District

I hardly see how the paper you send to your tax base can be called The Progress when half of it is in Spanish. I don't want my tax dollars supporting this condescension.
I am a retired high school math teacher who remembers the water-down requests/demands that started in the late 70's all too clearly. Why is it that we continue to water-down our education system to make it easy for those with less knowledge rather than offering opportunities to them to help them reach appropriate knowledge levels.  
The October 2006 edition of The Progress, the Pearland ISD newsletter, you referred to contains details about the Nov. 7 Schoolhouse Bond Referendum. Section 272 of the Texas State Election Code requires that election “information that is prepared for voters in English must be provided in Spanish and any other required minority languages as well.”
Twenty-two percent of Pearland ISD students are Hispanic. This percentage dictates that we print voting information in Spanish to be in compliance with the law.

What happened to the inclusion of a competition swimming pool in the bond election? According to rumors and information in the recent local papers a pool was supposed to be part of one of the options. Now it appears to have dropped out of sight! Is a pool "dead in the water"? How can Alvin school district have four pools and Pearland, which is one of the fasting growing areas of the Houston area if not in the state of Texas, not have a single pool or at least a working plan or proposal? I am one of many disappointed/frustrated parents of up and coming swimmers. You response would be appreciated.
      As you stated, the proposal for the November 7 schoolhouse bond election does not include a competition swimming pool. There are strict guidelines regulating when and how a schoolhouse bond election is called. At the time the school board was required to file the paperwork to call the bond election for November, they did not have enough details about cost, dimensions, materials, and maintenance of a pool to make an informed decision to include a pool in the bond package. The board wants to make sure the information is accurate and complete before putting an item on a schoolhouse bond election.
      The pool package is something the school board will continue to pursue with city council. Since the Pearland city council is currently working on a bond package for May 2007, the school board is exploring options to collaborate on a pool plan with the city. The school board has a joint meeting planned with the City of Pearland and the Pearland Economic Development Corporation Tuesday, Aug. 22 at 6:45 p.m. in the Pearland ISD Annex Building, Conference Rooms D and E, 2337 North Galveston Ave., Pearland TX 77581. 
     Thank you for expressing your concerns. With the continued partnership of parents, community members, educators and the school board, the students of Pearland ISD will have the greatest learning experience possible.

Any suggestions for the parents that must be at work by 7:30 a.m. or so, and have a child that doesn't begin school until 8:45 a.m. Does the district have a "before school" plan in place? Thank you.
To accommodate parents, the campuses will be open at the same times next year as were this year. Campus staff will be on hand to supervise students. Parents might also consider carpooling.

Is PISD building a school on Old Alvin Road near John Lizer blvd?
The property on Old Alvin Rd. South is the site of Middle School #4. The project is scheduled to be complete July, 2007.

Why didn’t Pearland notify the media regarding school closures Jan. 16-17? Can you set up a phone number where parents can call for a recorded message on the status during severe weather conditions?
      The district did notify the media regarding schools remaining open Jan. 16 – 17.
      Emergency Closing Procedures are detailed on the district Website. Fortunately, these situations are rare. Because they don’t happen very often, we all need to review the process periodically.
      In summary, when conditions exist which might delay the opening of school or cause campuses to be closed, the district makes every effort to keep parents informed. When possible, a decision to close schools is made a day in advance of closing. In emergency or developing situations, a decision is made by 5 a.m. and area media outlets are notified. Parents, students and employees are advised to listen carefully to radio/television reports. In developing situations, the reports may change. Some stations list schools and businesses that are operating normally. Some stations only list schools and businesses that are closed.  Media who consistently list school closings are KILT 610 am/100.3 fm, KTRH 740 am, KTRK 13, KHOU 11, KPRC 2, KXLN 45.
      On Jan. 16 and 17, a status message was posted and updated on the main page of the district Website at 6 p.m., 10 p.m. and 5 a.m. In addition, on Jan. 17, the district telephone line (281.485.3203) contained an updated message that schools would be open. Finally, on Jan. 16 and 17, the director of communications, director of transportation and superintendent were in contact at 4:30 a.m. By 5 a.m., all media had been notified that Pearland Independent School District would be holding classes as usual. 

I can’t access the School-Alerts Website for school closing information. What is wrong with the link?
Pearland ISD has provided a link to a free school closing notification service provided by School-Alerts. Unfortunately, School-Alerts had system problems during the bad weather conditions January 15-17. The system is working properly now.

What happened to the statement that the ninth graders created after they conducted a protest?
After ninth grade students walked out of class March 28 in protest of immigration reform, the communications department forwarded the statement to local reporters who called for information.

I am concerned about zoning in the Pearland Independent School District. I have been hearing that students living in Shadow Creek Ranch, (Pearland, TX) will be allowed to attend Pearland schools if they agree to pay some sort of “transfer fee” and have way to get to school on a daily basis. Please let me know if this is true, and if it applies to the 05-06 year or starting 06-07 year of school.
There is NO truth to this. The Board is not considering a tuition transfer plan for people living in Shadowcreek Ranch or any other area outside of the boundaries of Pearland ISD.

Where can I find information on the district's plans for new construction and zoning for elementary campuses for the future? There has been much focus on the high school options with the abundant growth of our community, but no discussion of the needs for elementary campuses. Thank you.
Elementary #10 is located on the corner of Old Alvin Road & McHard Road; Elementary #11 is located on the Audubon Property on Magnolia. For updates on the construction progress check out our Construction Report page.

Rezoning open discussion, when does that happen? Here it is the end of November and the new zoning for middle schools is set. No info is being forwarded to parents so that we can make our voices heard. We are not always able to attend PTA meetings if that is where the info is being issued. 
Changing schools can be an emotional issue. The Board of Trustees wants to implement the best zoning plan for all the children of Pearland ISD.
To include public opinion, the district formed a zoning committee in September. The 41 member committee is comprised of parent and staff representatives from each campus. These committee members participate in the committee meetings bringing forward input from their peers and communicate back to their campuses.
Committee has met four times. The next meeting is Dec. 11. The committee will make a recommendation to the Board of Trustees in January. The trustees will make the final decision on a zoning plan in February. 
All citizen comments are forwarded to the Board of Trustees. They will consider all aspects before making a decision.
All zoning presentations are available online at http://www.pearlandisd.org/pisd/zoning_timeline.htm

Why was the 2006 bond election held separately (in different locations) than the general election? 
The Pearland ISD board of Trustees opted to host the schoolhouse bond election separate from the general election to accommodate branch voting. Historically, the Pearland community has been very supportive of branch voting. Branch voting provides the convenience of early voting in 18 neighborhood school district facilities. Brazoria County officials said they were not able to provide equipment for our branch voting. This resulted in the district’s decision to hold a separate election. The school board members discussed e-slate equipment and separate versus combined elections June 13, June 27 and July 11. The audio files of the meetings and approved minutes are available at http://www.pearlandisd.org/pisd/board_audio_agenda_archive.html.

Dear Pearland ISD.
I live in the East half of the Sunrise Lakes subdivision, and have just read about the rezoning of my area away from the Challenger Elementary School, and into the Lawhon Ellementary School.  I am quite upset about this change, and feel that it makes no sense.
My wife and I do not have any children yet, but are upset about this seemingly arbitrary decision, as it certainly is not based on geography.  At the very least, it might calm my frustrations if some facts leading to this decision were published on the www.pearlandisd.org website. It would also be interesting to read on www.pearlandisd.org the process in which the Pearland ISD uses to make zoning changes.
Sincerely,
Sunrise Resident

Dear Sir,
Thank you for your recent correspondence concerning the new attendance boundaries established for Challenger Elementary School. Since you asked for information on the Pearland ISD Website, I have provided links to information available on the site. If you still have questions or concerns after reviewing the information, you may call me at 281.485.3203.
Most of the information you are seeking can be found on the district website at www.pearlandisd.org. You may link to the Zoning page from the blue box on the bottom left corner of the default page of the Website. Because we knew the community was interested in the attendance boundaries, we placed this link at the top of the default page from October through January.
You may also go directly to http://www.pearlandisd.org/pisd/zoning_timeline.htm for an overview of the rezoning process, presentations from each of the committee meetings, and the proposal presented to the Board of Trustees Jan. 23.
Maps representing new attendance boundaries are also available from the default Web page and the Zoning Web page.
In addition, you may want to listen to the audio files from school board meetings where the attendance boundaries were discussed from October 2006 – January 2007.
We received various media coverage throughout the decision making process from October through January. Channel 13 – KTRK, Channel 11 – KHOU, The Houston Chronicle, The Pearland Journal and The Pearland Reporter carried the story at various times.  
I hope this information is helpful to you.

The zoning maps are very difficult to read - especially for those who do not know many street names. Is it possible to have a system (in addition to the maps) where you can type in your address and it will tell you where you are zoned. The maps are great. I study each map as it is posted. I find my street but it is difficult to find the streets of our friends and determine which school they will attend. It would be very helpful.
Now that the attendance zones are approved by the board, the transportation department is developing a street directory. At that point you will be able to type in your address and find the appropriate school attendance zone.

Does PISD have zoning plans for the new elementary school, Massey Ranch?
Massey Ranch zoning

My 5 year old son will be attending Shadycrest Elementary School in the fall.  Because we live within 2 miles of his school there will be a $43 monthly fee. I do not have an extra $43 a month to pay for him to ride a bus that should be free. I would like to know how the School District, City of Pearland, School Board expect my son to walk to school, which is what he will have to do if I do not find a way to come up with the fee.
Is this a School Board issue?
     The guidelines regulating transportation to public schools are in the Texas School Law Bulletin under section 42.155 titled transportation allotment.  The guidelines define “regular eligible student” as one that lives two miles or more from the student’s campus of regular attendance measured along the shortest route.  The state of Texas provides funds to transport the eligible students. Students who live less than two miles are considered “ineligible students” which means the school district does not receive funds for transporting those students. 
     Districts have several choices for transporting “ineligible students.”   A district can (1) transport those students at district expense, (2) not provide transportation to students living less than two miles or (3) transport the students living less than two miles for a fee.  Pearland ISD has chosen to provide transportation for the students living less than two miles for a fee so students have a safe way to and from school.
      Pearland ISD has investigated providing transportation for all students free of charge. The cost is prohibitive because the district would need approximately one hundred more buses at a cost of $70,000 per bus.  The cost of fuel, insurance and a place to park the additional buses would increase the cost of this service. 
     Pearland ISD is concerned about the safety of all students and this is why the district does transport students less than two miles for a fee.  The bus service for a fee does provide a safe method for your child to get to and from school.
      If your child qualifies for free and reduced lunches, the $43 monthly fee is waived.
      If you would like to address the Board you may do so during the citizen’s participation portion of the meeting; however, action cannot be taken on any item unless it is on the published agenda. Regularly scheduled meetings are 7 p.m. on the second Tuesday of each month. Special meetings are scheduled as needed. Agendas for upcoming meetings are posted on the Pearland ISD Website. You are always invited to attend. Meetings are held at the Education Support Center located at 2337 North Galveston Avenue. 

Can the state legislators vote to start school after Labor Day? I know that you have a calendar for next year, I was just wondering about the possibility of it changing.
The Pearland ISD school calendar for 2006-2007 has been approved by the Texas Education Agency. The Texas legislature could elect to start school after Labor Day. However, until we receive information to change our scheduled start-date we will plan for students to return to school August 10, 2006.

When is the district going to build new high school?
Trustees Plan For Future Growth

Why does PISD permit its schools (particularly elementary schools) to be used as voting places for elections?  In addition to creating traffic and parking problems, I think this creates a potentially serious safety issue for students due to large numbers of people entering school property.  Aren’t there plenty of other sites in Pearland that could be used for voting that wouldn't endanger our children?  It seems to be an unnecessary risk.
The Texas Election Code 43.033(a) says “an entity that owns or controls a public building shall make the building available for use as a polling place in any election that covers territory in which the building is located.” Therefore, when Brazoria County chooses to use a Pearland ISD facility for a polling place, the District complies.  This information is also includes in Legal Policy GKD (http://www.tasb.org/policy/pol/private/020908/pol.cfm?DisplayPage=GKD(LEGAL).html&QueryText=POLLING%20PLACES).

If you have additional questions about Brazoria County polling places, you may call the Brazoria County clerk’s office at 281-331-6101.

Three Tier Bell System for 2006-2007

2006-2007 Campus Hours
As a parent of a child at Sablatura Middle School and a child at Pearland High School , I am very concerned with the new school hours that go into effect next year.  My husband and I are both due at work by 7:30 each morning.  Do you have any suggestions for before-school care of the children that are affected by the new school hours?  Will you offer a before-school care program for these children?
Why weren't we allowed to voice our concerns/opinions? 
I respect the district’s attempt at budget cutting but in reviewing the starting times for schools it is apparent the district did not take into consideration the problems working mothers will have with young children and young teenagers.  Once a child reaches 12 years of age, day care options disappear.  I cannot allow my daughter to wait for the bus or stand outside the school for an hour waiting for the doors to open.  This is just not an option. 
Before school care: The starting time for elementary students was changed by 15 minutes.  The elementary principals have been given additional supervisory time to accommodate the change in the start time.  The starting time for middle school students was changed by 25 minutes.  The middle school principals have been given additional supervisory time to accommodate the change in the start time. Parents who are concerned about this should contact the campus that their child attends to obtain the time of supervision before school.  This adjustment in supervisory hours should address concerns about before school care.
Voicing opinions about the new school hours:  The administration is sending the concerns that parents have regarding the new school hours to the school board members. 

Comment:

I would like to voice my concern over the change in the bell schedule. As a parent of a middle schooler and a high schooler, I think that the bell schedule puts an unfair burden on working parents with younger children. I realize that the impact will be to create business for the local day cares however, middle schoolers have usually outgrown the day cares. Yet there is still a safety concern for those who must wait for busses after parents have left for work and high schoolers are in school. In light of the recent incident near Carleston what accommodations is the district planning for addressing these safety/busing concerns? The schools are generally not open at the time when parents leave for work and upper grade high schoolers are unable to drop off their siblings since the schools are not open more than 30 minutes before the bells ring.

I would suggest that the districts provide for a "study time" for the students to accommodate the changes in the bell schedule. This would provide time for tutoring, chance to read, or even eat a healthy breakfast.

Thank you for the opportunity to address my concerns and your willingness to consider alternatives.

Why is there so much focus on the G/T population of students (i.e. creating a school and future schools) when all of our schools are not exemplary therefore concluding we have more struggling students then G/T?

If my child is zoned to Massey Ranch and I do not want my child in a non-traditional IB school, what are my options?

Don't you think we should see if the IB program actually works with Massy Ranch before implementing it in the 2 new elementary schools? How much more money does it cost the district to train the teachers and apply for this program?
     Pearland ISD has been in the process of examining and discussing the IB program since the fall of 2004. Numerous presentations have been made to the board, to teachers, to parents and to groups such as GAP. We have sent representatives to IB training sessions, gone to conventions where IB was a topic of discussion, and we have visited campuses that have authorized IB programs. All of the information gathered indicated that the IB programs offered a comprehensive approach to teaching and learning that was based on best practices research. IB programs are for all students. The IB programs revolve around the written curriculum or what we teach (in Texas it is the TEKS); the taught curriculum or how we teach (concepts, knowledge, skills, attitudes, actions, and the inquiry method); and the learned curriculum or how we gauge learning (student assessment).
      The IB student profile promotes the characteristics of a student being reflective, principled, knowledgeable, an inquirer, a communicator, caring, open minded, well balanced, a thinker, and a risk taker.
      IB provides three stand alone programs. The Primary Years Programme (PYP) for students aged 3 -12. The Middle Years Programme (MYP) for students aged 11 – 17. The IB program at the 11th and 12th grade level is called the Diploma Programme (DP). It coexists with Advanced Placement (AP) and dual credit programs on many high school campuses. Recently SB 111 was passed by the legislature. One of the components of this bill is that students who receive the IB diploma will be granted up to 24 hours of credit at Texas colleges and universities. Each of the three programs has an authorization process that insures that the schools offering IB meets IB requirements.
      Meeting IB requirements will result in some training of teachers and other staff members. However, there is no IB certification process for teachers. Teachers are certified by the state of Texas.

I read that Pearland ISD parents have the ability to restrict what their children eat for lunch via the Web site.  Is this true?  If so how do you sign up for this option?
To make purchasing school meals more convenient for parents, Pearland ISD has implemented ParentOnline. This software allows parents to pay for their children’s lunches and place specific instructions about their diet through ParentOnline located on the Food Services page (http://www.pearlandisd.org/foodserv/) of the Pearland ISD Website.

When will a new calendar be discussed now that the Texas Legislature has voted to begin school on the fourth week of August?
The legislative decisions concerning the calendar do not affect the 2006-2007 school calendar. Pearland ISD will begin classes August 10, 2006.

When is the first day of school for '06-'07. Has a calendar been set?
The calendar has been set for 2006-2007. Please find a link on the default page of the Website: http://www.pearlandisd.org/pisd/calendar.htm

How can I get 8th and 9th grade textbooks for my child to study during the summer?
Call the principal at the school your child has just completed. The principal will be able to help or direct you to someone who can.

Why did Pearland not respond to the Channel 2 news story on the bus fee?
Christina Parks of KPRC-TV Channel 2 interviewed Director of Communications Renea Ivy-Sims about the bus fees. The station aired one statement from the interview during the 6 p.m. broadcast on May 9.

Comment:

I was pleased to hear that our Ninth Grade Tennis Team took first in district. This was the first time this has ever happened. What upset me was that no one in the city, district or media would know this unless they attended the Tennis Banquet this weekend. I would not have known had I not attended. It is appalling to see repeated congratulations to the other sports and the hard working men and women of the tennis world get the shaft. They deserve every bit as much recognition and support as all the other sports. I see a Good Luck wish to the high school softball team on the website. I check the districts web page daily and not once I have I seen any congrats, good lucks, kudos of any sort to any of the tennis teams. Beating Creek and Lake is a huge feat and the Ninth Grade Tennis team deserves a lot more recognition than what they received, which was none except at the banquet. Please pass this on to the board for consideration in making the world of tennis known to all the people of Pearland. The High School needs more courts, one new one is not nearly enough. Stands for spectators, covered and comfortable. They deserve as much as all other sports. The measly $3,000 that is given is not nearly enough to sustain a district winning team. That doesn't even cover the cost of the balls for a year. Please make us proud of what we have and show the community what an awesome team the district has. Thanks for listening and I feel assured there will be positive changes in the future to our up and coming tennis champs of the future.

Thank you for sharing the good news about the First Place Ninth Grade Tennis Team. When we hear good things happening across the district, we want to share the news. We count on the coaches and sponsors to get updates to the communications team to share the word with local media.

Why are some questions NOT posted?
The Because You Asked feature is one of the most popular pages on the Pearland ISD Website. We receive approximately 200 inquiries per month through the Website. For this reason, we answer the most frequently asked questions that are general in nature. Questions may be combined or edited for brevity and clarity. Therefore, if we receive six questions covering the same topic, we combine the questions and provide an inclusive answer.
Often citizens ask very individual questions. We do not post the answers to detailed questions that might identify a student. Detailed inquiries should be addressed at the campus level. When we receive those questions, we refer them to the campus.
People also asked questions that have previously been answered. We do not post repeat questions again.
If questions require research, the answers are not posted until the research is completed.
If your question is urgent, please contact your child's campus (numbers listed under Campuses page) or the central administration office (281.485.3203).

Is there a projected opening date for Middle School #4 which was approved on Bond 2005?  I have heard varying comments about where it will be located.  Where will it be?
Middle school #4 will open in 2007 on Old Alvin Road.

Are all teachers required to post grades on K12 Planet?  I have noticed that some do, and some do not.
District expectation is that K12 will be updated every Monday.  The changes are reflected on Tuesday.  Parents should contact the campus principal if current grades are not reflected.

Do you have any openings for special education teachers?
Please check our Human Resources page on the district Website at http://www.pearlandisd.org/hr/

How can I sign up to become an approved VENDOR for PISD?
Send a request in writing to Connie Hill, Director of Purchasing, 281-412-1306 (fax), hillc@pearlandisd.org, or 2337 North Galveston, Pearland, TX 77581. Include the company name, mailing address, phone number, fax number, and a brief description of the services you would like to offer Pearland ISD.

There is a rumor circulating that the dress code is changing on March 1st. Is there any truth to this?
Campus principals will notify parents and students of any changes in the student dress code.

Has the district looked into purchasing buses that run on compressed natural gas as a fuel alternative? 
Pearland ISD has looked at all alternative sources of fuel. Our facilities for fuel are very well set to accommodate diesel.  We are switching to ultra-low sulfur diesel ahead of EPA requirements. This is a much cleaner burning fuel than the low sulfur diesel that we currently use. The district will begin accepting bids for fuel Thursday, Feb. 2.

What is Pearland ISD's bonded debt load?  Approximately $320 million

What is the average bond rate for outstanding district bonds?  About 5 percent

How much bond debt has been retired in the past year?  $5,068,511

What are the income qualifications for free and reduced lunch?
See attachment

How often do you change the Q & A? I check this often and the same Q & A have been here for a long time. How do you decide what you post and who decides?
The Because You Asked feature is designed to address frequently asked questions from the public. The Director of Communications L. Renea Ivy in cooperation with Superintendent Dr. Bonny Cain provides short answers to frequently asked questions of general interest. Questions are combined or edited for brevity and clarity. If a question is specific, and the requestor has listed an e-mail address, we answer the individual but do not post the answer on the web. Many questions require cooperation of several departments to answer. Therefore, it may take a week for a question to be answered online. 
If an individual has an urgent question or a campus-specific question, he/she should contact the campus involved (numbers listed under Campuses page) or the administration office (281.485.3203).

Why are the School Board meeting minutes not updated in a timely manner? I would like to know within a week of the meeting what action was taken on certain items without having to contact the administration office to get this information. Thank you
Board minutes are posted after they have been approved by the school board. Generally, minutes from a meeting are approved at the next board meeting. They will be posted the morning after a meeting and will be one month behind.

Pearland ISD Statement Regarding Arrest of Pearland High School Teacher
      Immediately upon learning of allegations of inappropriate behavior between a Pearland High School teacher, Hollis Grizzard, and a student at Pearland High School , Pearland ISD suspended the teacher and notified Pearland Police Department.
     Pearland ISD educators and administrators are very concerned about the recent allegations. We regret that this has happened. This behavior is not acceptable in Pearland ISD. Our greatest concern is the education and well-being of our students.
     To address this latest incident, the district plans an additional training session for high school educators covering sexual harassment issues. The one-day training session will be conducted in November by the Pearland Police Department and Dr. Nyla Watson, high school principal.
     To obtain the most qualified teachers, Pearland ISD administrators will continue to implement screening tools to evaluate prospective employees. In addition, we will continue to be proactive in training educators and monitoring student/teacher activities. In addition, when allegations like this are brought to our attention, we will continue to act swiftly and responsibly.

Hurricane Rita Make-up Days
       The school board members addressed the loss of four instructional days due to Hurricane Rita during their regular school board meeting held Oct. 11. Based on input from campus principals, the school board approved the following recommendation:
       That the four missed instructional days will not be made up by students this school year. A waiver has been submitted seeking approval from the Texas Education Agency. Students who missed Tuesday, Sept. 27, will not be counted absent for purposes of perfect attendance
       Members of the school board recognize and understand the hardships and difficulties endured during Hurricane Rita. The trustees hope their decisions will grant much needed relief to the emotional stress experienced by students, employees and residents of the Pearland community.

Explain the rationale for Pearland ISD being the only district in this area to call staff and students back on Tuesday following evacuation for Hurricane Rita?
While many districts are rebuilding and making repairs, we are grateful that our facilities did not suffer major damage from the hurricane. Since our facilities were available and most of our employees were available, Pearland ISD (along with Angleton ISD, Columbia-Brazoria County ISD, El Campo ISD and Lamar Consolidated ISD) determined to resume classes on Tuesday.

We want to do what is best for our students. In every grade level, students have to meet predetermined levels of achievement to progress. We did not want to lose instructional time with our students. We expected to have some absences. The campus administrators are working to accommodate students and employees who were not able to return on September 27.

When will we make up the four days missed during evacuation for Hurricane Rita?
We know that parents are anxious to have a decision about the days missed. Pearland ISD administrators are weighing the options for making up or waiving the four days of instruction missed from Hurricane Rita. We are looking at the needs of students, needs of employees, state requirements and calendar restraints.

Comment:

We really have a great district here. I wish the pay was higher and the benefits were better, but I would not want to work anyplace else. Please keep looking after our employees because they help make our students the BEST.

When does school start for 2005-2006?
August 11. Please see 2005-2006 school calendar— http://www.pearlandisd.org/pisd/support_doc/05-06Calendar.doc

We live in the Pearland school district and our oldest two children attend public school. However, our youngest daughter attended a private school for Kindergarten for the 04-05 school year. What are the requirements for her to attend public school first grade?
http://www.pearlandisd.org/pisd/info.htm#enroll

When is teacher appreciation week?
Please show appreciation to our outstanding Pearland ISD teachers during Teacher Appreciation Week, May 1 – 7, 2005

What are the rules pertaining to absences and retention?
As stated on each student's report card: "To obtain credit for a class, a student must attend at least 90% of the days the class is offered. (Sec 8.27 of SB7)"
This is the law. If the student has missed an inappropriate amount of days during the school year the attendance clerk at the school sends home notices to parents about the student's excessive absences and reminders of the law.
If a student misses more than 90% of the days school is in session, the student's records go to the school attendance committee for review. Parents should call and discuss excessive absences with the building principal. The principal will give the parent details as to the individual student and if retention is a possibility because of excessive absences

Does Pearland ISD have a program offering former PISD students assistance with college loans if the student returns to PISD to teach after completing college?
No, the district does not have this program. 

Comment:

Why is it necessary for elementary children to wear dress code on picture day.  My daughter has attended Shadycrest for three years. This will be the first time she has had to wear dress code on picture day.  I think this is ridiculous, especially since two weeks later the children and staff are allowed to have "free dress" to celebrate their outstanding scores on the 03-04 TAKS test. 
My husband and I are teachers in a neighboring district and we understand the importance of TAKS, but I don't think the children should be rewarded with free dress for TAKS scores and not allowed for their picture day.  Couldn't they have combined these two activities into one day if they needed an excuse to allow the children to have free dress or is this just an arbitrary decision? 
I personally don't want my daughter's school picture to be in a colored polo shirt, I'd like for her to be able to wear a cute dress and have a memorable school picture taken that we can share with friends and family. We fully support the dress code at our house and wish our employing district subscribed to one, but to not allow the children the opportunity to have free dress for picture day and allow it on TAKS celebration day is ridiculous. 

Response: Each campus decides whether or not to wear dress code on picture day.  The campuses are allowed five waiver days from dress code.  The principals and staff decide when to schedule these waiver days on their campuses.  For further questions, contact the campus principal

Comment:

As a teacher at Pearland High School and a parent of students in the district, I would like to comment on the dress code. School is not a time for fashion statements or to be the "best" dressed. School is about learning and success. Teachers are hired to teach, and enable students to be academically successful. Addressing the inappropriate attire of a student takes away valuable instruction time. Students need to be concerned with learning skills they need for their futures, not looking and worrying how others are dressed. The current dress code has made it quick and easy to assess attire for students and allow us to get back to teaching. A big "thanks" to all who are supportive of the dress code.

02/10/05 There have been excessive absences of students due to stomach virus/flu.  I feel this infection is now also being spread to employees.  What is being done to monitor this situation?  The current strain of virus going around is highly contagious and typically requires 3-4 days recovery time.  At a very minimum, disinfectant and hand sanitizers that can be used in the classroom should be distributed.
Sincerely,
Concerned personnel
Like you, our goal is to help our healthy students and teachers to remain healthy.
During this season of increased illness, students are encouraged to wash their hands frequently, cover their mouths when they sneeze or cough, and refrain from sharing food. We encourage parents to contact their pediatrician with questions as soon as they suspect symptoms. In addition, we ask that parents be certain that their sick child is fever-free for 24 hours without fever-reducing medication before returning to school.
Custodians use a hospital-grade virucidal/bactericidal disinfectant that kills most identified viruses and bacteria. Each night, the custodial staff sanitizes doors, countertops, student desks, chrome fixtures and dispensers in the classrooms.
Soap dispensers are refilled each night with antimicrobial medicated cleanser.

If I live outside Pearland Independent School District, can my child attend Pearland schools if we pay a fee? If so, how much?
The school board has discontinued this policy.

How can I tell on the internet regarding my child's homework for the week?
Many campuses have "Team Pages" or "Peeks" that will inform parents about act ivies or classroom requirements for specific a week. Check out your campus web site or contact the campus webmaster so they can provide the information that best fits the needs of their students and parents.

Who coordinates the "Homeless" funds that are available from the state for Texas school children?
Dianna Hubbell coordinates these funds. You may contact her by calling 281.485.3203.

When do football players start practicing?
Junior High workouts begin the first day of school (Aug. 18).
Freshmen issue equipment August 9th at 3:30 p.m.
Freshmen workouts begin August 9th at the Ninth Grade Center at 6:00 p.m.
Junior Varsity workouts begin August 9th @ 8:30 a.m.
Varsity workouts begin August 9th @ 6:00 a.m.
Physicals, participation dues and all other forms are due before equipment can be issued and before a student can begin workouts.

Please post a list of the stores in the Pearland area or Web site links that sell dress code appropriate shirts for high school girls.  Because I will have to replace ALL of my two daughter’s shirts for this year, I do not want to spend a lot of money.  In the past, it has been extremely difficult to find shirts, now I fear it will be impossible.  I also do not play polo or golf so am not 100% certain of the definition of "polo" or "golf" shirt.
Wal Mart, Penny’s, Target and Sears sell this type of shirt.  They usually have some in the girls’, boys’, men’s and women’s sections.

Is it mandatory for students to wear polo/golf style shirts? What will be the consequences if HE/SHE does not?
SHIRTS OR BLOUSES (NO LOGOS) - Dress Code
• Shirts or blouses:
— Must have a standard collar
— Must be golf style, polo style with buttons, a dress shirt with buttons or turtleneck
— May be a school specific spirit shirt as approved by administration
— May NOT be leather, suede, vinyl, denim or stretch fabric
— May not be sleeveless
• May not be worn in any way that reflects gang affiliation, conceals contraband or creates a distraction.
• If a t-shirt or turtleneck shirt is worn underneath the dress shirt, it shall be in an approved (see above) solid shirt or pant color.
Consequences are detailed in the handbook as part of the Student Code of Conduct. This can be viewed online. Students also receive a handbook at the beginning of the school year.

Are you sponsoring the H1B1 visa? I am a Region IV ACP intern.  I am coming from Mexico. I am very interested in teaching secondary math at PISD.
The district may employ, but will not pay for the costs of H1B1 visa.

Do I have to re enroll my son every year?  My son will be going into second grade at the same school, Rustic Oaks.
If your child is zoned to the school he was attending and he completed the school year there, you do not have to enroll your child in that school again for a new school year.

I noticed that the PISD stipends are no longer posted on the district’s Web site. Will they be posted again in the future?
The stipends were permanently removed from the PISD Web site. However, you may call the Human Resources office for stipend information.

I see that we will need proof of our child having the Chicken Pox vaccination or proof that our child has had the disease.  What type of proof is necessary if our child has had the disease and the child was not taken to a physician at that time?
The nurses have forms at each campus that parents may complete. Another option is for parents to write a statement stating that their child, (name), had the chickenpox in (month), (year).  Then the parent needs to sign the statement and submit it to the child’s campus.  The statement is placed in the student’s file for Texas Department of Health audits.

Do you have any magnet schools within PISD?
No, we do not have magnet schools.

I noticed in the February Board minutes that PISD has committed to participate in the Texas Football Classic.  How much has PISD committed to spend in order to participate?
$30,000 has been set aside to fund this event.

I'm a teacher in Pearland ISD. To determine my pay rate for the next year including the raise we just found out about, do I look at the pay scale for my number of years experience for next year on this year's pay scale and add the raise? I'm confused.
Teacher may access the 2004-2005 teacher salary schedule at http://www.pearlandisd.org/hr/salaries.htm or http://www.pearlandisd.org/hr/support_doc/Career_Ladder_04_05.pdf if you receive career ladder II or III. For 2003-2004-2005, teacher longevity continues to be frozen.

I applied for a job at the Ninth Grade Center but have never been called for an interview. I called the school. They said the position is filled. Why does the Web site still have this position available? Although we strive to have the most current information available on the Pearland ISD Web site, there may be a lapse between the time a position is filled and the information is posted to the Web page. We apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused you. Check our site daily for updates.

I am very interested in the results of the recent survey that parents were given the opportunity to complete. Will these be available for parental review?
Four thousand parents responded to the Pearland ISD survey. We are still receiving responses and forwarding them to the coordinator for evaluation. Results should be available after June 1. The district is deciding the best medium to communicate the results to Pearland parents. Thank you for your participation and interest.

Why do you have a strict dress code? If you are really that worried about how the students look, why don't you switch to uniforms? The average family in the Pearland school district can't afford to go out and buy a new wardrobe for three children upon entering the system.
I am extremely frustrated with the continual modifications to the dress code. Two years ago, we bought my daughter shirts with contrasting piping because it was specifically allowed. We had to repurchase shirts last year because piping wasn't allowed. In the middle of this year, the principal at my daughter's school announce that lace on the collar, even if it is the same color as the fabric of the shirt, is not acceptable. This year, we will have to purchase all new shirts to replace those she has that are closed by snaps, zippers or sewn closed above the chest. In addition, most cotton polos have some stretch in them. How are you going to interpret stretch? Am I supposed to trust that your interpretation won't change? It is easy to forget which ones are acceptable for this year and wear one that is out of dress code. To avoid this problem, we have gotten rid of about 10 perfectly good shirts every school year. Do you know how arbitrary and petty this all sounds?
Why does my child have to wear this dress code? It is not right.
Is there any chance of ever being able to wear nice jeans again as part of the dress code above sixth grade?
The dress code was determined after considering input from parents, campus staff, students, and central administration. The original dress code stated that students were to wear a golf, polo-style shirt and that it should be buttoned appropriately above the chest area.
Jeans are not allowed in 7-12 grades.
Each year the district gathers input from the students, parents, and staff, and campus and central office administration as to clarifications needed to the dress code or changes to be considered. This information is reviewed by a select committee and often reviewed by legal assistance. The dress code is then presented annually to the school board in March.
The committee has consistently felt that uniforms would be too restrictive for students. The district administrators and staff like to provide students with choices. Thus, we allow any color shirt. The district added brown to the color choices for pants after widespread student requests.

Comment:

I appreciate what the School Board has tried to do with standardized dress but I think we have all lost focus. I am really frustrated with the continual changes and nit-picky details in the dress code. Two years ago I purchased a significant number of shirts that had collars and buttons but had piping or lace. I had to replace those shirts this year because lace and piping were removed from the dress code. This year I now have to replace virtually all of my daughter’s shirts because they either stretch, zip or snap shut. We had to get rid of the shirts that didn't fit the dress code because she mistakenly wore one to school and had was written up for it. I fully support a reasonable dress code but I think that this one goes too far. It has so many nit-picky details that frustrate both parents and teachers. I don't want my children's teachers wasting their time enforcing all of these details. I want a basic, minimal dress code that handles the extremes in dress and frees up the teachers and principals to concentrate on educating our students. The school staff can model appropriate dress but it is the parents' job to teach appropriate dress. The School Board's "Just One Thing" is to be an exemplary district and dress code takes significant time, energy and focus away from this commendable goal. Let's get back on track.

What is the phone number for the Administrative department?
Call 281.485.3203. Then ask for the person to whom you wish to speak.

Campush

When is the high school going to get the security cameras installed that Pearland voters approved? The security cameras were on the bond issue that Pearland voters voted for in Spring of 2003.
The cameras were supposed to be installed during Spring break 2004. They have still not been installed.
Cameras have been purchased and will be installed shortly.

How many high school students are seen daily in the office for dress code violations?
On average thirty five students are sent to the office for dress code violations.

Why does Pearland Ninth Grade Center offer Golf as an activity, but does not provide transportation for the students to get to the location of the required events? Is this a budget issue?
It is not a budget issue. The Transportation department does not have drivers available to transport the golf students because the drivers are on their routes transporting students to and from school. The bus barn is short-handed at this time. Talk to the golf coach and ask about alternative travel forms.

I am concerned that not every class at the Ninth Grade Center has a set of classroom textbooks.  The students have to carry heavy books back and forth to classes. Sometimes students are carrying several books because there is not enough time to go to lockers between classes.  
Many classes at the NGC have classroom sets of books. Because of the number of books allotted by the state, some do not have classroom sets. 
Students have 15 minutes before first period to go to lockers, five minutes between classes, and time at lunch. The student might try carrying books for a.m. classes until lunch. Then carry books for p.m. classes in the afternoon. Then the student can go to the locker when in the immediate area for classes.

Why does the fire alarm at C.J. Harris Elementary go off so often? I think the teaching and learning are being interrupted by the fire alarm. I am truly concerned for my child’s safety; however, no fires have actually occurred. Is the district going to do something about the problem that causes the fire alarm to go off so often?
Administrators are aware of the malfunction of the fire alarm at C. J. Harris Elementary.  Students and staff have not been in danger at any time while attending C.J. Harris Elementary.  There has been no fire at the campus. Pearland ISD representatives have met with the fire marshal for the City of Pearland to discuss solutions to the problem.  Currently, the district is waiting on a response from the fire marshal’s office to make needed corrections.

I have a child in the 6th grade. Does No Pass, No Play apply to him?
There is no organized UIL competition below the 7th grade. Therefore, No Pass, No Play is irrelevant. The exception would be if the student in question were overage in the 6th grade. That child might be eligible to compete in the 7th grade and No Pass No Play provisions would be required. Assuming the child in question is on track as far as his age, grade level, etc., then it does not apply to him/her.

What is the status on the work being done at Shadycrest? The inside work Shadycrest is in the final stages. The cleanup of the building has begun.  All inside work will be completed before August 18 (student return date) except for warranty work.  The physical education facility will not be ready when school begins.  The projected completion date for the PE facility is October 1.  The PE project is behind schedule because of the wet conditions in June.

I am having a terrible time receiving communications back from my son's teachers at Pearland High School. I have all of their e-mail addresses, but few of them actually respond. Are they just terribly over-taxed, and if so, what is my alternative? I have also contacted my son's assigned counselor several times for suggestions and have received no response. Are there alternative resources for concerned parents?
It sounds as though you have followed communication protocol. If you have tried repeatedly to contact your child’s teachers with no response, you should call the campus’ principal. In this case call Pearland High School, 281-997-7445. The principal, Ms. Serrano will help you.

Comment:

Why are the parents so quick to criticize the teachers/schools when in many instances it may be the parents?  I went to the orientation for the 5th grade students at Sablatura Middle School.  While Mr. Leal was making a presentation, several "clicks" of adults were carrying on their own conversations.  HELLO!!!  What message are you imparting to your children?  That it is okay to disregard the individual at the head of the class?  I was taught that when someone is talking, you PAY ATTENTION!  You don't interrupt and you certainly don't carry on a conversation over them.  Pearland, we are better than this!! Please set an example for our children and show some respect for these teachers.

I am having a terrible time receiving communication from my child's teachers.  Why doesn't Pearland have a web site where I can log in and check my child's daily grades on line?  Alvin and other school districts have this.
The technology department is currently in the process of establishing a district-wide system of communication like you describe. The interactive system is still in the developmental stages. Other large districts are piloting the system on individual campuses to work out the imperfections. Implementation for such a program in PISD is targeted for 2005/2006. For the current school year, please call the telephone number of the campus that your child attends.  Also check the campus' Web site to see if your child's teacher has an e-mail link.

When are the school dances? Where are they located? How do you pre-register?
Each campus schedules its own calendar of events. You may either contact the administrator at the campus you attend or check the individual Web page of the campus.

Comments:

My son is a 7th grader at PJHE, and he witnessed the altercation between two students that broke on local news last night (April 21). I have COMPLETE confidence in the administration at PJHE to resolve the problem and create a learning experience for their students, to make something good come out of a bad situation.
My son came to Pearland ISD this year from a neighboring district. In our former district, he was bullied daily and he hated school. The administration there did nothing to alleviate this widespread problem.
At PJHE, students are taught to respect one another and bullying is not tolerated. The difference in my son this year is huge. He loves being at school and has made more friends in one year than all others combined.
I hope the district will support Principal Lowe and her outstanding team as they work through the aftermath of this incident. As a parent, if there is anything I can do besides offering my support by this letter to the district and another directly to Mrs. Lowe, please let me know.
Sincerely,
Pam Necessary
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Parking at Carleston Elementary is a huge problem during school functions.  I have a suggestion. Across the street from Carleston is a closed business facility.  The school district could buy that property and make that a parking lot for Carleston.

Why does PISD not offer original credit classes for the summer at the high school level in core subjects, for a fee?
For summer 2004, PISD is offering three electives for original credit. Administrators plan to expand the original credit offerings next summer.
PISD has not offered summer classes for original credit in core subjects because of the limited time available to master the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills in the core subject areas. State law requires that classes offer ample instruction for a student to master TEKS of courses being taken. Students take Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills at grades 9, 10 and 11. PISD may consider lengthening the summer school session so that course content can be adequately covered.

Will Geometry be offered in summer school this year? If so, what is the cost?
Last summer geometry was offered as a credit recovery class and an initial credit cours