The perspectives and experiences of rural West Texas schools are taking a seat at the table in statewide conversations about the future of public education. Snyder ISD Superintendent Dr. Jessica Gore was invited to share her perspective on student success, educational opportunities, and the power of community partnerships as part of a statewide initiative hosted by LONESTARP3 through The University of Texas at Austin.
Dr. Gore's contributions were recorded for a video featuring leaders in education, research, and policy that will be presented at the upcoming LONESTARP3 Success Summit. The invitation recognized her work with CIRCLE and Texas Tech University, previous involvement with the LONESTARP3 network, and experience leading a rural West Texas school district.
“Our size and location should never limit what is possible for our students,” said Dr. Gore. “Rural schools have tremendous strengths, but we also face unique challenges. Having a seat at the table allows us to share what's working, advocate for our students and educators, and build relationships that create new opportunities for our communities.”
During her visit to Austin, Dr. Gore also met with State Senator Kevin Sparks and Steven Santoyo, Director of the Texas Senate Education Committee. Their discussions focused on sustainable school funding, workforce development, and ensuring state education policies reflect the needs and realities of rural school districts.
Through LONESTARP3, Dr. Gore connected with researchers and education leaders to explore student pathways, college readiness, workforce opportunities, and instructional improvement. Discussions also included Snyder ISD's experience with the Teacher Incentive Allotment and opportunities to better connect measures of teacher effectiveness with student outcomes.
An important part of these conversations was looking beyond the programs schools offer to examine how effectively those opportunities prepare students for life after graduation.
Dr. Gore also expressed Snyder ISD's willingness to participate in future research and policy development by sharing district experiences, welcoming researchers to campuses, and helping identify practical solutions for rural public education.
These efforts align with Snyder ISD's Strategic Plan and its four core priorities: Students, Staff, Stakeholders, and Stewardship. The district's focus on high-quality instruction, staff development, community partnerships, and responsible use of resources provides a foundation for expanding student opportunities and making evidence-based decisions.
The visit reflects Snyder ISD's commitment to contributing to statewide conversations while bringing new ideas and partnerships back to benefit local students, staff, and the community.