What happened: The Midland ISD Board of Trustees is moving ahead with state-required turnaround plans for four underperforming elementary schools, Bunche, De Zavala, Lamar, and Scharbauer, following the Texas Education Agency’s delayed release of 2023 accountability ratings.

Why it matters: All four schools failed to meet state exit criteria for multiple years and now fall under the Comprehensive Support and Improvement requirements, which mandate targeted intervention to improve academic outcomes.

Key points:

  • Bunche Elementary: Bunche will shift to a K–8 College and Career Prep model. More than half of students are two to three grade levels behind in core subjects. The school will strengthen instruction through weekly professional learning communities (PLCs) led by multi-classroom leaders (MCLs), daily lesson reviews, small-group interventions, and college and career exposure activities with Midland College.

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  • De Zavala Elementary: De Zavala will adopt a K–8 STEM model using inquiry-based learning to encourage real-world problem-solving through hands-on projects. The school will add five MCLs, invest in materials like LEGO kits, and is considering a dedicated STEM coordinator.

  • Lamar Elementary: Lamar will continue its district-charter partnership with Third Future Schools, now in its third year. The model emphasizes rigorous academics, daily teacher coaching, and constant data review to drive instruction and student performance.

  • Scharbauer Elementary: Scharbauer’s plan focuses on strengthening instructional leadership and creating a positive campus culture. Teachers will receive regular coaching, and new hires will be paired with mentors. PLCs will focus on standards, reteach planning, and student work analysis. Clear behavior expectations and values will guide the school climate.