Annual report card shines with good grades

The Weatherford ISD Board of Trustees had more to celebrate than the annual Board Member Appreciation Day Jan. 13. 

The board received thanks and recognitions, but cheerfully bestowed glowing gratitude to educators and department heads who reported academic improvements and impressive progress of education programs at the meeting.

Weatherford High School principal Dr. Bill Tommaney recognized Teacher of the Year, Tiel Jenkins, and introduced high school department heads who detail advancements in academics from their students, Terry Ferguson, social studies and AP history; Alan Roemer, mathematics and AP calculus; and Staci Tharp, reading/writing and AP language. Each spoke of advance placement programs they oversee and coordinate with Tarleton University and Weatherford College to earn college credits and training while in high school.

“Being engaged is important for our students,” Tommaney explained. “We continue to build a culture of kids who are engaged and involved. When they are engaged, they want to be here. We have the best kids you have ever seen.”

The board complimented Tommaney on his involvement with students in the school, with campus activities and at sporting events.

ROOted in Excellence

Assistant superintendent of academics Marie Hernandez detailed the ROOted in Excellence program and explained how the district strives to involve the parents in their student's goals by explaining to them what is available and defining expectations for honors courses. Hernandez explained how the staff is supported through advisement, meetings and personal development.

“Our job is to make sure our students have the tools to succeed and to help the staff to direct the students to achieving their goals,” Hernandes said.

Hernandez later presented the results of the 2023-24 Texas Academic Performance Report, noting graduates improved greatly in the categories of college readiness and career/military readiness. The TAPR indicates a student's ability to enter the workforce, seek a military career or continue studies into college.

Election

It was announced four school board seats will be included in the May 3 Parker County election. Places 3, 4, 5 and 6 are currently held by Adam Feriend, Greg Shaw, Weldon Wallace and Kindra Lucia. Those terms will expire by May 27.