Austin Independent School District’s Superintendent Meria Carstarphen, PhD, gave her first State of the District Address Tuesday evening.
Carstarphen spoke candidly about the struggles within AISD and her plans for change.
She stood at a podium inside LBJ High School and talked to parents, students and district.
“The first year is always tough in the transition. I think that this year is a big planning year with the strategic plan, the budget cycle we have, facilities, tech, and following up right behind it. So a lot of planning this year but next year is going to be a lot of implementation,” said Carstarphen, PhD.
When Carstarphen came to the district over the summer break it was two days before the state announced its plans to close down Pearce Middle School.
Nine others, she said, faced similar fates. There are also problems with student drop-out and teacher turn-over.
Carstarphen and the district have developed several plans to eliminate the struggles.
“If we do it all right and we are disciplined and we make some tough decisions I think that people will be very pleased with the rigor that which we'll be able to get things done next school year,” said Carstarphen, PhD.
The district is asking families to ensure enrollment for three consecutive years with better attendance.
They are also looking to incorporate effective teachers in all classrooms and techniques to serve ESL students.
Carstarphen wants to incorporate high curriculum at all schools to improve test scores district wide as well and ensure that students will graduate ready for college or a career.
She says making the changes could bring in more money for the district. Improving attendance just one percent could mean $6 million.
