Building Support
Within the District
After key leaders in the district understand and support Texas Scholars, it is important to make sure that ALL administrators, counselors and teachers are familiar with the program and support it. If possible, a formal presentation by someone from the leadership team is the most effective way to get everyone on the same page. Be sure to cover the implementation plan and the expectations for everyone involved.
Whether or not a formal presentation is made, a joint message from the superintendent and business/community leader explaining the program and how it will be implemented should be sent to all school personnel.
In larger districts, it is essential to make formal presentations to the principals and counselors. A written message alone will not create the awareness and buy-in necessary to implement the program smoothly. The principals and counselors should then share the information with staff on the individual campuses.
Integrating Scholars into regular District and Campus Activities
Although Texas Scholars sounds like an add-on program, it is most effective when integrated into the regular activities the district and campuses carry-out to support student success. For instance, Texas Scholars encourages career exploration. Many school districts build this into their middle school program and continue it later into high school.
Also, to be recognized as a Texas Scholar, students must complete the Recommended High School Program and have completed two courses eligible for college credit while in high school. Each school district is encouraged to have students develop an individual 4-, 6-, or 8-year plan for high school and transition to college, the workplace, or the military. TBEC recommends that school districts use the Achieve Texas Education and Career Planning System as the statewide planning tool for all students starting in the middle school. For more information contact Charles Simmons at simmonsc@kuder.com . This tool replaces the “My Road Map for Success” tool that was being developed by TBEC and provides a comprehensive system for education and career planning.
The Texas Scholars – High School and Beyond plan also asks students to complete actions on a checklist leading to college, the military or work. Many of the actions on the checklists are also part of the on-going guidance and counseling support high schools provide their students. The Achieve Texas Education and Career Planning System has an excellent set of check lists for each year in high school.
In the Community
Helping parents understand the commitment Texas Scholars requires and the benefits of earning that recognition is another critical element of the program. There are several options for informing parents. Again, the best way is through a formal presentation at PTA meetings, college nights, open houses and other such events. Sending printed information to the home accompanied by a letter from the principal or superintendent is also effective.
Civic and business organizations in the community are always looking for ways they can support student achievement. Build their awareness of the Scholars initiative through luncheon presentations. Explore ways they can participate directly as volunteers or help provide incentives to aspiring Texas Scholars.
The media should also be kept informed and given an opportunity to report on Scholars activities. The volunteer presentations and senior recognition ceremony are newsworthy topics in most communities.