By OBBM Network Editorial Staff
Zach Rateliff
In a recent episode of The Zach Rateliff Show, the host explored the educational landscape of Texarkana with Dr. Jordan Guillory, a seasoned educator and current candidate for the Texarkana Independent School District (TISD) school board. Dr. Guillory, who has spent over a decade teaching within the district, discussed her motivations for running for the board and her vision for addressing the district’s educational challenges.
From Classroom to Boardroom: Dr. Guillory’s Journey
Dr. Jordan Guillory’s journey is deeply rooted in education, a path influenced by her family’s legacy in the field. Having taught in the TISD for nearly 13 years, Dr. Guillory has firsthand experience with the district’s dynamics. She recounted her transition from teaching to higher education, where she currently instructs future educators at Cossatot Community College, part of the University of Arkansas system. Her decision to run for the school board is driven by a desire to bring an educator’s perspective to the table, emphasizing the importance of having someone with classroom experience involved in decision-making processes.
Addressing Literacy Challenges in TISD
One of the critical issues Dr. Guillory aims to tackle is the declining literacy rates within the district. She highlighted the significant gap in literacy skills among students, noting that some enter middle school reading at kindergarten levels. “I had students that would come to me in 6th grade who were reading at a kindergarten, first grade level, if they could read or write their name at all,” she remarked. Dr. Guillory advocates for early literacy programs and parental involvement as key strategies to combat this issue, suggesting that adult education could also play a role in improving literacy outcomes.
The Role of Socioeconomic Factors
During the discussion, Dr. Guillory and Rateliff delved into the socioeconomic challenges impacting education in Texarkana. They acknowledged the wide-ranging economic backgrounds of students and the cultural factors that influence educational attainment. Dr. Guillory shared an anecdote from her early teaching days, illustrating the cultural mindset some students have towards education. “One of my kids told me, well, I don’t want to do anything because I’m going to get a check in the mail like my mama,” she recalled, highlighting the need for cultural shifts to value education.
Community Involvement and Educational Equity
Dr. Guillory emphasized the importance of community involvement in fostering educational equity. She believes that understanding and addressing the diverse needs of students from varying socioeconomic backgrounds can lead to more effective educational strategies. The conversation also touched on the financial aspects of the district, with Rateliff expressing concerns over the allocation of resources. Dr. Guillory acknowledged these concerns, advocating for a balanced approach that considers both fiscal responsibility and the necessity of supporting students and families.
A Vision for the Future
Dr. Guillory’s candidacy for the school board is rooted in a vision of transformative change for TISD. Her focus on early literacy, community engagement, and addressing socioeconomic disparities reflects a comprehensive approach to improving educational outcomes. As the district faces challenges such as declining literacy rates and financial constraints, Dr. Guillory’s insights and experience offer a promising path forward.
The full episode of The Zach Rateliff Show is available on OBBM Network TV.
Watch The Zach Rateliff Show on OBBM Network TV: https://www.obbmnetwork.tv/series/the-zach-rateliff-show-208019
