SUBJECT:
Consideration and Possible Approval of a Resolution for the "Make Education a Priority" Campaign

BACKGROUND:
Past efforts of the Texas Legislature to fund public education in our state have consistently fallen short of a standard of adequacy and equity. The current funding situation in the State of Texas has created a significant financial burden for local school districts. The Administration and Boards of Trustees of local school districts across Texas are joining together in a campaign called "Make Education a Priority" as a means of encouraging state legislators to financially support public schools at a level sufficient to meet state goals and requirements. The resolution, if approved by the Board, will be sent to the members of the Texas House and Senate Education Committees and members of the Pasadena ISD legislative delegation. Copies will also be sent to area Chambers of Commerce to seek their endorsement of the resolution.

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS:
None

RECOMMENDATION:
We recommend adoption of the Make Education a Priority Resolution.

CONTACT PERSON:
Kirk Lewis and Candace Ahlfinger

BOARD MEETING DATE:
February 22, 2011

Resolution of Acknowledgment Make Education a Priority

Whereas, the current Texas public school finance system is negatively affecting an increasing number of public school districts; and

Whereas, past diligent legislative efforts to address the state's method of adequately and equitably funding Texas schools has fallen short of broad measured success; and

Whereas, the legislative year of 2011 bears the attributes of repeating the 2009 legislative session's lack of reliable funding improvements; it is therefore

Resolved, that a responsible community of educational leaders with a united awareness respectfUlly empower and support our respected legislative representatives to act; and be it

Resolved, that in light ofour current Texas economic challenges and the complexity of financing public education; improvements in school funding be established with an attitude where education is found as the highest priority; and be it

Resolved, this attitude begins within the leadership ofTexas school districts and together, we respectfully share one unified message to all involved: Make Education a Priority.

The Pasadena Independent School District Board of Trustees respectfully acknowledges, applauds and joins the priority efforts to protect the pursuit of quality education for all children.

Pasadena Independent School District Board ofTrustees