Region 18 Education Service Center

This document outlines the Effective School Framework (ESF) developed in partnership by Region 18 ESC and TEA. It details five prioritized levers for school improvement: Strong School Leadership and Planning, Strategic Staffing, Positive School Culture, High-Quality Instructional Materials and Assessments, and Effective Instruction. The framework aims to guide districts and campuses in developing comprehensive plans, improving student performance through systemic change, and fostering continuous improvement by diagnosing areas of need and matching them with Vetted Improvement Programs.

The meeting included swearing in board members, director reports, and a consent agenda covering approval of minutes, budget amendments, intergovernmental contracts, interlocal agreements, and approval of RFQs for project management and web application development, and furniture auction results. Action items included consideration of the initial budget, designation of funds, employee benefits, salaries, and revised board policy updates. The board also convened in an executive session to discuss personnel matters and legal advice regarding pending legal matters and potential litigation.

The document outlines best practices for using Title I, Part D, Subpart 2 funds to support high-quality education programs, successful transitions from institutionalization to education or employment, and programs for at-risk children and youth. It details allowable activities and fund usage, including dropout prevention, coordination of health and social services, special programs for unique academic needs, mentoring, and initiatives for at-risk Indian children. The document also emphasizes TEA's strategic priorities: recruiting and retaining teachers and principals, building a foundation in reading and math, connecting high school to career and college, and improving low-performing schools through various initiatives and support programs.

The strategic plan aims to ensure that by 2030, at least 60% of Texans will have a degree, certificate, or other postsecondary credential of value, preparing every child for success in college, a career, or the military. It focuses on improving student outcomes in kindergarten readiness, 3rd-grade reading and math, 8th-grade reading and math, college, career, and military readiness (CCMR), high school completion, and college completion. The plan includes strategies for enhancing career preparation, aligning programs of study with high-demand occupations, and improving the quality of industry-based certifications to ensure students are well-prepared for the workforce.

The District Coordinator of School Improvement (DCSI) oversees school improvement efforts in collaboration with the Division of School Improvement during the 2023-2024 school year. The DCSI leads and participates in the improvement planning, and monitoring processes, and ensures interventions and submissions are completed on time. The DCSI serves as an advocate for the campus implementation of best practices and creates intentional connections and alignment between campus and district initiatives.