The East Texas Advanced Manufacturing Academy (ETxAMA) has received a $100,000 grant from The Meadows Foundation, a private philanthropic institution based in Dallas.
Longview ISD board members unanimously approved the donation during Monday night's regular meeting. The district is the fiscal agent for the Academy, managing its donations and grant funds, facilities, equipment and day-to-day operations.
Superintendent Dr. James Wilcox said the grant will be used for operational costs and equipment for the East Texas Advanced Manufacturing Academy.
The Academy trains Longview-area high school students in Precision Machining, Instrumentation, and Electrical Technology. Machining courses are taught through Texas State Technical College and instrumentation and electrical classes are administered through Kilgore College.
Located at 519 W. South Street, ETxAMA also serves as a training venue for local industry as well as an adult education center for workforce skills.
More than 35 students from Longview area high schools are currently enrolled at the academy.
Trustees OK Charter School Plan
Later, board members unanimously approved a plan bringing two more LISD campuses under the leadership of the non-profit East Texas Advanced Academies organization.
J.L. Everhart Magnet Elementary and Johnston-McQueen Elementary join East Texas Montessori Prep Academy, Bramlette STEAM Academy, Ware Montessori Academy, Forest Park Middle, Longview Early Graduation High, and East Texas Advanced Manufacturing Academy under the management agreement.
The partnership is possible through Senate Bill 1882, which allows school districts to work with a nonprofit organization in an effort to improve school performance.
Dr. Cynthia Wise, Forest Park Middle School principal, serves as the chief operating officer for the campuses. Wise will have authority in areas of personnel, curriculum and retention.
Trustees meet in the boardroom of the LISD Education Support Center, 1301 E. Young St. The next regular meeting is tentatively scheduled for 6 p.m. Jan. 14th 2019.
For more information about the Longview ISD Board of Trustees please visit www.LISD.org/board
