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Longview ISD discusses plan to move forward with implementing district-wide charter based programs

Six Longview ISD schools could become charter based schools by July of 2020.

Instead of following state school board regulations, Longview ISD is hoping to implement charter based programs into various schools. 

The change would be led by East Texas Manufacturing Advancement Academy, a Lonview-based non-profit organization. 

RELATED: Longview ISD discuss possibly implementing more charter-based programs

The change would provide, innovative teaching techniques, International Baccalaureate training, advancements in Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics (STEAM) education as well as career technology education programs. 

In an attempt to get feedback, the district held multiple town hall meetings where some teachers, parents and students expressed concern about the charter-based programs. Other concerns include how the programs would be implemented.

Longview ISD Superintendent James Wilcox says believes the changes will help students reach their full potential. 

"We're not satisfied with where we are [and] the work that the district has done," Wilcox said.

Senate Bill 1882 allows districts the option of having non-profit organizations operate its various schools. In May, Longview ISD received approval to turn six of its schools into charter-based programs under the leadership of the East Texas Manufacturing Advancement Academy.

"We have to balance what's best for every student [and] this district with what our taxpayers are willing to support," Wilcox added.

If approved by school board members, The East Texas Manufacturing Advancement Academy would have instruction control over the East Texas Montessori Prep Academy, Ware East Texas Montessori Academy, Johnston-McQueen Elementary, Bramlette STEAM Academy, J.L Everhart Elementary and Forest Park Middle School. 

The East Texas Montessori Prep Academy transitioned to a charter school three years ago. 

While some parents and teachers are against the proposed changes, Wilcox says they will not be as big as some may believe.

RELATED: Longview ISD districtwide charter meetings attempt to clarify plans

"The teachers, as well as the parents and the students, will hardly notice any difference at all," Wilcox explained.

By becoming charter-based, the district will have the opportunity to receive more state funding. Students could also see a new career technology education program, more STEAM programs and International Baccalaureate training. 

RELATED: Longview ISD expanding international baccalaureate program across district

"We feel like that there's no status quo in education," Wilcox said. "You have to get better every day. You have to push the envelope, you have to improve inside first." Wilcox said.  

If approved, students, teachers and staff could see changes by July of 2020. 

The district will also give a status update on Senate Bill 1882 during Thursday's school board meeting.  The meeting will be held in the boardroom of the Education Support Center (1301 E. Young St.) at 6 p.m. 

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