Leaders Call for Education Changes

Leaders from the region’s education and workforce arenas have decided to stop talking and start taking action on a variety of initiatives, paving the way for drastic positive changes in both of these systems.

In the education arena, 35 Superintendents from across the state have joined together in an effort to create a new vision for public education in Texas. Together these leaders represent 1.2 million students and carry the following vision:

“We envision schools where all children succeed, feel safe and their curiosity is cultivated. We see schools that foster a sense of belonging and community and that inspire collaboration. We see learning standards that challenge, and intentionally designed experiences that delight students, develop their confidence and competence, and cause every child to value tasks that result in learning. Ultimately, we see schools and related venues that prepare all children for many choices and that give them the tools and attitudes to contribute to our democratic way of life and live successfully in a rapidly changing world.”

The Dallas Regional Chamber invites you to join three of these Superintendents as they address the business community at a special breakfast on October 28 from 8-9:30 at the Park City Club. Dr. Deborah Cron of Northwest ISD, Dr. Doug Otto of Plano ISD, and Dr. Jeff Turner of Coppell ISD will explain the purpose of this group and the desired result of their efforts, as well as engage in an interactive Q&A session with the audience. For more information in this event or to register, click here.

Education leaders are not the only people standing up for needed change in education in the area. Numerous area companies are supporting the education system with more than mere words. For several years, R.L Thornton‘s “Rising Star” program at the Dallas County Community College District Foundation has helped enroll more than 3,000 students enrolled in seven Dallas community colleges. The program provides financial assistance to any student in Dallas County who graduates with a B average or better to help them attend college. Participating students get their tuition and books paid for a two-year associates degree or certification in various occupational courses. Ultimately, this program feeds what had previously been areas of need in the local workforce.

To learn more about this program, please visit: www.dcccd.edu/fdn/risingstar/risingstarintro.html.

We applaud the efforts of both these education and business leaders for the strides they are making to further area students and ultimately the local economy. For more information on education events and programs through the Chamber, click here or email us at education@dallaschamber.org.