Governor Rick Perry has proclaimed January 2007 as School Board Recognition Month. Districts across the state, including Pasadena ISD, will use this opportunity to show their appreciation and bolster understanding of the critical role elected boards of education play in their local schools and communities.

The Pasadena Independent School District Board of Trustees has a wealth of experience when it comes to looking out for the best interest of students. Board member Vickie Morgan has been in office 21 years, while Carmen Orozco has served 20 years. Board president Nelda Sullivan and secretary Fred Roberts have been trustees for 14 years, while Marshall Kendrick has been on the board for 18 years. Board vice president Frank Braden and assistant secretary Jerry Speer have served for seven years.

“You won’t find a better group of people in the state of Texas,” Pasadena ISD Superintendent Kirk Lewis said. “Their leadership has been vital to the success of this school district. “They are just an outstanding group of people with much knowledge and a true heart for children.”

The Texas Association of School Administrators honored the Pasadena board in 2003 by naming them as one of five Texas Honor Boards. The Pasadena ISD trustees were also named the Region 4 Outstanding School Board that same year.

"Members of school boards, men and women, who share a commitment to serve their communities, dedicate themselves to ensuring that students in the Lone Star State are given every opportunity to excel through education. In collaboration with others including educators, governmental officials and the citizens of the districts they serve, school boards are essential members of the education community," Perry said.

"Locally elected trustees are tireless advocates for our children, and we hope every community will set aside time in January to express thanks for their dedicated service. School boards work with parents, administrators, education professionals, and other local citizens to establish goals for the education program. They set standards, ensure schools are accountable to the community, and strive for continuous improvement in student learning. That job entails a string of meetings and school functions to attend; reams of reports, agendas, proposals, and other information to read and study; and a host of complex decisions to make," said James B. Crow, TASB executive director.

"More than 7,000 men and women serve without pay on local school boards. While many districts face difficult challenges, these local trustees stand absolutely firm in a commitment to the success of all students," he said.