Ask the Superintendent Responses

Marvin Beaty, Superintendent of Troup ISD

Question #1: Chain of Command
Question #2: How are we keeping football boys safe in the summer heat?
Question #3: Who do I express my concerns to about the fast food style of foods we are serving our children in the cafeteria?
Question #4: How often are students drug tested at Troup ISD?
Question #5: Are there any plans to widen the high school driveway?
Question #6: Why will you not address anonymous questions or complaints?
Question #7: Concerned about first day jitters
Question #8: Increasing written communication between faculty, staff and parents
Question #9: Prayer at football games

 

 

 

 

Question #1: Chain of Command

Chain of Command

If I am unhappy about an incident or series of events, why can’t I just come to you or a Board member to get resolution instead of having to go through so many cumbersome steps?

 

Great question! Board Policy DGBA outlines steps for grievances employees may have. Board Policy FNG outlines steps for resolution of issues concerning students. And, Board Policy GF outlines steps to be taken for resolution of public complaints. At first glance it would seem that the easiest step to take is to go straight to the top for resolution of complaints. However, that is in actuality, the furthest thing from reality. There are many reasons we must go through the proper channels to get relief from our many concerns. We must keep in mind the following issues of respect, legal entanglements, privacy rights and expediency of results.

Respect is an issue that we can all agree upon. If I am unhappy with you, the most respectful way to deal with the issue is to come to you and offer you an opportunity to rectify the situation. In all of our Board Policies it is set forth that we should seek resolution at the lowest possible level.

A legal entanglement is another reason to seek appropriate resolution for our grievances. Once in a great while issues are beyond agreement through the formal process and a court is asked to intervene and render a decision. Courts have held that they are unwilling to take up an issue unless those issues are routed through the proper channels and all avenues of local relief are exhausted first. Moreover, if an individual takes an issue up with board members outside of the process they risk the member’s ability to consider the issue once it is actually brought before them as a corporate body. A Board member that has been briefed privately on the matter potentially loses their ability to be objective in the matter and will often be required to recuse (remove) themselves from deliberation on the matter once it is brought before the board.

Privacy matters are always a genuine concern. Not all matters are public information. Issues concerning minors and family rights are to be handled with kid gloves. The Family Education Right to Privacy Act (FERPA) governs much of what we do and say at all times. We must always be careful not to divulge the wrong information to individuals that do not have a “right to know.” A right to know and a desire to know are very separate issues.

Expediency is something we all have as a common goal. By attempting to resolve a matter at the lowest possible level we are dealing with the individuals that are truly involved in the problem. By breaking the chain of command and bringing the issue to upper administration or a Board member we only require them to do what we, the complainant should already have done, and that is go directly to the source of the perceived problem, get all the facts and make the judgments that are in the best interest of the complainant and the District.

I understand that attempting to resolve conflict can be intimidating. It often brings out the worst in us as we are uncomfortable looking someone in the eye and saying “I am unhappy with you.” However, we must do just that! Troup ISD is committed to following the chain of command in all matters. And, as uncomfortable as it may be for all of us, it is a necessary process. Please feel free to access all of the District’s policies at http://tasb.org/policy/pol/private/212904/. Moreover, do not hesitate to call if I can offer any assistance or interpretation of the District’s policies.

 

 

Question #2: How are we keeping our football boys safe in the summer heat?

Mr. Beaty,

What are we doing to keep our football boys safe in the summer heat? I am very concerned that they will suffer from too much too quick!

Sincerely,
Taking Heat

 

Dear Taking Heat

The brown grass in my yard is one of many reminders that we are short on rain and long on hot summer days. I want to assure you that we have addressed the issue with all of our extra-curricular sponsors. They are keenly aware of the issues that face your children. Yes, we are mindful that they are just children. It is our goal to keep them hydrated while they become acclimatized to the Texas heat. In 1979, when I was an involved with 2-a-days at Humble High School , we were permitted to have 1-12oz drink of water or unsweetened Cool-aide after the 1 st hour of a two hour practice. 27 years later I wonder how we made it through such a Spartan experiment. Coach Eastman, our Head Football Coach and Athletic Director has taken extra precaution to see to it that we have regular water breaks scheduled into practice no more than every 20 minutes. But, any athlete can break for water at anytime they feel the need. Moreover, we have a full time trainer on site during the workouts. Also, thanks to a couple of ingenious moms we have a new cooling system installed at the football practice field. This system will constantly spray a cool mist of water the athletes can step into for a quick cool down. There will also be a shaded area put in place for kids or coaches that are in need. If after all of these precautions, a student athlete falls prey to the heat, we will not hesitate to call medical personnel to offer assistance. Better safe than sorry.

Stay Cool,
Marvin Beaty
Superintendent of Schools
Troup ISD

 

Question #3: Who do I express my concerns to about the fast food style of foods we are serving our children in the cafeteria?

 

I have been doing a lot of research on ADD & ADHD and the most common denominator that I have found has been nutrition. I guess what I would like to know is who or how do I express my concerns about the fast food style of foods we are serving our children in the cafeteria? I do know the Government has something to do with what they are given to serve, but I know in the past the Troup ISD has served more nutritious lunches. I didn't know who to start with about this question so I thought of you.

Thanks,
Angie Hammonds

 

Angie,

I appreciate your inquiry. We are given specific guidelines from the State and federal Government when it comes to the Chile-Nutrition Department. Every meal we serve must meet guidelines as to the quantity and nutritional balance. If we fail to meet the guidelines set forth we (the district) may be substantially penalized financially. With over 1,000 people participating in our programs, with each serving we find that we delight and disappoint individuals of different taste each time we serve a meal. I cannot speak to events that took place prior to the fall of 2004, but since that time we have been inundated with state mandates from the Texas Legislature and Federal Government. We too have occasionally said “yuk” what happened to our traditional lunch foods? This year we are introducing a new Manager of the Child-Nutrition Program in Mrs. Renee Medford. Renee is a long time employee of the district and has my full confidence that she will continue to serve Troup ISD in a quality fashion.

Although I have worke3d with students that suffer from ADD and ADHD for the past 22 years, not being a physician, I cannot offer appropriate comment on the research offered in the field of medicine. One of our greatest issues is not the preparation of nutritious meals but the presentation. Students often don't like eating things that are good for them. Consequently, each day we throw a great deal of nutritious food into the trash. We regularly conduct surveys to find out what students desire and keep stringent counts on the types of food children actually eat so we can construct menus that are a positive blend of nutrition and desirability. We also face reviews on occasion from State and Federal agencies to insure that we are serving appropriate meals. I can fondly remember the days my own mother served in the cafeteria line at Humble High School . It is truly no easy task. And, I'm sure we share a mutual admiration and respect for these ladies.

However, we acknowledge that these are your children, your schools and all of the money we spend belongs to you, the taxpayer. Therefore, we welcome any and all constructive assistance. I want to recommend that you contact Mrs. Renee Medford at (903)842-3067 or at rmedford@troupisd.org to set a time to meet with her and share your ideas. Together, we will continue to make Troup ISD a great place to work and lean.

Respectfully,
Marvin Beaty
Superintendent of Schools
Troup ISD

 

Question #4: How often are students drug tested at Troup ISD?

 

Hi Mr. Beaty:

My child is going on his third year at TISD and he told me today that he has
never been drug tested.

Just curious as to why? The school we came from drug tested very frequently,
and I just assumed all schools did the same.

I tried to go to Troup's website to and could not get the ask the superintendent to
work, so I hope you get this.

Thanks for your time,

Kristy Ross

 

Kristy,

Great question! Troup ISD does have a sound drug testing policy. It targets students involved in the extra-curricular program. If your son or daughter has been a participant in Junior High or High School athletic programs then they have been tested. For example, tomorrow is the first day of school and Coach Eastman, our Director of Athletics, has assured me that all football players, volleyball players, cheerleaders and band members will be tested this week. Following the initial tests, the program is set up to randomly pick students from the programs for a follow-up test. We have no involvement in the selection process. It is completely confidential. A student may never be selected and then again during that school year… a student may be selected multiple times. Once a student is selected and displays a positive test then it is a certainty that particular student will be tested again and again. The company that conducts the tests is Southwest Consortium out of San Angelo, Texas. The tests costs 13.95 each and results are confidential. Moreover, we also test all of our bus drivers annually and on a random basis. I appreciate your interest in the program and welcome any future inquiries. I invite you to call Coach Eastman if I have not offered what you believe to be a reasonable response.

Respectfully,
Marvin Beaty
Superintendent of Schools
Troup ISD

 

 

Question #5: Are there any plans to widen the high school driveway?

 
Are there any plans to widen the driveway that leads into the upper campus (ie where the band bldg is)?
The lanes are so narrow that some vehicles have to wait to let larger vehicles by before they can proceed which causes congestion. Just wondering.

Keep up the good work!
You and your team are doing a wonderful job.
Thanks.

Margaret Knuckles

 

Margaret,

Great question! It has been discussed on several occasions. It was a definite consideration when the Bond program was planned 18 months ago. However, it was an issue that was not financially feasible at the time. However, I feel it is an issue that will continue to deserve consideration. I too have had to wait and maneuver on that very drive. I wish I had great news and could say we are breaking ground tomorrow. At this time I am unable to say that. But, I will keep your concern in the forefront of my mind when we begin to discuss future capital projects. Moreover, thanks for the compliment on our work. We are blessed to have wonderful kids, teachers, principals and directors at Troup ISD.

Respectfully,
Marvin Beaty
Superintendent of Schools
Troup ISD

 

Question #6: Why will you not address anonymous questions or complaints?

 

Mr. Beaty,

When I called this week and asked if you had received any complaints on a particular teacher you refused to discuss the matter with me unless I identified myself. I don’t think that is fair. I am concerned about my child being retaliated against if I identify myself. I think you should have answered my questions regardless of whether I identified myself or not.

 

Dear Anonymous,

In the 22 years I have served as a Teacher, Assistant Principal, Principal and Superintendent, I have never seen a student retaliated against because a parent complained. It generally works in the opposite direction. Because a complaint has been lodged, school personnel go above and beyond to make sure retaliation is not even a perception. Moreover, I do not respond to anonymous issues that deal with complaints about school personnel. If I were to call you and offer anonymous complaints about your child I would expect you to become very upset with the fact that an adult from the school district refused to identify themselves.

If you have the courage to complain and possibly harm the reputation of another individual… have the courage to identify yourself. I don’t do anonymous!

Respectfully
Marvin Beaty
Superintendent of Schools
Troup ISD

 

 

Question #7: Concerned about first day jitters

 

Mr. Beaty,

I am struggling with leaving my children on the first day of school.  They are in Kindergarten and 2nd grade.  They always cry when I leave.  Do you think it would be best for me to stay with them on the first day?

 

Dear Concerned,

This is an age old dilemma when children are going to school on the first day.  They seem so helpless and sad.  However, speaking as an individual that is a Dad, former Elementary teacher, and current administrator... it has been my experience that giving them a hug, kiss and a gentle reminder that everything is going to be just fine is the best way to handle the situation.  Staying at school only continues the pleas of the child for you to take them away from the unfamiliar surroundings.  In 99.9% of the cases the child is just fine in 10 to 15 minutes. 

Moreover, you are going to love our Elementary staff.  They are the most caring and gentle individuals God has ever breathed life into.  They will take care of your children.  That is what they do!  They are experts at 1st day jitters.  But, let me also assure you that if you have any concerns, principal Debbie Moxley, and Melanie Johnson, Dean of Students will be there to address and remedy whatever comes about.

Good Luck,
Marvin Beaty
Superintendent of Schools
Troup ISD

 

 

Question #8: Written Communication

 

Mr. Beaty,
I would like to see more written communication from the teachers and staff at the schools. I know that my children (15 and 11) should be old enough to communicate with me what a teacher has told them, but then again, they are children. It is frustrating to see my kids punished or see them suffer because of miscommunication or lack of it. My kids are also bad about remembering things at the last minute, putting us as parents into a bind either financially or time-wise. If only a note had been sent home or an email (we provided it on the paperwork) sent, it might help us better prepare, and help us in training our children to be more responsible. If I had the time, I would be more involved with the school and might know more; but as a working mom, it is difficult to lose time from my job to visit the schools or teachers. Thanks for your time.
God bless your work at Troup!

 

I appreciate the words of affirmation. It is nice to know that there are so many others that feel the same as I do.

I did some checking into ways to increase communications between your home and the school. I have several suggestions.

  1. Take the lead by initiating an e-mail dialogue with your children's teachers. All e-mails will go directly to them at their desks and they will answer in a timely fashion. If you do not get timely answers... let the principal or me know and we will remedy that situation.
  2. The Junior High sends home a weekly bulletin to help make parents aware of the activities in progress at he school.
  3. All High School teachers should have contacted you at the beginning of the year in order to establish a dialogue and relationship. If any of your children’s teachers from the High School did not call, e-mail or snail mail you... I want to know about it.
  4. Ms. Capps, our Technology Director has suggested that you go onto the website and log onto the "Parent Connection" it is a way of accessing information about your children's academic progress on an ongoing basis. Once you log on, she will assign you an account number and you will have full access.
  5. Troup ISD is for the first time establishing a newsletter known as the "Tiger Telegraph." This newsletter will be sent to every household in Troup ISD every 9 weeks to cover a broad range of topics in hopes of increasing communication. The first issue is due out the Monday after the completion of the 1st 9 weeks. That is about 3 weeks away.

    I offer so many suggestions because there is obviously no magic bullet that fits all households in the district. I understand your work constraints as both my wife and I work. It is truly a challenge to keep up. However, I would like to offer you praise for making strong attempts.

    Again, thanks for the kind words and I hope you have a wonderful rest of the year.

    Respectfully,
    Marvin Beaty
    Superintendent of Schools

 

 

Question #9: Prayer at football games

Mr Beaty,

I have been very disappointed since our school district decided to omit the prayer @ football games. I understand that TEA or other government sanctions may not "approve", but I feel that we as Christians have been forced to make a stand. Honestly, that's a shame in itself that we have to put ourselves at risk of reprimand because of our belief in God. Your articles in the Tri-County Leader have been very inspirational, and show you to be Christian, but information that the parents have received indicate that the ommission of the prayer at games is your decision. We are a Christian community--Let's show it and be proud! The other towns we have played in don't seem to be ashamed of it- they did pray at their games. I am ashamed and embarrassed at every home game, and until recently, I thought it was just me, but it's not. Most of us in the community feel this way. Make a stand and we will back you.

Thanks for Your Time


I understand where you are coming from… however; there are a few things I need to clarify for you. Our decision not to pray prior to athletic contest is based on the same premise that we used when we decided not to pray before classes on the loud speaker in the morning. Much has been written and said about this in the media and I have personally spent more hours than I can count at legal seminars learning about the “do’s and don’ts” of the “separation of church and state” rulings. As goofy as it all may seem the courts have taken the position that they are protecting us from ourselves. For example, in a multi-cultural society how do you decide who you will pray to? Will it be a Muslim prayer, Christian prayer, Jewish prayer or Buddhist prayer…? And if you have more than one sect represented… well, serious conflict is around the corner. Therefore, we observe a moment of silence so each individual can pray as they see fit or abstain from prayer as they see fit. It has nothing to do with being ashamed of our Christian heritage. The courts have ruled that you may pray prior to Graduation, NHS inductions and at Baccalaureate. However, they have been very clear that if you choose to pray prior to athletic contest you will be violating the civil rights of any individual in the stadium that does not believe the same way you do. Consequently, if they choose to file suit… you will lose! Not may lose. Not could lose. You will lose! And because it is a civil rights violation and you knowingly perpetrated the act you are not only professionally liable but personally liable. That means they can come to my house take my belongings, clean out my checking account and my kids college funds. The courts were not ambiguous in their rulings. Just FYI, our attorneys that represent the district are Christian men and they have vehemently advised us not to violate the ruling. The schools that live outside the accepted norm may be loved by all and admired by many… but if they get filed on in court… they are gambling with the taxpayers hard earned dollars. That is a risk I’m not willing to take with my family or your money. I admire your spunk but it is a battle we can’t win at this time.

Respectfully,

Marvin Beaty
Superintendent of Schools
Troup ISD