Ott's Outlook
January 2024
We’ve only been back from break for a few days but we are off to a great start this new year! I have had the chance to visit all campuses, watch some basketball, wrestling and soccer and see competition prep in fine arts and CTE. Our students have returned to prime form and our teachers are rested and rejuvenated.
Due to the nearing primary elections, I wanted to share some information. As you probably know, the elections upcoming in 2024 will be critical for public education in Texas. I am not sure there has ever been a more critical time to exercise our right as voters. This legislative session included discussions around several education topics to include funding for school safety, teacher pay raises, vouchers, special education funding, increase in basic student funding etc. Public education was debated during the legislative session, with very few bills making it across the finish line.
Statewide data shows that the primaries are typically overlooked, with a very small percentage of people voting, and opting to wait for the general November election. Education is a topic that cannot wait until the general election in November. These issues begin with the primary elections this March.
The first step in this process is to become a registered voter. Many individuals are not registered to vote. The deadline to register is Monday, February 5th.
The second step is to get informed about candidates for state office and plan to vote in the primary elections on March 5th, 2024 (early voting begins February 20th). In most places in our state, the primary elections actually determine the ultimate winner of the general election, so if your voice is going to be heard, it MUST begin with voting in the primary election.
In Texas, anyone can vote in either the Democrat or Republican primary regardless of how you have voted in the past or how you intend to vote in November’s general election. Our goal should be to choose candidates who will represent their constituents and education systems well, regardless of party.
As far as voting locations, the Bell County website lists all the locations here https://www.bellcountytx.com/departments/elections/election_day_locations.php - and you will see that the Temple ISD Administration Building is also listed as a voting site.
Please remember that your vote is your voice and every vote matters.
I am looking forward to a successful spring semester and wish everyone a Happy New Year!
Sincerely,
Bobby Ott
Mascot Selected for Sampson-Howard Elementary
With the closing of the Cater Elementary campus imminent, based on declining neighborhood enrollment, a group of Cater teachers approached district administration about bringing their current mascot with them as they move to Sampson-Howard Elementary. The TISD board of trustees considered the suggestion and made it official at their meeting on January 9th that Sampson-Howard’s mascot will be the Cougar.
First-year teachers at Temple ISD get back-to-school shopping spree through donation, grant funding
You can nominate a special Temple ISD alum for our Alumni Spotlight!
Temple ISD has a long history of excellence and we have had many, many graduates who have gone on to exemplify our vision to become influential and impactful leaders in their local communities and beyond. Temple ISD Alumni Spotlight will feature alumnus and alumna that have represented our community and our district in a positive way.
To nominate yourself or a Temple ISD graduate, please complete our online Alumni Spotlight Nomination Form. Nominations will be reviewed and candidates selected by the Temple ISD Board of Trustees Policy Committee
