We are wrapping up another wonderful school year in Goose Creek CISD. It has presented us with challenges and constraints, but there is hope on the horizon. I’ve listened to concerns over the budget and whispers regarding what happened to our position of financial strength just a few years ago. Let me assure you that we will be fine.

Public education is experiencing a transitional period, as we return to normal operations post-COVID. The district executed the virtual instructional delivery plan extremely well and then dismissed the pandemic protocols as soon as reasonably possible. Goose Creek was one of the first in the region to return to normal operations, stepping away from the mandates. Federal funding was provided to assist with remediating students' instructional loss and some degree of grace was afforded regarding suspended report cards. At the close of this school year, those funds will expire, and the tenants used to measure academic performance will be reinstated.

Amid this transformation within public education, we are dedicated to sustaining fidelity to our established standards. The administration has recommended a slow exit from the economically imposed budgetary landscape. The utilization of the attrition model will enable us to return to a balanced budget over time. The deficit did not occur overnight, but slowly during the pandemic, a time in which inflation has soared, negatively affecting our community.

The district is also evaluating facility needs and keeping an eye on the future. The trustees have ensured that our district is highly competitive with salaries and benefits. Even with the failed November bond election, the flat state funding allotment and rising inflation, our district remains ever-present on the forefront of innovation. Our administration has worked with our trustees to ensure that we continue to uphold our district mission to Develop the Whole Child. These are not just words, but rather a deep conviction that we hold ourselves accountable for. Likewise, our operational and facility teams have delved even deeper into root causes to address facility deterioration, understanding the impact that our buildings have on the education delivered and the pride instilled within our community spirit.

While we have not yet reached a critical capacity concern, it is essential that we continue to do the work and engage in long-range facility planning to shape our future as an exemplary school district. Considerations have resurfaced regarding school improvements, attendance, efficiency, and enhancing fine arts and athletics programs. Research shows that giving expanded educational course opportunities to students will yield greater overall satisfaction. Our career pathways at junior schools and career academies at high schools are a testament to our dedication in providing school choice within our school organization.

As we prepare for another graduation season at Stallworth Stadium, let us embrace an awareness that improvement is a catalyst for sustainable growth. Every decision we make reflects our commitment to delivering value to our taxpayers and a high-quality education for our community. Challenging times will pass, and we will persevere, and be the better for it.

Dr. Randal O’Brien

Superintendent of Schools