Bartlett ISD

Program Description

Much of the student population on the Bartlett ISD has demonstrated a history of persistent learning and achievement gaps. The school district also faces many of the same challenges as other high-poverty rural districts. These include limited access to internet, utilities, and transportation. Bartlett ISD also has a significant English Learner population that is adding to instructional challenges and specific student needs. Since there are no other after-school childcare programs in the community, the ACE program serves as a safe, healthy place for students to be after school and during the summer.

The uniqueness of this center’s population can be found in the description of the community and the characteristics of the families it serves. Bartlett ISD is a small rural community that serves residents of Bell, Williamson, and Milam counties. With an approximate population of 1600 individuals, the town boasts a rich history within the agriculture and railroading industries. Bartlett is home to seven churches, an agriculture and feed store, a bank, a dentist, an automotive shop, a bakery, a restaurant, a gift shop, two public parks, baseball fields, a commercial agriculture feed plant, a residential nursing facility, an electricity cooperative, a post office, a police department, a volunteer fire department, a historic downtown, three retail stores, a small grocery, one tavern, and a public swimming pool.  Bartlett’s most recent census data indicate that there are approximately 700 housing units and 600 families residing in the town. Median household income is less than $30,000 per year. Seventy four percent (74%) of residents have attained a high school diploma or equivalent and 6% have attained a bachelor’s degree or higher. Most families’ employment is within the service sector (food, retail, etc.) and most employment occurs outside of town. The school is considered the largest employer in the city.

Because Bartlett is a small school district, the process from identification to enrollment follows an agile and simple process. Parents first complete an ACE enrollment form and a handbook receipt page. The student/parent then returns the paperwork and the school confirms the information via telephone. Finally the student begins attending the program. Student enrollment information is kept in a Google spreadsheet that is regularly updated and that is accessible to all staff members. Students are selected to participate in the ACE program based on certain criteria. Student participation in ACE is triaged based on student needs. Highest priority is given to students who a) have not passed one or more of the STAAR exams, b) who are in danger of failing one or more subjects during the regular school year, c) who are English Learners,  d) who are classified as needing 504 or Special Education services, e) who are eligible for free/reduced lunch, and/or f) who are in need of other special services. If staffing levels permit, enrollment is then opened to other students on a first-come, first-served basis.

Some of the academic activities students participate in include small-group tutoring, book studies, homework help, peer reading groups, and math fact practice (online). By participating in these activities, student fluency and self-reported confidence in their abilities has improved. Student math and reading scores have also improved with virtually all ACE attendees showing academic growth over the course of the school year. It should be noted that a distinction is made between tutorials and homework help. At Bartlett, “tutorials” involves a re-teaching, or a teaching in a different way, specific concepts or skills, usually in a small group or individualized setting. “Homework help” is provided either at a whole grade level or with students working independently on their own assignments given by their regular classroom teachers. The ACE staff member helping with homework is answering questions and prompting students rather than providing direct instruction.

Some of the enrichment activities students participate in include gardening, painting, arts and crafts, storytelling, and sports fundamentals. By participating in these activities students are able to use voice and choice to self-select activities that interest them, but are also exposed to activities they might not ordinarily choose for themselves. This exposure allows for a greater diversity of learning opportunities and an increased likelihood of long-term educational success.

Family engagement opportunities were extended to the parents of ACE students. Parent activities included Snackin’ with Science, Grow Your Career, Lights on Downtown, Elementary BASH Night and Reading Under the Stars. 

The success of the ACE program can be attributed to a number of individuals. The selection of ACE program staff is critical for an effective program. ACE program staff were selected based on availability and interest, and were vetted using application materials (including fingerprinting and background checks). Because needs are high and adult human capital is disproportionally low, the District employs all interested and available staff who are deemed not in danger of causing instructional harm. There are additional individuals who have contributed to the success of the ACE program at this center. The campus principal and the regular classroom teachers assist with data collection and analysis, the identification of students, the promotion of ACE activities in communications, attending community advisory meetings, and providing informal feedback. The Curriculum or program specialists help in the selection and identification of instructional materials, provide lesson plans and their implementation observation and feedback. They also model lesson and classroom management activities. In addition to the various individuals named above, there are also  community resources that contribute to the ACE program. These include a) church transportation for students dually enrolled in ACE and church activities, parents as ACE employees and Community Partners like TX Agrilife Extension, Williamson County Children’s Advocacy Center, Williamson County Literacy Council and Austin Community College.

The campus administration allows the ACE program to use a variety of campus locations during the ACE program hours. These include the use of classrooms, lab space, the library, and the gym. The intent being that these campus facilities would provide a safe and appropriate space for all ACE activities.