Update on Elementary Gifted and Talented Services (SEARCH) and High School Library Services
BISD parents and guardians, please read this letter from BISD Superintendent Danny Massey.
Letter from BISD Superintendent Danny Massey
March 15, 2023
Brazosport Parents and Community,
Over the last 8 years, we are very proud to have drastically improved student learning outcomes, and we take pride in having accomplished that in great part through building positive and transparent relationships with our students, staff, parents and community. Two decisions communicated within the district last week have resulted in many questions from our stakeholders.
Elementary Gifted and Talented Services (SEARCH):
A decision was communicated last week to change the delivery of gifted and talented services that our four SEARCH teachers currently provide for grades Kindergarten-4th. Due to the increased questions related to the delivery of services, we believe it is important to pause any immediate action; and extend an opportunity to engage more stakeholders to ensure that quality programming continues to serve our students. We will provide opportunities for stakeholder feedback to help ensure a program model that will best serve our students without affecting the quality of services. Additional information will be provided regarding this process.
High School Library Services:
It was communicated last week that high school library services would be provided with paraprofessionals under the supervision of a Secondary Lead Librarian. While it’s true that high school libraries have changed over the years, we still value the specific skills and resources a librarian brings to the job. The high school libraries will continue to be staffed with librarians.
Budget Adjustments:
Brazosport ISD student enrollment has decreased approximately 1,000 students over the last 7 years. One thousand students equates to over 6 million dollars in decreased funding. As a result of the decreased enrollment and impacts to funding, budget adjustments are necessary; however, we desire to do so in a way that meets our community expectations and has the least impact on our students’ learning experiences. Additionally, Brazosport ISD remains committed to our employees to ensure all budgetary decisions and changes that have the ability to impact continued employment are managed through employee attrition; by providing impacted employees opportunities within the district that match their experience and/or certification area.
Thank you for the opportunity to educate your child.
Danny Massey
Superintendent of Schools
Brazosport ISD