May 17, 2023
Dear Cotulla ISD Employees, Parents and Community Members,
I would like to begin by thanking you for all your hard work and dedication to our students and our District.
As you are aware, the Cotulla ISD Board of Trustees met in regular session on Monday, May 15th and discussed the 2023-24 District Calendar. Based on my recommendation and after careful consideration, the Board approved a Traditional Calendar for the 2023-24 School Year. While this outcome may or may not have resulted in what you had hoped for, more time is needed in order to ensure success for all.
The School Board and I value your opinion and we took all of your comments into careful consideration. We need to be able to provide answers for factors such as childcare, meals and academics to ensure a smooth transition. In addition, the District will need to evaluate how transitioning to a four-day work week would impact employee salaries and work schedules.
Just as the teachers, administrators and other personnel carefully assess and plan lessons for students or Financial Budgets, I believe we need to do the same when making a major change such as moving from a five-day to a four-day work week. The Board supports my recommendation and has directed me to continue to research, brainstorm with staff and troubleshoot the areas of concern for all stakeholders.
As the planning for the 2024-25 school year progresses, I will be meeting with parents/guardians and staff to ensure that the district makes the best decision for the children and staff of Cotulla ISD. I thank you for your support and appreciate the Cotulla ISD Board of Trustees difficult task of decision-making while ultimately doing what is best for the students, staff and community at this time.
Sincerely,
Ruben V. Cervantes,
Superintendent of Schools