The Houston Independent School District Board of Education will tonight discuss a set of magnet program policy recommendations at a special meeting at 6 p.m. in the auditorium of the Hattie Mae White Educational Support Center, 4400 W. 18th St.
The HISD administration presented the recommendations, which are intended to strengthen Houston’s portfolio of school choice options, to the board last week. Proposals for the school board’s consideration address three general areas: student application, selection and admission process; magnet program funding; and measures of success and accountability.
Board trustees are also scheduled to discuss policies related to school closures, which may become necessary because of proposed cuts to state education funding that would take effect in the 2011-12 school year.
School closures are among many options being considered for offsetting what HISD officials expects will be a $170 million shortfall. Administrators have already identified about $50 million in potential budget cuts that, for the most part, do not directly impact classrooms.
One of the proposals on the table is to end the practice of giving extra funding to some unique schools. This leaves about $120 million in additional spending cuts that would likely result in teacher layoffs and the elimination of popular programs.
The board is not scheduled to vote today and residents are encouraged to speak on any topic listed on the agenda.
Those wishing to speak must submit the speaker registration form by noon today. The form can be found online at www.houstonisd.org.
Forms are also available in the Board Services office at the Hattie Mae White Educational Support Center. Completed forms may be faxed to 713-556-6115. For additional information on registering to speak, call 713-556-6121.
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