By Dawn Burleigh

The Orange Leader

 

Region 5 Education Service Center (ESC) is pleased to announce the regional winner for TASA’s 2019 School Board of the Year from Bridge City ISD. Board Members include Judy Cole, President; Jerry McInnis, Vice-President; Rebecca Rutledge, Secretary; Patty Collins, Asst. Secretary; Mark Anderson, Member; Michael Johnson, Member; and Thad Hill, Member. Todd Lintzen is Superintendent. He also served as Master of Ceremony as the board was recognized for their achievement on Monday prior to their meeting.

County Commissioner Kirk Roccaforte congratulated the board on behalf of the county.

“I look forward to working with you for the betterment of our community,” Bridge City Chamber of Commerce President Beth Arnold said.

Lamar State College-Orange President Dr. Thomas Johnson did not speak but was present for the event.

“Dr. Johnson fought hard for our kids to get affordable college tuition,” Bridge City Superintendent Todd Lintzen said.

School Boards are awarded the honor based on support for educational improvement projects and school transformation initiatives, as well as for educational performance in accordance with state-established standards. Other criteria include adherence to adopted board policies, function as a policy-making body, and a number of additional standards. 

“Thank you for showing your support,” School Board President Judy Cole said.

Specifically, Bridge City ISD School Board Members provided support in the following areas, to name a few: 

• Approval of long-range plans for curriculum design 
• Evidence of technology integrated into the learning process 
• Chromebook/iPad Initiative 
• Interactive Flat Panels 
• Sending staff to the Texas Computer Education Association Convention 
• Innovative programs initiated by the District 
• Flexible learning environments 
• Mini grants for instructional innovation

Region 5 ESC serves the school districts of Hardin, Jasper, Jefferson, Orange, Newton and Tyler counties plus High Island ISD, Hull-Daisetta ISD, East Chambers ISD, and LaAmistad Love & Learning Academy. Approximately 87,000 students and more than 6,100 educators are the clients of the organization. Service and technical assistance is its focus and is provided in a non-regulatory environment. It’s mission is to assist school districts in improving student performance while promoting greater efficiency and effectiveness.