Posted in [News from Mike], [Recent Posts]

Want to support Texas schoolchildren? Here are four things you can do.

1. After the majority of the Texas legislature chose to cut over $5 billion from public education, parents and other concerned citizens started getting more organized to restore support for Texas schoolchildren. You can join them -- and me -- at the Save Texas Schools conference February 3-4 in San Antonio. Register now, and then get out the word to your Facebook friends and e-mail lists.

2. While we push state leaders to improve public education and raise the revenue our schools need, let's also be sure to recognize the positive things happening in our schools. Congratulations are in order, for example, to Fox Tech High School, Zamora Middle School, and 24 other Texas schools nominated for Blue Ribbon Schools recognition.  If you know a teacher, volunteer, student or whole school that has a good story to tell or deserves a little recognition for going the extra mile, then send me an e-mail. I'd love to highlight them in one of my next e-newsletters.

3. The House Public Education Committee is holding a hearing January 23 on the state's public school testing and accountability system. Parents in my district have been very vocal on this topic, and I don't blame them! Here's your chance to testify about the overemphasis on testing or any other concerns you have. Details are on my Facebook page.

4. People all over San Antonio have been answering our call to volunteer with local students through SA 2020, but we are still looking for more help. If you would like to mentor a student, serve as a Reading Buddy, or help high school seniors fill out financial aid forms, then visit www.SA2020.org to learn more and sign up. Be sure to tell any high school seniors you know that Student Aid Saturdays start Jan. 28.

Thank you for everything you do to support Texas schoolchildren.