In the Pick-Up Line

What exactly is a VATRE, and what would it mean for Crandall ISD?

In this episode of In the Pickup Line with Dr. Murry, Superintendent Dr. Anjanette Murry sits down with Chief Financial Officer Todd Garrison to break down the district's upcoming Voter-Approval Tax Rate Election.

They discuss why the district called the election, how the proposed funding would be used, what it could mean for employee compensation and how it would affect local taxpayers.

Plus, Todd shares a meaningful moment from his nearly 30 years in public education that reminds him why the work matters.

In This Episode:

• What a Voter-Approval Tax Rate Election (VATRE) is and how it differs from a bond election.

• Why Crandall ISD called a VATRE and how it relates to recruiting and retaining teachers.

• How the proposed 3-cent tax rate increase would generate approximately $4 million in additional annual revenue.

• How the district plans to use the funding for employee compensation and campus-based instructional support.

• What the proposed tax rate would mean for homeowners, including an estimated increase of $3.95 per month for the average homeowner.

• What would happen if the VATRE does not pass.

• Todd's personal story about the lasting impact educators can have on students.

Before the Line Moves:

• VATRE Election: Early voting runs October 19–30. Election Day is Tuesday, November 3.

• US 175 Traffic Changes: The north service road is transitioning to one-way westbound traffic. Families should watch for new traffic patterns and follow posted signs.

• Report Cards: First nine weeks report cards will be available this week through Skyward Family Access. Families will receive a ParentSquare notification when grades are posted.

Learn More

Visit the Crandall ISD website for additional VATRE information, including frequently asked questions and election resources.

Have a question or an idea for a future episode? Submit your suggestions through the In the Pickup Line webpage.

Follow In the Pickup Line with Dr. Murry on your favorite podcast platform for new episodes every two weeks.

Welcome to In the Pickup Line with Dr. Murry, a new podcast designed to keep Crandall ISD families connected to what's happening across Pirate Nation!

In our first episode, Superintendent Dr. Anjanette Murry sits down with Director of Communications Erin Gregg to introduce the podcast, explain what families can expect and share why understanding the "why" behind district decisions matters.

You'll also hear a story about the everyday impact of public education, get a preview of upcoming episodes and learn how you can help shape future conversations.

Whether you're waiting in the pickup line, driving to work or catching up at home, we're glad you're here!

In This Episode:

• Meet Erin Gregg, Crandall ISD's new Director of Communications.

• Learn why the district reimagined its podcast with families in mind.

• Discover what to expect from future episodes, including behind-the-scenes conversations about district programs, decisions, and operations.

• Find out how to submit questions and suggest topics for upcoming episodes.

• Hear the first installment of "What's the Story You Carry With You?" - a recurring segment highlighting meaningful moments in public education.

Before the Line Moves:

• Fall Break: Crandall ISD schools and district offices will be closed October 12–16. Students return Monday, October 19.

• Coming Next: Our next episode takes a closer look at Crandall ISD's Voter-Approval Tax Rate Election (VATRE).

• Election Reminder: Early voting begins October 19, and Election Day is November 3.

Stay Connected

Have a question about Crandall ISD or an idea for a future episode? We want to hear from you! Submit your questions and topic suggestions through our district website.

Follow In the Pickup Line with Dr. Murry on your favorite podcast platform, and watch for new episodes every two weeks.

https://www.crandall-isd.net/podcast