Royal ISD Superintendent Rick Kershner and RISD School Board President Scott Hartman, Secretary Melissa Woods, Trustee Elton Foster, and Trustee Rose Jones joined education leaders at the Texas Capitol for the 2025 Day at the Capitol, held February 25. The event provided an opportunity to advocate for increased investment in Texas public schools during the 89th Texas Legislative Session. During their visit, RISD leaders met with District 85 State Representative and Royal graduate Stan Kitzman (District 85) to discuss the needs of Texas public schools.

Superintendent Kershner is a board member of the Texas Association of Midsize Schools (TAMS). The TAMS board members joined the board of the Association of Rural Schools (TARS) for a meeting with District 1 State Representative Gary VanDeaver. As a retired superintendent, Representative VanDeaver understands the challenges facing Texas public schools. Discussions focused on the need for increased school funding, educator support. and policies that strengthen rural and midsize districts, said a spokesperson for RISD.

“The strength of Texas depends on the strength of our schools,” said Kershner. “We appreciate Representative Kitzman and Representative VanDeaver taking the time to listen to the needs of our districts and the challenges facing public education.”

As lawmakers debate key education policies, Texas educators are calling on state leaders to prioritize students, teachers, and communities, reinforcing the belief that strong schools build a strong Texas, a district spokesperson said in a subsequent press release.