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Top Morning Stories November 23, 2010

Superintendent Meria Carstarphen
Photo by KUT News.
The Austin School Board has approved performance measures Superintendent Meria Carstarphen would have to meet this year to get up to $25,000 in bonuses.

AISD Action on Superintendent Bonuses, Student Transfers

Austin Independent School District Superintendent Meria Carstarphen could get a bonus of up to 25-thousand dollars if she meets certain performance measures this school year.  The school Board approved those measures during their meeting last night.  To get the bonus, Carstarphen would have to meet objectives including:

  •  Lowering dropout rates
  •  Improving student attendance
  •  Improving the district’s overall state accountability rating

The AISD Board also approved changing the way student transfers are done.  Parents will no longer camp out in line to request transfers to different schools.  There will now be a lottery-based system starting in January.

Jury Deliberating Tom DeLay's Case

The jury continues deliberations today in former U.S. House Majority Leader Tom DeLay's trial.  The Associated Press reports jurors appear to be grappling with the definition of the criminal charge.  Jurors asked the judge questions yesterday seeking clarification.  Senior Judge Pat Priest said he would address those concerns today.  DeLay is charged with money laundering and conspiracy to commit money laundering in connection with the 2002 Texas elections. 

Zilker Holiday Tree Lighting

It's not even Thanksgiving Day yet, but the City of Austin is rolling out more details about this year's Zilker Holiday Tree Lighting.  The lighting of the tree will be Sunday December 5th at 6 p.m. at Zilker Park.  The winners of a children's art contest will get to flip the switch.  The Zilker Holiday Tree will stay lit through December 31st.  Several local artists will also perform at the Zilker Hillside Theatre. 

Texas State Fires Football Coach 

Football coaches aren't just getting fired in the NFL, Texas State University has announced it has let go of head football coach Brad Wright.

We appreciate the progress Brad has made with our program in the last four years,” said athletic director Larry Teis. “This decision was tough to make because he is a good man and a good family man. But, I felt it was necessary to make a change at this time."

The Bobcats started this season winning three out of four non-conference games, but they only beat one Southland Conference team.  Texas State recently accepted an invitation to join the Western Athletic Conference.

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