For my non-school folks that read this blog (hi mom), HB 4545 is a piece of Texas legislation. House Bill 4545 became effective in June 2021 and mandated additional tutoring for all students who did not pass the state mandated tests.
On the surface most folks would likely agree with the intent of the policy – its practicality has been a completely separate matter. One of the most challenging components of this legislation is providing this accelerated instruction in addition to all the other academic areas that still must be covered.
My title this time was a not so subtle nod to Amazon Prime – I suspect teachers are feeling that overnight rush of results that need to be delivered daily. As an administrative team, we’ve been visiting with individual campus leadership as a status check. Arguably, our highest performing elementary campus proved to be our most knuckles drawn. They clearly took heed of the adage to never bring a knife to a gunfight and their delivery was impactful. Their response was we need more time but since that’s not plentiful we’ll continue to create and innovate because our students and their families expect nothing less. Their principal is a leader who will go far and she’s paving the way for future leaders while she’s at it. Their candor was welcomed yet reminding – if our highest performing campuses are having these mind thoughts then why would it be any different across the board? This particular principal made a great example when she said if you can’t provide follow-up support on something, don’t attempt to initially train on it. That’s not quite what she said but the idea was provide support with full fidelity.
On Thursday evening I wrote a note to one of our younger son’s teachers thanking him for his patience and flexibility. Our kiddo hit a patch where compromise was sorely needed and it ultimately worked itself out. In the end my kid worked hard, his teacher worked hard, and we landed in the best of shape.
I have to admit it is a challenge for me not to respond when public education is questioned or challenged. All I can do is reference my last entry and remind readers 9 out of 10 school-aged kids benefit from public education. Happy Spring Break everyone – rest up and store up so you can finish this last quarter strong.
If we get public education right, everything else will follow. But if we get it wrong, not much else will matter.
~Steve Kagan
What if? Why Not? 
You HB4545 order has been responded..thanks for reminding us all about ensuring that we truly follow-up with how our students are doing. There’s so much at stake here, we can’t have anything less.
Enjoy your Spring Break. Keep writing my friend.
Let’s talk graduation!!!
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