I would like to take the opportunity in my first article to the LOG to say thank you. My wife and I have been pleasantly overwhelmed by the abundance of parents, staff, students, and community members who have warmly welcomed us to Lago Vista. The most interesting change from the schools and communities where I have worked before is the level of satisfaction that most residents have expressed about living in Lago Vista. I have heard numerous times from people, “I could live anywhere, and I chose Lago Vista.” A few residents have even shared stories of leaving and then later returning to make this community their permanent home.
We felt like this area would be a great place to raise our kids. Now we know we made the right decision. Starting a new position and moving your family is always difficult; however, accepting a position in a district that shares a common vision made my decision an easy one.
My overriding vision for the future of Lago Vista Independent School District is to provide a level of service through public education that is unmatched by any institution in Texas, whether public or private. In order to achieve this goal, I must first evaluate the level of service that is currently being provided. After only ten days, I have seen many areas at LVISD in which we should take pride. I believe that our core academic programs are strong, but more importantly, I sense a level of flexibility present within the staff that is necessary to accomplish future goals and to expand our success. Parents whom I have met have been supportive and helpful while community members seem focused on improving the business and residential conditions surrounding the Lago Vista and Jonestown areas.
Communication with the community is essential to moving this district forward, and I hope that you always feel invited and valued in our schools. Whether you have kids in school, pay taxes to support our kids, or simply live and work in the area, I want you to feel proud of our school system. Feedback relating to the improvement of our schools is always welcomed and encouraged. I strive to always be visible and accessible for formal and informal feedback from our parents and community members.
This spring will be an opportunity for me to conduct a comprehensive needs assessment of the district’s services. During this process, I will be conducting various cluster meetings involving all stakeholders in the district. If you would like to be included in any of these meetings or you would simply like to sit down and visit, please email me at matt_underwood@lagovista.txed.net. I know the spring semester is by far the most hectic time of year for staff and students, but a comprehensive understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of the district is vital to developing a plan for future school improvement.
In closing, I would like to thank you for allowing me the opportunity to lead the LVISD. Our children are our most precious resources and our only hope for the future. We must work together to ensure that the environment in which they live, learn and grow is supportive, safe and challenging.