Tyler ISD Superintendent Dr. Marty Crawford led a panel of area superintendents to discuss the State of the East Texas Education at the Annual State of the District Address during the annual Tyler Area Chamber of Commerce luncheon today at the Green Acres Crosswalk Conference Center.
“We appreciate the Tyler Chamber allowing us to present perspectives from other school districts, along with Tyler ISD,” said Dr. Marty Crawford, Tyler ISD. “Today proved East Texas school systems are being led by superintendents who reflect the values of our region.”
The panel included Lindale ISD Superintendent Stan Surratt, Chapel Hill ISD Superintendent Lamond Dean, and Carthage ISD Superintendent Jarrod Bitter. Together, they discussed current issues facing school districts across the state, including state funding, inflation, accountability standards and mandates, school vouchers, and teacher shortages.
“It’s hard to sift through all the noise portrayed by some media and quite a bit of social media,” said Crawford. “I believe today conveyed the good things going on in our East Texas Public schools and the challenges on the horizon. Regardless of what the demagogues portray, our East Texas public schools are pragmatic and operated in a morally and physically conservative fashion.”
Lindale ISD Superintendent Stan Surratt echoed those thoughts saying, “East Texas school districts continue to do amazing things for students and teachers, even while state funding is stagnant. I am proud of how school boards and school administrators have handled the recent financial struggles imposed on local schools. Our students are still achieving great success even without support from State Legislators.”
Mr. Lamond Dean, Chapel Hill ISD Superintendent, said he was encouraged by the collective commitment to improving opportunities for East Texas students. “While there are certainly challenges ahead, the collaboration between educators, community leaders, and stakeholders is essential in ensuring that every child receives the quality education they deserve. Together, we are laying the foundation for a brighter future where innovation, equity, and support for our students are at the forefront of our efforts.”
Carthage ISD Superintendent Jarrod Bitter, who is also a Tyler ISD Alum, hopes those who attended today have a better understanding of what school districts are facing. “We appreciate the opportunity to provide some insight into a few major challenges facing public education and equip our audience with a few talking points to carry with them as we approach the next legislative session in the spring. I hope that, despite those challenges, the folks here with us today left with a sense of confidence in our dedicated educators and school systems, knowing that our students are well-supported and in good hands when they enter our buildings every day.”
Additionally, the Tyler ISD honored Terry and Rose Giles, owners of Dairy Queen in Tyler, as the 2024 Community Partner of the Year for their support and involvement with Tyler ISD’s Success Partner program. The district honored Smith County Judge Neal Franklin as the Distinguished Alumni.
Terry and Rose Giles exemplify dedication to Tyler ISD and our community. As owners of Dairy Queen in Tyler since 1980, the Giles family has contributed thousands of dollars to the district through the Success Partner program.
Their support goes beyond donations, with yearly involvement in the Twelve Days of Deals holiday promotion for staff and countless mini-Blizzard and sundae cards for students on the Honor Roll across all Tyler ISD campuses.
Terry and Rose’s roots in Tyler run deep. Both moved here after marriage and have been actively involved in the community ever since. Their two sons attended Andy Woods Elementary School, Hubbard Middle School, and Robert E. Lee High School, and their granddaughters currently attend Andy Woods Elementary. Rose, who taught for six years at Bonner Elementary and 20 years at Andy Woods Elementary, remains a beloved figure in the district.
Neal Franklin has served as Smith County Judge since November 9, 2022, and previously served as Smith County Precinct 1 Commissioner. Judge Franklin has more than 30 years of leadership experience thanks to his time in the Fire and EMS field. He served in various roles, including Fire Chief and Emergency Management Coordinator for the City of Tyler. As the General Manager for ETMC EMS, he served all or part of 15 counties in East Texas, managing more than 500 employees.
Judge Franklin also facilitated training for Core Insights, providing leadership training and strategic planning for corporations, nonprofits, counties, and municipalities.
Judge Franklin was born and raised in Tyler, where he attended Clarkston Elementary School, Moore Middle School, and Robert E. Lee High School, graduating in 1979. Neal’s father served as principal at Hogg Middle School.
For more information, contact Jennifer Hines at Jennifer.Hines@TylerISD.org.