STAFF REPORT

San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce President Phyllis Snodgrass has been appointed to the state’s P-16 Council as the sole representative of Texas businesses.

Chaired by Texas Education Commissioner Robert Scott and Higher Education Commissioner Raymund A. Paredes, the council is charged with making sure long-range plans complement the entire public education system, from early childhood through postgraduate study. Other members include, the Texas Workforce Commission executive director, the State Board of Educator Certification executive director, the Assistive and Rehabilitative Services commissioner and a representative each for professional educators and state agencies.

“I am honored by this appointment to represent business interests on this important statewide council. … Ensuring that every student reaches their full potential is essential to the future economic success of the State of Texas,” Snodgrass said.

“P-16” describes an integrated system of education stretching from preschool (the “P”) through a four-year college degree (“grade 16”). It is designed to improve student achievement by getting children off to a good start, raising academic standards, conducting appropriate assessments, improving teacher quality and generally smoothing student transitions from one level of learning to the next.

RELATED IN THE MERCURY:

• Snodgrass appointed to U.S. Chamber institute’s board of regents | October 13, 2008
• United Way collecting books for local pre-schoolers | July 4, 2009
• Texas State Child Development Center earns national accreditation | May 13, 2008
• Partners expand program to prepare San Marcos students for college | February 12, 2009
• San Marcos trade mission to Mexico forges new partnership | October 6, 2008