Region 16 Education Service Center

Region 16 ESC aims to be an indispensable part of the educational community by enhancing student success through quality services. The organization is guided by core values of excellence, growth, integrity, and commitment, alongside principles of extraordinary customer service, innovative practices, and trusting relationships. It focuses on anticipating and responding to educational challenges, building capacity in educators for future-ready students, and supporting the continuous improvement of the educational community through a spirit of collaboration.

The meeting included the introduction of AC's new President, Dr. Conner, and discussions about the appointment of new members. Updates were provided on committee members, ESC16 projects for 2024-2025, including activity card distribution, tri-agency regional convener, community internship, early childhood centers, and upcoming events. An overview was given on the RPEP and Moody work for early childhood and CCMP, along with an update on the Activity Card Project and the Community Internship Project. The Panhandle Community Partnership (PCP) provided a report on upcoming opportunities. There was a suggestion to update the P-16 website and a discussion about uncertainty with federal moves and communication roles.

The meeting included discussions on replacing the chair, consideration of a budget item for Digital Activity Cards aimed at high-needs districts, and updates on regional convener activities. There was a presentation on Community Internships and an update on the iLead Value-Based Leadership program, along with a report from PCP. The board also discussed a pilot program involving headstart schools to better track data related to the Digital Activity Cards.

The strategic plan for the Texas Panhandle region, WDA 1, focuses on healthcare, IT, and skilled trades as high-demand, high-wage career paths. The plan aims to foster collaborative, multi-sector partnerships that promote high-quality, industry-aligned career pathways, empowering the local workforce and strengthening the regional economy. The PPLT supports these goals through three key areas of focus: Access, Partnerships, and Education Support and Training.

The meeting included a welcome to a new chair and vote to make him official chair, and a vice chair was also appointed. There was a discussion on the meeting schedule and design. Updates were provided, including a presentation on a new text message system called Baby Basics Insights, with consideration of P16 funding. The P-16 Report of the 2024-25 ESC 16 Projects was presented, covering TAFE 224-25, Activity Card Distribution, Path 2 Teaching Event, Why Teach, EPIC career fairs for middle and high schools. The end-of-year balance and the 2024-25 budget were reviewed and approved. Strategic planning ideas were discussed, including the iLead Community Values Project and a Fiber Project needing additional funding.