The following letter from Superintendent Dr. Schnautz was shared with GCISD parents and staff on Friday, January 31.
GCISD Family,
It’s hard to believe that we’ve made it through January! The new year is off to a fast start, and as we look ahead, the 89th Texas Legislative Session is already underway.
This week, I had the opportunity to meet with Representative Brad Buckley, who chaired the House Public Education Committee in the last session, and Texas Education Agency Commissioner Mike Morath to discuss the future of public education in our state. Public school funding remains a priority in this session, but while the initial budget proposals coming from both the House and Senate are a step in the right direction, they fall short of getting us back to the funding levels we saw in 2019 while the state is beginning this session with a $24 billion surplus. However, it’s important to note that these numbers are just a starting point. This is where the real advocacy begins, and we’ll need the voices in our community to speak up for our schools to get the funding they deserve.
So, what can you do? Start by familiarizing yourself with the district's legislative priorities, which can be found at gcisd.net/89thsession. GCISD has aligned its priorities with districts across the state, and you can find more information about this collaborative initiative at fundschoolsfirst.org. Please help us spread the word to your family, friends, and neighbors.
Remember, increased funding for schools is not just about our students – it’s about the long-term vitality of our community. Strong schools lead to a stronger local economy, and when we invest in education, we’re investing in a brighter future for everyone.
Finally, I encourage you to reach out directly to your legislators to share your support for an increase in funding for public education. You can locate your representatives and contact information here: https://wrm.capitol.texas.gov/home.
Thank you for your continued dedication to the 5.5 million students in Texas public schools. Together, we can make a difference.
Sincerely,
Dr. Brad Schnautz
Superintendent
Grapevine-Colleyville ISD