Optimism breeds success. It motivates, inspires, and unites. Children and teachers thrive in environments that are full of hope and encouragement. Unfortunately, there is too little optimism and too much doom and gloom in the public debate about public education, generating a perception of widespread failure.
“We are not failing and I resent the harsh criticism of our profession,” says Leslie Milder, Co-Founder of Friends of Texas Public Schools. “Great things are happening in our schools. We move mountains for kids every day, but that’s not the story that’s being told.
“We have a massive image problem,” Milder added. “The conversation and debate about public education is ill informed and mean-spirited. It’s time we take control of the conversation and let people know their children and their tax dollars are in good hands.”
Community ISD has partnered with Friends of Texas Public Schools to do just that - mobilize educators to step up as ambassadors for themselves, their students, campuses, district, and their profession.
This program brought a representative group of campus and department staff together for two-hour sessions several times through the school year to, first, understand the forces undermining public trust in public education and second, learn how to restore the public’s faith and trust in their schools.
Now we're asking you to partner with us in spreading the good news about Community ISD, and public schools across this great state. Come see what being a Friend of Texas Public Schools is all about on Wednesday, January 21, 2026 at 4:30 pm. Dinner will be provided for all guests!
