with your parents, your taxpayers, your business community—it’s almost impossible to earn it back.” That trust was on full display during TMISD’s recent bond election. In 2022, the district proposed a $98 million bond that failed. One year later, after transparent community engagement and visible accountability, the district returned with a larger proposal—and it passed overwhelmingly. “In a year’s time, we built partnerships, communicated openly, and demonstrated that these were needs, not wants,” VanMatre says. “Even with inflation, the community voted to invest in their children.” Safety and security have been top priorities for that investment. TMISD has upgraded its facilities with hardened entry points, new surveillance systems, and full-time security personnel. “We can’t promise there won’t ever be a crisis,”VanMatre acknowledges, “but we can promise we’re doing everything humanly possible to keep our students and staff safe.” SOCIAL-EMOTIONAL SUPPORT: BUILDING STRENGTH AND EMPATHY Alongside academic and career success, TMISD places equal emphasis on emotional intelligence and mental health.A district-wide social worker and counseling staff provide targeted interventions, while programs like PALS (Peer Assistance and Leadership) connect high school mentors with younger students. “These are our top kids—the football players, cheerleaders, band members—mentoring elementary and middle school students who need support,” Alvarado says.“It gives those younger kids someone to look up to, and it teaches our high schoolers empathy, leadership, and communication.” The district also partners with Communities in Schools to help families access food, housing, therapy, and financial aid.“We’re removing barriers,” says Crabtree. “If a child’s family is struggling, that stress affects the student. We make sure help is available.” 375 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 12 TULOSO-MIDWAY ISD
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