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April 8, 2025

Lockhart ISD is Thriving. Should Austin Take Note?

City Cast Austin

Lockhart ISD is Thriving. Should Austin Take Note?

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Across many school districts, teachers are asked to do more with less, and that effort doesn’t typically include a pay bump. At Lockhart Independent School District, however, staff have rebuilt the leadership structure so experienced faculty are given time outside the classroom to mentor peers and run professional development, while principals can focus on long-term planning over short-term issues. Superintendent Mark Estrada joins host Nikki DaVaughn to talk about visiting schools in other countries for inspiration, and how he’s managed to hold onto experienced teachers and pay them more than most other Central Texas public school districts. 


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