Pine Tree ISD hosting Community U

Longview, TX — Have you questioned how the state finance system affects the school budget? Or have you wondered how schools have changed since you were in the classroom? Pine Tree Independent School District is developing a platform, which brings parents and community members together for a better understanding about these and other aspects of public education. Participants will have an opportunity to participate in a year-long journey that provides a firsthand look at how the district operates and all the great opportunities afforded to the students at Pine Tree ISD.

“As a district built on a tradition of excellence for all, we felt that it was only fitting that we extend learning opportunities to our volunteers, parents and community members,” said Superintendent of School, TJ Farler. “After months of planning, Community U has evolved as a way of bringing stakeholders together. We plan to empower participants with additional resources that we believe will help us create a healthy and connected support system for students.”

“Pine Tree ISD Community U will provide a great opportunity for individuals to learn more about our school district and also network with others who are committed to its continued success,” said Farler. “We look forward to learning with you in Pine Tree ISD Community U.”

The program consists of nine sessions, each held once a month from September through April at locations all over the school district – including schools, the transportation center, athletic facilities, and the PTISD Administration Offices. Sessions will provide interaction with students and teachers, tours of district facilities, dialogue with administrators, district personnel, and opportunities to see firsthand how the district works. Sessions will begin at 8:00 a.m. and will end at 12:00 p.m.

Members of the first Pine Tree ISD Community U class will learn through hands-on active experiences about all aspects of public education including:

• Teaching and Learning
• Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment
• School Finance (Local, State, and Federal)
• Personnel Selection and Recruitment
• Facilities and Campuses
• District and Campus Level Administrators
• Special Programs and Special Services
• Superintendent and School Board
• Community Partnerships and the Education Foundation

The deadline for applications is July 13, 2012. All participants accepted to the 2012-2013 Pine Tree ISD Community U will be notified by August 1, 2012. The first session will be September 7, 2012.

Enrollment is open to any parent, business leader, and/or community member within Pine Tree ISD. Enrollees are asked to commit to the full program and be able to attend each monthly session scheduled from 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. See specific dates on the application. Interested participants should contact Vickie Echols (903) 295-5136.