January is is School Board Recogition Month
Written by admin, Jan 9, 2017, Comments Off
Courtesy Veronica Cantu,
(Laredo, Texas)-United I.S.D.-Laredo, Texas: The month of January is “School Board Recognition Month” and United Independent School District would like to take this opportunity to thank these exceptional local leaders for devoting their time to support public education and serve our schools and community. The United ISD Board of Trustees are: Judd Gilpin, President; Juan Roberto Ramirez, Vice-President; Ricardo Molina, Sr., Parliamentarian; Aliza Flores Oliveros, Secretary; Javier Montemayor, Sr.; Ricardo “Rick” Rodriguez, Member; and Ramiro Veliz, III, Member. This year, Board member Ricardo Molina, Sr. is celebrating his 20th year on the United ISD Board of Trustees.
“We proudly salute these educational advocates as they provide the vision and leadership that establishes the framework for our District. These individuals deserve recognition and thanks for their dedication and commitment to United ISD,” said United ISD Superintendent Roberto J. Santos.
The United ISD Board of Trustees are elected by local citizens who work without pay. Each year, the Texas Association of School Boards encourages public school districts and communities to show appreciation to these individuals for their commitment to the success of all students.
“Our Board members serve a crucial link between the community and the classroom. They have a difficult job to shoulder but their focus is always on the success of our students and the District,” added Santos.
As the governing body for United ISD, the Board of Trustees oversee an annual budget of $363M (includes general operating, debt service and child nutrition funds) and an educational program for over 43,600 students from pre-k through 12th grade. Additionally, Board members chart the direction of educational programs and services and establish the standard by which success is measured. The Board works collaboratively with the Superintendent, approves the budget and monitors expenditures, and sets the tax rate, as well as other functions.
In 2013, the United ISD Board of Trustees worked harmoniously to successfully pass the $408.7M school bond election. The Board is now overseeing the construction projects included in the Bond package which includes 14 new schools, upgrades in safety and security, additional technology, and additions and renovations to existing facilities.
