AZLE ISD
Mr. Smith started his career in education in July of 1994 right here in Azle ISD. He taught agricultural science at Azle High School, served as a high school assistant principal, principal of Walnut Creek Elementary, director of district operations, assistant superintendent, and interim superintendent from March 7, 2020, until becoming Superintendent in June of 2020. He is thankful for the passion and dedication exhibited by Azle ISD faculty and staff and is extremely proud of the work Azle ISD has accomplished and the impact they will continue to make on the lives of our students.
In last month’s article, I shared the start of the 89th Texas Legislative Session and referenced our Azle ISD legislative priorities. By now, many of you have probably heard or seen references to the proposed Senate Bill 2 and how it relates to funding public schools and Educational Savings Accounts or “vouchers.”
I truly believe there is a place for all: public, private, charter and homeschool. I understand the desire for religious-based education, specialized charter schools, and the freedom and time with your children that comes with homeschooling. It’s not about advocating against school choice; parents already get to decide what avenue is best to educate their child.
Regardless of opinions, ALL students should have the SAME value. Public education students are not worth less than other students. It makes little sense how one day, while attending public school, a student is worth $6,150 to the public school district, but if the same student chooses private school, they are now worth $10,000.
How is this right? For example, let’s take an average Azle High School student taking a full schedule of eight regular courses such as English, math, science, social studies, Spanish, art, athletics and band. None of these courses receive extra funding from the state. This student could be an honor roll student and involved in various extracurricular activities. We receive $6,150 for this student, assuming they do not get sick and have to miss school.
Public education is not perfect. In Azle ISD, we have areas in need of improvement and are focused on meeting those needs. We have shared these areas publicly at many board meetings. Our administrators, teachers and support staff remain committed to continuous academic improvement for all students.
We should not be arguing or pointing blame to who is at fault but we should ALL be fighting to fully fund the public education system, defined in Article 7 of the Texas State Constitution.
Public education should be bipartisan: let’s do what is best for our Texas students, both financially and instructionally. We need to work together to preserve democracy through providing a highquality public education system for the students across Texas and Azle ISD.
