CISD developed a prototype for elementary schools that, even with modifications for terrain, the district expects will save at least 30 percent on design fees in future construction projects. CISD's board rejected recommendations to discontinue issuing annual contracts for employees who are not required to hold certificates under state or federal law and authorizing the superintendent to hire and terminate all non-administrative employees. Implementing these recommendations would give the district more hiring flexibility and would significantly reduce the time spent administering contracts. Financial management and purchasing continue to be areas of concern for the district. In addition to the new business system that is being installed, it is critical that the district look for ways to ensure that staff are adequately trained.
Nothing is more important than education.
This generation must compete not only with those from New York and California, but from Europe and Asia as well. The Ford Foundation and Harvard University's John F. Kennedy School of Government have nationally recognized the Texas School Performance Review as a winner of the 1999 Innovations in American Government competition.