The Victoria Independent School District is thrilled to announce that it has been selected to receive a significant grant under the Magnet Schools Assistance Program (MSAP). This grant, totaling $3,108,810.00 for the first budget period from October 1, 2023, through September 30, 2024, marks a significant milestone in our commitment to fostering diversity, inclusion, and educational excellence within our district.
The Magnet Schools Assistance Program, administered by the U.S. Department of Education, aims to remove barriers in public schools by ensuring that all elementary and secondary students have the opportunity to have a well-rounded educational experience. The program promotes innovative educational strategies that attract students from diverse backgrounds, creating vibrant learning environments that benefit all students.
The Choice STEM Pathway project, fully funded by this grant, will create a K-12 STEM magnet pathway to graduation for students in VISD using the Texas Education Agency (TEA) College and Career Readiness School Model. The K-12 STEM pathway is comprised of Smith STEM Academy, STEM Middle School, and Victoria East High School. This pathway, with its emphasis on science, math, engineering, and technology, will blend P-TECH Early College High School curriculum with opportunities for students to engage in work-based internships, apprenticeships, and other forms of job-training programs while also earning post-secondary certifications and college credit.
VISD's successful grant application represents a profound commitment to these principles and underscores our dedication to providing equitable educational opportunities for all students in our community. Over the anticipated five-year grant period, VISD will utilize this funding to implement innovative magnet programs and initiatives that enhance educational experiences and encourage diversity within our schools.
Superintendent Quintin Shepherd expressed his enthusiasm about this grant, stating, "This funding will allow us to further our efforts in providing high-quality education that is accessible to all students, regardless of their background. We are excited to bring the magnet programs back into our district and create a more inclusive, vibrant, and enriching learning environment for our students."
The Magnet Schools Assistance Program grant will enable VISD to:
Develop and expand specialized magnet programs that promote academic excellence and diversity.
Enhance professional development opportunities for educators to support diverse student needs.
Foster community engagement and partnerships that promote diversity, inclusion, and equity.
Improve facilities and resources to ensure a conducive learning environment for all students.
VISD is committed to transparency and accountability throughout the grant implementation process. Regular updates will be provided to the community to showcase the progress and impact of these initiatives on student achievement and diversity in the Administration Report.
We extend our sincere gratitude to the U.S. Department of Education for recognizing our dedication to educational equity and supporting our mission. We also thank our dedicated educators, staff, parents, and community partners for their ongoing commitment to our students and our shared vision of a diverse, inclusive, and thriving educational community.