When people hear “summer break,” they often picture empty hallways, quiet campuses, and educators enjoying two uninterrupted months of rest and relaxation. While that image might hold true in some circles, it couldn’t be further from the reality in Victoria ISD.
Here in VISD, summer isn’t a break—it’s a launchpad.
While students are away, our teachers, administrators, support staff, and instructional teams are hard at work, investing their summer days in professional learning, strategic planning, and preparing to make the 2025-26 school year even better than the last. With more than 60 professional learning opportunities scheduled from late May through early August, this summer is anything but slow.
The myth that educators “get summers off” fades quickly when you look at the depth and breadth of what’s happening in VISD. Across nearly every instructional area, from early childhood education to high school counseling, VISD staff are dedicating their time to deepening expertise, refining strategies, and working collaboratively to meet the ever-changing needs of our students.
Throughout June and July, VISD is hosting targeted trainings such as the VISD Literacy and Numeracy Institutes, G/T foundational and update sessions, and Texas Reading Academies for cohort participants. These aren’t just check-the-box events—they’re high-impact, TEA-aligned opportunities to sharpen instructional practices, explore new resources, and anchor planning in student-centered outcomes.
Leadership development is another key priority. From our Summer Planning Institute and Administrative Renewal to specialized sessions in district policies and legislative updates, VISD is equipping our campus leaders with the tools they need to cultivate safe and academically thriving learning environments.
Let’s not forget our newest team members. Teachers who are new to the district receive a warm welcome at the VISD CONNECT Conference to ensure every new face in the district begins the year feeling supported and connected to the VISD vision. Whether you’re stepping into a first-year classroom or transferring in from another district, our onboarding experience is designed to celebrate and prepare you.
Outside of professional learning, our campuses are also buzzing with behind-the-scenes activity. Our Maintenance Department is hard at work on essential repairs and improvements across the district, ensuring that learning spaces are safe, clean, and welcoming. Meanwhile, our Technology Department is preparing new devices, updating systems, and setting up classrooms so that students and teachers are equipped with the tools they need to succeed from day one. Their contributions are the foundation of a smooth school year and are vital to the success of our entire district.
And while summer professional learning is essential, what makes it truly remarkable is the excitement in the room as VISD team members begin preparing for the upcoming year.
The next time someone mentions “summer off,” let them know that in VISD, summer is when we build. We build knowledge. We build relationships. We build the foundation for a strong school year.
Ashley Alvarez is the Executive Director of Communications for Victoria ISD.