“Texas Governor Declares Victory for Voters: Historic Property Tax Cut and Pension Increase; Education Policy Takes Spotlight for 2024 Campaign”
Hello SAISD Parents, Teachers, and Community Members,
I received an update yesterday. We have a big win as the Governor, in a statement, said that the voters prevailed, and the amendments would go into effect without delay. This is a massive win for voters as this will be the most significant property tax cut and raise for retired teachers in Texas history. That’s great news because we have waited over twenty years for this to happen, and I am glad our votes have been validated. Now the Governor will take his Education Savings Account or vouchers on the campaign trail in 2024. This year, we have been through a long and hard battles to get the funding we need for our public schools, teachers, and staff, and we will keep fighting this battle because we need public education in Texas. We have also sent a clear message to our Governor that if our schools are not performing well, it’s because, under his administration, he has failed all of us.
I, too, know that as SAISD is closing schools, and that’s a big loss, but we could turn it around and see it as the land of opportunity to create something that will still help our communities. We have also seen our community go through some hard times, but during those moments, we must come together to help one another. As a community, we need to remember that things have changed after COVID-19, but if we can practice kindness, we can help heal our neighbors.
As we approach the holidays, we need to call our friends and family to check in on them and send our love to all of them as well. I understand there may be fewer Christmas gifts this year, but we must remember that being around those we love can be better than any gift. Thank you to all those who take the time to read my articles every week. I want to say that I am honored to represent our Eastside Community members, educators, students, and staff as I fight for a better future for all of us.
Lastly, I have some good news: The Pride of the Eastside Sam Houston Band had nine members who made Region Band and will now try out for Region Concert Band in January 2024. Good Luck to those who will be moving forward.
Until we meet again in, January 2024, know that I am always here to keep up with all the educational issues and I hope everyone has a beautiful and blessed Christmas and a Happy New Year.
If anyone has questions or concerns please email me at lena.lopez@saobserver.com.
Have a Blessed Holiday,
Lena Lopez
