(By Shaun Kennedy, Chairman of the Board of the San Antonio Chamber of Commerce)
At the SAISD board of trustees meeting on Monday, May 14, among the testimonies from teachers, parents and community members, an individual stood up and boldly stated the “business community” was displeased with the vision of Superintendent Pedro Martinez and the leadership of the board who backs him. As the Chairman of the Board of the San Antonio Chamber of Commerce, the oldest and largest business organization in San Antonio, representing 2,100 businesses across San Antonio and the region, and a long-time member of the San Antonio business community, I say this could not be further from the truth.
Education is the foundation of a competitive economy. Public schools serve the vast majority of our students and are the source for our workforce. The Chamber and our business community have been long-time advocates for improving the quality of education for every single child in our city. I know from experience that when businesses face fierce competition, market share losses, and retention challenges, leadership must seek innovative ways to regain ground. School districts are no different. They must seek out-of-the-box strategies to keep students on track, attract dynamic talent, and turnaround schools that struggle year after year. Taking decisive measures within the boundaries of established governing rules and regulations is the responsibility of school district leadership and what our children and community deserve.
The business community knows change is messy, even under the best of circumstances. It is clear that SAISD leadership is pursuing thoughtful disruption within an outdated system. Their north star is to educate each and every student to be prepared for facing the great challenges of our future. There are always elements of change with which people will disagree. However, disagreement with a decision does not mean the decision is wrong. The students and families in SAISD are worthy of excellent educational opportunities. Our city’s long-term economic stability depends on cultivating the best and brightest workforce within our schools. We have confidence that the research-driven vision for SAISD will deliver great outcomes for all our benefit.
