Giving 350K Texas
#teachers
a $5K raise would cost an estimated $1.75B. Texas has a historic $33B surplus. TX pays $8K below the US average.
#txlege
should prioritize investing in teacher pay. Wasn’t a $10K raise promised before the last session?
#txed
#edchat
#investinthefuture
Texas House just voted to kill the voucher scam! 84-63
#txlege
#txed
Thanks to these R’s for standing up to intimidation and threats!
Allison
Bailes
Bell, K.
Burns
Clardy
Darby
Dean
Geren
Holland
Kacal
King, K.
Kuempel
Lambert
Murr
Price
Raney
Rogers
Shine
Smith
Thompson, E.
Such a sad attack on teachers who only pour their heart & soul into their work. Our teachers didn’t indoctrinate students during virtual learning, if anything they capitalized on the few minutes they had w students on the core content.
He mentions a teacher not meeting the
Schools are for education, NOT indoctrination.
We must reform curriculum, get kids back to the basics of learning, and empower parents to choose the best school for their child through education freedom.
"Teachers are the only state employees who won't receive raises this session."
A complete disregard/disrespect for the work educators do to impact our future. Educators deserve better.
#txed
#txlege
We're doing what we can to provide salary increases, be we need to be able to
Saddened to continue to see public school educators being attacked, especially as they enthusiastically await and prepare to begin a new school year.
I've been an educator since 2002, and I've never witnessed any woke agendas. What is taught are the TEKS ~ those are the basics
ISDs need additional funding as we face an unprecedented staffing crisis. The $3 Billion that would go towards vouchers would do so much to help Texas get teacher salaries to a level that would compete with other professions. Districts struggled to staff classrooms this year, and
TEA reports that higher percentages of low-income, minority Ss were disengaged compared with higher-income Ss during closure this past spring! 600K/11% + students disengaged!
How do we address this disparity?! Spending nearly $100 million on STAAR...not quite the answer.
#txed
Shameful the state sits on a $33 B surplus, not including rainy day fund, and fails to fund
#txed
.
My starting teacher salary in 2002, adjusted for inflation, equates to the same as my district's 2023 starting salary.
It's easy to see and understand why educators are leaving
TEA’s Teacher Vacancy Task Force final report was released back in February. It focused on 3 key areas: Compensation, Training/Support, & Working Conditions. What happened to
#txlege
focusing on these key areas? Instead bills such as
#SB8
are attempting to divert monies from
Mom dedicated 35 yrs teaching. She now works full-time to make up for cost of living increases since retiring, she's a widow. There are MANY like her going back to work and/or struggling financially. The last COLA was back in 2004. Retired
#txed
#teachers
deserve better.
#txlege
TX revenue from all sources is expected to reach $342.3B for the 24-25 biennium. TX has a historic $60B in combined budget surplus & rainy day fund. Our economy is booming. Can you imagine what investing in 5.5 M public school Ss would do to a future economy?!
Giving 350K
#txed
Instead of supporting vouchers,
#txlege
should direct funds towards enhancing the source of community pride, our public schools! Public schools serve as the cornerstone of our community, fostering unity. Imagining a world without Friday Night Lights is unfathomable…
#txed
How is it that a state with the 10th largest economy in the world and 2nd largest in the nation ranks 42nd in per pupil spending and 28th in teacher pay?!
Yet the Governor seeks to further take resources from
#txed
for a political agenda and is threatening spending millions on a
As teachers close out another school year where they prepared students for a STAAR redesign, coached students through active shooters drills, spent countless additional hours lesson planning and grading, and provided love and care to 20-150 students, districts have to say
#txlege
To say I was in shock is an understatement! I can still hear all of the cheers & excitement hours later ~ it was special ~ I am loved!
Not sure how it was kept quiet for 2 days. I was surprised to see mom & brother present, especially on mom's birthday.
Thank you,
This decision was not made lightly, and it is bittersweet for me. Over the years, I have had the privilege of working alongside some of the most dedicated and talented individuals I have ever known. Together, we have accomplished incredible things for our students, and I will
#1LISD
welcomes Seguin ISD Superintendent
@DrMattGutierrez
as Leander ISD's Chief of Schools.
"With tried and tested leadership abilities, I believe his blended perspective and collaborative approach will enhance our Cabinet team.” -
@BruceLISD
Read more:
Honored and elated to represent ESC 20 as Regional Superintendent of the Year!
I’m so proud of our staff, students, and Board ~ this is ours collectively. So proud of
@SeguinISD
!
We proudly announce that Dr. Matthew Gutierrez has been selected as the 2023 ESC-20 Regional Superintendent of the Year. Dr. Gutierrez will represent Region 20 and advance to the
@tasbnews
State Selection Committee. Best of luck and CONGRATULATIONS!!!
@SeguinISD
After 4 special sessions,
#txed
to receive:
💲0️⃣ for STUDENTS
💲0️⃣ for TEACHERS
💲0️⃣ for SCHOOLS
This is outrageously unacceptable as schools face deficits, budget cuts, & a staffing crisis. It's disgraceful and disheartening to withhold funds from 5+ million students.
#txed
If vouchers are good why are educators being held hostage, legislators who’ve voted against them being bullied, &
#txlege
planning to vote against them being threatened?!
Vouchers divert crucial $ away from
#txed
, impacting resources for all students. Let's prioritize investing
In an effort to express our sincerest gratitude, Seguin ISD will provide a $50 stipend for the months of April and May for a total of $100 to help offset our teachers’ cost for use of their cell phones and internet service.
We are
#SeguinStrong
!
🚨 Be informed. Please take the time to read.
What TEA is doing is an injustice to
#txed
school systems, especially those serving high percentages of students from poverty.
We could see high performing schools be downgraded letter grades. For instance, our HS saw growth
House committee advances HB 1, allocating $10,500/student annually for private schools & boosting public school funding from $6,160 to $6,700. Notably, more funds are directed to private schools.
Reach out to your rep tell them to say NO to the voucher scam!
#txed
#txlege
“There’s an effort to take away funding from us, where we educate all S, no matter where they come from, & to take that funding to a private school that is exempt from all of those requirements,” Gutiérrez said. “That is absolutely unfair.”
#txlege
#txed
🌎’s 10th strongest economy is sitting on a $30+B surplus, not including the $30B rainy day fund, and still not 1¢ towards education. Sine die just 2 days away.
#txed
is being held hostage at the expense of 5.5M students.
We have to stop the bleed (teacher exodus)!
Think the September special
#txlege
session is an accident?
Great read to understand what’s coming for
#txed
when ratings are released in Sept.
Teachers, administrators, families, & communities will be impacted by flawed ratings coming down the pike.
The
#txlege
understands the outcome of this session will impact Texas and Texans for generations to come... Will they use this generational rainy day fund and surplus to address this generational threat of mass teacher exodus?
Let's hope and pray we see what they have been
Great
@TexasMonthly
article: How Texas’s STAAR Test Took Over Public School Culture
"If they are treated like tributes marching into battle... the fate of the kingdom resting on their tiny shoulders, it’s because, in many ways, they are."
#txed
#txlege
The
#txlege
#SB8
will not eliminate STAAR but instead add additional tests while including the largest voucher bill in the country. Would private schools be included in testing? No.
The comm. will consider this hastily drafted bill on Monday with only "invited" testimony.
#txed
Resounding victory as voters overwhelmingly pass Proposition 9 ~ a testament to our deep appreciation for retired teachers. A powerful message sent: Texans stand with our beloved educators!
#txed
Be informed! The Gov sets agenda for a special session, & here are the only items
#TxLege
can address. Where is adequate funding for our
#txed
schools? Actions speak for themselves.
It’s an effort to sabotage our neighborhood schools. All on
#WorldTeachersDay
.
God bless
#txed
!
Yes, let's heed the advice from someone who:
Has never attended a public school!
Has no education degree!
Has no teaching experience!
Has never placed her own children in public school!
The safety and well-being of our students and staff must be priority!
#edchat
#edleaders
Betsy DeVos lashed out at school districts that haven't promised to fully reopen their schools this fall, blasting education leaders who won't accept risk and “gave up and didn’t try” to launch summer instruction
This morning I was able to FaceTime with my kindergarten teacher, Mrs. Nancy Simpson, to thank her for the impact she’s had in my life. My brother has been doing some work for her and my mom always sees around town.
For years she’s always asked about me. It was so nice to have
We are excited to welcome
@VamosVijil
to the
#MatadorFamily
as our new Deputy Superintendent! Looking forward to the wealth of experience she will bring to the table!
#WeAreSeguin
A huge thank you to the Seguin ISD Board of Trustees for unanimously approving a generous salary schedule during the June 20, 2023 school board meeting. We appreciate your support!
▪️Teacher, clerical, maintenance, custodial and transportation: 4%
▪️ Campus admin and other
I’d say it was a pretty great first day with
@LeanderISD
! Where else does one get such a warm welcome such as this?! 🍰
Five days of cake in a row hasn’t ever hurt anyone! 😋
#1LISD
#txlege
must raise current basic allotment of $6,100/student. Funding hasn't kept up w inflation & TX ranks in bottom 10. Raise at minimum a few hundred. Beyond that, fund based on enrollment instead of average daily attend (ADA). Schools budget/plan based on enrollment!
#txed
TX 2022 Superintendent of the Year
@OttTempleISD
starting today with words of inspiration.
#txedFest
“Protect your passion!”
1. Kids are always paying attention (for supts everyone is paying attention).
2. Just because the light bulb doesn’t turn on when you want it to
The Seguin ISD board unanimously approved the admin’s recommendation to join a lawsuit against TEA. Titled Kingsville ISD, et. al., v. Morath, the suit asks to stop the release of this year's ratings, slated for Sept, due to unlawful changes in the accountability system designed
🚨 Openly holding 5.5 million students and 350,000 teachers hostage‼️
An outright refusal to follow the Texas Constitution and properly fund
#txed
. Stay informed. Remember.
#txlege
Seguin ISD will have a plan no matter what comes our way! Why? Seguin has a dedicated team of educators willing to go above and beyond for our kids, and we have a patient and understanding community.
However, this is what it feels like at times...
Happy Weekend!
#MatadorFamily
TEA’s Teacher Vacancy Task Force final report focused on three key areas: Compensation, Training/Support, & Working Conditions… Overall, it’s a solid start to addressing needs.
Part of improving working conditions is easing some of the undue stress accountability causes. How
Top 5 in the nation with HS graduation rate despite being 43rd in school funding! Graduation 👨🎓
Thank you
#txed
teachers for your contributions in making Texas the 8th largest economy in the world!
Texas by the numbers:
🌎8th largest economy in the world
🚢
#1
exporting state
👔 Best Business Climate in America
It’s not bragging if it’s true! The Texas economy is the envy of the nation.
From $8,000 to $10,400 for ESAs! So let’s make sure that keeps up with inflation while public schools continue to suffer from poor legislation!
#txed
#txlege
Public schools need an increase of $1,000 to the Basic Allotment just to keep up with inflation since 2019!
No deal!
Honored and humbled to be named the
@MASBATX
Mexican American School Board Association’s 2023 Superintendent of the Year! 🏆 Proud to represent Seguin ISD! Grateful for this recognition and excited to continue working towards excellence in education.
¡Sí se puede!
Teachers, admins, parents, community members brace yourselves for what’s coming in September.
Think the September special
#txlege
session is an accident?
Communities will be impacted by flawed ratings coming down the pike….
Even
@teainfo
admits that under their new accountability rules, schools can see their ratings drop even if student performance improves. Dallas ISD has a B rating; under these new rules, we would be a C district. Same data, different rules.
... My question is, why are all the aforementioned challenges a current reality for public schools? Is it a surprise fewer are opting to pursue education as a career? There has never been a more critical time to take action and advocate for public school
It is my hope that I have at least left behind a legacy that accountability matters because there is too much to lose without it ~ the trajectories of students’ entire lives.
#LeadershipMatters
#suptchat
#edchat
I am pleased to announce Ms. Nikki Bittings, SHS Associate Principal, as the new Barnes Middle School Principal. Ms. Bitting's solid administrative experience, servant leadership style, and connections with community will be an asset to the Barnes students & staff.
#MatadorFamily
While
#txed
funding is being held hostage, ISDs are finding ways to reward employees for all they do even it means adopting deficit budgets.
As teachers deal with a STAAR redesign, new accountability, and everything else that comes with those changes, the
#txlege
has failed to
A huge thank you to the Seguin ISD Board of Trustees for unanimously approving a generous salary schedule during the June 20, 2023 school board meeting. We appreciate your support!
▪️Teacher, clerical, maintenance, custodial and transportation: 4%
▪️ Campus admin and other
DeVos, “It’s not a matter of if schools reopen. It’s simply a matter of how... must reopen and they must be fully operational.”
Dr. Birx, “States seeing case increases should close bars, in-door dining, and keep gatherings less than 10.” But fully open schools?!
#txed
#edchat
🤦🏻♂️
It’s time for
#txlege
to focus on strengthening our
#txed
schools!
Keep saying 👎🏼 to vouchers!
Private schools:
🚫 state academic & financial accountability
🚫 open meetings & open records
🚫 serve all students (school’s choice, not school choice)
🚫 state & federal
What an emotionally heavy past week, but I realized that’s a result of a strong love that’s been formed. It’s truly been a remarkable 6 years.
Gosh, I’m so blessed in this life. 🙏🏼
To those I will be saying farewell to… May “The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his
After being inspired during the first few days of school, it came to mind the many talents that we hold within our classrooms. I have decided to allocate a portion of my salary increase towards scholarships for graduating seniors who aspire to become a Seguin ISD educator.
This week I have committed to experiencing how it feels to learn and work in Seguin ISD in a variety of capacities during a pandemic.
Today, I had the opportunity to sub for Mrs. Anderson’s K classroom at
@VogelESISD
. Have you ever heard of
#kindergarten
tired? I have! 🙋🏻♂️
As many more ISDs plan to adopt deficit 24-25 budgets,
#txed
students are being held as political hostages. Many of us had a little hope that we'd see more $ since TX sat on billions in surplus & rainy day funds. Now that ESSER $ is gone, ISDs are hurting even more.
I taught Pearl when she was in 6th grade at Sul Ross MS in Northside ISD in 2003-2004.
@DMurilloSISD
taught her the following year. I was unable to make her graduation, but today we celebrated Pearl graduating from nursing school.
I was honored she offered me one of her limited
Dear students and staff,
As we prepare gather tomorrow for the first day of a new school year, let us pause in reflection and gratitude. May we embrace the opportunities that lie ahead, with open hearts and curious minds. May our shared journey be one of learning, growth, and
We are thrilled to welcome Seguin ISD's new Deputy Superintendent Dr. Vijil to Matador Nation on her first day. Our team is excited to work alongside her and make great strides together.
#WeAreSeguin
Your dose of pure happiness for today! Our guitar playing & kid loving custodian!
When your head custodian takes his lunch break w his guitar & sings w the 3 yr old zebra class
@Ball_ECC
. The reactions are PRICELESS! It takes a village, & wow do we have an amazing one!
#edchat
My WHY is crystal clear: It's all about the KIDS! Their growth, success, and happiness are at the heart of every decision. 🌟
#1Heart1Seguin
#KidsFirst
When the student section requests a selfie, you take a selfie.
#FridayNightLights
Missing my dad today on this 14th Father’s Day without him… Happy Father’s Day, Dad.
However, it brings me peace knowing I get to give these two little guys the same guidance he gave me.
Photos 1: Dad’s last FD here on earth in 2009.
Photo 2: Dad giving me a bad &@$ 80's
4 years ago, I dreamed of Seguin ISD having a
@seguinISD_BF
folklórico program that could perform alongside our successful
@matadormariachi
program. Today, that dream came true!
#MatadorProud
They held their very 1st combined performance at Koennecke ES for
#16DeSeptiembre
.
Humbled & honored to represent
@ESCRegion20
as the 2023 Superintendent of the Year.
I was given the privilege to share words w/ an amazing community of people during their convocation. Hats off to the tremendous impact they have on so many across our region.
Have a great year!
Moments ago, Seguin ISD trustees unanimously approved Dr. Veronica Vijil as the lone finalist for superintendent. Congratulations, Dr. Vijil!
#MatadorProud
Our
@matadormariachi
performed the Star-Spangled Banner at graduation for the first time since the program started! 🇺🇸
It was of the best I have ever heard! It brought chills and tears to so many!
Tatum Rangel’s voice is beautiful and powerful!
#mariachi
TEC Sec 39.022 (h)
The agency shall notify school districts and campuses of the results… not later than the 21st day after the date the assessment instrument is administered.
#txed
Does the zone of uncertainty count? Or am I missing something as it relates to 39.023?
Remember Theme 1 from the Teacher Vacancy Task Force's final report?
We can't become complacent. Continue to advocate for
#txed
. The bleed (mass exodus) has to stop.
Public schools are still being held hostage... forcing many school districts to make difficult and tough
Today, shift your perspective and realize it’s not about having to do anything. Life is not an obligation. It’s a gift. Replace HAVE TO with GET TO. Focus on gratitude and you’ll find yourself feeling blessed instead of stressed. -
@JonGordon11
#leadership
#suptchat
Proud of the amazing Texas educators who worked hard to help students improve reading and math scores last school year.
As our teachers and students head back to class, Texas will continue to make strides in education.
This 1st day will be very different than my last 18. We will encounter many challenges, but I have faith that together we will persevere. Let’s take a moment to read this prayer or share positive vibes for the 7,000+ starting school tomorrow. When 2 or 3 gather... Matthew 18:20
Stay informed! 250 ISDs/orgs representing almost 3 Million kids are sounding the alarm on the state's plan to raise cut scores from a 60 to an 88 for a school to receive an “A” in CCMR for students who grad. in '22!
We could potentially go from a B to an F in this domain. So
One last selfie with these phenomenal
@SeguinISD
board members! Seguin ISD is so blessed!
#1Heart1Seguin
No better way to celebrate my birthday (10/1) either!
Christian Ramirez was determined to walk across the stage to receive his diploma, and he surprised so many by getting up from his wheelchair to do just that.
#inspiration
#determination
He is such an inspiration to so many, and I could not be more proud of this young man. He
Dr. Esquivel started every day by reminding students, “It’s a great day to be a Matador!” If you are wondering what that means, watch Christian Ramirez walking across the stage to get his diploma as his class cheered him on. That is what it means to be part of
#MatadorFamily
.
I understand that our employees spent money during spring break & then were faced w/ unexpected expenses the week after the break. Our monthly payroll will run on March 25th rather than the 27th. I know it’s only two days, but it’s my hope it makes a difference.
#MatadorFamily
My mom, a retired educator, brought me a sign when she came to visit this past weekend.
I proudly display the sign for my mom & the thousands of other retirees, who have not received a monthly increase in two decades. Yes, two decades!
#txed
#txlege
Vote FOR Prop 9! 🗳️
As I was soaking up this amazing view, I was reminded of one of John Maxwell’s quotes.
#MatadorTravels
The pessimist complains about the wind. The optimist expects it to change. The leader adjusts the sails.”
#leadership
#edchat
Blessed to know and work w many who exemplify…
🚨The
@SeguinISD
board of trustees unanimously approved a one-time payment for all employees during the 12/15 regular board meeting.
The resolution designates a 2% one-time pay for teaching staff & non-professionals and 1.5% for other profs based on ave/midpoint.
Thanks, BoT!
Appreciate ending each year w self-reflection on blessings & challenges...
My
#oneword2021
is
#grace
. It is grace that has got us through the many challenges 2020 brought, and it is grace that will move us forward in 2021.
What is your
#oneword
for 2021?
Congratulations to the new Seguin ISD administrators that were welcomed at the school board meeting held on 6/20. Pictured from L to R: Jason Mummert - Director of School Leadership, Maegen Medrano - AP, Rodriguez ES, Diana Farris - Academic Dean,
@SeguinHSTx
, Patricia Garcia -
Amid challenges facing pub ed, this Thanksgiving, a huge shoutout to all the dedicated educators! Your commitment to students' growth, resilience, & learning is inspiring. Your unwavering dedication during tough times doesn't go unnoticed. Thank you for being a guiding light for
Amazing Campus Walk # 5
@DanielsonMiddle
. A heartfelt thanks to
@KollerTX
for his incredible leadership! Since 2020,
@DanielsonMiddle
has thrived under your authentic leadership. Your commitment to building genuine relationships w students & staff has truly been exceptional.
Sharing one of my favorite quotes...
Courageous leadership is the driving force behind meaningful change and transformation. It takes courage to challenge the status quo, innovate, and advocate for an equitable education for all students. Let's commit to embodying courage on our
Our very own
@PatlanES
student, Luke Gutierrez, has been cast as Kurt von Trapp in the award-winning Broadway musical, The Sound of Music. Luke is set to make his debut this week in Macao SAR, China. Let's show our Matador Pride and send our young star good vibes!
I had the opportunity to tour Matador Stadium this morning to see the final stages of construction ~ I was in awe!
Thank you Seguin ISD community for making this dream a reality for our current and future students!
#MatadorProud
#SwordsUp
⚔️
I can’t wait to participate in the Cinco de Mayo parade and STAAR pep rally this afternoon at
@RodriguezESISD
!
When the campus asked if they could use my picture for a shirt I said sure… I wondered what kind of shirt they were creating…
It’s lotería y cinco de mayo! 🪅
Thankful to be celebrating the continued partnership & trust with the Board of Trustees through a contract extension & a salary increase. Blessed to have the honor/privilege to lead Seguin ISD & have amazing support from stakeholders. Excited about our future! It takes a village!