The Chamber was honored to host the 10th Annual State of the District Address with the Arlington Independent School District. Amidst the global COIVD-19 pandemic, we found new and unique ways to celebrate virtually since in-person gatherings are not permitted at this time, and we have to say, this was the most well attended State of the District yet!
As an organization, the Chamber is committed to developing our community’s future. We do this through our invaluable partnerships that allow us to create initiatives that have continuous touchpoints throughout a student’s educational career.
“The Arlington Independent School District has dedicated so many resources to engage all facets of our community in developing and uplifting our youth into the leaders of tomorrow by preparing students for college, career and citizenship,” said Jacobson, “Our partnership with the AISD is invaluable to the work of the Chamber, and our community is fortunate to have a forward-thinking educational system that allows students to see the full spectrum of education.”
Each year, this event serves as an opportunity for the business community to hear from AISD Superintendent of Schools Dr. Marcelo Cavazos and get an in-depth look into the District and what’s to come for the year ahead. With the community hanging in the balances as various government guidelines change rapidly, Dr. Cavazos’ message on how the district is “managing the unimaginable” in response to COVID-19 was a much-needed voice of transparency in this tumultuous time.
Viewers had the opportunity to get an inside look at the AISD Dan Dipert Career+Technical Center and be a part of an intimate Q&A session. Dr. Cavazos announced a new PTECH initiative focused on health-science career pathways and the opening of the new Center for Visual and Performing Arts and Natatorium facilities. He shared some of the District’s highlights and major celebrations including two new awards for Business and Community Partner of the Year. Congratulations to the Dallas Cowboys & the Jean and Jerry Jones Foundation and Arlington Charities, your awards were well earned, and thank you for uplifting our community during these difficult times!
During the Q&A session where he was interviewed by Anita Foster, Executive Director of Marketing & Communications, Dr. Cavazos addressed some pressing questions surrounding the logistics of reopening campuses and in-person instruction. The District is being very diligent, consulting with a number of federal, state and county health officials as well as the TEA. The AISD has developed guidelines and protocols but is in the process of meeting with officials to establish clear metrics that will be used in the decision to open schools safely. During the candid conversation, Dr. Cavazos and Foster discussed at great length all of the factors that are playing a role in the District’s decision-making process. The District is not making any decision lightly, they are considering everything from a cause and effect relationship between densification and community spread, community social issues, to advocating for a hybrid model to allow for some in-person instruction.
“We know the best place for a student to be is in the classroom with a teacher, but the question is when is that safe,” said Dr. Marcelo Cavazos.
Other topics covered during the Q&A session included Dr. Cavazos addressing racial and social injustices, the digital divide, a voter-approved tax ratification election and live viewer questions. We highly encourage you to watch the full video!
“Because of Arlington’s unique demographic and socio-economic diversity, we have an opportunity, and responsibility, to positively impact the next generation of business and community leaders by investing time and resources in innovative educational programs and initiatives,” said Michael Jacobson, President & CEO of the Greater Arlington Chamber, “By investing in our students, we are creating the type of future workforce our community needs. We are creating the future now!”
Your community needs your support. Business engagement is needed now more than ever – get involved in the educational process. If you are interested in participating or learning more about either program, please email the Chamber at education@arlingtontx.com.
A special thank you to all of our event sponsors who made this virtual broadcast possible:
Presenting Sponsor: Baylor Scott & White Orthopedic and Spine Hospital Arlington
VIP Reception Sponsor: LBL Architects
Platinum Sponsors: Peyco Southwest Realty and Stripe-A-Zone
Silver Sponsors: Arlington Convention & Visitors Bureau, the City of Arlington, Curnutt & Hafer LLP and Tarrant County College – Southeast Campus
Bronze Sponsors: Affiliated Bank, Frost Bank, Medical City Arlington, PSK LLP and Simmons Bank