SWISD January Board Report
January 16, 2024
JANUARY 16 MEETING HIGHLIGHTS
STUDENTS OF THE MONTH
Indian Creek Elementary's Student of the Month, Hailey Aranda, a 5th grader. In her various extracurricular activities, Hailey consistently showcases her leadership qualities, earning recognition from both teachers and peers alike. Known as the go-to person among her friends, Hailey's kindness, compassion, and sense of humor make her a a great friend. Teachers say she is an A-Honor Roll model student, with perfect attendance. Without a doubt, she embodies the qualities that make Indian Creek Elementary proud.
Kreiwald School of the Arts is delighted to announce Cortez Tucker as its Student of the Month. Cortez's resilience and effort set him apart as an outstanding student within the school community. In the classroom, Cortez continually serves as an inspiration to both teachers and peers, showcasing remarkable determination and perseverance. Cortez does a great job staying positive and not getting discouraged. His commitment to learning and self-improvement has been a true joy to witness. This coyote makes his teachers proud, and they are excited to see all the amazing things that are yet to come. Congratulations, Cortez, on this well-deserved recognition!
Scobee Middle School's Student of the Month is Matthew Gonzales, 8th grader. Matthew's dedication, compassion, and kindness make him a positive influence, and his commitment to excellence is reflected in his academic achievements. Beyond the classroom, he excels as a top scholar musician and leader in the Sweepstakes Wind Ensemble. Matthew's musical talent has earned him recognition in the top Region Band of San Antonio, and he has achieved notable success in the UIL Solo and Ensemble Contest. Actively involved in the Scobee Walking Club and passionate about writing, Matthew extends his support to various clubs and activities. With aspirations to become an Anesthesiologist, he plans to follow the Medical Pathway at SWHS and is considering Incarnate Word University. Congratulations, Matthew, on your well-deserved recognition, and best wishes for your future endeavors!
CAST STEM High School is proud to announce Zain Haq, a 9th-grade student, as its Student of the Month. Despite being at CAST STEM for just four months, Zain has already made a significant impact. His passion for his work is evident, and his infectious smile brightens any room. Zain currently participates on the Electrathon Team, has started and runs the CAST STEM Cricket Club, and serves as the club president. He also participates in the Technology Student Association and Student Council. Outside of school, he plays soccer, cricket, and races karts. In addition, he also runs a conglomerate that has a clothing company and owns a soccer club! Zain wants to pursue an MBA at Rice University and hopes to one day successfully establish his own company and become an entrepreneur and philanthropist. He is a true leader on campus, and CAST STEM proudly recognizes him for his efforts in and out of the classroom!
Outstanding Athlete: Anthony Zapata, SWLHS
Southwest Legacy HS proudly recognizes senior Anthony Zapata for his incredible achievements in Cross Country. In the 2023 season, Anthony became the REPEAT DISTRICT 28-5A CHAMPION and REGIONAL MEDALIST, finishing an impressive 3rd. He also made history as Southwest Legacy HS's first-ever UIL athletics STATE MEDALIST, claiming 8th place at the state level and earning a top 10 finish along with a state medal.Recognizing his exceptional achievements, Anthony earned a coveted spot on the Texas High School Coaches Association SUPER ELITE TEAM for the 2023 season. This prestigious recognition is reserved for only seven athletes selected in class 5A from across Texas. In the 2022 season, he qualified for state and achieved a commendable 14th place in the class 5A division. Beyond the field, he excelled academically, receiving Honorable Mention Academic All-State recognition for the 2023 Cross Country Season.
2024 Board Appreciation
Governor Greg Abbott has declared January 2024 School Board Recognition Month a tribute to the hard-working school board members who play an essential role in our communities and schools. Although showing appreciation should be year-round, taking advantage of the designated month ensures these critical people receive some of the thanks they deserve. During the board meeting, SWISD Superintendent Jeanette Ball echoed the Governor's sentiments:
The Southwest ISD community is blessed to have a school board that truly cares about its staff and students. In every decision, the success of our students remains at the forefront. Each of these amazing individuals dedicates hundreds of hours strategizing, training, and collaborating to ensure the best possible educational experience for every Southwest ISD student. Their commitment to excellence is evident in every policy they shape, initiative they undertake, and decision they make.
The Southwest ISD School Board embodies the spirit of service, putting the needs of students and the community above all else. Their efforts contribute to the success and growth of our district. Through their dedication, they create an environment where learning thrives and where students are inspired to reach their full potential.
I am honored to recognize the outstanding contributions of our school board members. Their leadership sets the foundation for a bright future for our students, and their support is the cornerstone of our educational community.
In moments of challenge or celebration, the Southwest ISD School Board stands strong, united in its mission to provide quality education. We can’t thank them enough for their service, passion, and commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of those they serve.
Thank you, Southwest ISD School Board, for your exceptional dedication to the success and well-being of our students and community. Your leadership is truly appreciated and celebrated by all.
A video of appreciation produced by the District's Communication Department was then played in tribute to the SWISD Board of Trustees.
Presentations
Senate Bill 763
Frances Barcenez, Assistant Superintendent of Administration and Human Resources, delivered a presentation on Senate Bill 763 during the regular session of the 88th State Legislature. The bill, passed by the State of Texas, allows school districts to employ or accept volunteers, specifically chaplains, to provide support, services, and programs for students as designated by the Board of Trustees.
Introduced to address challenges in finding counselors and mental health services, SB 763 enables districts to incorporate chaplains to address growing mental health concerns. This includes the option to replace or supplement licensed counselors, psychologists, and family specialist positions with chaplains. Notably, the bill doesn't mandate chaplains to be certified by SBEC but requires them to meet fingerprinting and background standards for employment or volunteering.
Under the provisions of this Senate Bill, every school board must take a record vote within six months after the effective date to decide whether to adopt a policy allowing the employment or volunteering of chaplains. School districts are tasked with determining if chaplains can perform services, setting standards for these services, and establishing guidelines if approved. The District has until February 11, 2024, to make a decision on Senate Bill 763.
Middle School Baseball and Softball Update
Pete Wagner, SWISD Athletic Director, shared an update on the introduction of Middle School Baseball and Softball programs for the upcoming 2024-2025 school year. These programs will be conducted as intramurals, exclusively featuring SWISD teams. The format includes a 4-team double round-robin with a roster of 15-20 players. Both 7th and 8th grades will be combined, and there is a potential addition of a B team.
The proposed structure outlines a 9-week season scheduled to beging after the football and volleyball seasons. Emphasizing the importance of allowing students to participate in multiple sports, this initiative will provide a well-rounded sports experience for the students.
Items Approved
Order of Election for Southwest Independent School District
Trustees approved ordering the 2024 School Board Election to be held following state laws and local policies. In May 2024, the terms of the trusteeships of Florinda Bernal, James Sullivan Jr., and Daniel Carrillo will expire. In accordance with state laws and local policies, a Trustee Election will be held on the first Saturday in May (May 4). Election information will be posted on the District's website in the near future.
Joint Election
The Board approved conducting a joint election with the City of Lytle. The District will hold the election on May 4, 2024. Joint elections for school districts are required by Education Code Sec.11.0581 and Sec. 271.002. Election information will be posted on the District's website in the near future.
2024-2025 SWISD Attendance Boundary Changes
The Board approved the proposed attendance boundaries of the new residential developments for the 2024-2025 school year. In response to rapid enrollment growth in key areas, the Southwest Independent School District's Board has approved attendance boundary changes for the 2024-2025 school year. The district, experiencing increased student numbers, had previously implemented strategies like portable buildings, capped enrollments, and a Bond for facility expansion. However, these measures are no longer sufficient to address the ongoing growth.
To address the immediate needs, the district commissioned a demographic survey with School District Strategies, aiming to accommodate dynamic demographic shifts. The rezoning process, guided by comprehensive demographic study data and current registrations, targets key campuses facing potential extreme overcrowding.
Collaborating with the Growth and Planning committee, the district utilized research and data to inform decisions on necessary changes. The Growth and Planning Committee's decisions were then shared with the Facilities and Maintenance Committee, which has reviewed and agreed with the recommended rezoning changes. These approved modifications will be implemented in the 2024-2025 school year, reflecting the district's commitment to managing enrollment growth effectively. For more information on the boundary changes click here.
Bob Hope Elementary Additions and Renovation Project
The Board approved the Design Development drawings created by O’Connell Robertson, the approved architecture firm for the project. Collaborating closely with district staff, O’Connell Robertson identified the program and design requirements for the Bob Hope Elementary additions and renovation project, encompassing additional classrooms and an upgraded library. The allocated budget for this project is approximately $7,200,000, with funding secured through the 2023 Bond funds.
Southwest Independent School District
Website: www.swisd.net
Location: Southwest Independent School District, TX, USA
Phone: 210-622-4300
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SWISDsatx
Twitter: @swisd