Roni Louise Rentfro

The Brownsville Independent School District (BISD), encompassing 95 square miles, is the largest employer in the Rio Grande Valley. Approximately 7,000 employees have accepted the challenge of serving a population of almost 46,000 students. BISD recognizes and addresses the unique cultural lifestyle of South Texas with a broad selection of academic activities and programs for all students. These programs range from Early College High Schools to support programs for students with special needs. Limited English speaking students are served through the Bilingual or English as a Second Language program. There is the pride in the progress BISD has made in recent years with regard to state-mandated testing. Better scores have translated into more seniors fulfilling degree requirements and graduating career-ready and college-connected. Academically, both the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and the Texas Education Agency have accredited Brownsville public schools. Brownsville ISD is committed not only to working with students, but also with the community as well. The district supports Campus Care Centers to serve the unmet medical needs of school age children and adolescents. Because no student deserves to go through the school day hungry, BISD features Universal Feeding, Provision Two. This plan provides breakfast, lunch and supper, free of charge, to all students, regardless of income or ability to pay. Brownsville ISD uses these elements, and many more, to achieve its mission. Quality education cannot be a vague statement. It must be the challenge that encourages students and educators to be the very best that they can be every day.