San Marcos Area Chamber and GSMP present State of Workforce & Education Summit – Driving Economic Growth Through Synergy

(September 1, 2024) – The San Marcos Chamber of Commerce in partnership with the Greater San Marcos Partnership is excited to announce the 2024 State of Workforce & Education Summit, set to take place on Thursday, Sept. 26, at the San Marcos Conference Center at Embassy Suites.

This year’s summit will delve into the critical intersection of workforce development and education, serving as a platform to explore innovative strategies and foster collaborations that drive economic growth in the region. Attendees will have the opportunity to gain valuable insights into the impact of new state legislature laws on public schools and universities, as well as their implications for the future workforce.

Key features of the summit include:

  • Presentations from state and regional leaders in education and workforce development, providing the latest updates and news.
  • Networking opportunities with industry professionals, educators, policymakers, and business leaders, aimed at building connections and fostering collaboration on future projects.

The keynote speaker is Dr. Kelly Damphousse, President of Texas State University, who will discuss the state of the university and exciting recent announcements.

Following Dr. Damphousse’s keynote address, the summit will feature two engaging panels:

Innovations in Workforce Training: Dr. Laura Marmolejo from Austin Community College and Mike Anderson from Texas State Technical College, who will share insights on innovative workforce training approaches.

Superintendent’s Panel on CTE Programs: Featuring leaders from Hays ISD (Dr. Eric Wright), San Marcos CISD (Dr. Michael Cardona), Dripping Springs ISD (Holly MorrisKuentz), and Wimberley ISD (Dr. Greg Bonewald), moderated by Mike Kamerlander.

“We are honored to host these speakers who will share their vision for a thriving workforce,” said Page Michel, President/CEO of the San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce. “It’s always thrilling to
hear Dr. Damphousse, because every day there are amazing new Texas State initiatives unveiled and record-breaking announcements!”

In addition, a special scholarship presentation will take place during the lunch session, where Justin Payne, San Marcos Chamber Chairman, will award a scholarship to a 2024 San Marcos CISD graduate who is now a Texas State University freshman.
State of Workforce & Education Summit sponsors confirmed to date include Texas State University, San Marcos CISD, La Cima, Frost, McCoy’s, Bluebonnet Electric, TDS, Better Business Bureau, San Marcos Academy and Republic Services. Sponsorship opportunities are still available.

To register for the Workforce & Education Summit, please visit bit.ly/Workforce-Education-2024. Early registration is encouraged as space is limited.

For more information, visit SanMarcosTexas.com or call the San Marcos Area Chamber at 512-393-5900. For media inquiries, please contact Chamber Communications and PR Manager Joanne Ortega at joanne@sanmarcostexas.com.

    ###

    About the San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce

    The Chamber provides ADVOCACY and CONNECTIONS for businesses to THRIVE. The Chamber mission is to improve the economic prosperity and quality of life of its members through leadership, education and business advocacy. The Chamber’s vision is to be the leading membership organization that collaborates with stakeholders to develop an environment where businesses thrive, leadership is encouraged, students excel, housing is ample and attainable, all members are
    active, and quality of life is a priority. More Chamber information is available at SanMarcosTexas.com.

    Greater San Marcos Partnership

    The Greater San Marcos Partnership is the economic development organization serving Hays and Caldwell Counties, fostering growth and economic prosperity in the region.

    Introducing the Corridor Women’s Network: A New Era of Connection, Leadership and Inspiration for Womenwho work and live along the I-35 Corridor

    (July 4, 2024) – The San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce the launch of the Corridor Women’s Network, a new initiative to connect, inform and elevate professional women in the area. Women who work and live along the I-35 Corridor between Austin and San Antonio are invited to participate. A dynamic series of monthly events will be held to help grow relationships, offer leadership insights, and create a vibrant network of women who support and uplift each other.

    The series will include after-hours events, coffee meet-ups, and luncheons with inspiring speakers such as CEOs, coaches and civic leaders. There will be information sharing, mini adventures, games, spirits, and support! Most sessions will include food & beverages and will have admission fees. Plan to participate to build meaningful connections and be part of an encouraging community!

    Leading the Initiative:

    From the Chamber Board of Directors, Brooke Damron of The Damron Group Realtors is cochairing the launch of this network with Blythe Cox from Texas Regional Bank and Incoming Chamber Chairwoman Cassidy Berenato of Texas Aviation Partners.

    “All three of these women have extensive experience with professional and social networks,” said Page Michel, President of the San Marcos Area Chamber. “They are eager to share with other women to help them grow and get more engaged with our chamber and community.” Republic Services is one of the first sponsors of this network. Other sponsorships are available.

    This new group will have its first meet-up on Thursday, July 25, from 4:30 to 6:30 pm. It will be hosted at Tarbox & Brown Restaurant (201 Kissing Tree Lane, Building 5), sponsored by the San Marcos Area Chamber and Republic Services. It will feature networking, interactive activities, and a taste of what’s to come in future sessions.

    Key features of the Corridor Women’s Network:

    Networking Opportunities – Meet and connect with like-minded professional women from various industries and locations along the corridor.
    Leadership Lessons – Gain insights from influential leaders for personal and professional growth.
    Inspiration and Enjoyment – Participate in engaging activities designed to inspire and entertain.
    Community Building – Be part of a supportive network that encourages collaboration, mutual support, and community service.

    How to Get Involved:

    To receive an email with full details about the first and future events, send your name, business/organization and email address by July 12 to Page Michel at page@sanmarcostexas.com.

    The first event is generously sponsored by Republic Services. Additional sponsors and pop-up exhibitors are sought for future events. Those interested are asked to reach out to Chamber President Page Michel by email or by calling 512-393-5900.

    ###

    About the San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce

    The Chamber provides ADVOCACY and CONNECTIONS for businesses to THRIVE. The Chamber mission is to improve the economic prosperity and quality of life of its members through leadership, education and business advocacy. The Chamber’s vision is to be the leading membership organization that collaborates with stakeholders to develop an environment where businesses thrive, leadership is encouraged, students excel, housing is ample and attainable, all members are active, and quality of life is a priority. More Chamber information is available at SanMarcosTexas.com.

    Discover what’s new in San Marcos! San Marcos Area Chamber presents 38th annual Business Showcase – August 23

    [May 31, 2024] – Get ready to discover what’s new in San Marcos and elevate your local experience! The San Marcos Area Chamber will host the highly-anticipated annual expo, “Business Showcase: Tailgate Edition!” on Friday, August 23, at the San Marcos Conference Center from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m.

    The Business Showcase is held in the big ballroom at the San Marcos Conference Center at Embassy Suites (1001 E. McCarty Avenue, San Marcos). This high-energy event is open to the public, inviting newcomers, residents, visitors, nonprofits, clubs and professionals to come together to discover local businesses and civic groups — and make meaningful connections.

    As excitement about football season sweeps the state in mid-August, this event will tie-in and encourage exhibitors to decorate their displays with a tailgate party theme and dress in their favorite team colors! This vibrant event will feature over one hundred exhibitors, all eager to share their products, services, and stories with attendees. Plus, there will be awesome giveaways and prize drawings!

    Adding to the excitement, there will be two mini pep rallies with Texas State University student-athletes, Strutters, cheerleaders and Boko, and San Marcos High School Rattlers cheer and dance students! Guests can enjoy the performances, get autographs and photos. Save this date and plan to celebrate with our hometown teams: the Rattlers and the Bobcats!

    “By going to the Business Showcase, you can really get the pulse of this unique San Marcos community,” said Chamber President Page Michel. “You’ll see the people behind the organizations that make this community run. And you’ll get to feel the energy and pride during the pep rallies!”

    What to expect:
    -Explore a ballroom full of businesses and civic groups representing a wide spectrum of interests.
    -Engage in network-building discussions with business owners, entrepreneurs, and community leaders.
    -Immerse yourself in interactive displays, product demonstrations, and innovative ideas.
    -Discover hidden gems, unique services, and innovative solutions offered by local businesses.
    -Participate in exciting activities, contests, and giveaways throughout the event.

    “Businesses and nonprofits are the backbone of our community, and the Business Showcase is our chance to shine a spotlight on their great contributions,” said Justin Payne of Frost Bank, 2024 Chairman of the Board of the San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce.

    As the largest business event in San Marcos, the Business Showcase presents an unparalleled opportunity for companies to elevate their brand visibility, expand their customer base, and establish meaningful partnerships.

    Business Showcase sponsors confirmed to-date include: La Cima, Chuck Nash Auto Group, CHRISTUS Santa Rosa Hospital, Cavender Nissan, Texas State University, San Marcos Daily Record, Republic Services, Brown Distributing Co., and McCoy’s Building Supply. There are many more sponsorship options and exhibitor booths are now available. Spaces fill up quickly. Don’t miss this chance to showcase your business at the largest business event in San Marcos.

    The general public is invited and there will be exciting advertising and promotions to draw a big crowd. The event features tons of door prizes and giveaways. Admission is $5 with event sponsors and exhibitors offering complimentary tickets for guests and customers throughout the community. Admission is free with a five-dollar-equivalent donation of non-perishable food items for the Hays County Food Bank!

    For more information, visit bit.ly/Business-Showcase-2024. Call the San Marcos Area Chamber this week to confirm you want to participate at 512-393-5900. For media inquiries, contact Chamber Communications and PR Manager Joanne Ortega at joanne@sanmarcostexas.com.

    ###

    About the San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce

    The Chamber provides ADVOCACY and CONNECTIONS for businesses to THRIVE. The Chamber mission is to improve the economic prosperity and quality of life of its members through leadership, education and business advocacy. The Chamber’s vision is to be the leading membership organization that collaborates with stakeholders to develop an environment where businesses thrive, leadership is encouraged, students excel, housing is ample and attainable, all members are active, and quality of life is a priority. More Chamber information is available at SanMarcosTexas.com.

    City of San Marcos, SMCISD highlight achievements at State of the City & District event

    SAN MARCOS, TEXAS – Don’t Doubt Us.

    The message couldn’t be clearer from San Marcos CISD Superintendent Dr. Michael Cardona at Thursday’s State of the City & District event.

    The event, hosted annually by the San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce, brought together business and community leaders to hear San Marcos Mayor Jane Hughson and Dr. Cardona lay out their vision and future of the City and CISD.

    Dr. Cardona began his speech focusing on the accomplishments of the students and athletic teams over the last year before pivoting to the upcoming May 6th bond election.

    There are four props on the upcoming election. Prop A, also known as an “Attendance Credit Election,” will ask voters to consider authorizing the SMCISD Board of Trustees to purchase attendance credits from the state with local tax revenue. Voters are being asked to consider this item as SMCISD’s property values have reached a point where the district has entered into recapture, which means the District must make mandatory recapture payments to the TEA. A vote FOR Prop A would allow the district to continue to make mandatory “recapture” payments to the state. If Prop A fails, the school district would be subject to a “Detachment of Territory,” meaning tax dollars from some of San Marcos’ largest employers would be removed permanently from the San Marcos CISD taxing district and sent to a different community in Texas. Additionally, a vote against Prop A will likely mean an increase in taxes on our residents.

    Props B, C, and D focus on improvements to the District school and athletic facilities.

    The San Marcos Area Chamber Board of Directors has voted to support all four propositions on the upcoming election.

    The San Marcos CISD weren’t the only ones who had a busy year. San Marcos Mayor Jane Hughson spent her time on stage boasting the achievements of the City over the past year.

    Mayor Hughson highlighted efforts being made to expand housing to residents, a recent trip by city staff and councilmembers to Washington to meet with elected officials and federal agencies, and some recent economic development projects that will come to fruition in the coming years, including the new ‘Hill Country Studios,’ which will represent an investment of over $250 million into San Marcos, and bring nearly 1,500 jobs to our community.

    The San Marcos Area Chamber would like to thank Texas Disposal Systems for their support as the presenting sponsor for the State of the City & District event, Freese & Nichols and La Cima for their support as gold sponsors, and the City of San Marcos, San Marcos CISD, Frost Bank and Cobb, Fendley & Associates for being silver sponsors.

    San Marcos Chamber, GSMP to host Texas Gov. Greg Abbott for 2023 State of the State Address

    Contributed by the Office of the Texas Governor

    AUSTIN – Governor Greg Abbott and Nexstar Media Inc. today announced that Nexstar television stations across the state of Texas will carry a live telecast of Governor Abbott’s 2023 State of the State address on Thursday, February 16, 2023 at 7:00 PM CT, hosted by the Greater San Marcos Partnership and San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce. The speech will air on 16 Nexstar television stations serving 14 Texas media markets and will be telecast throughout the state. As a public service, Nexstar will make the live feed of the telecast available to every broadcast company serving Texas.

    “Texas is the apex of opportunity, where infinite possibilities allow our people to climb from humble beginnings to the heights of success,” said Governor Abbott. “This 88th Legislative Session is an opportunity for the Legislature and statewide leaders to transform the lives of Texans for generations and build an even brighter future for our state. We have already accomplished so many great things for the people of Texas—working together, we will continue charting a course for the Texas of tomorrow.”

    During the address, Governor Abbott will update Texans on his priorities for the 88th Legislative Session, highlight exceptional Texans from across the state, and outline his plans for building the Texas of tomorrow.

    The address will air on 16 Nexstar television stations serving the state, including: KDAF-TV (CW) in Dallas, KIAH-TV (CW) in Houston, KXAN-TV (NBC) in Austin, KWKT-TV (FOX) in Waco, KVEO-TV/KGBT-TV (NBC/MyNet) in Harlingen/Brownsville, KSHV-TV (FOX) in Shreveport, LA, KTSM-TV (NBC) in El Paso, KETK-TV (NBC) in Tyler, KAMR-TV (NBC) in Amarillo, KAMC-TV/KLBK-TV (ABC/CBS) in Lubbock, KMID-TV (ABC) in Midland/Odessa, KFDX-TV (NBC) in Wichita Falls, KTAB-TV (CBS) in Abilene, and KLST-TV (CBS) in San Angelo. Local viewers may also access a livestream of the broadcast online by visiting the website of their local Nexstar station (see table below for more information).

    Texas Governor Greg Abbott’s 2023 State of the State Address – Television Broadcast and Livestream

    WHEN: Thursday, February 16, 2023

               7:00 PM – 8:00 PM CT 

    Governor Abbott’s speech will be carried on the following stations and websites:

    StationNetworkMarketWebsiteSocial Media
    KDAFCWDallascw33.com@CW33
    KIAHCWHoustoncw39.com@CW39Houston
    KXANNBCAustinkxan.com@KXAN_News
    KWKTFOXWacofox44news.com@KWKTFOX44
    KVEO/KGBTNBC/MyNetHarlingen/Brownsvillevalleycentral.com @cbs4rgv
    KSHVFOXShreveport, LAktalnews.com@NBC6News
    KTSMNBCEl Pasoktsm.com@KTSMtv
    KETKNBCTylerKETK.com@KETK
    KAMRNBCAmarillomyhighplains.com@KAMRLocal4News
    KAMC/KLBKABC/CBSLubbockeverythinglubbock.com@KLBKNews
    KMIDABCMidland/Odessayourbasin.com@Big2News
    KFDXNBCWichita Fallstexomashomepage.com@TexomasHomepage
    KTABCBSAbilenebigcountryhomepage.com@KTABTV
    KLSTCBSSan Angeloconchovalleyhomepage.com@klstnews

    Note: In addition to the live television broadcast, viewers may also access a livestream of the address by visiting their local participating Nexstar station’s website.

    San Marcos Chamber Announces 2023 Guiding Principles

    The following are the Policy Statements of the San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce as authored by the Government Relations Council and approved by the Board of Directors. These Policies are deemed to be of utmost importance to local businesses and the economic health of the community and region. Chamber members are encouraged to take an active role and be involved in government affairs. The Chamber exists to be the “voice of business” at the local, state and federal level, but members need to stay active by submitting input to the Government Relations Council and Board and encouraging all employees to be informed voters in elections. 

    This list of statements is not placed in order of importance nor does it
    necessarily exclude others, which the Chamber Board may state at a later time.

    Job Growth & Business Recruitment

    Recognizing that a healthy economy will serve to encourage a positive economic impact and quality of life, the San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce believes in a fully employed business community paying market wage rates.

    We support legislation that encourages diverse businesses and industries to locate in Texas, such as (1) controlling excessive and burdensome taxes; (2) providing incentives for business recruitment, retention and expansion; and 3) workforce education funding and initiatives.

    We encourage the local units of government to be aggressive in using incentives that have been provided through state and federal legislation.

    Public Safety & Emergency Preparedness

    Recognizing that to maintain a positive quality of life, low crime rates and public safety must be a top priority for citizens and businesses; the San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce supports the efforts of the police and sheriff departments in our community.

    Transportation & Infrastructure

    Recognizing that the economic well-being of the business community is highly dependent upon the ability to efficiently transport people and products to, from and within the region, the Chamber promotes initiatives that improve transportation opportunities and facilities.  We encourage efforts to improve and facilitate more efficient movement of goods and people.

    Health Care

    Recognizing that cost-effective health care provided to area businesses and families is an essential element of successful business growth and a healthy community, San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce supports an environment in which health care remains affordable to employers and where local providers may thrive. We support legislation that helps employers regain control of the health insurance benefits they offer to employees. We support initiatives to encourage wellness and healthy lifestyles.

    Education

    Recognizing that the ability of tomorrow’s workforce to succeed depends on the educational foundation we lay today, the San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce supports programs, processes, activities and facilities that promote a strong local education system that, together with business and community leadership, prepares students for a productive role in the world.

    We support the protection of funding for public school, and support legislation and programs that provide career awareness, exploration and experiences for all students through activities that involve businesses, schools and community in partnerships.

    We support the availability of locally provided, post-secondary education and training for area residents and customized education services to businesses.

    Housing

    Recognizing that job growth in the community will require housing for new and expanding families, the San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce supports efforts that will stimulate the development of an increased supply of diversified housing.

    Taxation

    Recognizing that economic success is the result of good tax, regulatory, infrastructure, workforce, and economic incentive policies, the Chamber supports policies that reduce tax burdens for businesses and individuals.

    Water

    Recognizing that water is a critical issue to the business community and all citizens in the state of Texas, the Chamber supports strategies for long-term provision of an adequate and cost-effective supply of water resources.

    Racial and Social Equity

    Recognizing the responsibility of all business and civic leaders to participate in efforts to remove barriers to inclusivity; we support programs and initiatives that strengthen inclusion and success for all citizens.

    San Marcos Area Chamber announces staff updates

    The San Marcos Area Chamber is pleased to announce Tiffany Quibodeaux as the chamber’s new Membership Development Executive. She will officially start on January 3, 2023.

    Quibodeaux has an extensive background as a business owner, manager and resource provider.  Most recently, she has owned a local Club Z In-Home Tutoring franchise. Prior to that, Quibodeaux spent 10 years as the Co-Owner and Party Coordinator of Adventure Park, an amusement park she founded in Lumberton, TX.

    Chamber President/CEO Page Michel spoke highly of Quibodeaux, expressing that she will do well in her new position.  “Tiffany has been super active with the Chamber already as an Ambassador, and in fact was recently awarded the 2022 Ambassador of the Year award for her excellent efforts,” said Chamber President Page Michel. “She is an ideal person for this role, considering her first-hand knowledge of business operations and how the Chamber can provide valuable benefits.”

    A second Chamber staff announcement is the promotion of Brad Cesak to Vice President of Communications and Government Affairs. Cesak just celebrated his first anniversary at the Chamber in November as Vice President of Communications. The addition of Government Affairs to his role will be an important asset to the Chamber in the coming months as the Texas Legislature convenes for the 88th legislative session.  

    “Brad has been an excellent leader at the Chamber over the past year,” said Page Michel. “Expanding his management area to include government affairs means an exponential increase in his value to the team. I’m confident in his ability to steer our efforts with our city, county, state and federal elected officials.” 

    Page Michel named President/CEO of San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce

    The San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce has named Page Michel the organization’s new President/CEO.

    Michel’s first day with the Chamber will be October 3rd.

    Michel joins the San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce after spending the last two years as the President of the Texas City-La Marque Chamber in Galveston County.

    “I am excited to come to San Marcos to help promote the local business community and be closer to family,” said Michel.

    Michel brings over 20 years of experience in public relations, marketing, government advocacy and non-profit association management. Prior to leading the Texas City-La Marque Chamber, Michel spent 14 years serving as the President of the Brenham/Washington County Chamber of Commerce and Brenham Economic Development Foundation.

    “With her experience, her professionalism, and what she’s done in the Chamber world, I think she’s the right person to take us to the next step,” Matthew Worthington, Chamber Chairman of the Board, said. “We’ve set a solid foundation, and we feel she’s that person that can take us to the next level.”

    A native of the east coast, Michel earned a B.A. degree from Western Carolina University and has I.O.M. certification from the U.S. Chamber Institute.

    Outside of work, Michel is an active volunteer with local and statewide organizations including the Texas Chamber of Commerce Executives Association, Rotary Club, Big Brothers/Big Sisters, CASA, and Keep Washington County Beautiful among others. Her husband is a workforce housing development consultant and they have two sons, one of which is currently attending Texas State University.

    Michel’s vision for the San Marcos Area Chamber includes maintaining its high level of excellence and community leadership, as well as implementing new benefits for members and investors. 

    “I believe that chamber membership provides businesses with a competitive edge in the marketplace,” Michel explained. “Whether long-standing businesses or start-ups, the chamber offers strategies to help businesses grow.”

    Michel replaces Jason Mock, who left the Chamber in March to become the President/CEO of the Greater Dalton (GA) Chamber of Commerce.

    Out of the Classroom and Into Industry! 26 San Marcos Teachers Complete Externships with Local Businesses

    For Immediate Release

    August 7, 2019

    San Marcos, TX. – This week, the San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce and San Marcos CISD in conjunction with Texas Workface Solutions Rural Capital Area celebrated the conclusion of the Summer Externship Program. In its fourth year, this program has grown to 26 teachers and businesses locally and 212 regionally.

    Through the externship program, educators are given an opportunity to shadow a business and its operations for 3 days, followed by a curriculum planning day with other externship participants. Insights learned – on the job – will be incorporated into the teacher’s curriculum to provide students a better advantage in pursuing their future careers.

    “This year’s teacher externship program was extremely successful,” says Mike Doyle, San Marcos CISD CTE and Federal Programs Director. “With 26 teacher externs completing the experience, San Marcos CISD and our students will have an even greater connection to our local business and industry community.  I am excited by the work of our externs and look forward to continue to grow our partnerships.”  

    According to Workforce Solutions Rural Capital Area representatives, more than 75,000 students have been impacted across the Rural Capital Area Region since 2016, with the student impact ≈

    almost 10,000 in San Marcos. Additionally, educator participation has grown regionally at a rate of 960% since 2016 and locally at a rate of 73.3% since 2017.

    Participating Businesses:

    Air Traffic Manager (HYI) -Robinson Aviation (RVA), Inc. (San Marcos Airport)

    Texas Health and Racket Club.

    San Marcos Fire Department

    Martin Marietta

    ColorMix Graphics & Printing

    Community Action

    City of San Marcos Urban Forestry

    Alligator Dental

    Embassy Suites – AV Tech

    City of San Marcos – Keep San Marcos Beautiful

    San Marcos Daily Record

    Embassy Suites San Marcos Hotel Spa & Conference Center

    CFAN

    Corridor Title

    Neighborhood Engagement Manager – City of San Marcos

    San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce

    M2FEDERAL INC

    Texas State Athletics

    Chuck Nash Auto

    Lucky Sky Graphics

    Homewood Suites

    Silo Glassworks

    Trace Home Development

    McCoy’s Building Supply

    Attendees at the Wrap-Up Brunch Celebration include:

    Paul Fletcher, CEO – Workforce Solutions Rural Capital Area

    Jason Mock, President and CEO – San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce

    Michael Cardona, Superintendent – San Marcos Consolidated Independent School District

     
    ###

    The Summer Externship for Teachers Program is administered by Workforce Solutions Rural Capital Area (WSRCA), under the Texas Workforce Commission, with federal funds from the U.S. Department of Labor’s Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act.  $200,000 was awarded to WSRCA to fund Externships for 225 teachers in Dripping Springs ISD, Georgetown ISD, Hays CISD, Hutto ISD, Leander ISD, Round Rock ISD and San Marcos CISD, in partnership with their local Chamber of Commerce. San Marcos CISD and the San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce supported 26 teachers and received 11% ($18,758) of the total federal award. SMCISD and the San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce provided 11% of the required matching funds in the amount of $5,556. 

    Classroom to the Boardroom – 17 San Marcos Teachers Embark on Externships with Local Businesses

    For Immidate Release | June 1, 2017

    Classroom to the Boardroom – 17 San Marcos Teachers Embark on Externships with Local Businesses

    San Marcos, TX. – This week, the San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce and San Marcos CISD in conjunction with Texas Workforce Solutions Rural Capital Area kicked off the Summer Educator Externship Program. In its second year, this program has grown to 17 teachers and businesses.

    Through the externship program, educators will be given an opportunity to shadow a business and its operations for 3 days, followed by a curriculum planning day with other externship participants. Insights learned – on the job –  will be incorporated into the teacher’s curriculum to provide students a better advantage in pursuing their future careers.

    “These externships’ allow our educators the opportunity to spend time at a business or a work-site, providing a unique experience to learn something new outside the classroom,” says San Marcos CISD Career and Technical Education, Director Michael Doyle. “Our teachers can then bring these experiences, in a variety of fields, back to our students. We hope to teach our students that what they are learning in school – can and will – be used in many fields they may not think about.”

    An externship is an experience outside the parameters of one’s own domain. This provides educators with a real-world experience to share in their academic instruction and creates an opportunity for the business and education system to grow in partnership.

    Participating Businesses:

    CFAN

    Frost Bank

    San Marcos Daily Record

    Mochas and Javas

    ColorMix

    City of San Marcos

    Greater San Marcos Partnership

    Embassy Suites by Hilton San Marcos Hotel Conference & Spa

    DTK Insurance & Financial

    HH Fitness, Inc.

    Heldenfels Enterprises, Inc.

    The Bloom Bar

    San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce

    **The Summer Externship for Teachers Program is administered by Workforce Solutions Rural Capital Area (WSRCA), under the Texas Workforce Commission, with federal funds from the U.S. Department of Labor’s Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act.  $74,734 was awarded to WSRCA to fund Externships for 110 teachers in DRIPPING SPRINGS ISD, GEORGETOWN ISD, ROUND ROCK ISD, AND SAN MARCOS CONSOLIDATED ISD, in partnership with their local Chamber of Commerce. San Marcos CISD and the San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce will support 17 teachers and receive 15% ($11,210) of total federal award. SMCISD and the San Marcos Area Chamber of Commerce will match 15% ($2,800) of the 25% ($18,684) required matching funds 

    **On-site interview will be available throughout the program. Please email Samanthab@sanmarcostexas.com to schedule.  

    ###