An Innovative Leader in Learning

On May 2, 2008, eSchool News published an article called "Study: Creativity is important but neglected" featuring a report called "Ready to Innovate: Are Educators and Executives Aligned on the Creative Readiness of the U.S. Workforce?," released by the Conference Board and Americans for the Arts, in partnership with the American Association of School Administrators (AASA). In that report, researchers surveyed 155 superintendents and 89 business executives about creativity and innovation.

In the eSchool News article, Meris Stansbury writes, "Educators and employers agree that creativity is increasingly important in U.S. workplaces, according to a recent report. Yet, the report suggests a disconnect exists between what survey respondents say they believe and how they act: In fact, findings indicate most high schools and employers provide creativity-conducive education and training only on an elective or 'as needed' basis" (2008).

I am happy to say that this report doesn't reflect the culture of C-FB ISD.

C-FB ISD is "An Innovative Leader in Learning." We, as a district, are continually seeking new strategies to teach through innovation and creativity. We believe that when teachers model and use innovation in their teaching that students are more engaged and are encouraged to be creative and innovative themselves.

How are we accomplishing this task, you might ask...well, here's how:

• Innovation and creativity are an integral part of the culture of C-FB. They are interwoven into the organization as a whole as well as the curriculum and teaching. For example, our Student Nutrition Department created the very first Virtual Cafeteria.


• The district was named for the third time to the Best 100 Communities for Music Education. With 23,000 students participating in fine arts activities, C-FB ISD continually sets a high standard for developing creativity and innovation through fine arts education.


• Students use, experience and learn with the latest technology including iPods, laptops, wikis, blogs, video conferencing, our virtual campus (vCampus) and more. Check out our video series called "Living in a Dot Com World" to see exciting examples of innovation.


• Teachers are using Web 2.0 tools like wikis to share innovative ideas with one another and encourage creativity.

I truly believe that C-FB ISD is "An Innovative Leader in Learning" through a culture and vision that actively engages students.

A New Year Begins

Every year, I look forward to the start of school. I just love the feeling a new school year brings - excitement, anticipation, and a fresh start. I love seeing all the school supplies at the store this time of year!

I know that this will be a great year. Our teachers have been working diligently getting ready for our students on Monday, August 25.

This week has been filled with great excitement. Our Convocation on Tuesday, August 19 was such a wonderful time for the staff of C-FB ISD to come together and celebrate our accomplishments and plan for this year. I also celebrated with the PTA at their First Annual Kick-Off event on Wednesday, August 20.

I wish each and every student a wonderful year. Let make this the best year yet! See you at school on Monday, August 25.

Back to School for the 2008-2009 School Year

I am so excited about the beginning of this new school year. I know this is going to be an incredible year!

In C-FB ISD, we value each child, embrace innovation, believe in the richness of diversity, create a caring learning environment and celebrate every achievement. We are an innovative leader in learning. From videoconferencing to our virtual campus, we are finding innovative ways to make learning rigorous and relevant for every student.

I hope you visit our website, www.cfbisd.edu, and see it's new look. You will find all the latest back-to-school information including registration, school supplies, bus routes, and much, much more.

This year will be filled with innovation, rigor, learning and fun. Throughout the year, remember to check out our accolades section of the website to see the amazing accomplishments of our students, campuses and staff.

I wish you and your family a great school year. Let the learning begin!