Guest Commentary
Recognizing schools should be daily event
By BILL "BUTCH" DEAN Interim Superintendent Jasper ISD

Since 1950, Texans have set aside one week each year to celebrate our system of public education. And while observing Texas Public Schools Week is important, this should be a daily recognition.

Stipulations for public education evolve from our state's earliest incarnation as a republic, and that purpose is exemplified in the year-long theme: One Vision. One Texas. All Children.

Further, the Texas Constitution declares that it "shall be the duty of the Legislature of the State to establish and make suitable provision for the support and maintenance of an efficient system of public free schools."

In their wisdom, our forefathers understood that Texas would need a well-education citizenry to help make it great. And from those earliest days our public schools have been the unifier in our democratic society. One Vision. One Texas. All Children.

Now more than ever our public schools - often the object of criticism, budget cuts, and increased demands - need everyone's support.

We encourage you to visit one of the Jasper ISD campuses during Texas Public Schools Week, March 5-9 and see the outstanding teaching and learning taking place.

We also hope you will be inspired to return as a mentor, tutor or a sponsor.

Our schools need you, just as Texas needs the best public schools possible to continue its legacy of greatness.