Yorktown ISD had the opportunity to share its success with educators from across the state this week by presenting at the annual Texas Rural Education Association conference in Round Rock.
TREA is a statewide organization that supports rural public schools through professional development, advocacy and collaboration. The conference brings together educators and school leaders to share ideas and best practices that strengthen rural education across Texas.
Representing Yorktown ISD were Director of Federal, State and Student Programs Dr. Ashley Chandler, Elementary Principal Stephanie Zigmond and secondary teacher Val Acree. Their presentation highlighted the district's Teacher Incentive Allotment journey and the lessons learned while building a program that recognizes and rewards effective teaching.
Pictured, from left, Yorktown ISD teacher Val Acree, Director of Federal, State and Student Programs Dr. Ashley Chandler, Elementary Principal Stephanie Zigmond and Superintendent Gerald Nixon attended the Texas Rural Education Association conference in Round Rock. Submitted photo
The Teacher Incentive Allotment is a Texas program that provides additional funding to school districts based on teacher effectiveness, helping districts recognize outstanding educators while improving teacher recruitment and retention. To date, Yorktown ISD teachers have received more than $800,000 from the state through TIA.
Chandler put together the team that shared strategies for supporting teachers and campus leaders, selecting meaningful student growth measures, maintaining the integrity of the evaluation system and creating a sustainable program that benefits both educators and students.
'As a small rural district, we're committed to providing opportunities that support our educators and ultimately benefit our students,' Chandler said. 'We were honored to share our experiences, learn from other districts, and contribute to conversations focused on strengthening rural education across Texas.'
The opportunity to present at the conference reflects Yorktown ISD's ongoing commitment to educational excellence and its willingness to share successful practices with rural districts across the state.
