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Superintendent Message Volume 1, Issue 3 - November 2017


Posted Date: 11/28/2017

In the spirit of the season, I’d like to begin by reflecting on some of the many things for which I am thankful.  I am grateful that we have such a dedicated staff to serve the students of the Blanco Independent School District.   As I visit campuses, attend events, and participate in other district activities, I gain even greater respect for the Blanco ISD staff, and I am thankful for the hard work and dedication that is displayed daily in the interest of educating our youth.  The winter break is now quickly approaching—marking the halfway point in our school year.  What an exciting journey it has been so far!

 

On a financial note, the Financial Integrity Rating System of Texas (FIRST) has released its annual report, and I am proud to say that Blanco ISD received a “Superior” rating, which equates to a letter grade of an “A”.  While on the subject of finances, we at Blanco ISD are exploring all options as we strive to decrease expenditures.  As a means to this end, we are working diligently to reduce unnecessary energy consumption with a friendly competition across the district.  I am proud to report that we reduced our energy consumption by 17,772 kilowatts per hour last month which equates to a $1,425 savings.  Special congratulations to Blanco Elementary School which showed the largest decrease in energy consumption at 16%.

 

We are in a whirlwind of activity this fall—athletic events, band competitions, FFA contests, student council programs, UIL academics, and many other activities.  Blanco ISD has a lot to offer the students of our community, and I congratulate all those who have represented the Blanco Panthers with pride in their pursuit of excellence.  You have laid a great foundation for others to emulate.  As UIL Academics and the basketball season begin, I want to wish all coaches and students who will compete for “Blanco’s Honor” the best of luck.  I know you will make our district and community proud.

 

As a district, we are in the process of updating our emergency operations plans and procedures to focus on the safety of our students and staff.  All campuses will spend time reviewing various safety procedures including fire and tornado drills, lockdown, and other emergency drills.  While I hope that we will never need to implement these plans, I do recognize the value of being prepared and believe that is important to give our children the valuable tools they need to respond appropriately and stay safe in the event of an emergency. 

 

Our campuses had the pleasure of hosting many of our local Veterans at ceremonies in their honor on Veterans Day.  Students led several activities to celebrate and remember our Veterans and say thank you for their service to our country. It is important to remember that we cannot rightfully celebrate the joy of freedom without remembering the great price that our Veterans paid.

 

Finally, the BISD Board of Trustees will hold their final meeting of 2017 on Monday, December 11 at 7:00 pm.  As a reminder, Blanco ISD will have an early release on December 15.  The Elementary students will be released at 12:45, while the Middle School and High School will let students out at 1:00.  The District campuses and offices will be closed from December 16 through January 2.  Students will return to classes on January 8, 2018.

 

As we look back on the past with pride, we will look forward to the future with promise. 

 

 

Clay Rosenbaum

Superintendent, Blanco ISD