Despite ongoing challenges, including reduced state funding for public education, Alpine ISD Superintendent celebrated 2024 as a year of significant achievements for the district and community in her column published in the Alpine Avalanche.
Grant Funding Fuels Growth
The district secured $1.5 million in new grant funding in 2024, complementing a $3.2 million grant portfolio built in the prior 18 months. These funds enabled numerous improvements:
- Elementary Academics: Enhanced math and reading instruction resulted in K-2 students achieving academic growth percentiles of 73 in reading and 84 in math nationally.
- Childcare: Expanded affordable childcare through the Alpine Child Development Center, reducing costs by 25%.
- Security and Wellness: Investments in security infrastructure and mental health support for students.
- Facilities: Upgraded decades-old lighting fixtures at Alpine Elementary and made field improvements at Kokernot Field.
Grant funding also launched a groundbreaking regional career and technical education (CTE) collaborativeinvolving Alpine, Marathon, and Marfa ISDs to provide post-secondary opportunities.
Philanthropy Boosts District Resources
Over $750,000 in philanthropic contributions bolstered the district, including a record-breaking $575,000 donation from the Prentice & Alline Brown Foundation. These funds supported:
- Technology: New classroom interactive displays, graphic design equipment, and art supplies.
- Essentials: Paid off meal balances, provided supplies for students, and enhanced classrooms for teachers.
- Playgrounds: Upcoming installations include three state-of-the-art playgrounds at Alpine Elementary and the first-ever playground at Alpine Middle School.
Academic and Financial Highlights
Alpine ISD students continued to excel academically, outperforming state averages in science, social studies, and reading, with significant improvements in science and reading mastery levels. Reading growth rates surged by 20 percentage points, further outpacing state averages.
The district maintained fiscal responsibility, reducing its tax rate for the sixth consecutive year—a cumulative 21% decrease over seven years—saving taxpayers $4.8 million and 12 years of debt payments on the 2019 bond.
Extracurricular and College Success
From athletic fields to concert stages, Alpine students shone in extracurricular activities. The district also launched its first direct admissions program with the University of Texas Permian Basin, increasing college access for seniors.
Eighty graduates, known as “Fightin’ Bucks,” embarked on their next chapters, equipped to learn, lead, and serve.
Looking Ahead to 2025
While challenges persist, Alpine ISD enters 2025 with optimism. Superintendent emphasized that Alpine’s successes stem from community pride and determination, stating, “Buck Pride runs deep here.”
