Carroll ISD is seeking your input. The district has created a survey regarding the consideration of Triple Staggered School Start Times as a means to save the district money every year.
As part of the Expenditure Reduction Plan, the staggered start times could help the district save $112,800 each year in the general operating budget. The School Board and Administration are seeking your input before making such a change. In the survey, suggestions and comments are encouraged and it allows for you to choose the start times you would prefer.
In an effort to reduce bus transportation costs (which Carroll ISD spends $1.8 million per year), several school districts across the state use triple staggered start times. This allows the district to run multiple bus routes each day using the same drivers and buses.
Also, since Carroll ISD is a Chapter 41 property wealthy school district, we do not receive state funding for transportation.
Staggered Start Times Survey
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Carroll ISD Network Down Today For Maintenance
Carroll ISD’s Novell network systems will be down this afternoon (Thursday, April 22) for approximately three hours beginning at 4:30 p.m. The Technology Services Department will be conducting maintenance work during this time. The systems and logins for grades 5-12, administration departments and GroupWise email will be unavailable. All other systems will remain operational.
The systems are expected to be available again at 8 p.m. tonight. Please be sure to log off the systems during the maintenance to avoid data loss.
The systems are expected to be available again at 8 p.m. tonight. Please be sure to log off the systems during the maintenance to avoid data loss.
Monday, April 19, 2010
Carroll Officials Address High School Rumors
This one's tough folks . . . because it's more about rumor control and fear of the unknown than actual school safety, but it goes to show you just how much communication has changed and how quickly comments can be taken out of context and passed on to the next teenager using advanced technology.
We've been dealing with some ongoing rumors about school safety at Carroll High School for about a week. This issue has not involved an actual threat against the campus or any student but was actually a side conversation by several CHS students about what if? scenarios. Yes, students were actually sitting in a classroom talking about what could happen and what did happen more than a decade ago at Columbine High School. But kids are just that. . .kids and they let their conversation veer off their original what if? scenario by supposing which students they thought might take part in such a "made up" scenario. Someone else overhead and as you can imagine, an investigation began. And just when you think you have things taken care of and under control, school ends for the day and the students have free time on their hands. Unfortunately, the situation grew rapidly because of social networking, texting and the rumor mill.
Our campus and central administrators have been involved in working through this issue, as well as our resource officers and local law enforcement. We've been investigating this matter, talking with parents of CHS students and clarifying that we have received nothing at this point to give this rumor credibility. Last week we sent out a message to our CHS parents notifying them that all of this was based on rumor, not fact.
Still, this is a serious matter and we must all be diligent and responsible for our part in creating safer schools. We walk a fine line as an administration in generating so much discussion that it causes fear students and parents. We balance the facts against the rumors in determining who to notify and when. It appears, however, after a week of working on the issue that other secondary students have now heard the rumor. So, in the spirit of open and honest communication - one of Carroll ISD's core values - we sent an email notification to secondary parents and posted a statement on our Dragon SafetyZone website. You can read that statement below or on the SafetyZone web page at http://www.southlakecarroll.edu/safetyzone.aspx
Below is the actual announcement made at Carroll High School today. If you are having any questions about this topic, we hope that you will deal in the facts as they are laid out in the message to CHS students. We are increasing adult visibility in our hallways and commons areas just to reassure our students. Our faculty and support staff are committed to providing an atmosphere of excellence for CISD. The safety and security of your children remain our top priorities. Still, this situation serves as a reminder to us that we all play a very important role in teaching our students about the power and dangers of social networking, texting and the rumor mill. And we have to let our kids know that they, too, are responsible for helping to keep their schools safe.
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Carroll High School - April 19, 2010
Classroom Announcement read by CHS teacher following a general PA:
A lot of rumors are circulating among students and parents about a threat against our school. The rumors started after several students were talking about what if scenarios and then began to name specific students as part of their made up scenario. The administration is aware of this and has been working with local law enforcement and parents on this matter. Since last Tuesday, we have been checking and double checking our information, taking phone calls, monitoring internet sites and interviewing students that have been identified in these rumors. Please hear us say. . .we have found NO credible information that there was ever a threat against this school. This was a rumor that started and has continued to gain momentum because some of you have chosen to use Facebook, texting and cell phones to discuss this serious matter. We need your help to stop the rumors.
We have absolutely no facts or information to support the rumors that are going around. Some students are growing alarmed because everyone is talking about it and making the situation worse. We know that some of you may be genuinely scared but we want you to think carefully about the facts and not base your fear on misinformation. As adults and teenagers, we all have a responsibility to help make our school safe. Joking about or making false accusations about threats in school or other students will not be tolerated.
As we announced last week, we welcome students, parents or staff who have concerns to discuss them with the administration. But generally, we are asking you to be responsible and show strong character by stopping the rumors and calling a halt to all comments and discussion that could falsely accuse or scare students. School safety is a serious matter and local law enforcement is involved. We want to thank you for being responsible and helping us put a stop to the rumors.
We've been dealing with some ongoing rumors about school safety at Carroll High School for about a week. This issue has not involved an actual threat against the campus or any student but was actually a side conversation by several CHS students about what if? scenarios. Yes, students were actually sitting in a classroom talking about what could happen and what did happen more than a decade ago at Columbine High School. But kids are just that. . .kids and they let their conversation veer off their original what if? scenario by supposing which students they thought might take part in such a "made up" scenario. Someone else overhead and as you can imagine, an investigation began. And just when you think you have things taken care of and under control, school ends for the day and the students have free time on their hands. Unfortunately, the situation grew rapidly because of social networking, texting and the rumor mill.
Our campus and central administrators have been involved in working through this issue, as well as our resource officers and local law enforcement. We've been investigating this matter, talking with parents of CHS students and clarifying that we have received nothing at this point to give this rumor credibility. Last week we sent out a message to our CHS parents notifying them that all of this was based on rumor, not fact.
Still, this is a serious matter and we must all be diligent and responsible for our part in creating safer schools. We walk a fine line as an administration in generating so much discussion that it causes fear students and parents. We balance the facts against the rumors in determining who to notify and when. It appears, however, after a week of working on the issue that other secondary students have now heard the rumor. So, in the spirit of open and honest communication - one of Carroll ISD's core values - we sent an email notification to secondary parents and posted a statement on our Dragon SafetyZone website. You can read that statement below or on the SafetyZone web page at http://www.southlakecarroll.edu/safetyzone.aspx
Below is the actual announcement made at Carroll High School today. If you are having any questions about this topic, we hope that you will deal in the facts as they are laid out in the message to CHS students. We are increasing adult visibility in our hallways and commons areas just to reassure our students. Our faculty and support staff are committed to providing an atmosphere of excellence for CISD. The safety and security of your children remain our top priorities. Still, this situation serves as a reminder to us that we all play a very important role in teaching our students about the power and dangers of social networking, texting and the rumor mill. And we have to let our kids know that they, too, are responsible for helping to keep their schools safe.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Carroll High School - April 19, 2010
Classroom Announcement read by CHS teacher following a general PA:
A lot of rumors are circulating among students and parents about a threat against our school. The rumors started after several students were talking about what if scenarios and then began to name specific students as part of their made up scenario. The administration is aware of this and has been working with local law enforcement and parents on this matter. Since last Tuesday, we have been checking and double checking our information, taking phone calls, monitoring internet sites and interviewing students that have been identified in these rumors. Please hear us say. . .we have found NO credible information that there was ever a threat against this school. This was a rumor that started and has continued to gain momentum because some of you have chosen to use Facebook, texting and cell phones to discuss this serious matter. We need your help to stop the rumors.
We have absolutely no facts or information to support the rumors that are going around. Some students are growing alarmed because everyone is talking about it and making the situation worse. We know that some of you may be genuinely scared but we want you to think carefully about the facts and not base your fear on misinformation. As adults and teenagers, we all have a responsibility to help make our school safe. Joking about or making false accusations about threats in school or other students will not be tolerated.
As we announced last week, we welcome students, parents or staff who have concerns to discuss them with the administration. But generally, we are asking you to be responsible and show strong character by stopping the rumors and calling a halt to all comments and discussion that could falsely accuse or scare students. School safety is a serious matter and local law enforcement is involved. We want to thank you for being responsible and helping us put a stop to the rumors.
Friday, April 9, 2010
Teen Culture Topic Of April 17 Seminar
Adults who care for and work with teenagers, but sometimes have difficulty understanding their world, are invited to a free, public seminar on Teen Culture Saturday, April 17 at Carroll Senior High School. The event, sponsored by Carroll ISD and S.P.A.R.K. (Students and Parents Against Risks to Kids), will be held from 8 a.m. to noon in the auditorium of CSHS, 1501 W. Southlake Boulevard. Light refreshments will be available for participants.
CISD employees can receive four hours of continuing education/professional development credit for attending the seminar.
The ParenTeen Seminar is designed to answer common questions and offer advice on connecting with today's teenage population. In three sessions throughout the morning, Dr. David Fraze will explore the changing landscape of adolescent culture, the adult response to the change and then uncover how that change has affected today's teenage population. The seminar will end with practical suggestions for parents, teachers, coaches and all adults wanting to better understand and make a positive difference in the life of a teenager.
Dr. Fraze works with teens in Northeast Tarrant County and is a popular speaker at youth events, public/private school events and training seminars. He has been the host of a local television segment, The Teenage Tightrope, which provided parents with thoughtful insight into the world of teenagers. David is a writer who has contributed articles for youthspecialties.com and ENGAGE, the quarterly journal of The Center for Parent/Youth Understanding, Youth Worker Journal, Journal of Student Ministries, and the Fuller Youth Institute. He serves on the executive board of Teen Lifeline (www.lifelivedbetter.org), an organization dedicated to reaching out to hurting teenagers. He also works with a unique program that brings together several North Texas school districts in a cooperative effort to prepare parents for the adolescent experience.
"Dr. Fraze is one of the foremost experts on the topic of teen culture," said Becci Rollins, CISD's Coordinator of Counseling. "He has great insight, perspective and experience in the world of teenagers. He was describing and talking about the issue of sexting long before anyone else around our area knew what the kids were doing. As soon as I heard him speak on the topic of teen culture, I knew we had to bring him to Southlake to present to our staff, our counselors and our parents."
The Saturday ParenTeen seminar is being provided by a Carroll ISD True To The Core grant, which provides funding for programs, events and initiatives that support the district's core values of excellence, relationships, character & integrity, innovation and open & honest communication.
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
Dragon License Plates Get Approval
The Carroll Independent School District will soon become the first school district in the state with its own personalized license plates.
During Monday’s School Board meeting, CISD Trustees approved a five-year agreement with My Plates to produce state-issued Carroll Dragon plates. The plate design expects to get state approval in May.
The plates will feature the Carroll green and black colors with the trademark Dragons logo on the left. Dragon fans will also have the option to personalize their plates. The district receives 10 percent commission on each plate sold, revenue which will go into the general operating fund.
A one-year agreement for Dragons plates costs $55 and a five-year plate purchases costs $195. The 10-year plate is $295.
Creating new plates typically takes 4-6 months and the Dragon plates will be available for purchase online in August.
Monday, April 5, 2010
Public Meeting - Relay For Life
In an effort to ensure open and honest communication, Carroll ISD will host a public Question & Answer session about the May 21 Relay For Life all-night fundraiser at Carroll High School.
Officials from Carroll ISD, the American Cancer Society (ACS) and the event volunteer planning committee will be present at the public meeting, scheduled for 11 a.m. Monday, April 12 in the library of Carroll Middle School. Relay For Life is the official fundraiser for ACS. Already 122 teams and nearly 1,000 participants have signed up to participate in the Southlake event.
Event Chair Tracey Flores and Team Chair Kristie Millican say they are getting a lot of logistical questions from parents, teachers and individuals interested in learning more about the May event. School officials say they are seeking sound and lighting variances from the City of Southlake. A Planning & Zoning meeting on this event is scheduled for 6 p.m. Thursday, (April 8) at City Hall, Town Square. At this meeting school and ACS officials will walk P&Z representatives through the site plan, event schedule and other event-related plans. The City Council is slated to address the light and sound variances at their April 20 meeting.
Carroll ISD officials say they will kick off the May 21 evening with a 5 p.m. rally to celebrate Rachel's Challenge - the K-12 kindness and compassion program implemented at all CISD schools last year. This rally will feature guest speaker Dana Scott, sister of Rachel Scott, the first teenager killed at Columbine High School a decade ago. Families will be invited to come celebrate Rachel's Rally with food, fun and games. Immediately following at 7 p.m. opening ceremonies for Relay For Life will begin.
About 3,000-4,000 people are expected at this community event during peak times. CISD plans to run shuttle buses for remote parking and have on-site security and emergency personnel. Entertainment and game booths are scheduled throughout the evening with two stages and plenty of fundraising opportunities. Proceeds from the events go to benefit the American Cancer Society. At 7:15 p.m. Cancer Survivors will take a victory lap around the track and then they will be treated to a dinner, compliments of Cotton Patch. After that lap, teams of 8-15 people will have walkers/runners take turns making laps until 7 a.m. the next morning. Teams are fundraising now and will continue to fundraiser on-site.
School officials say they will have a "tent city" camp-out area on the football practice field for those team(s) wishing to rest throughout the night. You do not have to spend the night to participate, but after midnight, only those signed up to walk for a team will be permitted in the track area. Bracelets will help identify participants. Co-ed and teen teams will be in a special canopy area between the tennis courts and the football field. This area will involve rock climbing walls and games geared toward older students. A special toddler area with games will be available from 5 to 9 p.m. in the CHS fenced-in tennis court area.
At 10 p.m. the area will grow hushed as the luminaria candle-lighting ceremony honors survivors and remembers those who have lost a loved one to cancer.
Anyone wishing to learn more about Relay For Life, Southlake, should attend the April 12 meeting or visit our website at http://www.relayforlife.org/southlaketx
More to come on this exciting community-wide event. Go online and sign up for a team, join the Survivors' Celebration or donate today!
Officials from Carroll ISD, the American Cancer Society (ACS) and the event volunteer planning committee will be present at the public meeting, scheduled for 11 a.m. Monday, April 12 in the library of Carroll Middle School. Relay For Life is the official fundraiser for ACS. Already 122 teams and nearly 1,000 participants have signed up to participate in the Southlake event.
Event Chair Tracey Flores and Team Chair Kristie Millican say they are getting a lot of logistical questions from parents, teachers and individuals interested in learning more about the May event. School officials say they are seeking sound and lighting variances from the City of Southlake. A Planning & Zoning meeting on this event is scheduled for 6 p.m. Thursday, (April 8) at City Hall, Town Square. At this meeting school and ACS officials will walk P&Z representatives through the site plan, event schedule and other event-related plans. The City Council is slated to address the light and sound variances at their April 20 meeting.
Carroll ISD officials say they will kick off the May 21 evening with a 5 p.m. rally to celebrate Rachel's Challenge - the K-12 kindness and compassion program implemented at all CISD schools last year. This rally will feature guest speaker Dana Scott, sister of Rachel Scott, the first teenager killed at Columbine High School a decade ago. Families will be invited to come celebrate Rachel's Rally with food, fun and games. Immediately following at 7 p.m. opening ceremonies for Relay For Life will begin.
About 3,000-4,000 people are expected at this community event during peak times. CISD plans to run shuttle buses for remote parking and have on-site security and emergency personnel. Entertainment and game booths are scheduled throughout the evening with two stages and plenty of fundraising opportunities. Proceeds from the events go to benefit the American Cancer Society. At 7:15 p.m. Cancer Survivors will take a victory lap around the track and then they will be treated to a dinner, compliments of Cotton Patch. After that lap, teams of 8-15 people will have walkers/runners take turns making laps until 7 a.m. the next morning. Teams are fundraising now and will continue to fundraiser on-site.
School officials say they will have a "tent city" camp-out area on the football practice field for those team(s) wishing to rest throughout the night. You do not have to spend the night to participate, but after midnight, only those signed up to walk for a team will be permitted in the track area. Bracelets will help identify participants. Co-ed and teen teams will be in a special canopy area between the tennis courts and the football field. This area will involve rock climbing walls and games geared toward older students. A special toddler area with games will be available from 5 to 9 p.m. in the CHS fenced-in tennis court area.
At 10 p.m. the area will grow hushed as the luminaria candle-lighting ceremony honors survivors and remembers those who have lost a loved one to cancer.
Anyone wishing to learn more about Relay For Life, Southlake, should attend the April 12 meeting or visit our website at http://www.relayforlife.org/southlaketx
More to come on this exciting community-wide event. Go online and sign up for a team, join the Survivors' Celebration or donate today!
Monday, March 29, 2010
Demographer's Report
The district's demographer will be updating Trustees tonight on the latest enrollment projections for the 2010-2011 school year. As the Carroll community ages, growth has actually tapered off and less students are expected to be enrolled in August than the previous year. The news doesn't come as much of a surprise to school officials who have known for some time that the struggling economy and fewer home starts in Southlake would eventually have a significant impact on the district's student population.
Already this year, CISD is experiencing a 100-student shortfall in the number of K-12 students projected to be enrolled for the current school year. Officials say that not only affects staffing levels, but also state funding. CISD receives about $6,000 per student in state revenues. Having 100 less students than expected means a budget shortfall of more than $600,000. That deficit must be added to the $3.4 million Trustees are already expecting to take from the Fund Balance to cover this year's operating expenses.
Demographer Rocky Gardiner form Templeton Demographics, LLC will be at tonight's Carroll School Board meeting to not only share the pending forecast, but also a 10-year projection. Gardiner will explain to Trustees that Durham Intermediate and Carroll Senior High School may be the only campuses with enrollment gains during the 2010-2011 school year. Most campuses are expected to decline as larger classes exit and move through the system.
A total of 7,831 students were enrolled in 2007-2008. That grew by only eight students in 2008-2009, with a 112-student drop so far during the current year. Templeton officials are predicting another 90-student drop before October, bringing the 2010-2011 projection to 7,637 students. The largest drops are expected at Carroll High School (-62), Carroll Elementary (-28), Johnson Elementary (-23) and Dawson Middle School (-23) as those campuses have larger existing classes than those new classes entering.
The pending enrollment projections are no cause for panic according to school officials. The news of the slower growth rate was expected to some extent. Still, officials say they will watch trends carefully before making final decisions on all the 2009 bond projects. Most of the projects, according to school staff, provide amenities and space for the existing student population, not future students. In fact, both new campuses are replacement schools, designed to modernize buildings and technology, while freeing up overcrowding at Durham Elementary and Johnson Elementary schools.
New construction at Carroll Senior High will go on as planned, including construction of art facilities, an auxiliary gym, student parking and locker/dressing room space.
Planned security entrances at each of the CISD campuses will also move forward, as will a 1,600-seat expansion at Dragon Stadium that provides a technology disaster recovery site for the district.
School officials say the projects that have not yet started - classroom expansions at Old Union Elementary, Eubanks Intermediate, Dawson Middle School and Carroll High School, will be reviewed carefully in light of the new enrollment data. It may be too soon to tell, however, just how much of that additional space will be necessary.
Very soon, CISD will publish a 2009 Bond Project Update, giving local taxpayers and parents a look at work to date, as well as the enrollment projections and how they affect ongoing construction.
Stay tuned to the CISD website for more complete information on the 2010 Demographer's Report. A complete Board Meeting Summary will be available for Dragon families after tonight's School Board meeting.
Already this year, CISD is experiencing a 100-student shortfall in the number of K-12 students projected to be enrolled for the current school year. Officials say that not only affects staffing levels, but also state funding. CISD receives about $6,000 per student in state revenues. Having 100 less students than expected means a budget shortfall of more than $600,000. That deficit must be added to the $3.4 million Trustees are already expecting to take from the Fund Balance to cover this year's operating expenses.
Demographer Rocky Gardiner form Templeton Demographics, LLC will be at tonight's Carroll School Board meeting to not only share the pending forecast, but also a 10-year projection. Gardiner will explain to Trustees that Durham Intermediate and Carroll Senior High School may be the only campuses with enrollment gains during the 2010-2011 school year. Most campuses are expected to decline as larger classes exit and move through the system.
A total of 7,831 students were enrolled in 2007-2008. That grew by only eight students in 2008-2009, with a 112-student drop so far during the current year. Templeton officials are predicting another 90-student drop before October, bringing the 2010-2011 projection to 7,637 students. The largest drops are expected at Carroll High School (-62), Carroll Elementary (-28), Johnson Elementary (-23) and Dawson Middle School (-23) as those campuses have larger existing classes than those new classes entering.
The pending enrollment projections are no cause for panic according to school officials. The news of the slower growth rate was expected to some extent. Still, officials say they will watch trends carefully before making final decisions on all the 2009 bond projects. Most of the projects, according to school staff, provide amenities and space for the existing student population, not future students. In fact, both new campuses are replacement schools, designed to modernize buildings and technology, while freeing up overcrowding at Durham Elementary and Johnson Elementary schools.
New construction at Carroll Senior High will go on as planned, including construction of art facilities, an auxiliary gym, student parking and locker/dressing room space.
Planned security entrances at each of the CISD campuses will also move forward, as will a 1,600-seat expansion at Dragon Stadium that provides a technology disaster recovery site for the district.
School officials say the projects that have not yet started - classroom expansions at Old Union Elementary, Eubanks Intermediate, Dawson Middle School and Carroll High School, will be reviewed carefully in light of the new enrollment data. It may be too soon to tell, however, just how much of that additional space will be necessary.
Very soon, CISD will publish a 2009 Bond Project Update, giving local taxpayers and parents a look at work to date, as well as the enrollment projections and how they affect ongoing construction.
Stay tuned to the CISD website for more complete information on the 2010 Demographer's Report. A complete Board Meeting Summary will be available for Dragon families after tonight's School Board meeting.
Friday, March 12, 2010
Dragon Fun Alert!
Carroll Independent School District will be closed for Spring Break March 15-19. We hope all of our Dragons have a fun, safe and relaxing time off! Be ready to hit the books again March 22!!!!!
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Dragons Go Green
Carroll students and staff will celebrate Texas Public Schools Week March 22-26 with a Get Your Green On theme. Open houses will be held at the elementary and intermediate school campuses on Tuesday, March 23 and/or Thursday, March 25. Check the district website for exact times and dates at each campus.
Students in Kindergarten through sixth grades are encouraged to go on our website to print out the Dragons R Green Pledge. Once the student and his/her family have reviewed the pledge, it should be signed and brought to Southlake Town Square Saturday, March 27 between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. for Southlake Green Day. The signed pledge will make the student eligible for drawings for seven different bicycles throughout the day. Southlake Green Day will feature guest speakers, booths with information about green strategies, etc.
Students in grades 7-12 are encouraged to participate in an essay contest for scholarship money. Middle school students will compete against one another. Contest rules are on the district's website. The deadline to postmark your essay of 750 words is March 12. First place wins a $1,000 savings bond. Second place wins a $500 savings bond.
In the 9-12 grade competition, students must submit a 1,000-word essay for a $1,000 first place prize and a $500 second place prize. The essay theme is "My Part In Protecting The Environment." Sponsored by Natex Architects, Inc., Carroll ISD and Southlake GreenFellows, Inc. the contest is in its first year.
To learn more about Carroll ISD's green strategies, visit our Dragons Go Green website!
Students in Kindergarten through sixth grades are encouraged to go on our website to print out the Dragons R Green Pledge. Once the student and his/her family have reviewed the pledge, it should be signed and brought to Southlake Town Square Saturday, March 27 between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. for Southlake Green Day. The signed pledge will make the student eligible for drawings for seven different bicycles throughout the day. Southlake Green Day will feature guest speakers, booths with information about green strategies, etc.
Students in grades 7-12 are encouraged to participate in an essay contest for scholarship money. Middle school students will compete against one another. Contest rules are on the district's website. The deadline to postmark your essay of 750 words is March 12. First place wins a $1,000 savings bond. Second place wins a $500 savings bond.
In the 9-12 grade competition, students must submit a 1,000-word essay for a $1,000 first place prize and a $500 second place prize. The essay theme is "My Part In Protecting The Environment." Sponsored by Natex Architects, Inc., Carroll ISD and Southlake GreenFellows, Inc. the contest is in its first year.
To learn more about Carroll ISD's green strategies, visit our Dragons Go Green website!
Monday, February 15, 2010
Dragon Affinity Credit Card
Carroll ISD took a step closer to getting a Dragon Logo Affinity Credit Card that gives a percentage of all purchases back to the general operating fund. The Carroll School Board voted tonight to apply for an exclusive credit card program with Capital One, Inc. Families who apply and qualify for a Dragon Credit Card can help raise funds for their local K-12 school district. The program gives $50 for every first-time purchase, 2% on gas and grocery purchases and 1% on all other purchases. There are also select merchants that will earn Dragon card users up to 10% back to their local school district.
Approval and implementation of the program is pending final legal wording on the Terms of Agreement between both CISD and Capital One. The idea was part of a list of suggestions in a final report by a citizens Revenue Enhancement Committee in 2002. Fort Worth Star Telegram reporter Jessamy Brown actually researched and identified that back in 1992, her newspaper reported on a CISD green and white Dragon MasterCard that in some way earned money for the district, but so far school officials have not located information on that historical card program.
Details on the application process will be forthcoming. Agreements for card qualification, acceptance and use will be between the individual card holder and Capital One. CISD will not obtain or have access to anyone's credit information nor will they have any part in acceptance or approval of individual applications. The funds would not be subject to the state's recapture program, meaning that Dragon families could simply use their own every day purchases and spending habits to benefit their child's own education.
Even more exciting is the fact that an executive with Capital One's Virginia headquarters resides right here in Carroll ISD and was present at tonight's School Board meeting. We are thankful and appreciative of the many loyal Dragon parents, supporters and alumni who care about this district and its children. We hope to be announcing details on an approved Dragon Affinity Credit Card program in the days and weeks ahead.
Approval and implementation of the program is pending final legal wording on the Terms of Agreement between both CISD and Capital One. The idea was part of a list of suggestions in a final report by a citizens Revenue Enhancement Committee in 2002. Fort Worth Star Telegram reporter Jessamy Brown actually researched and identified that back in 1992, her newspaper reported on a CISD green and white Dragon MasterCard that in some way earned money for the district, but so far school officials have not located information on that historical card program.
Details on the application process will be forthcoming. Agreements for card qualification, acceptance and use will be between the individual card holder and Capital One. CISD will not obtain or have access to anyone's credit information nor will they have any part in acceptance or approval of individual applications. The funds would not be subject to the state's recapture program, meaning that Dragon families could simply use their own every day purchases and spending habits to benefit their child's own education.
Even more exciting is the fact that an executive with Capital One's Virginia headquarters resides right here in Carroll ISD and was present at tonight's School Board meeting. We are thankful and appreciative of the many loyal Dragon parents, supporters and alumni who care about this district and its children. We hope to be announcing details on an approved Dragon Affinity Credit Card program in the days and weeks ahead.
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Carroll Schools Closed Friday
Carroll school officials joined others in North Texas by announcing the cancellation of classes for Friday, February 12. The decision came shortly after 3 p.m. and was announced using the emergency telephone notification system, local media outlets, social networking sites, email systems and the district's website. Joining in closure were neighboring Keller, Birdville, Grapevine Colleyville, and HEB ISDs. Fort Worth ISD and many others in North Texas also closed on Friday. As of this writing, our area had received about 5-6 inches of snow.
Thursday turned out to be a tense but beautiful day watching the unprecedented snowfall in our area. Ensuring the safe return home of our students and staff became the top priority. Thank you to all the parents, students and staff for patience during this difficult morning. As usual, our Dragon family was great in handling the situation and supportive of our school staff who stayed on campus until the last child departed safely.
Carroll schools turned out early on Thursday, but school officials were able to post a completed full day to avoid having to add school days in June. To be considered a full day, schools must be in session for four hours. Closure on Friday means that Carroll ISD has now used both of its bad weather days in April. Students and staff will now have school on Friday, April 9 and Monday, April 12. Hopefully, the bad weather is behind us and we won't have to deal with additional days off or adjustments to the calendar.
As a reminder, students already had a scheduled holiday on Monday, February 15. Staff will participate in professional development activities on Monday and classes will resume on a normal schedule Tuesday.
Dragon families and staff are learning that the district's new Twitter, Facebook and Communications Blog are the fastest, most efficient way to obtain the latest up-to-date news. Be sure to go online and become a follower or fan of each from your home computer. The links are available on the main page of the CISD website.
Enjoy your long weekend Dragons and thanks for your support!
Thursday turned out to be a tense but beautiful day watching the unprecedented snowfall in our area. Ensuring the safe return home of our students and staff became the top priority. Thank you to all the parents, students and staff for patience during this difficult morning. As usual, our Dragon family was great in handling the situation and supportive of our school staff who stayed on campus until the last child departed safely.
Carroll schools turned out early on Thursday, but school officials were able to post a completed full day to avoid having to add school days in June. To be considered a full day, schools must be in session for four hours. Closure on Friday means that Carroll ISD has now used both of its bad weather days in April. Students and staff will now have school on Friday, April 9 and Monday, April 12. Hopefully, the bad weather is behind us and we won't have to deal with additional days off or adjustments to the calendar.
As a reminder, students already had a scheduled holiday on Monday, February 15. Staff will participate in professional development activities on Monday and classes will resume on a normal schedule Tuesday.
Dragon families and staff are learning that the district's new Twitter, Facebook and Communications Blog are the fastest, most efficient way to obtain the latest up-to-date news. Be sure to go online and become a follower or fan of each from your home computer. The links are available on the main page of the CISD website.
Enjoy your long weekend Dragons and thanks for your support!
Early Dismissal Announced Feb. 11
Due to deteriorating weather conditions, Carroll ISD is announcing an early dismissal today, Thursday, Feb. 11.
Elementary grades PK-4 - Noon Dismissal
Intermediates/Middle Schools grades 5-8 - 12:40 p.m. Dismissal
High Schools/Senior High grades 9-12 - Noon Dismissal (drivers are now available to go ahead and run our high school routes. We originally planned for 1:30 p.m. bus routes, but instead we will run high school and senior high buses at noon - principals have been notified)
Parents can certainly pick up children earlier if preferred, but these are our official dismissal times due to staggered schedules/bus availability.
The safe return home of all students is our top priority. School administrators will remain on site until students return home.
Be careful and stayed tuned to any further announcements affecting Friday. Thanks for your patience as we handled a difficult weather situation.
Elementary grades PK-4 - Noon Dismissal
Intermediates/Middle Schools grades 5-8 - 12:40 p.m. Dismissal
High Schools/Senior High grades 9-12 - Noon Dismissal (drivers are now available to go ahead and run our high school routes. We originally planned for 1:30 p.m. bus routes, but instead we will run high school and senior high buses at noon - principals have been notified)
Parents can certainly pick up children earlier if preferred, but these are our official dismissal times due to staggered schedules/bus availability.
The safe return home of all students is our top priority. School administrators will remain on site until students return home.
Be careful and stayed tuned to any further announcements affecting Friday. Thanks for your patience as we handled a difficult weather situation.
Carroll Schools Open Today
Carroll ISD is open today on a regular schedule. The overnight dusting of snow has created slushy conditions, but generally roads are not reported to be icy or slick. Buses are operating as usual, but could be delayed arriving at some individual pick-up sites due to slower traffic. Dress children in warm clothing for outdoor conditions at bus stops.
Drive carefully - especially less experienced teen drivers - and give yourself plenty of time for traffic delays due to the weather conditions.
School officials will continue to monitor the forecast as we are expecting additional precipitation later in the day. As always, we'll utilize every means possible to inform Dragon families of any official announcements related to inclement weather.
Drive carefully - especially less experienced teen drivers - and give yourself plenty of time for traffic delays due to the weather conditions.
School officials will continue to monitor the forecast as we are expecting additional precipitation later in the day. As always, we'll utilize every means possible to inform Dragon families of any official announcements related to inclement weather.
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Dragons On Alert For Pending Weather
Dragon families should continue to monitor all CISD communications for official announcements about the pending wintery weather and how it might affect the regular school schedule. The DFW area is supposed to receive a mixture of snow and ice later this evening and into the early morning hours on Thursday, February 11. We are all fully aware of how unpredictable Texas weather can be, but it seems we are destined to have at least some cold, wet and possibly slick conditions over the next 24-48 hours.
Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra Performances Postponed
Already, the wintery forecast has caused the postponement of three Fort Worthy Symphony Orchestra performances originally planned for Thursday, February 11 at Carroll Senior High School. The group expects to reschedule the concerts some time in April.
Carroll ISD will carefully monitor the National Weather Service and collect input from transportation officials and neighboring school leaders before making any official weather-related announcements. Believe it or not, the decision to delay or cancel school is one of the most difficult decisions because school officials have to make the call hours in advance of knowing exactly what the temperatures and weather will be. Please know that at all times, our priorities are the safety and well-being - of our students and staff.
Current road conditions are not the only factor used in making a decision. The Superintendent and his leadership team must consider temperatures, pending forecasts, ice and snow on sidewalks and bus stop areas, the availability of school staff and the operational capacity of the building heating systems.
The district will utilize the Connect-ED emergency telephone system, the website, media outlets and social networking sites to make official district announcements. If you aren't already a fan of Carroll ISD News on Facebook, our official Communications Blog or Twitter, join these sites now to receive the latest CISD news.
Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra Performances Postponed
Already, the wintery forecast has caused the postponement of three Fort Worthy Symphony Orchestra performances originally planned for Thursday, February 11 at Carroll Senior High School. The group expects to reschedule the concerts some time in April.
Carroll ISD will carefully monitor the National Weather Service and collect input from transportation officials and neighboring school leaders before making any official weather-related announcements. Believe it or not, the decision to delay or cancel school is one of the most difficult decisions because school officials have to make the call hours in advance of knowing exactly what the temperatures and weather will be. Please know that at all times, our priorities are the safety and well-being - of our students and staff.
Current road conditions are not the only factor used in making a decision. The Superintendent and his leadership team must consider temperatures, pending forecasts, ice and snow on sidewalks and bus stop areas, the availability of school staff and the operational capacity of the building heating systems.
The district will utilize the Connect-ED emergency telephone system, the website, media outlets and social networking sites to make official district announcements. If you aren't already a fan of Carroll ISD News on Facebook, our official Communications Blog or Twitter, join these sites now to receive the latest CISD news.
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Give Us Your Budget Reduction Input
Carroll ISD is asking for public input into the 2010-2011 budgeting process. The district has posted information about its ongoing Expenditure Reduction Plan on a special webpage. The link is available from the district's main page or by visiting http://www.southlakecarroll.edu/er.aspx.
After watching the PowerPoint Presentation to learn more about CISD's current financial situation, a link to an online survey is available. Employees at each of the district's campuses and departments have been taking part in informational budget meetings to hear about the state of school finances and to brainstorm and prioritize ideas for reducing expenditures and increasing revenues. This process is for the district's operating budget and not for the debt service (bond project) budget.
The public survey asks for ideas, and participants can submit questions about the 2010-2011 budget, too. Please take time to learn more about CISD's general operating budget and send us your ideas. The survey will remain open throughout the month of February.
After watching the PowerPoint Presentation to learn more about CISD's current financial situation, a link to an online survey is available. Employees at each of the district's campuses and departments have been taking part in informational budget meetings to hear about the state of school finances and to brainstorm and prioritize ideas for reducing expenditures and increasing revenues. This process is for the district's operating budget and not for the debt service (bond project) budget.
The public survey asks for ideas, and participants can submit questions about the 2010-2011 budget, too. Please take time to learn more about CISD's general operating budget and send us your ideas. The survey will remain open throughout the month of February.
Thursday, January 21, 2010
District Announces School Day April 12
Carroll school officials have made the decision to have school on Monday, April 12. This was originally designated as a possible day off as a bad weather day on the 2009-2010 calendar. The district so far this winter has used just one bad weather day. That means students and staff will now attend school on Monday, April 12.
There is another bad weather day assigned to Friday, April 9. To date, the district has not had to use this second day. For now, it remains a student holiday/staff development day.
The district will post a decision later about the A/B calendar for high school students on April 12. As the date gets closer, we can make that determination. It wouldn't make sense to do so now, because inclement weather could still occur and affect that second bad weather day. Then, we would have to adjust everything all over again.
For now, Dragons should expect to be in school on Monday, April 12. An announcement about how this affects the A/B secondary schedule will be made later this spring.
There is another bad weather day assigned to Friday, April 9. To date, the district has not had to use this second day. For now, it remains a student holiday/staff development day.
The district will post a decision later about the A/B calendar for high school students on April 12. As the date gets closer, we can make that determination. It wouldn't make sense to do so now, because inclement weather could still occur and affect that second bad weather day. Then, we would have to adjust everything all over again.
For now, Dragons should expect to be in school on Monday, April 12. An announcement about how this affects the A/B secondary schedule will be made later this spring.
Monday, January 18, 2010
Submit Your Calendar Input
Carroll School Board members are hoping staff, students and parents will chime in with input on the proposed 2010-2011 school calendar. The Board postponed a decision on the calendar to collect feedback on the idea of having semester tests before winter break. We hear from year to year that parents and students don't like having exams hanging over their heads during the winter break. Ever since the start of the school year was pushed back in August, CISD has ended the semester in mid January. For parents, this means that students have two weeks off, then they come back for a few days only to have reviews, half days, exams and a couple days off for Martin Luther King day and the teachers' end of the semester work day.
So. . .Trustees said, "what about considering Highland Park's calendar?" The Scots only take three days at Thanksgiving break and then they are able to have their semester exams before winter break. They then don't have to mess with exams hanging over their heads during break or intermittent early release days in January. The only catch is unbalanced semesters, which can have an impact on single semester classes. For instance, if there is a advanced government class that is two weeks shorter in the fall than in the spring, students who take it in the spring are able to cover substantial more material before taking the AP exam. This is apparently something that Highland Park lives with in order to have exams before break.
However. . . that doesn't have to be the case. Dr. Lowell Strike began taking an out-of-the-box look at the existing calendar. Knowing that Dragon families and especially staff REALLY enjoy their five days off for Winter Break (something Highland Park has never done and therefore didn't have to take away from their students/staff), Dr. Strike started looking at the possibility of enjoying the best of both worlds. He discovered that you can still have semester exams before winter break but not really end the semester until AFTER winter break. This means that students don't have tests hanging over them during the two-week break, but the single semester classes aren't unbalanced either. Staff and students can still enjoy the full five days at Thanksgiving break AND the greatest advantage of all is that instructors can review tests, identify concepts the students may not have mastered and come back in January to review major objectives and concepts before the semester ends. This ensures that the students truly grasp all material before ending the semester and later taking their AP exams in April/May.
Sounds like an innovative calendar option that leaves Thanksgiving break alone, but addresses the parent concerns expressed about semester exams. Still, we may not have realized all the advantages and disadvantages and we need to hear more from you!
Therefore, three calendars have been put online. The first is the original calendar that mirrors this year's calendar. The second is the calendar developed by Dr. Strike and the third is a calendar similar to Highland Park's calendar. Be sure to register your input by emailing brownd@cisdmail.com before the Board's February 1 meeting!
So. . .Trustees said, "what about considering Highland Park's calendar?" The Scots only take three days at Thanksgiving break and then they are able to have their semester exams before winter break. They then don't have to mess with exams hanging over their heads during break or intermittent early release days in January. The only catch is unbalanced semesters, which can have an impact on single semester classes. For instance, if there is a advanced government class that is two weeks shorter in the fall than in the spring, students who take it in the spring are able to cover substantial more material before taking the AP exam. This is apparently something that Highland Park lives with in order to have exams before break.
However. . . that doesn't have to be the case. Dr. Lowell Strike began taking an out-of-the-box look at the existing calendar. Knowing that Dragon families and especially staff REALLY enjoy their five days off for Winter Break (something Highland Park has never done and therefore didn't have to take away from their students/staff), Dr. Strike started looking at the possibility of enjoying the best of both worlds. He discovered that you can still have semester exams before winter break but not really end the semester until AFTER winter break. This means that students don't have tests hanging over them during the two-week break, but the single semester classes aren't unbalanced either. Staff and students can still enjoy the full five days at Thanksgiving break AND the greatest advantage of all is that instructors can review tests, identify concepts the students may not have mastered and come back in January to review major objectives and concepts before the semester ends. This ensures that the students truly grasp all material before ending the semester and later taking their AP exams in April/May.
Sounds like an innovative calendar option that leaves Thanksgiving break alone, but addresses the parent concerns expressed about semester exams. Still, we may not have realized all the advantages and disadvantages and we need to hear more from you!
Therefore, three calendars have been put online. The first is the original calendar that mirrors this year's calendar. The second is the calendar developed by Dr. Strike and the third is a calendar similar to Highland Park's calendar. Be sure to register your input by emailing brownd@cisdmail.com before the Board's February 1 meeting!
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
Old Union Evacuated Briefly Today
Administrators were presenting the district's Expenditure Reduction (ER) budgeting process to the parents at Carroll Elementary today when an emergency call came in that a gas main at an intersection construction site near Old Union Elementary resulted in the brief evacuation of that campus.
The students and staff were moved to a nearby alternative location until the line could be capped. Workers quickly resolved the issue and minimized the risk to anyone in the area, but Old Union's Principal Dr. Mary Johnston said it was a good opportunity for everyone to complete a drill and walk through their emergency response plan for evacuations. The entire event lasted only about 30 minutes and no one was injured or in substantial danger.
Parents of Old Union students were notified of the incident via email after school. Dr. Johnston said she was pleased with the professional and efficient response by the Old Union staff and students. Special thanks to the City of Southlake responders who helped alleviate potential risks to OUES.
The students and staff were moved to a nearby alternative location until the line could be capped. Workers quickly resolved the issue and minimized the risk to anyone in the area, but Old Union's Principal Dr. Mary Johnston said it was a good opportunity for everyone to complete a drill and walk through their emergency response plan for evacuations. The entire event lasted only about 30 minutes and no one was injured or in substantial danger.
Parents of Old Union students were notified of the incident via email after school. Dr. Johnston said she was pleased with the professional and efficient response by the Old Union staff and students. Special thanks to the City of Southlake responders who helped alleviate potential risks to OUES.
Top Board Action From Monday
Trustees extended the employment contract of Superintendent David J. Faltys for an additional two years - through 2014. They did not take action on the superintendent's salary at this time, but commended Dr. Faltys for his leadership, communication skills and for the integrity and example he models for others in his position leading Carroll ISD.
The Board postponed a final decision on the 2010-2011 School Calendar in order to collect more information and input on the possibility of ending the first semester before winter break. The Board will consider the additional information and feedback at the February 1 meeting.
The Board accepted the 2008-2009 financial audit.
Trustees tasked the Administration to bring back a proposed contract and/or leasing option for a digital, video scoreboard at Dragon Stadium, without committing district funds or binding the district to a decision in any way. Athletic Director Kevin Ozee will work with the Communications & Marketing Department to provide additional information on potential marketing revenues from a digital scoreboard at the Feb. 1 meeting. Again, Trustees reiterated they do not plan to utilize district funds for the purchase of a new scoreboard, but they would not rule out leasing as an option or utilizing a third party company to assume the debt risk while working with CISD to obtain marketing revenues to pay for the new scoreboard.
The Board postponed a final decision on the 2010-2011 School Calendar in order to collect more information and input on the possibility of ending the first semester before winter break. The Board will consider the additional information and feedback at the February 1 meeting.
The Board accepted the 2008-2009 financial audit.
Trustees tasked the Administration to bring back a proposed contract and/or leasing option for a digital, video scoreboard at Dragon Stadium, without committing district funds or binding the district to a decision in any way. Athletic Director Kevin Ozee will work with the Communications & Marketing Department to provide additional information on potential marketing revenues from a digital scoreboard at the Feb. 1 meeting. Again, Trustees reiterated they do not plan to utilize district funds for the purchase of a new scoreboard, but they would not rule out leasing as an option or utilizing a third party company to assume the debt risk while working with CISD to obtain marketing revenues to pay for the new scoreboard.
Thursday, January 7, 2010
Former Dragons Shine
Carroll fans cannot lose while watching tonight's BCS Championship game between Texas and Alabama. There are former Dragon athletes on both teams! Once a Dragon, always a Dragon. You can read about these and other successful Carroll ISD graduates by visiting the district's alumni website, launched last fall. Register for our graduate directory, sign up for the CISD newsletter and stay connected with former classmates and friends at http://www.southlakecarroll.edu/alumni/
Good luck tonight Dragons!
Good luck tonight Dragons!
Why close school today?
The decision to delay or close schools is always a difficult one. This morning was especially difficult because three districts on our border called school off and yet others near CISD either delayed or had school. The process started early this morning with our transportation and maintenance folks (some as early as 4 a.m.) and continued as our administrators and communications staff worked diligently to inform the staff/public. Ultimately, a decision was made to delay shortly after 6 a.m. and then later to close shortly before 9 a.m.
Weather forecasts showed no new precipitation, but temperatures were expected to remain below freezing. Sidewalks and side streets still contained ice during the early morning hours, and our employees who have to drive in from other communities began calling in for substitutes because of road conditions or closures involving their own children. Carroll ISD made the decision based on the information available at the time and with safety as a top priority.
Kudos to our many employees who were doing their jobs and doing them well so that Dragons could be safe. Enjoy the day inside, staying warm.
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