College Admission Town Hall

Parents and students, we want to hear from you!

Well before recent college admissions scandals have rocked the nation, we have been rethinking the system – how college admissions and testing-focused education is detrimental to individuals and society at large – and how we can reform it while embracing the values that will move us into the future!

Dr. Dona Murphey (Position 5) has been a Harvard college interviewer for 18 years in the Greater Houston area, with the last 14 in Pearland/Friendswood and is a parent in Pearland ISD. She understands what elite colleges are seeking in applicants and how that is in fact entirely consistent with what any student – even those who are not 4-year university bound – should aspire to embody. She understands well the stresses that students face as they move onto postsecondary pursuits, and how Pearland ISD can facilitate a smoother transition.

Joseph Say (Position 6) is an IT consultant for a major software company, who has spent years organizing students to hold systems accountable. He knows the importance of cultivating active citizenship, which is a key function of public education per the Texas Education Code. He knows intimately how PISD has tried valiantly and insidiously to suppress student voice, and how this is a disservice in college admissions and in preparation for the world beyond.

Al Lloyd (Position 7) is a decorated educator/administrator, serving as Assistant Principal of Bellaire High School, and is a parent in Pearland ISD. He has done some remarkable work for career and technology programming in HISD for students interested in skilled trades. He will be a champion in creating industry partnerships and ensuring that students interested in technical training in our district are appropriately advised about the post-secondary opportunities that training will support.

Parents and students are welcome to join us in this community dialogue. You will drive the conversation. We hope to provide you with pearls that will prepare you for the future!

When: Sunday, April 7, 2019, 4:30-6:30p
Where: Pearland Westside Library