HAR’s Area Networking Groups are a great way for HAR members to network, get involved in their community and hear from dynamic speakers all in one place. Throughout the months of September and October, many of the groups focused on the topic of public education, hearing from superintendents from numerous school districts.
In Fort Bend, more than 70 HAR members showed up to hear from Fort Bend ISD Superintendent Dr. Christie Whitbeck. Dr. Whitbeck was named FBISD Superintendent in 2021 after previously serving as the Deputy Superintendent of the district. She discussed many topics including the fact that Fort Bend ISD is now the 8th largest school district in the state with 82 total campuses. She also discussed the diversity of the community as well as how property taxes and public schools are tied together.
Out in the Lake Houston Area, the group heard from the superintendents from five of the area’s school districts. The program featured Dr. Liz Fagen of Humble ISD, Dr. LaTonya Goffney of Aldine ISD, Dr. King Davis of Sheldon ISD, Dr. Benny Soileau of Huffman ISD and Matt Calvert, M.Ed. Each district superintendent gave a quick but informative update regarding the first few months of the new school year and why it is important for REALTORS® to stay informed about public schools in their area. School safety and adaptations the districts have made recently was a large part of the conversation. Several of the districts are actually hosting district open houses inviting the REALTOR® community to visit the schools and get to know the campuses so they can better understand the programs provided.
At the October Montgomery County Area Networking Brunch, more than 90 HAR members packed in Dosey Doe – The Big Barn, to hear updates from Conroe ISD Superintendent Dr. Curtis Null, Willis ISD Superintendent Dr. Tim Harkrider and Montgomery ISD Superintendent Dr. Heath Morrison. All three of the superintendents spoke about the massive growth happening in Montgomery County and how that is affecting each district along with other challenges currently facing public education in Texas.
Along with those mentioned above, there are also HAR Area Networking Groups in the Bay Area (Deer Park), South Bay Area (League City), Greater Northwest, Katy, Pearland-Alvin-Friendswood and the 290 area. To learn more about these groups or to register for the next meeting in your area visit www.har.com/areanetworking.
