Round Rock Edition | March 2024

BY BROOKE SJOBERG

A recent performance report for Round Rock ISD shows teacher turnover rose sharply in the 2022-23 school year, exceed- ing the state average. What you need to know In a public hearing on the district’s Texas Academic Performance Report, district administrators shared that the turnover rate for teachers in the 2022-23 school year increased from 15.9% in the 2021-22 school year to 23.9%. This increase exceeds the statewide turnover rate for teachers of 21.4%. Eddie Curran, RRISD’s chief human resources officer, pointed to long commutes and cost of liv- ing as a primary reason teachers were leaving the district. RRISD turnover rate higher than state average

Measures taken to retain and hire staff include:

Secured voter approval in fall 2023 to raise the tax rate to increase pay for employees Initiated affordable housing program for teachers through nonprofit partnership.

Launched program for international educators

Partnered with colleges for student teacher pipeline

SOURCE: ROUND ROCK ISD/COMMUNITY IMPACT

What it means Curran referred to increased resignations over the past two school years, with over 800 in the 2021-22 school year, followed by 643 in the 2022-23 school year. Curran said he anticipates the next performance report will reflect increased efforts to hire and retain staff.

Unmatched Academic Results Come tour a campus and see for yourself!

Challenger School offers uniquely fun and academic programs for preschool to eighth grade students. Our students learn to think for themselves and to value independence. Avery Ranch (PS–G8) (512) 341-8000 15101 Avery Ranch Boulevard, Austin Round Rock (PS–G1) (512) 255-8844 1521 Joyce Lane, Round Rock Spicewood Springs (PS–K) (512) 258-1299 13015 Pond Springs Road, Austin

New science course coming soon

accelerated science path of study that will allow students to take physics as early as eighth grade. The course, “Accelerated Science 1” will be offered to sixth graders this fall, with Physics available to eighth graders fall 2026. This course will count as a high school credit.

Middle school students in Round Rock ISD will have an opportunity to take an advanced science class in the coming 2024-25 school year. What you need to know In January, RRISD Superin- tendent Hafedh Azaiez shared that the district will launch an

“By starting earlier, students may gain a solid foundation in scientific principles, fostering a deeper understanding as they progress through their coursework.” HAFEDH AZAIEZ, SUPERINTENDENT

© 2024, Challenger Schools Challenger School admits students of any race, color, and national or ethnic origin.

An independent private school offering preschool through eighth grade

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ROUND ROCK EDITION

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