Leadership Summit Sets the Stage for a New School Year
The Laredo Independent School District recently hosted its Superintendent’s Leadership Summit at the Nelson Conference Center, from July 29 to 31. This event brought together nearly 200 administrators and campus leaders, with the goal of outlining the district's vision for the upcoming 2025-26 school year. The summit aimed to reinforce key priorities, objectives, and strategies that will drive districtwide success.
Guillermo Pro, the interim superintendent of LISD, emphasized the theme for the new school year: "Level-Up." This theme represents the district's commitment to elevating every aspect of service provided to students. From food quality to transportation and safety measures, the focus is on delivering excellence in all areas.
Pro explained that this initiative means raising the standard of service across the board. For instance, if the current food is good, it will be improved to be even better. Similarly, air conditioning systems will be maintained to ensure comfort, and bus drivers will be trained to know every child on their route and approach their work with dedication.
The summit also served as a platform for leadership development, with breakout sessions designed to prepare participants for the challenges ahead. Pro noted that this was the first major event where the leadership team came together to discuss and learn collectively, aiming to elevate the district's performance.
Academic Performance and Future Goals
Academically, the district has shown strong results. Sixteen elementary schools earned an A, four received a B, and all high schools were awarded an A. Middle schools showed mixed results, but the overall trend indicates a commitment to academic excellence.
Pro expressed a desire to move beyond just meeting minimum standards. “We don’t just want to get a 91, but to get to a 95. If you get a 95, then get to a 100,” he said. This mindset reflects the district's aspiration to continually improve and reach higher levels of achievement.
School safety remains a top priority. Pro stressed the importance of maintaining secure environments, including well-maintained fences and functioning gates. The district has also implemented advanced security technology, such as Evolv Systems, which helps detect prohibited items and enhances safety at the front of schools.
Financial Challenges and Strategic Planning
Financially, the district faces challenges due to decreased federal support. Pro noted that state funding now plays a more critical role in operating the schools. To address potential budget shortfalls, the district has developed contingency plans to ensure services continue uninterrupted.
Enrollment decline has also impacted the district's finances. Pro mentioned that the student population has dropped from 21,000 to 18,000, partly due to changes in boundaries and the effects of the pandemic. Despite these challenges, the district remains committed to providing high-quality education, nutritious meals, safe environments, and reliable transportation.
Legal Updates and Community Confidence
Legal updates were another key topic during the summit. Pro addressed concerns about recent legislation, particularly regarding cell phone use in schools. He clarified that the law prohibits phone use during instructional time but does not authorize confiscation by staff. The district already had a policy in place five years ago, which is now legally mandated.
Pro also reassured parents that schools are safe zones and that ICE raids would not occur within the district. He emphasized the district’s role as a supportive environment for all students.
Emphasizing Responsibility and Collaboration
Homero Tijerina, a facilitator at Jose A. Valdez High School, highlighted the importance of leading by example. Pro’s message to take responsibility and set a positive example resonated with attendees. Tijerina noted that small actions, like picking up trash, can have a significant impact on the district’s culture.
He also stressed the importance of financial stability and the district’s progress in improving school ratings. Maintaining these achievements requires collective effort and shared goals.
A Year-Round Commitment
Tijerina encouraged parents to remain actively involved in their children’s education. He emphasized that the district and families must work together to achieve student success. “Alone, we can't do anything, but together, we can move forward.”
Lizzy Newsome, principal at Francisco S. Lara Academy, expressed excitement about the new school year and the leadership of Pro. She praised the summit for bringing the team together and preparing them for the challenges ahead. Newsome also highlighted the importance of staying informed about legal updates and ensuring accurate communication with parents.
A Strong Start for the New School Year
Newsome noted that every agenda item at the summit was relevant and interconnected. She emphasized that safety, curriculum, and instruction must all align to meet state expectations. The summit provided essential information to help the district start the school year on the right foot.
She also welcomed the new leadership and praised Pro for his ability to inspire and lead with respect. His presence has created a sense of optimism and excitement within the district.
Newsome encouraged students and parents to embrace the new school year with enthusiasm. She emphasized the importance of mental health and urged students to seek support when needed. Parents were encouraged to build strong relationships with their children.
A Unified Mission
Pro concluded by reinforcing the district’s commitment to all employees, regardless of their role. He stated that every individual contributes to the district’s success, whether they are a janitor, bus driver, or administrator. Everyone plays a vital role in the district’s mission to elevate accountability and ensure student success.
He urged students and parents to come to class every day and believe in the district’s ability to help them achieve their dreams. “All dreams can come true if you believe in yourself and if you believe in us.”