November 14, 2005
 

School Board proclaims November 15 Community Education Day

This year, the Weatherford ISD Community Education program is celebrating its thirty-fifth year in existence.  It was announced at the November 10 Board of Trustees meeting that November 15 would be Community Education Day.   

Leading the way in community education, Weatherford ISD founded the first program of its kind in Texas.  In 1971, the Texas Center for Community Education was established at Texas A&M University.  Weatherford ISD was the first school district in the State of Texas to adopt and implement the concept of Community Education.  

“Community Education is based on the idea that public schools should be accessible as resources to connect people with opportunities of betterment for self and community,” said Karon Lowe, director of Weatherford ISD Community Services. 

The Weatherford ISD Community Education program offers a wide variety of services to the public.  After-school and summer programs are available at all of the elementary campuses.  Kids Unite, in its 20^th year, offers tutoring and time for homework completion, enrichment programs, reading and writing activities to enhance academic skills, activities to promote team building and leadership skills, and theme-based adventures for fun in learning.   

Basic adult education classes are offered to hundreds of community members with career and technology training programs.  Classes range from high school diploma programs to English as a second language classes and English literacy and civics education.   

The Weatherford ISD Community Education program has helped to establish the PASS academic alternative campus.  It has also initiated special program services for school-age parents, children in homeless situations, and students with special counseling needs.   

“When you look at the benefits of Community Education you must consider the opportunities that are afforded to the community.  Each of these experiences serve as extensive opportunities to enhance lives,” stated Lowe.   

Since 1982, Community Education Day has been recognized nationally on November 15 by many groups such as the office of the Presidency, Congress, governors, mayors, superintendents, and members of school boards.   

November 15th will be recognized as Community Services Day in Weatherford ISD in recognition of this outstanding program that has paved the way for community education in Texas.