"This week marks a series of important academic measures that include: 4th Writing, 5th Reading & Math, 8th Reading & Math and English I & II EOCs. Essentially, this week every campus in the district will brush with the state's assessment program.
This has been a long journey full of challenges and successes for students, teachers and leaders. Although critically important, the greatest challenge for all involved is that we know this is truly just a part of the daily teaching and learning process. Our campus leaders, teachers and staff members in general do more than academic instruction. They lead new experiences, keep up with societal changes/advancements, provide stability, structure, and care to our students - while providing life's lessons along the way. Effectively, our staff is called on to be more than teachers that prepare students for exams.
Our students also attend school for more than a testing experience.
As said in the last principal meeting, the stresses, sensitivities and pressures are ever present and can be overwhelming for staff and students this week. I would like to encourage us to be just the opposite during these times. Act as the breath of fresh air, calming presence and a constant acknowledgement that we represent more to the students of Temple; and reach well past the state's assessment program. These are measures that are not included in a state's accountability system, but largely account for the decisions our children will make throughout their lives. We stand together with all of our students and staff this week, and wish them the best of luck and a performance that maximizes their potential!"
-Dr. Bobby Ott, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum & Instruction, Temple ISD
This message was sent to Temple ISD Principals on Tuesday, March 29th, but we felt it was an important message for all of our Temple ISD community.