennifer Jones, Principal at Martins Mill ISD, has been named New Super at Fruitvale ISD. |
Aug 19, 2010, 09:00
Joe Smith: Texas School District Allocations from $830 Million - August 17, 2010
Some observers are saying the differences appear to be narrowing in the debate for Texas to receive the $830 million of federal funds set aside for Texas Schools. One such comment was from Kimberly Reeves of the Quorum Report who quotes TEA spokeswoman Debbie Ratcliffe who says, “We are trying to work with the Department... We don’t have a firm answer yet. Hopefully, we can resolve it so the money can come to schools.”
Lone Finalist members, click on ‘View Article’ to access this commentary. Past commentaries, links and charts are on The Lone Finalist. To join, contact Vickie@texasisd.com, call 936-622-3411 or sign up online (click on The Lone Finalist tile in the left blue margin). |
New! September 2 - 10:00 AM - Paytek - Free Check Recovery - Go To Meeting - This is a great opportunity get more information in a very informal setting. - Registration
|
Congratulations to the following New Supers:
John O' Brien, Administrator at Van Vleck ISD, has been named New Super at Van Vleck ISD.
Robin Ryan, Chief Academic Officer at Dallas ISD, has been named New Super at Grapevine - Colleyville ISD.
Dr. Janet Patton, New Braunfels ISD Assistant Superintendent, has been named New Super at Rock Springs ISD.
John Emshoff, Boyd ISD High School Principal has been named New Super at Boyd ISD.
James Rice, Perrin Whitt CISD Superintendent has been named New Super at Northside ISD. (Vernon)
Rod Townsend, Hico ISD Superintendent, has been named New Super at Decatur ISD.
Jennifer Jones, Principal at Martins Mill ISD, has been named New Super at Fruitvale ISD.
|
[ View Article ]
Aug 17, 2010, 09:00
Joe Smith: TRE Update: Commerce ISD Voters Ratify Tax Rate - August 16, 2010
| Commerce ISD voters ratified a tax rate of $1.17, which is above the rollback rate, on Saturday, August 14, by a a vote of 237 For and 155 Against. Commerce ISD’s successful TRE election is the 7th school district tax rate to be ratified out of 8 districts that have attempted in 2010. (Ratified: Ector ISD, Marion ISD, Hidalgo ISD, Water Valley ISD, Brookland ISD, Fannindel ISD, Commerce ISD. Not ratified: El Paso ISD. - 87.5% have been ratified). |
New! September 2 - 10:00 AM - Paytek - Free Check Recovery - Go To Meeting - This is a great opportunity get more information in a very informal setting. - Registration
|
Congratulations to the following New Supers:
John O' Brien, Administrator at Van Vleck ISD, has been named New Super at Van Vleck ISD.
Robin Ryan, Chief Academic Officer at Dallas ISD, has been named New Super at Grapevine - Colleyville ISD.
Dr. Janet Patton, New Braunfels ISD Assistant Superintendent, has been named New Super at Rock Springs ISD.
John Emshoff, Boyd ISD High School Principal has been named New Super at Boyd ISD.
James Rice, Perrin Whitt CISD Superintendent has been named New Super at Northside ISD. (Vernon)
Rod Townsend, Hico ISD Superintendent, has been named New Super at Decatur ISD.
Jennifer Jones, Principal at Martins Mill ISD, has been named New Super at Fruitvale ISD.
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Aug 16, 2010, 09:00
Joe Smith: TCEQ: Property Tax Exemptions - August 13, 2010
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Property tax exemptions is another front that school districts must constantly watch in order to have funds available for a quality education. Every time an exemption is created for a taxpayer or group of taxpayers, their tax burden is shifted to the remaining taxpayers.
Lone Finalist members, click on ‘View Article’ to access this commentary. Past commentaries, links and charts are on The Lone Finalist. To join, contact Vickie@texasisd.com, call 936-622-3411 or sign up online (click on The Lone Finalist tile in the left blue margin).
2010-2011 TexasISD.com Budget Management Notebook
Now taking Pre-Orders
Includes: Notebook, Dividers, Examples, Instructions and a GoToMeeting Group Training Session
Click Here for Info or To Order |
New! September 2 - 10:00 AM - Paytek - Free Check Recovery - Go To Meeting - This is a great opportunity get more information in a very informal setting. - Registration
|
Congratulations to the following New Supers:
David Perry, Superintendent of Gorman ISD, has been named New Super of Brooks County ISD.
|
[ View Article ]
Aug 13, 2010, 09:00
Joe Smith: Deadline Saturday to Order TRE for November 2 Election - August 11 & 12 , 2010
Repost from yesterday - There are only two days left! The deadline for a school district to order a Tax Ratification Election to be held on November 2, 2010, is Tuesday August 24. The requirement to publish the “Notice of Proposed Tax Rate” in a local newspaper is 10 days prior to adopting the tax rate (and order a TRE), so the ACTUAL deadline becomes August 14. This leaves a very short timeline If you have not begun the process. I believe the Secretary of State’s election calendar and the TASB Tax Ratification Guidelines and Information concur with my count.
Lone Finalist members, click on ‘View Article’ to access this commentary. Past commentaries, links and charts are on The Lone Finalist. To join, contact Vickie@texasisd.com, call 936-622-3411 or sign up online (click on The Lone Finalist tile in the left blue margin). |
New! September 2 - 10:00 AM - Paytek - Free Check Recovery - Go To Meeting - This is a great opportunity get more information in a very informal setting. - Registration
|
Congratulations to the following New Supers:
David Perry, Superintendent of Gorman ISD, has been named New Super of Brooks County ISD. |
[ View Article ]
Aug 12, 2010, 09:00
Joe Smith: - August 10, 2010
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The articles and points of view are endless on the issue of $26 billion that the US House will vote on today. I spent some time this morning looking for articles to give you all perspectives of the bill that includes $800 million for Texas schools to use to keep teachers off the unemployed list. Enjoy the articles - js |
|
2010-2011 TexasISD.com Budget Management Notebook
Now taking Pre-Orders
Includes: Notebook, Dividers, Examples, Instructions and a GoToMeeting Group Training Session
Click Here for Info or To Order |
New! September 2 - 10:00 AM - Paytek - Free Check Recovery - Go To Meeting - This is a great opportunity get more information in a very informal setting. - Registration
|
Congratulations to the following New Supers:
David Perry, Superintendent of Gorman ISD, has been named New Super of Brooks County ISD.
|
Aug 10, 2010, 09:00
Joe Smith: Education Spending Rule Debate - August 6 & 9, 2010
Additional comment has been added to this commentary - Governor Perry and US Representative Lloyd Doggett are at odds over the issue of whether or not Texas misused stimulus dollars intended for schools. The final vote before the U.S. House of Representatives will be next Tuesday. |
New! September 2 - 10:00 AM - Paytek - Free Check Recovery - Go To Meeting - This is a great opportunity get more information in a very informal setting. - Registration
|
Congratulations to the following New Supers:
Steve James, Hico High School Principal, has been named New Super of Higgins ISD.
Dave Underwood, Priddy ISD Superintendent, has been named New Super of McMullen County ISD.
Glen Waldo, Sunray ISDAssistant Superintendent of Business, has been named New Super of Sunray ISD.
Dr. Donni Cook, Assistant Superintendent of Chapel Hill ISD Tyler, has been named New Super of Chapel Hill ISD.
Dr. Susan Kincannon, Deputy Superintendent of Belton ISD, has been named New Super of Belton ISD.
John Kuhn, Mineral Wells High School Principal, has been named New Super of Perrin - Whitt CISD.
Alfonso Obregon, Interim Superintendent of Robstown ISD, has been named New Super of Robstown ISD.
Dr. Linda Sue Thomas, Superintendent of Aransas Pass, has been named New Super of Beeville ISD.
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Aug 9, 2010, 09:00
Last Week's Commentaries - August 2 - 6, 2010 - A research tool
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A topical listing of last week’s commentaries…
(Click the blue title above to access this week's titles.) For topical listings of recent commentaries, enter ‘Last Week’s Commentaries’ into search box (see left blue margin) and click ‘Go’. For topical listings of other past commentaries, enter “last week’s commentaries” in ‘Advanced Search’ and click ‘Go’. |
Aug 9, 2010, 05:00
Joe Smith: TRE List Update - August 5, 2010
Yesterday, I reminded you that locally elected school boards are the only elected entities in Texas not allowed to set their own maintenance and operations tax rate without an election. Today I remind you that according to my data from 9/10 there were 907 districts at or above 1.04 M&O Rate, 618 of those were at 1.04 in 09/10, this leaves 118 districts below 1.04.
Lone Finalist members, click on ‘View Article’ to access this commentary. Past commentaries, links and charts are on The Lone Finalist. To join, contact Vickie@texasisd.com, call 936-622-3411 or sign up online (click on The Lone Finalist tile in the left blue margin). |
New! September 2 - 10:00 AM - Paytek - Free Check Recovery - Go To Meeting - This is a great opportunity get more information in a very informal setting. - Registration
|
Congratulations to the following New Supers:
Steve James, Hico High School Principal, has been named New Super of Higgins ISD.
Dave Underwood, Priddy ISD Superintendent, has been named New Super of McMullen County ISD.
Glen Waldo, Sunray ISDAssistant Superintendent of Business, has been named New Super of Sunray ISD.
Dr. Donni Cook, Assistant Superintendent of Chapel Hill ISD Tyler, has been named New Super of Chapel Hill ISD.
Dr. Susan Kincannon, Deputy Superintendent of Belton ISD, has been named New Super of Belton ISD.
John Kuhn, Mineral Wells High School Principal, has been named New Super of Perrin - Whitt CISD.
Alfonso Obregon, Interim Superintendent of Robstown ISD, has been named New Super of Robstown ISD.
Dr. Linda Sue Thomas, Superintendent of Aransas Pass, has been named New Super of Beeville ISD.
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[ View Article ]
Aug 5, 2010, 09:00
Joe Smith: School Taxes: TREs 4 out of 5 Ratified at This Point - August 4, 2010
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I want to remind you of something before I start my comments: Locally elected school boards are the only elected entities in Texas not allowed to set their own maintenance and operations tax rate without an election. While cities and counties may raise their M&O tax rates at least to keep up with inflation, a district’s only option is to ask voters to approve a tax increase through a TRE (tax ratification election). In today's economic conditions, this is a formidable administrative task.
Lone Finalist members, click on ‘View Article’ to access this commentary. Past commentaries, links and charts are on The Lone Finalist. To join, contact Vickie@texasisd.com, call 936-622-3411 or sign up online (click on The Lone Finalist tile in the left blue margin). |
New! September 2 - 10:00 AM - Paytek - Free Check Recovery - Go To Meeting - This is a great opportunity get more information in a very informal setting. - Registration
|
Congratulations to the following New Supers:
Steve James, Hico High School Principal, has been named New Super of Higgins ISD.
Dave Underwood, Priddy ISD Superintendent, has been named New Super of McMullen County ISD.
Glen Waldo, Sunray ISDAssistant Superintendent of Business, has been named New Super of Sunray ISD.
Dr. Donni Cook, Assistant Superintendent of Chapel Hill ISD Tyler, has been named New Super of Chapel Hill ISD.
Dr. Susan Kincannon, Deputy Superintendent of Belton ISD, has been named New Super of Belton ISD.
John Kuhn, Mineral Wells High School Principal, has been named New Super of Perrin - Whitt CISD.
Alfonso Obregon, Interim Superintendent of Robstown ISD, has been named New Super of Robstown ISD.
Dr. Linda Sue Thomas, Superintendent of Aransas Pass, has been named New Super of Beeville ISD.
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[ View Article ]
Aug 4, 2010, 09:00
Joe Smith: Rating Confusion, Fairness is Questioned on Several Fronts - Part 2- August 3, 2010
As my staff continues to read and post accountability articles, I found Don Johnson’s explanation of the TPM in the Terrell Tribune today that illustrates how vague and undefined our accountability system has become: Watch the video at the link in the commentary...
Lone Finalist members, click on ‘View Article’ to access this commentary. Past commentaries, links and charts are on The Lone Finalist. To join, contact Vickie@texasisd.com, call 936-622-3411 or sign up online (click on The Lone Finalist tile in the left blue margin). |
New! September 2 - 10:00 AM - Paytek - Free Check Recovery - Go To Meeting - This is a great opportunity get more information in a very informal setting. - Registration
|
Congratulations to the following New Supers:
Steve James, Hico High School Principal, has been named New Super of Higgins ISD.
Dave Underwood, Priddy ISD Superintendent, has been named New Super of McMullen County ISD.
Glen Waldo, Sunray ISDAssistant Superintendent of Business, has been named New Super of Sunray ISD.
Dr. Donni Cook, Assistant Superintendent of Chapel Hill ISD Tyler, has been named New Super of Chapel Hill ISD.
Dr. Susan Kincannon, Deputy Superintendent of Belton ISD, has been named New Super of Belton ISD.
John Kuhn, Mineral Wells High School Principal, has been named New Super of Perrin - Whitt CISD.
Alfonso Obregon, Interim Superintendent of Robstown ISD, has been named New Super of Robstown ISD.
Dr. Linda Sue Thomas, Superintendent of Aransas Pass, has been named New Super of Beeville ISD.
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[ View Article ]
Aug 3, 2010, 09:00
Joe Smith: Rating Confusion, Fairness is Questioned on Several Fronts - August 2, 2010
Comment added:
As my staff continues to read and post accountability articles, I found Don Johnson’s explanation of the TPM in the Terrell Tribune today that illustrates how vague and undefined our accountability system has become:
Texas Projection Measure,” a complex formula that uses a student’s progress to predict future passing grades on TAKS tests. Proponents of the TPM formula say that it gives recognition to districts that are making improvements, even if the students are not yet able to pass the ever-increasing TAKS standards.
Repost of Yesterday's Commentary: Public perception is that TAKS is the sole measure of public schools and student progress in Texas. This is a problem. We put all of our efforts on these test results rather than student learning. School districts are following the game plan put forth by state policy makers. The schools are doing a great job; the game plan is laking. The public is not well versed in these ultra complicated policies and this creates confusion, unnecessary feelings of distrust and lack of faith in our public schools. You will notice as you read the plethora of accountability articles that there is no mention of the 800 pound gorilla: TAKS performance expectations are the same for every school child in the state, yet funding available for districts to meet these expectations is hugely inequitable. This is a major foundational problem in an accountability system based on costly mandates.
Today: Over 50 Accountablity articles from across Texas! |
New! September 2 - 10:00 AM - Paytek - Free Check Recovery - Go To Meeting - This is a great opportunity get more information in a very informal setting. - Registration
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Congratulations to the following New Supers:
Steve James, Hico High School Principal, has been named New Super of Higgins ISD.
Dave Underwood, Priddy ISD Superintendent, has been named New Super of McMullen County ISD.
Glen Waldo, Sunray ISDAssistant Superintendent of Business, has been named New Super of Sunray ISD.
Dr. Donni Cook, Assistant Superintendent of Chapel Hill ISD Tyler, has been named New Super of Chapel Hill ISD.
Dr. Susan Kincannon, Deputy Superintendent of Belton ISD, has been named New Super of Belton ISD.
John Kuhn, Mineral Wells High School Principal, has been named New Super of Perrin - Whitt CISD.
Alfonso Obregon, Interim Superintendent of Robstown ISD, has been named New Super of Robstown ISD.
Dr. Linda Sue Thomas, Superintendent of Aransas Pass, has been named New Super of Beeville ISD.
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Aug 2, 2010, 09:00
"Make Education a Priority" by Joe Smith - Good Morning - July 28 - 30, 2010
Repost from yesterday: (Updated With New Attachments) What can be done on the local level to make everyone more aware of the financial crisis our schools are facing? A couple of Aledo ISD board members have gone into action, taking on this challenge in a statewide campaign from their home district.Lone Finalist members, click on ‘View Article’ to access this commentary. Past commentaries, links and charts are on The Lone Finalist. To join, contact Vickie@texasisd.com, call 936-622-3411 or sign up online (click on The Lone Finalist tile in the left blue margin).
I am in Austin at the Schwartz & Eichelbaum/Equity Center conference my commentary will be back on Monday; in the mean time we will post all the accountabiity articles below the bulletin board. - js |
New! September 2 - 10:00 AM - Paytek - Free Check Recovery - Go To Meeting - This is a great opportunity get more information in a very informal setting. - Registration
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Congratulations to the following New Supers:
Steve James, Hico High School Principal, has been named New Super of Higgins ISD.
Dave Underwood, Priddy ISD Superintendent, has been named New Super of McMullen County ISD.
Glen Waldo, Sunray ISDAssistant Superintendent of Business, has been named New Super of Sunray ISD.
Dr. Donni Cook, Assistant Superintendent of Chapel Hill ISD Tyler, has been named New Super of Chapel Hill ISD.
Dr. Susan Kincannon, Deputy Superintendent of Belton ISD, has been named New Super of Belton ISD.
John Kuhn, Mineral Wells High School Principal, has been named New Super of Perrin - Whitt CISD.
Alfonso Obregon, Interim Superintendent of Robstown ISD, has been named New Super of Robstown ISD.
Dr. Linda Sue Thomas, Superintendent of Aransas Pass, has been named New Super of Beeville ISD.
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[ View Article ]
Jul 30, 2010, 09:00
Joe Smith: Commissioner Responds to TPM Flap - July 26, 2010
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Commissioner Scott, in last week’s SBOE meeting, responded to the flap that has been brewing around the use of a growth measure in our accountability system. The growth measure gives credit to students who were “predicted” to pass in the future. Scott commented that while such predictions in the TPM (Texas Projection Measure) are being touted as voodoo, some of those in the legislature that are being most critical of the TPM also voted for it - and if the legislature wants to scrap the TPM, that is their option. Scott told the State Board of Education that he feels the TPM is a quality product implemented as per legislative requirements. |
New! September 2 - 10:00 AM - Paytek - Free Check Recovery - Go To Meeting - This is a great opportunity get more information in a very informal setting. - Registration
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Congratulations to the following New Supers:
Steve James, Hico High School Principal, has been named New Super of Higgins ISD.
Dave Underwood, Priddy ISD Superintendent, has been named New Super of McMullen County ISD.
Glen Waldo, Sunray ISDAssistant Superintendent of Business, has been named New Super of Sunray ISD.
Dr. Donni Cook, Assistant Superintendent of Chapel Hill ISD Tyler, has been named New Super of Chapel Hill ISD.
Dr. Susan Kincannon, Deputy Superintendent of Belton ISD, has been named New Super of Belton ISD.
John Kuhn, Mineral Wells High School Principal, has been named New Super of Perrin - Whitt CISD.
Alfonso Obregon, Interim Superintendent of Robstown ISD, has been named New Super of Robstown ISD.
Dr. Linda Sue Thomas, Superintendent of Aransas Pass, has been named New Super of Beeville ISD.
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Jul 26, 2010, 09:00
Joe Smith: Deadline for TRE prior to November Election is August 3rd - July 23, 2010
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Repost, I am traveling today and tomorrow, however, I added an important reminder for school board elections below. - js TASB Legal Services has provided helpful tools that give guidance to school district administrators during this time of required postings, setting tax rates and calling Tax Ratification Elections. Today, I am focusing on two of those tools. During this critical decision making period administrators must have a detailed calendar illustrating the date for accomplishing each step of the process leading to the adoption of a budget and setting of tax rates. This is the first year that these processes reflect changes from legislation passed by the 81st Legislature; therefore timelines for your district may not be the same as last year.
I look forward to seeing many of you in Round Rock - js
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New! September 2 - 10:00 AM - Paytek - Free Check Recovery - Go To Meeting - This is a great opportunity get more information in a very informal setting. - Registration
|
Congratulations to the following New Supers:
Steve James, Hico High School Principal, has been named New Super of Higgins ISD.
Dave Underwood, Priddy ISD Superintendent, has been named New Super of McMullen County ISD.
Glen Waldo, Sunray ISDAssistant Superintendent of Business, has been named New Super of Sunray ISD.
Dr. Donni Cook, Assistant Superintendent of Chapel Hill ISD Tyler, has been named New Super of Chapel Hill ISD.
Dr. Susan Kincannon, Deputy Superintendent of Belton ISD, has been named New Super of Belton ISD.
John Kuhn, Mineral Wells High School Principal, has been named New Super of Perrin - Whitt CISD.
Alfonso Obregon, Interim Superintendent of Robstown ISD, has been named New Super of Robstown ISD.
Dr. Linda Sue Thomas, Superintendent of Aransas Pass, has been named New Super of Beeville ISD.
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Jul 23, 2010, 09:00
Joe Smith: Template for the Simultaneous Posting and One for the Adopted Budget - July 19 & 20, 2010
Repost (note and link added): I posted this commentary after talking to people that were confusing two posting requirements. The ESC 12 school finance website has an explanation of both posting requirements and templates.
Lone Finalist members, click on ‘View Article’ to access this commentary. Past commentaries, links and charts are on The Lone Finalist. To join, contact Vickie@texasisd.com, call 936-622-3411 or sign up online (click on The Lone Finalist tile in the left blue margin).
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New! September 2 - 10:00 AM - Paytek - Free Check Recovery - Go To Meeting - This is a great opportunity get more information in a very informal setting. - Registration
|
Congratulations to the following New Supers:
Steve James, Hico High School Principal, has been named New Super of Higgins ISD.
Dave Underwood, Priddy ISD Superintendent, has been named New Super of McMullen County ISD.
Glen Waldo, Sunray ISDAssistant Superintendent of Business, has been named New Super of Sunray ISD.
Dr. Donni Cook, Assistant Superintendent of Chapel Hill ISD Tyler, has been named New Super of Chapel Hill ISD.
Dr. Susan Kincannon, Deputy Superintendent of Belton ISD, has been named New Super of Belton ISD.
John Kuhn, Mineral Wells High School Principal, has been named New Super of Perrin - Whitt CISD.
Alfonso Obregon, Interim Superintendent of Robstown ISD, has been named New Super of Robstown ISD.
Dr. Linda Sue Thomas, Superintendent of Aransas Pass, has been named New Super of Beeville ISD.
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[ View Article ]
Jul 20, 2010, 09:00
Last Week's Commentaries - July 12 - 16, 2010 - A research tool
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A topical listing of last week’s commentaries…
(Click the blue title above to access this week's titles.) For topical listings of recent commentaries, enter ‘Last Week’s Commentaries’ into search box (see left blue margin) and click ‘Go’. For topical listings of other past commentaries, enter “last week’s commentaries” in ‘Advanced Search’ and click ‘Go’. |
Jul 19, 2010, 05:00
Joe Smith: Tax Ratification Election Update - July 15 & 16, 2010
Repost: As the new season for Tax Ratification Elections begins, it is imperative that administrators and board members educate themselves in all aspects of this election process. Today, I am taking a look back at TREs, which now includes three elections held in 2010.
School Finance and Legal Seminar - Round Rock,Texas
July 29-30, 2010
Register here: BROCHURE |
New! September 2 - 10:00 AM - Paytek - Free Check Recovery - Go To Meeting - This is a great opportunity get more information in a very informal setting. - Registration
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Congratulations to the following New Supers:
James Slone, Evant School Principal, has been named New Superintendent of Evant ISD.
Dewayne Chenault, Superintendent of Anton ISD, has been named New Superintendent of Wellman-Union ISD.
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Jul 16, 2010, 09:00
Joe Smith: Tax Cap Confusion - July 14, 2010
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Districts have begun to set 2010 tax rates and are beginning to call and hold TRE elections. The adoption of an early election period for TREs has created a period of approximately 6 months, from May through December, when these elections could occur. Final decisions related to TREs have not been made in many districts at this time. Therefore, while I am gathering data, checking out rumors and monitoring districts that are contemplating TREs, my annual list will not be coming together until after the first of August (more about this tomorrow). Election results will be posted on The Lone Finalist.
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School Finance and Legal Seminar - Round Rock,Texas
July 29-30, 2010
Register here: BROCHURE
New! September 2 - 10:00 AM - Paytek - Free Check Recovery - Go To Meeting - This is a great opportunity get more information in a very informal setting. - Registration
|
Congratulations to the following New Supers:
James Slone, Evant School Principal, has been named New Superintendent of Evant ISD.
Dewayne Chenault, Superintendent of Anton ISD, has been named New Superintendent of Wellman-Union ISD.
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Jul 14, 2010, 09:00
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