TALAS Weekly Newsletter: Chapter Events Planned

TALAS Weekly Newsletter Texas Association of Latino Administrators and Superintendents August 17, 2026   "You are allowed to set boundaries."   LEADERSHIP   TALAS News: Board member becomes CEO We are thrilled to celebrate the appointment of TALAS Board Member Dr. Jeanette Ball as the new Chief Executive Officer of Girl Scouts of Southwest Texas! Dr. Ball brings more than three decades of distinguished leadership experience in education, youth development, strategic planning, and community engagement. Her commitment to empowering young people and creating opportunities for them to thrive has been evident throughout her career. We are confident that Dr. Ball’s vision, experience, and passion for serving students and young people will be instrumental as she leads Girl Scouts of Southwest Texas into its next chapter. Please join us in congratulating Dr. Jeanette Ball on this well-deserved achievement! We are incredibly proud to have her as a member of the TALAS Board and look forward to celebrating the impact she will continue to make in our communities.   Leadership Development Opportunities   Learning Opportunities   Innovamat Sponsoring Math Summit in Spain- September 28- Oct. 2 The Innovamat SUMA SUMMIT is an exclusive five-day experience for educational leaders from Latin America in Barcelona and Madrid, designed to be transformative, guiding participants from reflection to action while expanding their strategic vision and refining their leadership approaches. Click here for more information   Resource Opportunity   VOICE TALAS VOZ Podcasts Looking for inspiration, practical leadership strategies, and meaningful conversations with educational leaders across Texas? The TALAS Voz Podcast brings the voices of our members, partners, and thought leaders directly to you. Each episode features engaging discussions on educational leadership, advocacy, innovation, mentorship, and the experiences that are shaping the future of education. Whether you're an aspiring leader or a seasoned administrator, the TALAS Voz Podcast offers valuable insights and perspectives to support your professional journey. Stay connected, stay inspired, and be part of the conversation. Listen to the latest episodes, share them with your colleagues, and discover why your voice matters. Tune in, learn, and lead with TALAS! Previous podcast episodes: Podcast with Roni Gonzalez Podcast with Mike Miles Podcast with Dr. Martha Salazar Zamora Podcast with Dr. Jessica Melendez Carrillo   Chapter News Alamo Area Mini Conference Registration is now open Juntos We Lead: Alamo Area TALAS Leadership Conference The Alamo Area TALAS Chapter is kicking off the 2026–27 school year with an inspiring Leadership Conference on September 12, 2026, and we invite you to be part of this exciting event! “Juntos We Lead” will be a day dedicated to connecting educational leaders, sharing best practices, and building strategies to strengthen community engagement and advance student success. There is still time to submit your proposal and share your expertise, experiences, and leadership strategies with fellow educators. Registration is also now open! Don’t miss this opportunity to learn, connect, and lead—juntos! Register Here   Houston TALAS Your first assignment of the new school year: Open your calendar. Go to August 29. Add “HTX TALAS Networking & Membership Event.” Invite a colleague. Give yourself an A for planning ahead! Join us on August 29, 2026, for networking, meaningful connections, and an opportunity to learn more about HTX TALAS membership. Register here: Link to Register 1st 50 registrants receive additional perks!  Complimentary beverages and snacks will be provided!  We look forward to seeing you! HTX TALAS   El Paso is ready for kickoff We’re kicking off the year at the El Paso Locomotive FC game on August 29 at 7:00 p.m. T As part of your membership renewal, you’ll receive VIP admission to the Pepsi Party Deck, which includes a 90-minute all-you-can-eat buffet. Click here to RSVP by August 22! Want to bring your family along? Additional tickets may be purchased in a nearby section using this link. Please see the flyer below for additional details. See you at the pitch! Become a Member!     Visit the TALAS website for information on upcoming events. We have several events and meetings coming up. Come and join us! We would love to have you! TALAS website ADVOCACY National & State News Take a look at what is happening around you!   Superintendents agree on goals, but not necessarily how to achieve them While superintendents are split on whether to strengthen or overhaul their systems, even those who say they want transformational change are sometimes unable to achieve it because of capacity restraints, stakeholder appetite, and other reasons. As a result, most districts are likely to pursue incremental changes to improve academic performance — even though system overhauls “will be increasingly necessary,” CRPE said in its July report. “Today’s school systems were never designed to deliver equitable outcomes at scale,” the report said. “They still reflect gaps in achievement and engagement that are actively widening.” Read more   3 snapshots of the state of education right now More than 54 million students are set to return to the classroom this fall. Here’s some data about the state of teaching and learning to improve decision-making. Homeschooling remains popular Roughly 4.2 million K12 students were homeschooled in 2024, according to new data from the U.S. Census Bureau. Homeschooling has grown in popularity since the pandemic, particularly among families who want more control over what their children are taught. An estimated 6% of all school-aged children are homeschooled, according to the National Home Education Research Institute. The homeschool population has grown between 2% and 8% each of the past several years. Read more   3-2-1: On the power of curiosity, winning vs. improving, and taking control of your to-do list 3 Ideas From Me I. "Being curious and excited can take you far, especially over the long arc of a life. The person who is a voracious lifelong learner will figure it out eventually. A strong reader with a healthy dose of curiosity and a willingness to try things is hard to stop." ​II. "Delaying a conversation doesn't make it easier." III. "Who is initiating the items on your to-do list? When I'm most productive, I decide what I want to create and work on the task that will help build my vision. When I am less productive, I spend my day responding to what someone else sends to me — emails, texts, etc. — and often that means I end up building someone else's vision." Read more   ADVOCACY TOOLS & RESOURCE CENTER   High Impact Tutoring Resources The National Student Support Accelerator at Stanford University is a non-profit organization that conducts and promotes research and implementation of good practices on high-impact tutoring. High-impact tutoring is defined as tutoring delivered one-on-one or in small groups, 3x/week or more for 10+ weeks with a consistent, well-trained tutor and taking place ideally during the school day.  Links of interest: What is High-Impact Tutoring Stanford Research on Tutoring Tutoring Quality Standards List of Providers that Meet the Quality Standards NSSA Newsletter State Policy in Texas and Texas Tutoring Toolkit   INSIGHTS Summer Edition NEW! Weekend Reading: TASA's Summer INSIGHT The summer issue of TASA INSIGHT introduces TASA's 2026-27 officers: President Roosevelt Nivens, President-Elect Jeannie Meza-Chavez, Vice President Walter Jackson, and Past President Chris Moran. The latest “Higher Education” column focuses on how regional partnerships can benefit rural school districts. "Tech Take" discusses tips for handling student data privacy. TSPRA Executive Director Patti Pawlik-Perales welcomes a new season of Celebrate Texas Public Schools! in "TSPRA Voice." 2026 Texas Teacher of the Year Vickie Wright looks ahead to a busy and important school year in "Teacher Perspective." In "Leadership Perspective," Tory Hill of Channelview ISD and Dana Bashara of Alamo Heights ISD, both co-chairs of the TASA Visioning Refresh Committee, continue a series focused on The Texas Promise. Read and share the issue. PARTNERSHIPS Partner Spotlight TALAS extends heartfelt gratitude to our partners for their unwavering support and belief in our mission. Your investment and dedication play a vital role in strengthening the leadership pipeline, driving progress, and improving student outcomes. We deeply value your commitment to our shared vision of educational excellence.   Partner of the Week   Annual Partner Spotlight- PLATA NorthStar Education Advisors Northstar was founded on the premise that school systems become exceptional when leadership teams are aligned, empowered, and professionally developed. Therefore, our purpose is to equip school districts and their partners with actionable and evidence-based strategic planning frameworks, AI-powered analytics, and targeted professional learning. These resources strengthen data literacy, accelerate measurable improvement, and build sustainable organizational capacity. We build sustainable, long term partnerships and stand shoulder-to-shoulder to support excellence in implementation.   CAREER OPPORTUNITIES   Find your next career opportunity Southwest Public Schools Superintendent position SSA Chief Financial Officer (El Paso ISD) TASA Career Center ESS Current Searches Superintendent Search JG Consulting Hazard, Young, Attea Associates GRRecruiting Arrow Educational Services K-12 Search Group   TALAS STORE Show Your TALAS Pride – Shop the New TALAS Store! Now Open: The TALAS Store Show your support and represent TALAS with pride—visit the new TALAS Store to browse our exclusive merchandise, including shirts, hats, bags, and more! Wear your gear at the next TALAS event! Whether you're heading to campus, attending an event, or just repping your favorite organization, we’ve got you covered. Shop now !   Our Mission TALAS, with an unrelenting commitment to improving learning outcomes for Latino learners, will provide leadership development, collective impact, advocacy, and a proactive voice for Latino and non-Latino leaders who have a passion for serving the fastest growing student population in our state.  

Monday, Aug 17 2026

TALAS Weekly Newsletter: L3 Cohort 13 Announced

TALAS Weekly Newsletter Texas Association of Latino Administrators and Superintendents August 10, 2026   "Adaptability is your Greatest Strength"   LEADERSHIP   TALAS News: Welcome Cohort 13 We are excited to announce the newest participants in the TALAS L3 Leadership Program! The cohort kicked off with an engaging orientation and leadership session focused on the rapidly changing educational landscape—from evolving accountability pressures to changing workforce expectations. As education continues to transform, today’s leaders need strong networks, courage, adaptability, and a commitment to ensuring every student has the opportunity to succeed. The L3 Leadership Program is designed to develop, connect, and empower emerging educational leaders as they grow their leadership capacity and prepare for the next step in their careers. We are proud to welcome this exceptional group of leaders and look forward to supporting them throughout their L3 journey! Congratulations to Our L3 Participants! Dr. Alex Gonzalez- Spring ISD Monica Salas-Truhill- Hutto ISD Nyjah Johnson- KIPP Texas Public Schools Dr. Amanda Castro- Pflugerville ISD Jonathan Flores- Socorro ISD Stephanie Hernandez- Region 4 ESC Gabriela Herrera- Beaumont ISD Christina Garcia- Houston ISD Derreck Hernandez- Friona ISD Ashley Banda Rodriguez- Gregory Portland ISD Claudia Castillo- Friona ISD Cassandra Smith- Coastal Bend We are excited to learn, grow, and lead juntos!   Leadership Development Opportunities   Learning Opportunities   Innovamat Sponsoring Math Summit in Spain- September 28- Oct. 2 The Innovamat SUMA SUMMIT is an exclusive five-day experience for educational leaders from Latin America in Barcelona and Madrid, designed to be transformative, guiding participants from reflection to action while expanding their strategic vision and refining their leadership approaches. Click here for more information   Resource Opportunity   VOICE TALAS VOZ Podcasts Looking for inspiration, practical leadership strategies, and meaningful conversations with educational leaders across Texas? The TALAS Voz Podcast brings the voices of our members, partners, and thought leaders directly to you. Each episode features engaging discussions on educational leadership, advocacy, innovation, mentorship, and the experiences that are shaping the future of education. Whether you're an aspiring leader or a seasoned administrator, the TALAS Voz Podcast offers valuable insights and perspectives to support your professional journey. Stay connected, stay inspired, and be part of the conversation. Listen to the latest episodes, share them with your colleagues, and discover why your voice matters. Tune in, learn, and lead with TALAS! Previous podcast episodes: Podcast with Roni Gonzalez Podcast with Mike Miles Podcast with Dr. Martha Salazar Zamora Podcast with Dr. Jessica Melendez Carrillo   Chapter News Alamo Area Mini Conference Registration is now open Juntos We Lead: Alamo Area TALAS Leadership Conference The Alamo Area TALAS Chapter is kicking off the 2026–27 school year with an inspiring Leadership Conference on September 12, 2026, and we invite you to be part of this exciting event! “Juntos We Lead” will be a day dedicated to connecting educational leaders, sharing best practices, and building strategies to strengthen community engagement and advance student success. There is still time to submit your proposal and share your expertise, experiences, and leadership strategies with fellow educators. Registration is also now open! Don’t miss this opportunity to learn, connect, and lead—juntos! Register Here   Houston TALAS Your first assignment of the new school year: Open your calendar. Go to August 29. Add “HTX TALAS Networking & Membership Event.” Invite a colleague. Give yourself an A for planning ahead! Join us on August 29, 2026, for networking, meaningful connections, and an opportunity to learn more about HTX TALAS membership. Register here: Link to Register 1st 50 registrants receive additional perks!  Complimentary beverages and snacks will be provided!  We look forward to seeing you! HTX TALAS   Become a Member!     Visit the TALAS website for information on upcoming events. We have several events and meetings coming up. Come and join us! We would love to have you! TALAS website ADVOCACY National & State News Take a look at what is happening around you!   How safe are you from people who push your buttons? We all have them. The people who push our buttons. Who set us off just by looking at us or saying one word or even just entering the room. The colleague who never seems to take on his share of the work. The team member who seems to have a reason why she can’t be in the office on the important after-hours push. The senior leader who doesn’t seem to get it, no matter what. Sometimes it feels like the world is full of button-pushers, and there’s nothing you can do about it. But you can do something about the button-pushers around you. It’s possible to prevent your button from being pushed, to build a buffer zone, to protect yourself. Here are a few ideas how: Read more   How to Build Courage: 9 Strategies to Lead Through Fear If you’ve ever sat on a critical decision longer than you should have, delayed a strategic move for your organization because the risk felt too high, or failed to intervene when someone on your team was being sidelined or mistreated, you know how moments of leadership hesitation can haunt you. You might replay them, kicking yourself. Or you may start telling yourself a damaging story: You don’t have what it takes for bold leadership. The truth is, fears and inaction strike in all our lives, especially in times of extraordinary change. But they don’t have to define how we respond. Harvard Business School professor Ranjay Gulati spent 12 years researching and writing his latest book, How to Be Bold: The Surprising Science of Everyday Courage, and says a simple equation explains why our courage is so frequently stymied. “I like to think of it as the ‘fear equation’: uncertainty + loss of control = fear,” he writes. “That fear in turn can prevent us from acting, even if we’re normally quite brave.” Read more   3-2-1: On living with lightness, emphasizing what works, and the simple way to gain clarity 3 Ideas From Me I. "Clarity isn't about knowing what you want to do with your life, it's about knowing what you want to do this week. You don't need to have it all figured out. You just need to know your next step." II. "When you're on a good path: It's only a failure if you stop. It's a lesson if you keep going. When you're on a bad path: It's only a failure if you keep going. It's a lesson if you stop." Read more   ADVOCACY TOOLS & RESOURCE CENTER   High Impact Tutoring Resources The National Student Support Accelerator at Stanford University is a non-profit organization that conducts and promotes research and implementation of good practices on high-impact tutoring. High-impact tutoring is defined as tutoring delivered one-on-one or in small groups, 3x/week or more for 10+ weeks with a consistent, well-trained tutor and taking place ideally during the school day.  Links of interest: What is High-Impact Tutoring Stanford Research on Tutoring Tutoring Quality Standards List of Providers that Meet the Quality Standards NSSA Newsletter State Policy in Texas and Texas Tutoring Toolkit   PARTNERSHIPS Partner Spotlight TALAS extends heartfelt gratitude to our partners for their unwavering support and belief in our mission. Your investment and dedication play a vital role in strengthening the leadership pipeline, driving progress, and improving student outcomes. We deeply value your commitment to our shared vision of educational excellence.   Partner of the Week   Annual Partner Spotlight- PLATA Innovamat Innovamat is a math education company founded in Spain in 2017, dedicated to transforming how students learn math through deep understanding and active thinking. In the U.S., we partner with over 60 districts across 10 states, supporting teachers with high-quality resources and professional learning. In Texas, our main focus is math intervention. Our small-group intervention program, Math Journeys, helps close learning gaps by meeting students where they are - journeys are grade-agnostic and balance a conceptual understanding approach to rebuild missing skills with opportunities for fluency-building through a personalized practice app.   CAREER OPPORTUNITIES   Find your next career opportunity Southwest Public Schools Superintendent position SSA Chief Financial Officer (El Paso ISD) TASA Career Center ESS Current Searches Superintendent Search JG Consulting Hazard, Young, Attea Associates GRRecruiting Arrow Educational Services K-12 Search Group   TALAS STORE Show Your TALAS Pride – Shop the New TALAS Store! Now Open: The TALAS Store Show your support and represent TALAS with pride—visit the new TALAS Store to browse our exclusive merchandise, including shirts, hats, bags, and more! Wear your gear at the next TALAS event! Whether you're heading to campus, attending an event, or just repping your favorite organization, we’ve got you covered. Shop now !   Our Mission TALAS, with an unrelenting commitment to improving learning outcomes for Latino learners, will provide leadership development, collective impact, advocacy, and a proactive voice for Latino and non-Latino leaders who have a passion for serving the fastest growing student population in our state.  

Monday, Aug 10 2026

TALAS Weekly Newsletter: Alamo Area is seeking propo...

TALAS Weekly Newsletter Texas Association of Latino Administrators and Superintendents August 3, 2026   "Where you're standing was once the goal."   LEADERSHIP   TALAS News: TALAS Collaborates with ALAS to Shape the Future of Latino Leadership This weekend, TALAS joined leaders from the National Association of Latino Administrators and Superintendents (ALAS) for a collaborative planning session focused on the future of our organizations and the advancement of Latino educational leadership. Representatives from 19 states came together to share best practices, learn from inspiring guest speakers, and engage in meaningful discussions to refine the organization's Strategic Action Plan. The two-day convening provided an invaluable opportunity to strengthen partnerships, exchange innovative ideas, and align our collective efforts to better serve educators and students across the nation. We are excited about the momentum created during this gathering and look forward to continuing this important work when we reconvene in October. Together, we are building a stronger future for educational leadership.   Leadership Development Opportunities   Learning Opportunities   Innovamat Sponsoring Math Summit in Spain- September 28- Oct. 2 The Innovamat SUMA SUMMIT is an exclusive five-day experience for educational leaders from Latin America in Barcelona and Madrid, designed to be transformative, guiding participants from reflection to action while expanding their strategic vision and refining their leadership approaches. Click here for more information   Resource Opportunity   VOICE TALAS VOZ Podcasts Looking for inspiration, practical leadership strategies, and meaningful conversations with educational leaders across Texas? The TALAS Voz Podcast brings the voices of our members, partners, and thought leaders directly to you. Each episode features engaging discussions on educational leadership, advocacy, innovation, mentorship, and the experiences that are shaping the future of education. Whether you're an aspiring leader or a seasoned administrator, the TALAS Voz Podcast offers valuable insights and perspectives to support your professional journey. Stay connected, stay inspired, and be part of the conversation. Listen to the latest episodes, share them with your colleagues, and discover why your voice matters. Tune in, learn, and lead with TALAS! Previous podcast episodes: Podcast with Roni Gonzalez Podcast with Mike Miles Podcast with Dr. Martha Salazar Zamora Podcast with Dr. Jessica Melendez Carrillo   Chapter News Alamo Area seeking proposals: Due August 7, 2026 The Alamo Area TALAS Chapter is kicking off the school year with an inspiring Leadership Conference on September 12, 2026, and we invite you to be a part of this exciting event! Do you have innovative strategies, proven leadership practices, or impactful experiences that have made a difference in your school or district? This is your opportunity to share your expertise and inspire fellow educational leaders from across the region. We are seeking engaging presentations that highlight leadership development, community partnerships and student achievement. Whether you're an experienced presenter or sharing your story for the first time, your voice matters. Your knowledge, talent, and experiences can empower others and help strengthen leadership across Texas. Submit your proposal today and join us in making this conference a meaningful learning experience for all. We look forward to learning from you!   Houston TALAS Mark your calendars! HTX TALAS is preparing an exciting lineup of professional learning, networking, and leadership development opportunities this school year. Join educational leaders from across the Houston area as we connect, collaborate, and continue to grow together through meaningful learning experiences designed to inspire and empower leaders at every level. Stay tuned for additional event details, registration information, and special guest announcements. We look forward to seeing you at our upcoming HTX TALAS events as we continue to strengthen our leadership community and advance excellence in education. We can't wait to connect with you!   Become a Member!     Visit the TALAS website for information on upcoming events. We have several events and meetings coming up. Come and join us! We would love to have you! TALAS website ADVOCACY National & State News Take a look at what is happening around you!   How Schools Are Navigating the English-Learner Teacher Shortages Recruiting enough teachers certified to teach English-language development has historically been a challenge for schools across the country. New national survey data from the EdWeek Research Center show this staffing challenge persists as the national English-learner population has grown to more than 10% of the public-school student enrollment. In a March survey of 1,122 educators who work directly with English learners or oversee instruction for students including English learners, 55% said the number of staff in their district or school who have been appropriately trained to serve those students is insufficient. Read more   Settling Scores: Experts Debate Why AP Performance Has Soared A few years ago, education experts noticed that scores were climbing upwards on a number of Advanced Placement tests. The increases, measured on some of the program’s most popular assessments, were as significant as they were unexpected. In AP Chemistry, the share of students scoring a 3, 4 or 5 (generally interpreted as a passing grade on the famously challenging exams, which are scored on a 1-5 scale) increased from 54% in 2022 to 75.1% in 2023. In AP United States Government and Politics, that proportion grew even more, from 49.2% to 73% from year to year. By one estimate, roughly 100,000 more students hit the passing threshold on AP U.S. History in 2024 than in 2023. Read more   3-2-1: On the magic of wanting less, changing inch by inch, and building a sense of hope 3 Ideas From Me I. "If you always want more, then you'll find the most you can have will always be too little." ​II. "Large, sweeping changes often sound good in theory, but the faster you try to change your life, the more likely you are to backslide. Real change is inch by inch. Go out and win the next five minutes." III. "Whatever can be measured grabs our attention. How much money we make. How much weight we can lift. How many bedrooms are in the house. And once we notice a number, it is natural to want to improve it. We find ourselves wondering how to make more money, lift more weight, add another bedroom. Read more   ADVOCACY TOOLS & RESOURCE CENTER   Texas School Business July Issue NEW! Don't Miss the Latest Issue of Texas School Business The July/August issue of Texas School Business, published by TASA, looks back at how Texas school districts have helped their local communities respond to extreme weather events. The issue also highlights new TASPA President Chris Bailey and new TCWSE President Sonja Brown. You'll find a "Student Voices" piece from Austin ISD and a "Regional View" from Region 12, along with photos from recent TACS events. Plus, don't miss your favorite columns by Jim Walsh and Riney Jordan, plenty of Who's News, and more. Read and share the issue.   High Impact Tutoring Resources The National Student Support Accelerator at Stanford University is a non-profit organization that conducts and promotes research and implementation of good practices on high-impact tutoring. High-impact tutoring is defined as tutoring delivered one-on-one or in small groups, 3x/week or more for 10+ weeks with a consistent, well-trained tutor and taking place ideally during the school day.  Links of interest: What is High-Impact Tutoring Stanford Research on Tutoring Tutoring Quality Standards List of Providers that Meet the Quality Standards NSSA Newsletter State Policy in Texas and Texas Tutoring Toolkit   PARTNERSHIPS Partner Spotlight TALAS extends heartfelt gratitude to our partners for their unwavering support and belief in our mission. Your investment and dedication play a vital role in strengthening the leadership pipeline, driving progress, and improving student outcomes. We deeply value your commitment to our shared vision of educational excellence.   Partner of the Week   Annual Partner Spotlight- PLATA Magic School MagicSchool is the AI Operating System for Schools, used by millions of educators worldwide. Built by educators, it brings together teacher tools, student-safe AI experiences, and district-level governance in one connected platform. Teachers use MagicSchool to get hours back each week, reduce burnout, and deliver high-quality instruction without cutting corners. Tools are built for classroom work, from planning and assessment to feedback and differentiation, helping educators meet the needs of every student. Students learn within clear, teacher-led boundaries through guided AI experiences that build critical thinking, AI literacy, and future-ready skills. District leaders gain the visibility, control, and safeguards they need to adopt AI responsibly. With strong privacy protections and built-in oversight, MagicSchool makes it possible to scale AI in a way that’s safe, aligned, and grounded in classroom impact.   CAREER OPPORTUNITIES   Find your next career opportunity SSA TASA Career Center ESS Current Searches Superintendent Search JG Consulting Hazard, Young, Attea Associates GRRecruiting Arrow Educational Services K-12 Search Group   TALAS STORE Show Your TALAS Pride – Shop the New TALAS Store! Now Open: The TALAS Store Show your support and represent TALAS with pride—visit the new TALAS Store to browse our exclusive merchandise, including shirts, hats, bags, and more! Wear your gear at the next TALAS event! Whether you're heading to campus, attending an event, or just repping your favorite organization, we’ve got you covered. Shop now !   Our Mission TALAS, with an unrelenting commitment to improving learning outcomes for Latino learners, will provide leadership development, collective impact, advocacy, and a proactive voice for Latino and non-Latino leaders who have a passion for serving the fastest growing student population in our state.  

Monday, Aug 03 2026

TALAS Weekly Newsletter: Webinar #4 Automaticity is ...

TALAS Weekly Newsletter Texas Association of Latino Administrators and Superintendents July 27, 2026   "Better to admit you walked through the wrong door than spend your life in the wrong room."   LEADERSHIP   TALAS News: Share Your Thoughts on Baloney! Baloney! Baloney! We wrapped up our Summer Leadership Summit with an inspiring and memorable session from author Robert Alfaro. As a special gift, every attendee received a copy of his book, Baloney! Baloney! Baloney! As you read this insightful and thought-provoking book, we encourage you to take a few moments to leave a review. Your feedback not only supports Robert's work as an author, but also helps other educators and leaders discover the powerful lessons and inspiration found within its pages. Thank you for helping us celebrate and support one of the outstanding voices in educational leadership. Happy reading! Baloney! Baloney! Baloney! In "Baloney, Baloney, Baloney: Laughter, Tears, and the Pursuit of Identity," Robert takes us on an unforgettable journey through the "Mexican barrio" of an old West Texas town, vividly recounting the trials and tribulations of growing up in a poor household with limited English during the 1950s and 60s. Born to a Mexican father and an American mother, Robert's narrative is a poignant exploration of life, death, solemnity, and the aspirations that fueled his determination to assimilate into American culture. In the shadow of poverty, discrimination, and an education system unsuitable for non-English speakers, Robert unravels the conflicting emotions that define his journey, crafting a narrative that resonates with readers from all walks of life. Drawing from his personal experiences, Robert emerges as a compelling voice, shedding light on the challenges   Leadership Development Opportunities   Learning Opportunities   Webinar #4 Automaticity Turning Effective Practices and Processes into Teaming Habits  We rise or fall to the systems we have in place. This closing session helps leaders examine their team routines and engineer conditions  where excellence becomes the default, not something you have to consciously maintain.  YOU'LL LEAVE ABLE TO:  →Audit your team’s systems and processes  →Identify what’s working and what’s not  →Embed one high-leverage team routine  Mon, July 27 · 4:00–5:00 PM CDT  Register here   Innovamat Sponsoring Math Summit in Spain- September 28- Oct. 2 The Innovamat SUMA SUMMIT is an exclusive five-day experience for educational leaders from Latin America in Barcelona and Madrid, designed to be transformative, guiding participants from reflection to action while expanding their strategic vision and refining their leadership approaches. Click here for more information   Resource Opportunity   VOICE TALAS VOZ Podcasts Looking for inspiration, practical leadership strategies, and meaningful conversations with educational leaders across Texas? The TALAS Voz Podcast brings the voices of our members, partners, and thought leaders directly to you. Each episode features engaging discussions on educational leadership, advocacy, innovation, mentorship, and the experiences that are shaping the future of education. Whether you're an aspiring leader or a seasoned administrator, the TALAS Voz Podcast offers valuable insights and perspectives to support your professional journey. Stay connected, stay inspired, and be part of the conversation. Listen to the latest episodes, share them with your colleagues, and discover why your voice matters. Tune in, learn, and lead with TALAS! Previous podcast episodes: Podcast with Roni Gonzalez Podcast with Mike Miles Podcast with Dr. Martha Salazar Zamora Podcast with Dr. Jessica Melendez Carrillo   Chapter News Alamo Area seeking proposals: Due August 7, 2026 The Alamo Area TALAS Chapter is kicking off the school year with an inspiring Leadership Conference on September 12, 2026, and we invite you to be a part of this exciting event! Do you have innovative strategies, proven leadership practices, or impactful experiences that have made a difference in your school or district? This is your opportunity to share your expertise and inspire fellow educational leaders from across the region. We are seeking engaging presentations that highlight leadership development, community partnerships and student achievement. Whether you're an experienced presenter or sharing your story for the first time, your voice matters. Your knowledge, talent, and experiences can empower others and help strengthen leadership across Texas. Submit your proposal today and join us in making this conference a meaningful learning experience for all. We look forward to learning from you!   Houston TALAS Mark your calendars! HTX TALAS is preparing an exciting lineup of professional learning, networking, and leadership development opportunities this school year. Join educational leaders from across the Houston area as we connect, collaborate, and continue to grow together through meaningful learning experiences designed to inspire and empower leaders at every level. Stay tuned for additional event details, registration information, and special guest announcements. We look forward to seeing you at our upcoming HTX TALAS events as we continue to strengthen our leadership community and advance excellence in education. We can't wait to connect with you!   Become a Member!     Visit the TALAS website for information on upcoming events. We have several events and meetings coming up. Come and join us! We would love to have you! TALAS website ADVOCACY National & State News Take a look at what is happening around you!   Interactive: School Spending Is Up. Teacher Pay Isn’t. See What’s Happening in 8,900 Districts School spending is up. So why aren’t teacher salaries?  For example, from 2002 to 2022, per-pupil spending in the Los Angeles Unified School District rose 108%. That’s in real terms, after accounting for inflation.  But that money didn’t lead to higher pay. In fact, the average salary earned by district employees rose just 5%.  These trends are not unique to Los Angeles and are, in fact, playing out in most schools and districts across the country.  We set out to document the disconnect between rising school spending and stagnant salary levels.  Nationally, average teacher salaries have been remarkably flat for a very long time. In inflation-adjusted terms, they’ve been hovering around $70,000 for decades.   Read more   Shrinking student populations cause spike in public school closures across U.S. School closures have spiked 35 percent across the country over the past four years, propelled by a shrinking youth population and the end of covid-19 relief funds that had propped up education funding in some places. For the fourth year in a row, the number of school closures rose nationally last year, according to data from the National Center for Education Statistics released last week. Districts closed more than 1,000 schools in 2025-26, compared with 755 in 2021-22. And more closures are planned, including districts in Houston, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh and Broward County in Florida. “We call it the big shrink,” said Marguerite Roza, who tracks school funding as director of Georgetown University’s Edunomics Lab. “Enrollment at public schools is declining, partly because there are fewer kids in the U.S.” Read more   3-2-1: On leisure vs. luxury, unlocking growth, and the many versions of a good life 3 Ideas From Me I. "Achievements are great. It is satisfying to accomplish something. It feels good to win. And many achievements make the world a better place, too. But also remember to ask, "What am I really trying to accomplish here?" You may realize the goal is not to write a best-selling book or earn that promotion or get into medical school, but rather to build a life you enjoy. And there are many versions of a life you enjoy. It is often the case that if you can release the n Read more   ADVOCACY TOOLS & RESOURCE CENTER   Texas School Business July Issue NEW! Don't Miss the Latest Issue of Texas School Business The July/August issue of Texas School Business, published by TASA, looks back at how Texas school districts have helped their local communities respond to extreme weather events. The issue also highlights new TASPA President Chris Bailey and new TCWSE President Sonja Brown. You'll find a "Student Voices" piece from Austin ISD and a "Regional View" from Region 12, along with photos from recent TACS events. Plus, don't miss your favorite columns by Jim Walsh and Riney Jordan, plenty of Who's News, and more. Read and share the issue.   High Impact Tutoring Resources The National Student Support Accelerator at Stanford University is a non-profit organization that conducts and promotes research and implementation of good practices on high-impact tutoring. High-impact tutoring is defined as tutoring delivered one-on-one or in small groups, 3x/week or more for 10+ weeks with a consistent, well-trained tutor and taking place ideally during the school day.  Links of interest: What is High-Impact Tutoring Stanford Research on Tutoring Tutoring Quality Standards List of Providers that Meet the Quality Standards NSSA Newsletter State Policy in Texas and Texas Tutoring Toolkit   PARTNERSHIPS Partner Spotlight TALAS extends heartfelt gratitude to our partners for their unwavering support and belief in our mission. Your investment and dedication play a vital role in strengthening the leadership pipeline, driving progress, and improving student outcomes. We deeply value your commitment to our shared vision of educational excellence.   Partner of the Week   Annual Partner Spotlight- PLATA Really Great Reading For over 20 years, we've advanced foundational literacy with easy-to-implement solutions that deliver results. Rooted in the Science of Reading, our approach goes beyond phonics to build the full spectrum of foundational and oral language skills for fluency and comprehension. Designed for real classrooms, we blend teacher-led instruction with tech-powered tools that remove barriers and drive literacy success. Aligned with HB 1605 requirements and grounded in the Science of Reading, RGR gives Texas districts a complete, evidence-based solution that saves teachers time and builds confident readers.   CAREER OPPORTUNITIES   Find your next career opportunity SSA TASA Career Center ESS Current Searches Superintendent Search JG Consulting Hazard, Young, Attea Associates GRRecruiting Arrow Educational Services K-12 Search Group   TALAS STORE Show Your TALAS Pride – Shop the New TALAS Store! Now Open: The TALAS Store Show your support and represent TALAS with pride—visit the new TALAS Store to browse our exclusive merchandise, including shirts, hats, bags, and more! Wear your gear at the next TALAS event! Whether you're heading to campus, attending an event, or just repping your favorite organization, we’ve got you covered. Shop now !   Our Mission TALAS, with an unrelenting commitment to improving learning outcomes for Latino learners, will provide leadership development, collective impact, advocacy, and a proactive voice for Latino and non-Latino leaders who have a passion for serving the fastest growing student population in our state.  

Monday, Jul 27 2026

TALAS Weekly Newsletter: Welcome Back !

TALAS Weekly Newsletter Texas Association of Latino Administrators and Superintendents July 20, 2026   "Be grateful for the people who spoke to the winner in you before you started winning."   LEADERSHIP   TALAS News A Message from the Executive Director Welcome back! As we begin another exciting year, the entire TALAS team is energized and ready to serve, support, and advocate for educational leaders across Texas. We are currently reimagining and enhancing the TALAS website to provide an even greater experience for our members. In the coming months, members will have exclusive access to valuable leadership resources, professional learning opportunities, member-only content, and tools designed to support you throughout your leadership journey. Speaking of Membership... When you join TALAS, you become part of a statewide network of passionate educational leaders dedicated to advancing leadership, advocacy, and excellence in education. Together, we are building stronger schools, stronger communities, and stronger leaders. Your State TALAS membership also includes membership in your local TALAS Chapter, giving you the best of both worlds—a powerful statewide network and meaningful connections with leaders in your own region. Whether you are an aspiring leader, a campus administrator, a district leader, or a seasoned executive, TALAS is here to invest in your success. We look forward to supporting your leadership journey and continuing to create opportunities that empower educators to make a lasting impact on the students and communities we serve. Thank you for being a valued member of the TALAS family. We are excited for all that lies ahead and look forward to growing, leading, and serving alongside you throughout the year.   Leadership Development Opportunities   Learning Opportunities   Innovamat Sponsoring Math Summit in Spain- September 28- Oct. 2 The Innovamat SUMA SUMMIT is an exclusive five-day experience for educational leaders from Latin America in Barcelona and Madrid, designed to be transformative, guiding participants from reflection to action while expanding their strategic vision and refining their leadership approaches. Click here for more information   Resource Opportunity   VOICE TALAS VOZ Podcasts Looking for inspiration, practical leadership strategies, and meaningful conversations with educational leaders across Texas? The TALAS Voz Podcast brings the voices of our members, partners, and thought leaders directly to you. Each episode features engaging discussions on educational leadership, advocacy, innovation, mentorship, and the experiences that are shaping the future of education. Whether you're an aspiring leader or a seasoned administrator, the TALAS Voz Podcast offers valuable insights and perspectives to support your professional journey. Stay connected, stay inspired, and be part of the conversation. Listen to the latest episodes, share them with your colleagues, and discover why your voice matters. Tune in, learn, and lead with TALAS! Previous podcast episodes: Podcast with Roni Gonzalez Podcast with Mike Miles Podcast with Dr. Martha Salazar Zamora Podcast with Dr. Jessica Melendez Carrillo   Chapter News Alamo Area seeking proposals: Due August 7, 2026 The Alamo Area TALAS Chapter is kicking off the school year with an inspiring Leadership Conference on September 12, 2026, and we invite you to be a part of this exciting event! Do you have innovative strategies, proven leadership practices, or impactful experiences that have made a difference in your school or district? This is your opportunity to share your expertise and inspire fellow educational leaders from across the region. We are seeking engaging presentations that highlight leadership development, community partnerships and student achievement. Whether you're an experienced presenter or sharing your story for the first time, your voice matters. Your knowledge, talent, and experiences can empower others and help strengthen leadership across Texas. Submit your proposal today and join us in making this conference a meaningful learning experience for all. We look forward to learning from you!   Houston TALAS- Save the Dates Mark your calendars! HTX TALAS is preparing an exciting lineup of professional learning, networking, and leadership development opportunities this school year. Join educational leaders from across the Houston area as we connect, collaborate, and continue to grow together through meaningful learning experiences designed to inspire and empower leaders at every level. Stay tuned for additional event details, registration information, and special guest announcements. We look forward to seeing you at our upcoming HTX TALAS events as we continue to strengthen our leadership community and advance excellence in education. We can't wait to connect with you!   Become a Member!     Visit the TALAS website for information on upcoming events. We have several events and meetings coming up. Come and join us! We would love to have you! TALAS website ADVOCACY National & State News Take a look at what is happening around you!   Why District Leaders Should Prioritize One-on-One Meetings With Principals One of the most valuable things a district office administrator can offer a principal is time—not another initiative, checklist, or team meeting. More specifically, it’s focused one-on-one time. The schedules of district leaders fill up fast. Board meetings, budget talks, parent concerns, facility projects, district initiatives, and unexpected issues all demand our attention. Often, the meetings we postpone first are the regular one-on-one meetings with principals. We might think, “I’ll see them at next month’s principals meeting anyway.” I’ve learned that’s a mistake. Read more   Stop seeking approval Some of the most stressed, overworked leaders I’ve ever met aren’t struggling because of their workload. They’re drowning because of something far more invisible — and far more exhausting. Every decision they make runs through a filter. Before they send the email, before they make the call, before they set the direction — there’s a quiet, relentless question running in the background: What will people think of me? If that’s you, it’s costing you more than you realize. It’s costing you clarity. It’s costing you speed. And most of all, it’s costing you your confidence as a leader. Read more   3-2-1: On protecting your mind, the recipe for frustration, and how to spark better conversation 3 Ideas From Me I. "The recipe for frustration is taking on something that requires a whole person, but only giving it half your time. Look at what you're trying to do. What is required? Some things can only be done well when they are pursued with full effort." II. "It's hard to learn when you feel defensive. Relax. You are capable and you can recover from whatever you face. You can accept feedback without taking it personally. What is this moment teaching you?" Read more   ADVOCACY TOOLS & RESOURCE CENTER   Texas School Business July Issue NEW! Don't Miss the Latest Issue of Texas School Business The July/August issue of Texas School Business, published by TASA, looks back at how Texas school districts have helped their local communities respond to extreme weather events. The issue also highlights new TASPA President Chris Bailey and new TCWSE President Sonja Brown. You'll find a "Student Voices" piece from Austin ISD and a "Regional View" from Region 12, along with photos from recent TACS events. Plus, don't miss your favorite columns by Jim Walsh and Riney Jordan, plenty of Who's News, and more. Read and share the issue.   High Impact Tutoring Resources The National Student Support Accelerator at Stanford University is a non-profit organization that conducts and promotes research and implementation of good practices on high-impact tutoring. High-impact tutoring is defined as tutoring delivered one-on-one or in small groups, 3x/week or more for 10+ weeks with a consistent, well-trained tutor and taking place ideally during the school day.  Links of interest: What is High-Impact Tutoring Stanford Research on Tutoring Tutoring Quality Standards List of Providers that Meet the Quality Standards NSSA Newsletter State Policy in Texas and Texas Tutoring Toolkit   PARTNERSHIPS Partner Spotlight TALAS extends heartfelt gratitude to our partners for their unwavering support and belief in our mission. Your investment and dedication play a vital role in strengthening the leadership pipeline, driving progress, and improving student outcomes. We deeply value your commitment to our shared vision of educational excellence.   Partner of the Week   Annual Partner Spotlight- PLATA Manta Ai Manta is a research-grade data analytics platform designed to enhance the capacity and speed of teams with complex, messy data. Our platform makes it easy to quickly combine information from multiple systems—things like CCMR metrics, census data, assessments, attendance, finance, staffing, and more—and generate insights in minutes, providing actionable next steps to education leaders, policy makers, and advocates. It analyses up to 50 files in a single dataset and uses hundreds of verification agents to provide the most holistic, nuanced, and accurate responses.   CAREER OPPORTUNITIES   Find your next career opportunity SSA TASA Career Center ESS Current Searches Superintendent Search JG Consulting Hazard, Young, Attea Associates GRRecruiting Arrow Educational Services K-12 Search Group   TALAS STORE Show Your TALAS Pride – Shop the New TALAS Store! Now Open: The TALAS Store Show your support and represent TALAS with pride—visit the new TALAS Store to browse our exclusive merchandise, including shirts, hats, bags, and more! Wear your gear at the next TALAS event! Whether you're heading to campus, attending an event, or just repping your favorite organization, we’ve got you covered. Shop now !   Our Mission TALAS, with an unrelenting commitment to improving learning outcomes for Latino learners, will provide leadership development, collective impact, advocacy, and a proactive voice for Latino and non-Latino leaders who have a passion for serving the fastest growing student population in our state.  

Monday, Jul 20 2026

TALAS Weekly Newsletter: Summit Recap

TALAS Weekly Newsletter Texas Association of Latino Administrators and Superintendents June 29, 2026   "The right people will find you. Keep building."   Enjoy your Summer Break. Newsletter will on resume July 20, 2026 LEADERSHIP   TALAS Member Spotlight #1: Summer Leadership Summit was a Success! A message from our Executive Director: We closed the 3rd Annual Summer Leadership Summit inspired by our speakers, Dr. Miguel Cardona, Ed. D. and Mr. Robert Alfaro, the presenters, the sponsors, and attendees from all over the state. We extend our deepest gratitude to our summit and annual sponsors for making the event possible. Summit K12 brought us Dr. Miguel Cardona, who opened the summit and set a powerful tone for the uplifting experiences that our presenters provided. Mr. Alfaro delivered a moving keynote message reminding us of the “Roberts” who are still in our classrooms waiting to be seen and heard – grounding us in our work! We applauded the inaugural student scholarship winners and wished them the best with future endeavors. We celebrated the TALAS L3 (Latino Leverage Leadership Program) Cohort 12. They completed year one of program study and embark on year two of mentoring with a TALAS Board member.  Our theme, "Fuerza (Strength) in Our Roots, Poder (Power) in Our People," was more than a slogan—it was a reminder that our roots ground us in our values, our culture, our families, and the generations of leaders who paved the way before us. Our people are our sources of strength, innovation, resilience, and hope. Together, they form the foundation upon which our leadership thrives! Thank you to the CTALAS - Central Texas TALAS Chapter for their incredible partnership in organizing the summit! I would be remiss in not recognizing Concordia University Texas for their incredible partnership in making the leadership summit a huge success. The staff was accommodaing, flexible, attentive, the food was delicious and the staff was always ready to help. Thank you, Dr. Lori Einfalt, Eric Silber, and Chelsey Daring for creating a memorable experience for everyone. The university is absolutely beautiful -- one of Austin's tucked away gems at the edge of the Texas Hill Country. Join us and be part of the TALAS: Texas Association of Latino Administrators and Superintendents familia! There’s always room for one more – and you don’t have to be Latino to join – we welcome all leaders who have a passion for removing barriers for children and a passion for elevating others, making success possible.   TALAS Member Spotlight #2: Inaugural Leadership Awards We established inaugural leadership awards that will now become part of the annual leadership summit. They represent our collective commitment to academic excellence, service, and leadership in public education. They inspire hope, cultivate possibility by mentoring, they respond to people, and will leave a legacy for future generations. Huge congratulations to our inaugural award winners: Dr. Martha Salazar-Zamora, Tomball ISD, TALAS Superintendent of the Year Dr. Steven Gutierrez, Ed.D. Gutierrez, Chief Operations Officer, Tomball ISD, TALAS Central Office Administrator of the Year Dr. Jessica Meléndez-Carrillo, Ed.D. Melendez-Carrillo, Canutillo ISD Principal of the Year (now serving as Director of Bilingual Education and Professional Development).   Leadership Development Opportunities   Ready to become a Superintendent? Dear ALAS Familia, I’m reaching out with a personal invitation to take the next bold step in your leadership journey. If you have ever imagined yourself leading at the school, district, or superintendent level, this is your moment. Applications are now open for the ALAS Superintendent Leadership Academy, our flagship program designed to develop, elevate, and empower leaders who are ready to serve with purpose, courage, and impact. Year after year, ALAS Academy alumni move into principalships, district leadership roles, and superintendencies. This success reflects the strength of the program and the incredible leadership already present in our national familia.When you join an ALAS Academy, you are not just enrolling in a program. You are joining a powerful network of leaders committed to advancing excellence, opportunity, and student success across the country. Superintendent Leadership Academy (SLA) Please click the link above to learn more about the application process, program investment, and deadline to apply. Additionally, I’m excited to share that applications are also now open for the $10,000 ALAS Scholarship for leaders pursuing an accelerated degree and preparing for their next leadership opportunity. Application deadlines have been extended for the following Leadership Academies   Learning Opportunities   From Strategy to Systemic Transformation: Workshop #1- July 14, 2026 A 3-Hour Intensive for Results-Driven Texas Administrators Strategic plans fail when they are too broad to execute or too detached from economic reality. This summer, join NorthStar Education Advisors for a streamlined, three-part series designed to help you prioritize, engage your community, and build a system that moves. This series will take place on July 14th, July 28th, and August 11th from 4 PM to 5 PM CST. Workshop 1: Goal Alignment & Economic Reality Focus: Setting the NorthStar & Engaging the Community To lead effectively, goals must be rooted in the 2030+ economy. This session focuses on defining your how as you build your what and your why. The Impact vs. Effort Framework:  Use this matrix to categorize district initiatives into "Quick Wins," "Major Projects," and "Thankless Tasks" that should be de-prioritized. Register here   Resource Opportunity   VOICE TALAS VOZ- A Message from Dr. Rick Podcast #4 is on The TALAS VOZ, host Rick Fernandez sits down with Roni Gonzales, Principal of Somerset Junior High in Somerset ISD. With more than two decades in the same district, Roni shares a powerful story of commitment, growth, and what it takes to build a high-performing campus rooted in trust, consistency, and strong instructional leadership. Previous podcast episodes: Podcast with Roni Gonzalez Podcast with Mike Miles Podcast with Dr. Martha Salazar Zamora Podcast with Dr. Jessica Melendez Carrillo   Chapter News   Tarrant County United Educators Under the inspiring theme, “Sculpting Pathways,” attendees were reminded that leadership is a continuous journey shaped through intentional growth, shared vision, collaboration, and a commitment to making a lasting impact. This impactful event brought together leaders, educators, and advocates for meaningful conversations, learning, and connections that continue to strengthen our TALAS community. A heartfelt thank you to the keynote speaker, panelists, presenters, sponsors, and volunteers whose dedication and support made this inspirational conference a reality. Your contributions continue to elevate leadership and create opportunities for growth across Texas. Congratulations, Tarrant County TALAS, on another outstanding event!   Alamo Area TALAS: Preparing & Marketing Yourself for the Next Executive Leadership Role June 29, 2026 Ready to make your next career move? Join Alamo Area TALAS for an evening of networking, learning, and professional growth designed to help you take the next step in your leadership journey. Mark your calendars for June 29, 2026, and come connect with leaders who are ready to support and inspire your future success. Register today! Become a Member!   Welcome new members! We are thrilled to welcome new state & chapter members every week and to see our TALAS community continue to grow! June Magaly Lopez- State Esthela Allison- State Jonathan Torres- State & Alamo Dr. Louis Kushner- State & Tarrant County Erica Mendoza- State Areli Zarate- State & Central Steve Wandler- North Texas Laurie Mattson- El Paso Kathy Tran Davis- El Paso Benny Soto- El Paso Isaura Espinoza- Tarrant County You can renew your membership today on the TALAS website or you can sign up for TALAS membership when you renew your TASA membership on the TASA website.   Visit the TALAS website for information on upcoming events. We have several events and meetings coming up. Come and join us! We would love to have you! TALAS website ADVOCACY National & State News Take a look at what is happening around you!   How much each US state spends on public school students, ranked For many students in the US, the ZIP code they live in can shape the quality of education they get. And while a lot of disparity can exist between wealthy suburbs and under-resourced urban school districts, differences can also show up dramatically when comparing education across US states. In 2024, US public schools received nearly $995 billion in funding, with state and local sources combined providing nearly 90% of the total, according to Census data. Nationwide, local governments provided $429.8 billion for primary and secondary education funding, while state governments provided $450 billion. Read more   How to find the leadership talent already in your classrooms Many districts approach leadership development reactively. A principal retires, an assistant principal leaves, or a department chair position opens, and only then does the search for leadership begin. The problem is that by the time vacancies appear, districts are often competing for a limited number of candidates while overlooking leadership talent already developing inside their own schools. In many cases, future school leaders are not first identified through formal applications or administrative internships. They are identified through responsibility. Leadership often begins quietly inside classrooms long before educators ever hold official titles. Read more   3-2-1: On the power of trees, celebrating others, and how to have better ideas 3 Ideas From Me I. "Your first attempt might not be very good, but nobody's early work is good. There will always be a gap between where you are and where you want to be. And the bridge between that gap is courage. The courage to look foolish in the beginning. The courage to show up again when your early work is criticized. The courage to look yourself in the mirror and say, "I realize I'm not good enough yet, but the only way to get better is to keep working on it." ​II. "One of the more effective ways to force yourself to have better ideas is to create an artificial constraint. For many years, I wrote two articles per week and it would often take me over 20 hours to complete each article. Then I said, "If I only had 2 to 4 hours per week to write my newsletter, what would I do?" That artificial constraint led to the creation of the 3-2-1 newsletter, which has become an incredibly popular format. Sometimes you can improve by cutting your options off." Read more   ADVOCACY TOOLS & RESOURCE CENTER   Texas School Business May/June Issue The May/June issue of Texas School Business takes a look at how some tech companies are using AI to battle chronic absenteeism in schools. The issue also highlights new TACS President Aaron Hood and new TASBO President Phillip Ellison. You'll find a "The Arts" column from Hays CISD and a "Student Voices" piece from Mesquite ISD. The issue also features a "Digital Frontier" column from Mineral Wells ISD and a "Regional View" from Region 7, along with photos from recent TSPRA and TASBO conferences. Plus, don't miss your favorite columns by Jim Walsh and Riney Jordan, plenty of Who's News, and more. Read and share the issue.   High Impact Tutoring Resources The National Student Support Accelerator at Stanford University is a non-profit organization that conducts and promotes research and implementation of good practices on high-impact tutoring. High-impact tutoring is defined as tutoring delivered one-on-one or in small groups, 3x/week or more for 10+ weeks with a consistent, well-trained tutor and taking place ideally during the school day.  Links of interest: What is High-Impact Tutoring Stanford Research on Tutoring Tutoring Quality Standards List of Providers that Meet the Quality Standards NSSA Newsletter State Policy in Texas and Texas Tutoring Toolkit   A Toolkit for K-12 Educators TALAS is pleased to share a valuable new resource from the Texas Immigration Law Council (TxILC): Understanding the Impact of Immigration Enforcement and Policy on K–12 Schools. Originally released in May, this toolkit is designed to help K–12 educators and administrators navigate immigration-related challenges while fostering safe and welcoming school environments. TxILC is also seeking to partner with educational leaders to adapt a model policy that supports all students. If you are interested, please contact:: Lindsay Goldford Gray   PARTNERSHIPS Partner Spotlight TALAS extends heartfelt gratitude to our partners for their unwavering support and belief in our mission. Your investment and dedication play a vital role in strengthening the leadership pipeline, driving progress, and improving student outcomes. We deeply value your commitment to our shared vision of educational excellence.   Partner of the Week   Annual Partner Spotlight- PLATA Core Construction CORE, a corporation with nearly 90 years of history, was founded in 1937 in Morton, IL, and has since grown to over 20 locations across the United States. Now headquartered in Frisco, TX, we are committed to delivering exceptional professional services to both long-standing and new Clients, as well as the communities we serve nationwide. Driven by a strong company culture and a passion for service, our team of professionals excels in what we call the "Business of Building."   CAREER OPPORTUNITIES   Find your next career opportunity TASA Career Center ESS Current Searches Superintendent Search JG Consulting Hazard, Young, Attea Associates GRRecruiting Arrow Educational Services K-12 Search Group   TALAS STORE Show Your TALAS Pride – Shop the New TALAS Store! Now Open: The TALAS Store Show your support and represent TALAS with pride—visit the new TALAS Store to browse our exclusive merchandise, including shirts, hats, bags, and more! Wear your gear at the next TALAS event! Whether you're heading to campus, attending an event, or just repping your favorite organization, we’ve got you covered. Shop now !   Our Mission TALAS, with an unrelenting commitment to improving learning outcomes for Latino learners, will provide leadership development, collective impact, advocacy, and a proactive voice for Latino and non-Latino leaders who have a passion for serving the fastest growing student population in our state.  

Monday, Jun 29 2026

TALAS Weekly Newsletter: Leadership Summit Speakers ...

TALAS Weekly Newsletter Texas Association of Latino Administrators and Superintendents June 15, 2026   "People don't have to guess who you are when you're consistent." LEADERSHIP   TALAS Member Spotlight #1: Featured Conference Speaker June 22, 2026 TALAS Welcomes Dr. Miguel Cardona for a Special Leadership Session at the 2026 State Leadership Summit! We are honored to welcome Dr. Miguel Cardona, former U.S. Secretary of Education, for a special session during the TALAS State Leadership Summit. Dr. Cardona brings a wealth of experience, insight, and a lifelong commitment to educational equity, opportunity, and student success. His leadership journey reflects the power of service, advocacy, and the belief that every student deserves access to a high-quality education and the opportunity to thrive. As we gather around the theme “Fuerza in our Roots, Poder in our People,” this special session will provide leaders with an opportunity to engage, reflect, and be inspired by a national voice in education. We look forward to welcoming Dr. Cardona as we continue to elevate leadership, strengthen partnerships, and advance the future of education across Texas. Welcome, Dr. Miguel Cardona — we are honored to have you join us! #TALAS2026 #LeadershipSummit #FuerzaInOurRoots #PoderInOurPeople   TALAS Spotlight Member #2: Keynote speaker June 23, 2026 We are honored to welcome Robert Alfaro as the keynote speaker for the TALAS State Leadership Summit. His leadership, vision, and commitment to inspiring others align deeply with our mission of developing and empowering leaders across Texas. As we gather under the theme “Fuerza in our Roots, Poder in our People,” we look forward to an impactful message that will challenge, inspire, and ignite our collective commitment to educational excellence, leadership, and service. In addition, attendees will have the opportunity to receive a signed copy of his book, Baloney, Baloney, Baloney, during the conference. Join us as we celebrate the power of our stories, the strength of our communities, and the leaders who continue to elevate the future of education across Texas. Welcome, Robert Alfaro — we are excited to have you with us! #TALAS2026 #LeadershipSummit #FuerzaInOurRoots #PoderInOurPeople   Leadership Development Opportunities   Ready to become a Superintendent? Dear ALAS Familia, I’m reaching out with a personal invitation to take the next bold step in your leadership journey. If you have ever imagined yourself leading at the school, district, or superintendent level, this is your moment. Applications are now open for the ALAS Superintendent Leadership Academy, our flagship program designed to develop, elevate, and empower leaders who are ready to serve with purpose, courage, and impact. Year after year, ALAS Academy alumni move into principalships, district leadership roles, and superintendencies. This success reflects the strength of the program and the incredible leadership already present in our national familia.When you join an ALAS Academy, you are not just enrolling in a program. You are joining a powerful network of leaders committed to advancing excellence, opportunity, and student success across the country. Superintendent Leadership Academy (SLA) Please click the link above to learn more about the application process, program investment, and deadline to apply. Additionally, I’m excited to share that applications are also now open for the $10,000 ALAS Scholarship for leaders pursuing an accelerated degree and preparing for their next leadership opportunity. Application deadlines have been extended for the following Leadership Academies   Learning Opportunities   Summer Leadership Summit Registration is STILL open! Grab your seat! June 22-23, 2026 TALAS and Central TALAS invite you to the annual Summer Leadership Summit, a powerful two-day gathering of superintendents, senior district leaders, and educational partners dedicated to advancing Latino leadership across Texas. “Fuerza in Our Roots, Poder in Our People” celebrates the cultural heritage, collective strength, and shared commitment that unite Latino educational leaders. This summit honors the power of our history, values, and purpose in driving student success and shaping the future of education. Click here to register   Belonging & Psychological Safety The Foundation of High-Performing Leadership Teams June 15 Attention TALAS Members and PK–12 Leaders! Join us for this four-part virtual series and learn a research-grounded framework for building the leadership team your school or district deserves. Each session includes a free team assessment. Your results become the data you use to anchor your learning and personalize your takeaways. Each session stands alone. All four build something lasting. WEBINAR 01  Belonging & Psychological Safety  The Foundation of High-Performing Leadership Teams  Every high-performing team starts with trust, and trust starts with  belonging. Explore why psychological safety is not a “soft” concept  but the essential condition that allows your team to take risks, speak  honestly, and execute together.  YOU'LL LEAVE ABLE TO:  →Assess psychological safety on your team  →Identify one behavior undermining belonging  →Apply an immediate practice to shift team culture  Mon, June 15 · 4:00–5:00 PM CDT  Register here   From Strategy to Systemic Transformation: Workshop #1- July 14, 2026 A 3-Hour Intensive for Results-Driven Texas Administrators Strategic plans fail when they are too broad to execute or too detached from economic reality. This summer, join NorthStar Education Advisors for a streamlined, three-part series designed to help you prioritize, engage your community, and build a system that moves. This series will take place on July 14th, July 28th, and August 11th from 4 PM to 5 PM CST. Workshop 1: Goal Alignment & Economic Reality Focus: Setting the NorthStar & Engaging the Community To lead effectively, goals must be rooted in the 2030+ economy. This session focuses on defining your how as you build your what and your why. The Impact vs. Effort Framework:  Use this matrix to categorize district initiatives into "Quick Wins," "Major Projects," and "Thankless Tasks" that should be de-prioritized. Register here   Resource Opportunity   VOICE TALAS VOZ- A Message from Dr. Rick Podcast #4 is on The TALAS VOZ, host Rick Fernandez sits down with Roni Gonzales, Principal of Somerset Junior High in Somerset ISD. With more than two decades in the same district, Roni shares a powerful story of commitment, growth, and what it takes to build a high-performing campus rooted in trust, consistency, and strong instructional leadership. Previous podcast episodes: Podcast with Roni Gonzalez Podcast with Mike Miles Podcast with Dr. Martha Salazar Zamora Podcast with Dr. Jessica Melendez Carrillo   Chapter News   Tarrant County is hosting a Leadership Conference June 26, 2026 Tarrant County is hosting a mini leadership conference for educational leaders on June 13, 2026. They are looking for dynamic presenters that are willing to share best practices in leadership. Sculpting Pathways represents a collective commitment to intentionally share leadership journeys grounded in culture, purpose and service. Sign up today! Tarrant County Links: Mini Conference Flyer: Call for Proposals Form Call for Proposals Letter   Alamo Area TALAS: Preparing & Marketing Yourself for the Next Executive Leadership Role June 29, 2026 Ready to make your next career move? Join Alamo Area TALAS for an evening of networking, learning, and professional growth designed to help you take the next step in your leadership journey. Mark your calendars for June 29, 2026, and come connect with leaders who are ready to support and inspire your future success. Register today! Become a Member!   Welcome new members! We are thrilled to welcome new state & chapter members every week and to see our TALAS community continue to grow! June Magaly Lopez- State Esthela Allison- State Jonathan Torres- State & Alamo Dr. Louis Kushner- State & Tarrant County Erica Mendoza- State Areli Zarate- State & Central Steve Wandler- North Texas You can renew your membership today on the TALAS website or you can sign up for TALAS membership when you renew your TASA membership on the TASA website.   Visit the TALAS website for information on upcoming events. We have several events and meetings coming up. Come and join us! We would love to have you! TALAS website ADVOCACY National & State News Take a look at what is happening around you!   Nation’s Report Card shows an uneven pandemic recovery Nine-year-olds are recovering academic ground lost during the pandemic, with reading scores now statistically on par with pre-COVID levels and a growing share of students demonstrating foundational math and literacy skills. The findings come from the 2025 National Assessment of Educational Progress Long-Term Trend Assessment, released by the National Center for Education Statistics. The assessment tracks reading and mathematics performance among 9- and 13-year-olds and provides a historical record dating back to the 1970s. Read more   The 3 Predicable Struggles That Thwart Education Leadership Teams Educational leaders are under enormous pressure. They are expected to improve student outcomes, support teacher learning, navigate competing initiatives, manage budgets, respond to community concerns, and maintain a coherent vision for improvement. And they are asked to do this at the same time they are leading through increasingly complex conditions. Given those demands, it is surprising that many districts do not offer more than one-day workshops or conferences for leaders to attend. Unfortunately, they do not often attend these workshops and conferences with other leaders, or many times, their leadership teams, which can negatively impact the team’s ability to create a common understanding about some of the biggest issues within their schools or districts. Read more   3-2-1: On improving the world, feeling wealthy, and managing your three selves 3 Ideas From Me I. "You don't need to solve every problem right now, only those that stand in your way." II. "If you are bummed by the state of the world, go build something." III. "Be forgiving with your past self. What's done is done. No sense in beating yourself up about it. Be strict with your present self. Win the moment in front of you right now. Be flexible with your future self. There are many paths to success. You don't need life to be a certain way to live well." Read more   ADVOCACY TOOLS & RESOURCE CENTER   Texas School Business May/June Issue The May/June issue of Texas School Business takes a look at how some tech companies are using AI to battle chronic absenteeism in schools. The issue also highlights new TACS President Aaron Hood and new TASBO President Phillip Ellison. You'll find a "The Arts" column from Hays CISD and a "Student Voices" piece from Mesquite ISD. The issue also features a "Digital Frontier" column from Mineral Wells ISD and a "Regional View" from Region 7, along with photos from recent TSPRA and TASBO conferences. Plus, don't miss your favorite columns by Jim Walsh and Riney Jordan, plenty of Who's News, and more. Read and share the issue.   High Impact Tutoring Resources The National Student Support Accelerator at Stanford University is a non-profit organization that conducts and promotes research and implementation of good practices on high-impact tutoring. High-impact tutoring is defined as tutoring delivered one-on-one or in small groups, 3x/week or more for 10+ weeks with a consistent, well-trained tutor and taking place ideally during the school day.  Links of interest: What is High-Impact Tutoring Stanford Research on Tutoring Tutoring Quality Standards List of Providers that Meet the Quality Standards NSSA Newsletter State Policy in Texas and Texas Tutoring Toolkit   A Toolkit for K-12 Educators TALAS is pleased to share a valuable new resource from the Texas Immigration Law Council (TxILC): Understanding the Impact of Immigration Enforcement and Policy on K–12 Schools. Originally released in May, this toolkit is designed to help K–12 educators and administrators navigate immigration-related challenges while fostering safe and welcoming school environments. TxILC is also seeking to partner with educational leaders to adapt a model policy that supports all students. If you are interested, please contact:: Lindsay Goldford Gray   PARTNERSHIPS Partner Spotlight TALAS extends heartfelt gratitude to our partners for their unwavering support and belief in our mission. Your investment and dedication play a vital role in strengthening the leadership pipeline, driving progress, and improving student outcomes. We deeply value your commitment to our shared vision of educational excellence.   Partner of the Week   Annual Partner Spotlight- PLATA Core Education We ARE CORE Learning For nearly 30 years, CORE has partnered with schools and districts nationwide to equip educators with the tools and knowledge for rigorous, accessible, results-driven instruction. Build instructional excellence through research-based professional learning Provide practical support that strengthens teaching and learning Ensure every student gains the skills to thrive   CAREER OPPORTUNITIES   Find your next career opportunity TASA Career Center ESS Current Searches Superintendent Search JG Consulting Hazard, Young, Attea Associates GRRecruiting Arrow Educational Services K-12 Search Group   TALAS STORE Show Your TALAS Pride – Shop the New TALAS Store! Now Open: The TALAS Store Show your support and represent TALAS with pride—visit the new TALAS Store to browse our exclusive merchandise, including shirts, hats, bags, and more! Wear your gear at the next TALAS event! Whether you're heading to campus, attending an event, or just repping your favorite organization, we’ve got you covered. Shop now !   Our Mission TALAS, with an unrelenting commitment to improving learning outcomes for Latino learners, will provide leadership development, collective impact, advocacy, and a proactive voice for Latino and non-Latino leaders who have a passion for serving the fastest growing student population in our state.  

Monday, Jun 15 2026

TALAS Weekly Newsletter: State Conference is around ...

TALAS Weekly Newsletter Texas Association of Latino Administrators and Superintendents June 8, 2026   "Leadership should not cost you yourself." LEADERSHIP   TALAS Spotlight Member #1: Superintendent of the Year TALAS member (& former Board member) receives honor Dr. Roland Hernandez is the Education Service Center (ESC) Region 2 Superintendent of the Year. Serving the Corpus Christi Independent School District (CCISD) in Texas, he won the regional honor and advances to compete for the state-wide Texas Superintendent of the Year award. His recent award recognizes his leadership in student achievement, public involvement, and educational quality across the Coastal Bend region. Hernandez has led CCISD since 2014 and brings nearly 30 years of administrative experience to his role. Congratulations!   TALAS Member Spotlight #2- TALAS Sponsors State Spanish Spelling Bee TALAS Supports the Texas State Spanish Spelling Bee TALAS was honored to serve as a Bronze Sponsor of the Texas State Spanish Spelling Bee, held on June 4, 2026, in El Paso, Texas. Hosted by ESC Region 19, this statewide academic competition brought together outstanding students in grades 4–8 from across Texas to showcase their mastery of Spanish spelling, vocabulary, and pronunciation. The event celebrated academic excellence while fostering cultural appreciation and bilingual achievement. TALAS is proud to support opportunities that recognize and elevate student success. We congratulate all participants for their dedication, hard work, and commitment to excellence, and we are grateful to have been a part of such an inspiring event.   Leadership Development Opportunities   Ready to become a Superintendent? Dear ALAS Familia, I’m reaching out with a personal invitation to take the next bold step in your leadership journey. If you have ever imagined yourself leading at the school, district, or superintendent level, this is your moment. Applications are now open for the ALAS Superintendent Leadership Academy, our flagship program designed to develop, elevate, and empower leaders who are ready to serve with purpose, courage, and impact. Year after year, ALAS Academy alumni move into principalships, district leadership roles, and superintendencies. This success reflects the strength of the program and the incredible leadership already present in our national familia.When you join an ALAS Academy, you are not just enrolling in a program. You are joining a powerful network of leaders committed to advancing excellence, opportunity, and student success across the country. Superintendent Leadership Academy (SLA) Please click the link above to learn more about the application process, program investment, and deadline to apply. Additionally, I’m excited to share that applications are also now open for the $10,000 ALAS Scholarship for leaders pursuing an accelerated degree and preparing for their next leadership opportunity. Application deadlines have been extended for the following Leadership Academies   Learning Opportunities   Summer Leadership Summit Registration is STILL open! Grab your seat! June 22-23, 2026 TALAS and Central TALAS invite you to the annual Summer Leadership Summit, a powerful two-day gathering of superintendents, senior district leaders, and educational partners dedicated to advancing Latino leadership across Texas. “Fuerza in Our Roots, Poder in Our People” celebrates the cultural heritage, collective strength, and shared commitment that unite Latino educational leaders. This summit honors the power of our history, values, and purpose in driving student success and shaping the future of education. Click here to register   Growing Your Own Teachers June 9, 2026 Are you looking at hiring new teachers? How are you planning to grow and support the educators already in your district? Join us for an engaging webinar focused on developing and investing in future-ready teachers. Discover strategies to recruit, mentor, and retain strong educators while building leadership capacity within your schools. It’s time to invest in your teachers — and grow excellence from within! We invite you to attend this impactful webinar and be part of the conversation. Register here IMCAT Summer Institute June 9-10 "Delivering the Future" because that's what we do: Deliver the future—in the form of instructional materials—to Texas schoolchildren. The mission of IMCAT is to support and serve the instructional materials community by sharing our expertise and knowledge. We believe in being good stewards of our resources; in advocating for meaningful policies, practices, and funding; and that expertise begins with training. The Instructional Materials Coordinators' Association of Texas (IMCAT), formerly known as the Textbook Coordinators' Association of Texas, offers the only regular training for instructional materials coordinators in public school districts or open enrollment charter schools. IMCAT's mission is to train and assist instructional materials professionals so they can help the students of Texas. See more about our recent and upcoming trainings below and on our Events page. Join us for a Zoom Summer Institute. Register here.   Dearborn & Creggs Investments Seminar: June 10, 2026 TALAS is excited to partner with Dearborn & Creggs Investments to offer a Financial Foundation for Educators series over the next few months. Take a look at the menu and select the session(s) that appeal to you. The next webinar is Voluntary Retirement Accounts with Adrian Gonzalez Register here for June 10, 2026   Belonging & Psychological Safety The Foundation of High-Performing Leadership Teams June 15 Attention TALAS Members and PK–12 Leaders! Join us for this four-part virtual series and learn a research-grounded framework for building the leadership team your school or district deserves. Each session includes a free team assessment. Your results become the data you use to anchor your learning and personalize your takeaways. Each session stands alone. All four build something lasting. WEBINAR 01  Belonging & Psychological Safety  The Foundation of High-Performing Leadership Teams  Every high-performing team starts with trust, and trust starts with  belonging. Explore why psychological safety is not a “soft” concept  but the essential condition that allows your team to take risks, speak  honestly, and execute together.  YOU'LL LEAVE ABLE TO:  →Assess psychological safety on your team  →Identify one behavior undermining belonging  →Apply an immediate practice to shift team culture  Mon, June 15 · 4:00–5:00 PM CDT  Register here   From Strategy to Systemic Transformation: Workshop #1- July 14, 2026 A 3-Hour Intensive for Results-Driven Texas Administrators Strategic plans fail when they are too broad to execute or too detached from economic reality. This summer, join NorthStar Education Advisors for a streamlined, three-part series designed to help you prioritize, engage your community, and build a system that moves. This series will take place on July 14th, July 28th, and August 11th from 4 PM to 5 PM CST. Workshop 1: Goal Alignment & Economic Reality Focus: Setting the NorthStar & Engaging the Community To lead effectively, goals must be rooted in the 2030+ economy. This session focuses on defining your how as you build your what and your why. The Impact vs. Effort Framework:  Use this matrix to categorize district initiatives into "Quick Wins," "Major Projects," and "Thankless Tasks" that should be de-prioritized. Register here   Resource Opportunity   Teacher and School Leader Incentive Program Grant Opportunity deadline June 9, 2026 If you work in K–12 education, educator effectiveness, leadership development, or district HR strategy, The U.S. Department of Education announced the Teacher and School Leader Incentive (TSL) Program with approximately $60 million in available funding. This funding supports districts, SEAs, charter LEAs, and eligible partnerships looking to: • Develop or strengthen human capital management systems • Expand performance-based compensation systems • Improve teacher and school leader effectiveness • Increase educator retention in high-need schools • Build career ladders, coaching, mentorship, and leadership pathways • Improve student achievement and workforce readiness outcomes Funding ranges from approximately $500,000 to $8.5 million. The Deadline to apply is June 9, 2026. Strong alignment for organizations supporting instructional coaching, educator pipelines, leadership development, retention, compensation reform, and school improvement systems. Click here to apply   VOICE TALAS VOZ- A Message from Dr. Rick Podcast #4 is on The TALAS VOZ, host Rick Fernandez sits down with Roni Gonzales, Principal of Somerset Junior High in Somerset ISD. With more than two decades in the same district, Roni shares a powerful story of commitment, growth, and what it takes to build a high-performing campus rooted in trust, consistency, and strong instructional leadership. Previous podcast episodes: Podcast with Roni Gonzalez Podcast with Mike Miles Podcast with Dr. Martha Salazar Zamora Podcast with Dr. Jessica Melendez Carrillo   Chapter News   Tarrant County is hosting a Leadership Conference June 26, 2026 Tarrant County is hosting a mini leadership conference for educational leaders on June 13, 2026. They are looking for dynamic presenters that are willing to share best practices in leadership. Sculpting Pathways represents a collective commitment to intentionally share leadership journeys grounded in culture, purpose and service. Sign up today! Tarrant County Links: Mini Conference Flyer: Call for Proposals Form Call for Proposals Letter   Alamo Area TALAS: Preparing & Marketing Yourself for the Next Executive Leadership Role June 29, 2026 Ready to make your next career move? Join Alamo Area TALAS for an evening of networking, learning, and professional growth designed to help you take the next step in your leadership journey. Mark your calendars for June 29, 2026, and come connect with leaders who are ready to support and inspire your future success. Register today! Become a Member!   Welcome new members! We are thrilled to welcome new state & chapter members every week and to see our TALAS community continue to grow! May/June Dr. April Wyatt- State & NTX William Davis- State & NTX Monica Herrera Castro- State Dr. Alejandro Elias- State & Alamo Derreck Hernande- State & WTX Abigail Negron- El Paso Annette Oropeza- El Paso Elsa Ibarra- State & Central Patrica Melgar-Cook- State & Central Charles Canosa- State James Sanders- State & Central Jonathan Flores- El Paso Joseph Sotelo- State & TALAS956 Magaly Lopez- State Esthela Allison- State Jonathan Torres- State & Alamo Dr. Louis Kushner- State & Tarrant County Erica Mendoza- State You can renew your membership today on the TALAS website or you can sign up for TALAS membership when you renew your TASA membership on the TASA website.   Visit the TALAS website for information on upcoming events. We have several events and meetings coming up. Come and join us! We would love to have you! TALAS website ADVOCACY National & State News Take a look at what is happening around you!   You Can’t Be Too Kind Forget Balance Don’t balance tough and tender. 50% truth is a lie. 50% kindness is manipulation. Don’t show up being gentle one minute and a sledgehammer the next. Kindness makes you miserable when you can’t confront difficult situations. Stress goes up. Relationships are fake. Pleasing sucks the life out of you. Truthfulness without kindness pushes people away. Expectations are billy clubs. Anger permeates interactions. Kindness and truth don’t compete; they’re glorious together.   Not Every Teacher Should Be an Administrator. Here’s How to Decide When I considered the switch from being a kindergarten teacher to an administrator, I thought about the impact I wanted to have on a school’s culture. As a teacher, I prioritized relationships with students, often conducting home visits and partnering with families to ensure academic success. I engaged students in inquiry-based learning opportunities that were a catalyst for growth as evidenced by data. There were initiatives and partnerships that I established in my classroom that I knew could benefit the larger school community. Read more   3-2-1: On responding to challenges, winning the day, and lessons from a baseball coach 3 Ideas From Me I. "Your response to a challenge defines you more than the challenge itself." II. "Compete against yourself. When you look outside — your rivals, your industry, your luck — there is always something to blame. When you look inside — your process, your effort, your rate of learning — there is always something to improve. Average looks out. Elite looks in." Read more   ADVOCACY TOOLS & RESOURCE CENTER   Texas School Business May/June Issue The May/June issue of Texas School Business takes a look at how some tech companies are using AI to battle chronic absenteeism in schools. The issue also highlights new TACS President Aaron Hood and new TASBO President Phillip Ellison. You'll find a "The Arts" column from Hays CISD and a "Student Voices" piece from Mesquite ISD. The issue also features a "Digital Frontier" column from Mineral Wells ISD and a "Regional View" from Region 7, along with photos from recent TSPRA and TASBO conferences. Plus, don't miss your favorite columns by Jim Walsh and Riney Jordan, plenty of Who's News, and more. Read and share the issue.   High Impact Tutoring Resources The National Student Support Accelerator at Stanford University is a non-profit organization that conducts and promotes research and implementation of good practices on high-impact tutoring. High-impact tutoring is defined as tutoring delivered one-on-one or in small groups, 3x/week or more for 10+ weeks with a consistent, well-trained tutor and taking place ideally during the school day.  Links of interest: What is High-Impact Tutoring Stanford Research on Tutoring Tutoring Quality Standards List of Providers that Meet the Quality Standards NSSA Newsletter State Policy in Texas and Texas Tutoring Toolkit   A Toolkit for K-12 Educators TALAS is pleased to share a valuable new resource from the Texas Immigration Law Council (TxILC): Understanding the Impact of Immigration Enforcement and Policy on K–12 Schools. Originally released in May, this toolkit is designed to help K–12 educators and administrators navigate immigration-related challenges while fostering safe and welcoming school environments. TxILC is also seeking to partner with educational leaders to adapt a model policy that supports all students. If you are interested, please contact:: Lindsay Goldford Gray   “The Texas Promise: A Vision for the Future” TASA Launches “The Texas Promise: A Vision for the Future” As TASA begins its second century as an organization, it’s time for a bold new vision, and that’s exactly what happened at the 2026 Midwinter Conference. Attendees were the first to be introduced to “The Texas Promise: A Vision for the Future,” a new visioning document that will guide TASA’s strategic planning efforts over the next year and the organization’s evolution for years to come Click here to review the document PARTNERSHIPS Partner Spotlight TALAS extends heartfelt gratitude to our partners for their unwavering support and belief in our mission. Your investment and dedication play a vital role in strengthening the leadership pipeline, driving progress, and improving student outcomes. We deeply value your commitment to our shared vision of educational excellence.   Partner of the Week   Annual Partner Spotlight- PLATA Elevate K-12 Elevate K-12 is a LIVE teaching company that provides synchronous virtual instruction to thousands of K-12 schools across the country that are facing acute teacher shortages. Elevate K-12 provides engaging LIVE instruction from experienced US-certified teachers across core, elective and supplemental classes, including those for Special Education and ELL students. Schools feel confident filling their permanent teacher vacancies with these high-quality LIVE instructors, ensuring consistent academic outcomes for all students.   CAREER OPPORTUNITIES   Find your next career opportunity TASA Career Center ESS Current Searches Superintendent Search JG Consulting Hazard, Young, Attea Associates GRRecruiting Arrow Educational Services K-12 Search Group   TALAS STORE Show Your TALAS Pride – Shop the New TALAS Store! Now Open: The TALAS Store Show your support and represent TALAS with pride—visit the new TALAS Store to browse our exclusive merchandise, including shirts, hats, bags, and more! Wear your gear at the next TALAS event! Whether you're heading to campus, attending an event, or just repping your favorite organization, we’ve got you covered. Shop now !   Our Mission TALAS, with an unrelenting commitment to improving learning outcomes for Latino learners, will provide leadership development, collective impact, advocacy, and a proactive voice for Latino and non-Latino leaders who have a passion for serving the fastest growing student population in our state.  

Monday, Jun 08 2026

TALAS Weekly Newsletter: Thank you Annual Sponsors

TALAS Weekly Newsletter Texas Association of Latino Administrators and Superintendents June 1, 2026   "Make it a habit to respect people without knowing their qualifications, title or position." LEADERSHIP   TALAS Spotlight Member #1: 5th Group- TALAS & CTALAS Board is ready to see you! TALAS Announces Summer Leadership Summit Presenters We are thrilled to introduce the fifth group of presenters/facilitators for our upcoming Summer Leadership Summit this June. This year’s summit will feature over 50 engaging sessions designed to inspire, develop, and elevate leaders at all levels. We extend our sincere thanks to everyone who submitted a proposal—your passion and expertise are what make this event exceptional. We look forward to delivering a high-quality, impactful event you won’t want to miss.   TALAS Spotlight Member #2: Annual sponsors support State Conference TALAS extends its deepest gratitude to our Annual Sponsors for their unwavering support, generosity, and commitment to educational leadership across Texas. Through these valued yearlong partnerships, TALAS is able to advance the work of our organization and fulfill the mission driven by our core pillars of leadership, advocacy, professional development, and service. Your investment directly impacts our ability to support and empower current and aspiring school leaders throughout the state. We are honored to work alongside these incredible solution providers that share our vision and belief in the importance of strong educational leadership. Thank you for your continued partnership, collaboration, and dedication to our members. Together, we look forward to another successful year of inspiring leaders, strengthening schools, and making a lasting difference for students and communities across Texas.   Leadership Development Opportunities   Ready to become a Superintendent? Dear ALAS Familia, I’m reaching out with a personal invitation to take the next bold step in your leadership journey. If you have ever imagined yourself leading at the school, district, or superintendent level, this is your moment. Applications are now open for the ALAS Superintendent Leadership Academy, our flagship program designed to develop, elevate, and empower leaders who are ready to serve with purpose, courage, and impact. Year after year, ALAS Academy alumni move into principalships, district leadership roles, and superintendencies. This success reflects the strength of the program and the incredible leadership already present in our national familia.When you join an ALAS Academy, you are not just enrolling in a program. You are joining a powerful network of leaders committed to advancing excellence, opportunity, and student success across the country. Superintendent Leadership Academy (SLA) Please click the link above to learn more about the application process, program investment, and deadline to apply. Additionally, I’m excited to share that applications are also now open for the $10,000 ALAS Scholarship for leaders pursuing an accelerated degree and preparing for their next leadership opportunity. Application deadlines have been extended for the following Leadership Academies   Learning Opportunities   Summer Leadership Summit Registration is STILL open! Grab your seat! June 22-23, 2026 TALAS and Central TALAS invite you to the annual Summer Leadership Summit, a powerful two-day gathering of superintendents, senior district leaders, and educational partners dedicated to advancing Latino leadership across Texas. “Fuerza in Our Roots, Poder in Our People” celebrates the cultural heritage, collective strength, and shared commitment that unite Latino educational leaders. This summit honors the power of our history, values, and purpose in driving student success and shaping the future of education. Click here to register   Growing Your Own Teachers June 9, 2026 Are you looking at hiring new teachers? How are you planning to grow and support the educators already in your district? Join us for an engaging webinar focused on developing and investing in future-ready teachers. Discover strategies to recruit, mentor, and retain strong educators while building leadership capacity within your schools. It’s time to invest in your teachers — and grow excellence from within! We invite you to attend this impactful webinar and be part of the conversation. Register here IMCAT Summer Institute June 9-10 "Delivering the Future" because that's what we do: Deliver the future—in the form of instructional materials—to Texas schoolchildren. The mission of IMCAT is to support and serve the instructional materials community by sharing our expertise and knowledge. We believe in being good stewards of our resources; in advocating for meaningful policies, practices, and funding; and that expertise begins with training. The Instructional Materials Coordinators' Association of Texas (IMCAT), formerly known as the Textbook Coordinators' Association of Texas, offers the only regular training for instructional materials coordinators in public school districts or open enrollment charter schools. IMCAT's mission is to train and assist instructional materials professionals so they can help the students of Texas. See more about our recent and upcoming trainings below and on our Events page. Join us for a Zoom Summer Institute. Register here.   Dearborn & Creggs Investments Seminar: June 10, 2026 TALAS is excited to partner with Dearborn & Creggs Investments to offer a Financial Foundation for Educators series over the next few months. Take a look at the menu and select the session(s) that appeal to you. The next webinar is Voluntary Retirement Accounts with Adrian Gonzalez Register here for June 10, 2026   Belonging & Psychological Safety The Foundation of High-Performing Leadership Teams June 15 Attention TALAS Members and PK–12 Leaders! Join us for this four-part virtual series and learn a research-grounded framework for building the leadership team your school or district deserves. Each session includes a free team assessment. Your results become the data you use to anchor your learning and personalize your takeaways. Each session stands alone. All four build something lasting. WEBINAR 01  Belonging & Psychological Safety  The Foundation of High-Performing Leadership Teams  Every high-performing team starts with trust, and trust starts with  belonging. Explore why psychological safety is not a “soft” concept  but the essential condition that allows your team to take risks, speak  honestly, and execute together.  YOU'LL LEAVE ABLE TO:  →Assess psychological safety on your team  →Identify one behavior undermining belonging  →Apply an immediate practice to shift team culture  Mon, June 15 · 4:00–5:00 PM CDT  Register here   From Strategy to Systemic Transformation: Workshop #1- July 14, 2026 A 3-Hour Intensive for Results-Driven Texas Administrators Strategic plans fail when they are too broad to execute or too detached from economic reality. This summer, join NorthStar Education Advisors for a streamlined, three-part series designed to help you prioritize, engage your community, and build a system that moves. This series will take place on July 14th, July 28th, and August 11th from 4 PM to 5 PM CST. Workshop 1: Goal Alignment & Economic Reality Focus: Setting the NorthStar & Engaging the Community To lead effectively, goals must be rooted in the 2030+ economy. This session focuses on defining your how as you build your what and your why. The Impact vs. Effort Framework:  Use this matrix to categorize district initiatives into "Quick Wins," "Major Projects," and "Thankless Tasks" that should be de-prioritized. Register here   Resource Opportunity   Teacher and School Leader Incentive Program Grant Opportunity deadline June 9, 2026 If you work in K–12 education, educator effectiveness, leadership development, or district HR strategy, The U.S. Department of Education announced the Teacher and School Leader Incentive (TSL) Program with approximately $60 million in available funding. This funding supports districts, SEAs, charter LEAs, and eligible partnerships looking to: • Develop or strengthen human capital management systems • Expand performance-based compensation systems • Improve teacher and school leader effectiveness • Increase educator retention in high-need schools • Build career ladders, coaching, mentorship, and leadership pathways • Improve student achievement and workforce readiness outcomes Funding ranges from approximately $500,000 to $8.5 million. The Deadline to apply is June 9, 2026. Strong alignment for organizations supporting instructional coaching, educator pipelines, leadership development, retention, compensation reform, and school improvement systems. Click here to apply   VOICE TALAS VOZ- A Message from Dr. Rick Podcast #4 is on The TALAS VOZ, host Rick Fernandez sits down with Roni Gonzales, Principal of Somerset Junior High in Somerset ISD. With more than two decades in the same district, Roni shares a powerful story of commitment, growth, and what it takes to build a high-performing campus rooted in trust, consistency, and strong instructional leadership. Previous podcast episodes: Podcast with Roni Gonzalez Podcast with Mike Miles Podcast with Dr. Martha Salazar Zamora Podcast with Dr. Jessica Melendez Carrillo   Chapter News   Tarrant County is hosting a Leadership Conference June 26, 2026 Tarrant County is hosting a mini leadership conference for educational leaders on June 13, 2026. They are looking for dynamic presenters that are willing to share best practices in leadership. Sculpting Pathways represents a collective commitment to intentionally share leadership journeys grounded in culture, purpose and service. Sign up today! Tarrant County Links: Mini Conference Flyer: Call for Proposals Form Call for Proposals Letter   Alamo Area TALAS: Preparing & Marketing Yourself for the Next Executive Leadership Role June 29, 2026 Ready to make your next career move? Join Alamo Area TALAS for an evening of networking, learning, and professional growth designed to help you take the next step in your leadership journey. Mark your calendars for June 29, 2026, and come connect with leaders who are ready to support and inspire your future success. Register today! Become a Member!   Welcome new members! We are thrilled to welcome new state & chapter members every week and to see our TALAS community continue to grow! May Dr. April Wyatt- State & NTX William Davis- State & NTX Monica Herrera Castro- State Dr. Alejandro Elias- State & Alamo Derreck Hernande- State & WTX Abigail Negron- El Paso Annette Oropeza- El Paso Elsa Ibarra- State & Central Patrica Melgar-Cook- State & Central Charles Canosa- State James Sanders- State & Central Jonathan Flores- El Paso Joseph Sotelo- State & TALAS956 You can renew your membership today on the TALAS website or you can sign up for TALAS membership when you renew your TASA membership on the TASA website.   Visit the TALAS website for information on upcoming events. We have several events and meetings coming up. Come and join us! We would love to have you! TALAS website ADVOCACY National & State News Take a look at what is happening around you!   How to prepare your school board for stormy seas A school board without intentional reset is like a ship that never returns to port. It may continue moving, but over time, its navigation drifts, its crew loses alignment, and small course corrections go unmade until they become major problems. Summer is that port. It is a rare opportunity while schools are paused to reflect on the past year and glean lessons learned in planning for the upcoming academic year. The research is clear: governance culture does not sustain itself. It requires deliberate reinforcement. Read more   Texas’ discipline push sends kids to ‘jail-like’ campuses Angela Comfort still can’t explain exactly what went wrong.  Her son, Jordan, an honors student in Garland, Texas, got in trouble with school officials this February for distributing flyers on campus about a protest against Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Students all over North Texas were planning a walkout, and the teen was eager to participate. Instead, administrators suspended him and warned further punishment was possible. “I didn’t even let him go near the school” the day of the protest, Comfort said. “No new behavior could have been seen to warrant any kind of new discipline.” Still, that afternoon, an email came from the school: Jordan was being assigned to the district’s Disciplinary Alternative Education Program. An administrator later said Jordan was facing a six-week placement for being disruptive, according to Comfort. If he behaved well and took behavior and anger management classes, he could be out in five weeks, she recalled.  Read more   3-2-1: On revenge, three principles to live by, and the power of commitment 3 Ideas From Me This week, here are three principles I try to live by: ​ I. "I'm adaptable. I don't need the day to go perfectly to make it a good one." ​II. "It's not my job to tell myself no. The world will offer plenty of obstacles. I don't need to add to them. My mind is my friend. I am my own biggest believer." Read more   ADVOCACY TOOLS & RESOURCE CENTER   Texas School Business May/June Issue The May/June issue of Texas School Business takes a look at how some tech companies are using AI to battle chronic absenteeism in schools. The issue also highlights new TACS President Aaron Hood and new TASBO President Phillip Ellison. You'll find a "The Arts" column from Hays CISD and a "Student Voices" piece from Mesquite ISD. The issue also features a "Digital Frontier" column from Mineral Wells ISD and a "Regional View" from Region 7, along with photos from recent TSPRA and TASBO conferences. Plus, don't miss your favorite columns by Jim Walsh and Riney Jordan, plenty of Who's News, and more. Read and share the issue.   High Impact Tutoring Resources The National Student Support Accelerator at Stanford University is a non-profit organization that conducts and promotes research and implementation of good practices on high-impact tutoring. High-impact tutoring is defined as tutoring delivered one-on-one or in small groups, 3x/week or more for 10+ weeks with a consistent, well-trained tutor and taking place ideally during the school day.  Links of interest: What is High-Impact Tutoring Stanford Research on Tutoring Tutoring Quality Standards List of Providers that Meet the Quality Standards NSSA Newsletter State Policy in Texas and Texas Tutoring Toolkit   A Toolkit for K-12 Educators TALAS is pleased to share a valuable new resource from the Texas Immigration Law Council (TxILC): Understanding the Impact of Immigration Enforcement and Policy on K–12 Schools. Originally released in May, this toolkit is designed to help K–12 educators and administrators navigate immigration-related challenges while fostering safe and welcoming school environments. TxILC is also seeking to partner with educational leaders to adapt a model policy that supports all students. If you are interested, please contact:: Lindsay Goldford Gray   “The Texas Promise: A Vision for the Future” TASA Launches “The Texas Promise: A Vision for the Future” As TASA begins its second century as an organization, it’s time for a bold new vision, and that’s exactly what happened at the 2026 Midwinter Conference. Attendees were the first to be introduced to “The Texas Promise: A Vision for the Future,” a new visioning document that will guide TASA’s strategic planning efforts over the next year and the organization’s evolution for years to come Click here to review the document PARTNERSHIPS Partner Spotlight TALAS extends heartfelt gratitude to our partners for their unwavering support and belief in our mission. Your investment and dedication play a vital role in strengthening the leadership pipeline, driving progress, and improving student outcomes. We deeply value your commitment to our shared vision of educational excellence.   Partner of the Week   Annual Partner Spotlight- PLATA Renaissance Learning Renaissance is a global leader in assessment, reading, math, and early literacy solutions for pre-K–12 schools and districts. We are committed to providing educators with resources to help students build a strong foundation for success. Our portfolio includes solutions for assessment, practice, data-driven insights, and teacher-facilitated instructional delivery.   CAREER OPPORTUNITIES   Find your next career opportunity TASA Career Center ESS Current Searches Superintendent Search JG Consulting Hazard, Young, Attea Associates GRRecruiting Arrow Educational Services K-12 Search Group   TALAS STORE Show Your TALAS Pride – Shop the New TALAS Store! Now Open: The TALAS Store Show your support and represent TALAS with pride—visit the new TALAS Store to browse our exclusive merchandise, including shirts, hats, bags, and more! Wear your gear at the next TALAS event! Whether you're heading to campus, attending an event, or just repping your favorite organization, we’ve got you covered. Shop now !   Our Mission TALAS, with an unrelenting commitment to improving learning outcomes for Latino learners, will provide leadership development, collective impact, advocacy, and a proactive voice for Latino and non-Latino leaders who have a passion for serving the fastest growing student population in our state.  

Monday, Jun 01 2026

TALAS Weekly Newsletter: Several New Webinar Opportu...

TALAS Weekly Newsletter Texas Association of Latino Administrators and Superintendents May 25, 2026   TALAS honors and remembers the brave heroes who sacrificed for our freedom. Wishing all a meaningful Memorial Day.   "Brick by Brick...Day by Day... A Win is a Win!" LEADERSHIP   TALAS Spotlight Member #1: 4th group of Presenters/TALAS Board TALAS Announces Summer Leadership Summit Presenters We are thrilled to introduce the third group of presenters for our upcoming Summer Leadership Summit this June. This year’s summit will feature over 50 engaging sessions designed to inspire, develop, and elevate leaders at all levels. We extend our sincere thanks to everyone who submitted a proposal—your passion and expertise are what make this event exceptional. We look forward to delivering a high-quality, impactful event you won’t want to miss.   TALAS Member Spotlight #2: 21 Summer Leadership Sponsors! TALAS would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to our incredible sponsors for supporting the 3rd Annual TALAS Summer Leadership Summit. Your generosity, partnership, and commitment are truly appreciated. Thank you for believing in our members and for supporting the growth and development of school leaders across Texas. Your investment in leadership makes a lasting impact on educators, students, and communities throughout our state. This event would not be possible without your continued support, and we are deeply grateful for your partnership. We cannot wait to see you in June!   TALAS Member Spotlight #3: Scholarship Winners are Announced TALAS is proud to announce the nine high school recipients of the TALAS Scholarship. The scholarship committee was truly impressed with the caliber of submissions and the outstanding achievements, leadership, and aspirations demonstrated by each applicant. We are honored to play a small role in supporting these students as they continue their educational journeys. Congratulations to all of our scholarship recipients! We look forward to seeing the incredible impact you will make in the future. A special thank you to our Platino & Oro Sponsors for your generosity.   Leadership Development Opportunities   Nominate Outstanding Educators- May 31, 2026 Deadline TALAS is celebrating YOU! TALAS is proud to announce the inaugural leadership awards for superintendent, principal and central office administrator of the year.  For the first time, we proudly present our inaugural awards recognizing excellence among the TALAS members in educational leadership—honoring those who shape our vision and mission, inspire growth, and create environments for every student to succeed.   Strong schools do not happen by chance—they are built through purposeful leadership at every level. From the superintendent who sets the vision and direction, to the principal who brings that vision to life on campus, to the central office administrator who ensures systems support success—each plays a vital role in transforming possibilities into outcomes. These awards were created to recognize TALAS leaders who go beyond expectations—those who lead with integrity, courage, and an unwavering commitment to students and communities.  Nominations open on April 7 and close on May 31, 2026.  Award nominees will be notified by June 10 and recognized at the TALAS President's Dinner on June 22, 2026 at 7:00 pm, The Exchange ATX in Cedar Park, Texas.  Nominate for Superintendent of the Year Here Nominate for Principal of the Year Here Nominate for Central Office Administrator of the Year Here   Learning Opportunities   Summer Leadership Summit Registration is open! TALAS and Central TALAS invite you to the annual Summer Leadership Summit, a powerful two-day gathering of superintendents, senior district leaders, and educational partners dedicated to advancing Latino leadership across Texas. “Fuerza in Our Roots, Poder in Our People” celebrates the cultural heritage, collective strength, and shared commitment that unite Latino educational leaders. This summit honors the power of our history, values, and purpose in driving student success and shaping the future of education. Click here to register   The Shoulder to Shoulder Family Engagement Webinar Series May 27, 2026 The Shoulder to Shoulder Family Engagement Webinar Series launched in 2024 with a mission to provide educators with the latest research and practices to support families and increase outcomes for students.  These monthly webinar events feature topics like family stress, trauma-informed practices, and behavior strategies for families. See the events page for webinar series https://ilovefrankly.com/events Register here for the upcoming webinar on May 27, 2026.   Growing Your Own Teachers June 9, 2026 Are you looking at hiring new teachers? How are you planning to grow and support the educators already in your district? Join us for an engaging webinar focused on developing and investing in future-ready teachers. Discover strategies to recruit, mentor, and retain strong educators while building leadership capacity within your schools. It’s time to invest in your teachers — and grow excellence from within! We invite you to attend this impactful webinar and be part of the conversation. Register here IMCAT Summer Institute June 9-10 "Delivering the Future" because that's what we do: Deliver the future—in the form of instructional materials—to Texas schoolchildren. The mission of IMCAT is to support and serve the instructional materials community by sharing our expertise and knowledge. We believe in being good stewards of our resources; in advocating for meaningful policies, practices, and funding; and that expertise begins with training. The Instructional Materials Coordinators' Association of Texas (IMCAT), formerly known as the Textbook Coordinators' Association of Texas, offers the only regular training for instructional materials coordinators in public school districts or open enrollment charter schools. IMCAT's mission is to train and assist instructional materials professionals so they can help the students of Texas. See more about our recent and upcoming trainings below and on our Events page. Join us for a Zoom Summer Institute. Register here.   Dearborn & Creggs Investments Seminar: June 10, 2026 TALAS is excited to partner with Dearborn & Creggs Investments to offer a Financial Foundation for Educators series over the next few months. Take a look at the menu and select the session(s) that appeal to you. The next webinar is Voluntary Retirement Accounts with Adrian Gonzalez Register here for June 10, 2026   Belonging & Psychological Safety The Foundation of High-Performing Leadership Teams June 15 Attention TALAS Members and PK–12 Leaders! Join us for this four-part virtual series and learn a research-grounded framework for building the leadership team your school or district deserves. Each session includes a free team assessment. Your results become the data you use to anchor your learning and personalize your takeaways. Each session stands alone. All four build something lasting. WEBINAR 01  Belonging & Psychological Safety  The Foundation of High-Performing Leadership Teams  Every high-performing team starts with trust, and trust starts with  belonging. Explore why psychological safety is not a “soft” concept  but the essential condition that allows your team to take risks, speak  honestly, and execute together.  YOU'LL LEAVE ABLE TO:  →Assess psychological safety on your team  →Identify one behavior undermining belonging  →Apply an immediate practice to shift team culture  Mon, June 15 · 4:00–5:00 PM CDT  Register here   From Strategy to Systemic Transformation: Workshop #1- July 14, 2026 A 3-Hour Intensive for Results-Driven Texas Administrators Strategic plans fail when they are too broad to execute or too detached from economic reality. This summer, join NorthStar Education Advisors for a streamlined, three-part series designed to help you prioritize, engage your community, and build a system that moves. This series will take place on July 14th, July 28th, and August 11th from 4 PM to 5 PM CST. Workshop 1: Goal Alignment & Economic Reality Focus: Setting the NorthStar & Engaging the Community To lead effectively, goals must be rooted in the 2030+ economy. This session focuses on defining your how as you build your what and your why. The Impact vs. Effort Framework:  Use this matrix to categorize district initiatives into "Quick Wins," "Major Projects," and "Thankless Tasks" that should be de-prioritized. Register here   Resource Opportunity   Teacher and School Leader Incentive Program Grant Opportunity deadline June 9, 2026 If you work in K–12 education, educator effectiveness, leadership development, or district HR strategy, The U.S. Department of Education announced the Teacher and School Leader Incentive (TSL) Program with approximately $60 million in available funding. This funding supports districts, SEAs, charter LEAs, and eligible partnerships looking to: • Develop or strengthen human capital management systems • Expand performance-based compensation systems • Improve teacher and school leader effectiveness • Increase educator retention in high-need schools • Build career ladders, coaching, mentorship, and leadership pathways • Improve student achievement and workforce readiness outcomes Funding ranges from approximately $500,000 to $8.5 million. The Deadline to apply is June 9, 2026. Strong alignment for organizations supporting instructional coaching, educator pipelines, leadership development, retention, compensation reform, and school improvement systems. Click here to apply   VOICE TALAS VOZ- A Message from Dr. Rick Podcast #4 is on The TALAS VOZ, host Rick Fernandez sits down with Roni Gonzales, Principal of Somerset Junior High in Somerset ISD. With more than two decades in the same district, Roni shares a powerful story of commitment, growth, and what it takes to build a high-performing campus rooted in trust, consistency, and strong instructional leadership. Previous podcast episodes: Podcast with Roni Gonzalez Podcast with Mike Miles Podcast with Dr. Martha Salazar Zamora Podcast with Dr. Jessica Melendez Carrillo   Chapter News   North Texas TALAS is hosting an End of the Year event on May 30, 2026 Join NTX TALAS as they host an “End of the Year” Celebration for educators! Spend time networking, collaborating, and celebrating with like-minded leaders as we reflect on a successful school year and begin planning for an even stronger year ahead. We look forward to connecting with passionate educators who are committed to making a difference in their schools and communities. Register here   Tarrant County is hosting a Leadership Conference June 13, 2026 Tarrant County is hosting a mini leadership conference for educational leaders on June 13, 2026. They are looking for dynamic presenters that are willing to share best practices in leadership. Sculpting Pathways represents a collective commitment to intentionally share leadership journeys grounded in culture, purpose and service. Sign up today! Tarrant County Links: Mini Conference Flyer: Call for Proposals Form Call for Proposals Letter   Alamo Area TALAS: Preparing & Marketing Yourself for the Next Executive Leadership Role June 29, 2026 Ready to make your next career move? Join Alamo Area TALAS for an evening of networking, learning, and professional growth designed to help you take the next step in your leadership journey. Mark your calendars for June 29, 2026, and come connect with leaders who are ready to support and inspire your future success. Register today! Become a Member!   Welcome new members! We are thrilled to welcome new state & chapter members every week and to see our TALAS community continue to grow! May Dr. April Wyatt- State & NTX William Davis- State & NTX Monica Herrera Castro- State Dr. Alejandro Elias- State & Alamo Derreck Hernande- State & WTX Abigail Negron- El Paso Annette Oropeza- El Paso Elsa Ibarra- State & Central Patrica Melgar-Cook- State & Central Charles Canosa- State James Sanders- State & Central Jonathan Flores- El Paso Joseph Sotelo- State & TALAS956 You can renew your membership today on the TALAS website or you can sign up for TALAS membership when you renew your TASA membership on the TASA website.   Visit the TALAS website for information on upcoming events. We have several events and meetings coming up. Come and join us! We would love to have you! TALAS website ADVOCACY National & State News Take a look at what is happening around you!   Texas lost 76,000 students. Many other states are losing them too Texas public schools shrank by nearly 76,000 students this year. Where did they go? The enrollment decline is the largest single-year change Texas has seen in years, according to Texas Education Agency data and an analysis by Texas 2036. It’s the first decline since the 2020-21 school year, when more than 122,000 students left at the height of the pandemic. Hispanic students represent 81% of the total student decline, signaling a demographic shift that could reshape school district funding and resources, according to Texas 2036. Read more   4 of the Most Dangerous Words a Leader Can Say, According to Brené Brown  This phrase communicates disrespect while shutting down communication. So why do so many leaders still use it or its equivalents?  Many middle-aged people grew up hearing their parents say, “Because I said so.” Most parents these days, however, know they’re not supposed to use this time-honored way to shut down an argument. By now, we’ve all heard the warnings from psychologists that the phrase kills communication, discourages problem-solving, and generally makes your kid think you’re a jerk. So why, best-selling author Brené Brown would like to know, are so many business leaders still using the corporate equivalent of the phrase?  The office equivalent of ‘Because I said so’  You probably haven’t literally heard your boss say “because I said so,” but that’s basically how many justify (or, more accurately, fail to justify) their more controversial decisions, Brown observed on a recent episode of her podcast with fellow researcher Adam Grant, The Curiosity Shop.  Read more   3-2-1: On making mistakes, the paradox of creating, and why habits translate 3 Ideas From Me I. "When you lose a game, the score doesn't transfer to the next contest but your habits certainly will. Circumstances are temporary. Sometimes you're winning, sometimes you're losing. Hot, cold. Lucky, unlucky. But your habits travel with you. This is why you want to execute the same way whether the score is 10-0 or 0-10. Not because the score doesn't matter, but because the score isn't what you're actually building. It's not about winning or losing any given round. It's about doing things the right way. If you have a chance to practice your craft, you want to do it as well as you can (even if you end up losing that day). Your previous reps can save you or betray you. The habits always translate to the next round." Read more   ADVOCACY TOOLS & RESOURCE CENTER   Texas School Business May/June Issue The May/June issue of Texas School Business takes a look at how some tech companies are using AI to battle chronic absenteeism in schools. The issue also highlights new TACS President Aaron Hood and new TASBO President Phillip Ellison. You'll find a "The Arts" column from Hays CISD and a "Student Voices" piece from Mesquite ISD. The issue also features a "Digital Frontier" column from Mineral Wells ISD and a "Regional View" from Region 7, along with photos from recent TSPRA and TASBO conferences. Plus, don't miss your favorite columns by Jim Walsh and Riney Jordan, plenty of Who's News, and more. Read and share the issue.   The Federal Voucher System The July 2025 budget reconciliation bill (aka the Big Beautiful Bill Act) included a federal private school voucher program that, like other voucher programs, could siphon billions of public tax dollars away from public services that benefit millions of children and families, for the benefit of a select few individual families. The federal voucher program is a threat to public education and to the diverse students and families in our public schools. Read this   High Impact Tutoring Resources The National Student Support Accelerator at Stanford University is a non-profit organization that conducts and promotes research and implementation of good practices on high-impact tutoring. High-impact tutoring is defined as tutoring delivered one-on-one or in small groups, 3x/week or more for 10+ weeks with a consistent, well-trained tutor and taking place ideally during the school day.  Links of interest: What is High-Impact Tutoring Stanford Research on Tutoring Tutoring Quality Standards List of Providers that Meet the Quality Standards NSSA Newsletter State Policy in Texas and Texas Tutoring Toolkit   A Toolkit for K-12 Educators TALAS is pleased to share a valuable new resource from the Texas Immigration Law Council (TxILC): Understanding the Impact of Immigration Enforcement and Policy on K–12 Schools. Originally released in May, this toolkit is designed to help K–12 educators and administrators navigate immigration-related challenges while fostering safe and welcoming school environments. TxILC is also seeking to partner with educational leaders to adapt a model policy that supports all students. If you are interested, please contact:: Lindsay Goldford Gray   “The Texas Promise: A Vision for the Future” TASA Launches “The Texas Promise: A Vision for the Future” As TASA begins its second century as an organization, it’s time for a bold new vision, and that’s exactly what happened at the 2026 Midwinter Conference. Attendees were the first to be introduced to “The Texas Promise: A Vision for the Future,” a new visioning document that will guide TASA’s strategic planning efforts over the next year and the organization’s evolution for years to come Click here to review the document PARTNERSHIPS Partner Spotlight TALAS extends heartfelt gratitude to our partners for their unwavering support and belief in our mission. Your investment and dedication play a vital role in strengthening the leadership pipeline, driving progress, and improving student outcomes. We deeply value your commitment to our shared vision of educational excellence.   Partner of the Week   Annual Partner Spotlight- ORO Texas Education Alliance Creating Strategic Advantage in the Texas Education Market We are an all-star team of experienced education industry sales and marketing executives, governmental relations consultants, lobbyists, and market reseach analyst working together for one common goal. Win in Texas.   CAREER OPPORTUNITIES   Find your next career opportunity TASA Career Center ESS Current Searches Superintendent Search JG Consulting Hazard, Young, Attea Associates GRRecruiting Arrow Educational Services K-12 Search Group   TALAS STORE Show Your TALAS Pride – Shop the New TALAS Store! Now Open: The TALAS Store Show your support and represent TALAS with pride—visit the new TALAS Store to browse our exclusive merchandise, including shirts, hats, bags, and more! Wear your gear at the next TALAS event! Whether you're heading to campus, attending an event, or just repping your favorite organization, we’ve got you covered. Shop now !   Our Mission TALAS, with an unrelenting commitment to improving learning outcomes for Latino learners, will provide leadership development, collective impact, advocacy, and a proactive voice for Latino and non-Latino leaders who have a passion for serving the fastest growing student population in our state.  

Tuesday, May 26 2026