San Antonio Community Faces School Governance Changes
San Antonio – The South San Independent School District (SSISD) is on the brink of a significant shift in leadership as the conservator overseeing the district has suggested appointing a board of managers. This recommendation was made in a letter to the Texas Education Commissioner, indicating that the current elected board has not met essential goals for leadership and community engagement.
Who Made the Recommendation?
Dr. Abelardo Saavedra, the conservator for SSISD, expressed concerns in his letter about the effectiveness of the current board of trustees. His recommendation for state intervention comes after ongoing issues in meeting the district’s needs. The Texas Education Agency (TEA) has yet to make a final decision on this recommendation, but it is actively seeking community interest in filling potential board positions.
What Does This Mean for the District?
If the TEA decides to appoint a board of managers, this new body would assume governance over the district, sidelining the elected board. Although SSISD could still conduct board elections, the elected trustees would not retain any decision-making power. The TEA would evaluate the performance of the board of managers every two years, determining whether the elected board could regain authority.
Current Developments
Deputy Commissioner for Governance, Steve Lecholop, mentioned that TEA Commissioner Mike Morath plans to engage with board members and review Saavedra’s report before making the final decision. Meanwhile, the TEA has initiated an application process for potential board members. This step is crucial to assess if there is sufficient community interest in joining the proposed seven-member board.
Eligibility and Expectations
Lecholop emphasized that applicants do not require a background in education, highlighting the importance of having individuals dedicated to fostering student success. Candidates should possess a belief that “every student can learn” and should embody what Lecholop calls “servant leadership.” He cautioned against individuals seeking this role as a launchpad for political ambitions, stressing the need for genuine commitment to the community’s youth.
Community Engagement
To facilitate information sharing and address community concerns, the TEA has scheduled two meetings at SSISD. These meetings aim to answer questions about the potential changes in governance and the application process for future board members. Here are the details:
- Monday, Dec. 9: 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.
- Tuesday, Dec. 10: 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.
The Bigger Picture
The process to restore normal governance could take several years. The transition of power from the board of managers back to the elected trustees will need careful evaluation and gradual implementation. The TEA’s approach hinges on enhancing governance and ensuring that the needs of students are met, which remains the central focus of this intervention.
Final Thoughts
The South San community is encouraged to engage proactively in this process, considering the impact of school governance on educational outcomes. With the future of the district hanging in the balance, community involvement and informed decision-making will be critical in shaping the next steps for SSISD.
