Key Highlights
- Killeen ISD to consider contract with Third Future Schools for Manor Middle School.
- Pending approval, Third Future Schools will operate the school under a three-year partnership.
- The move is part of efforts to improve poor-performing middle schools through Senate Bill 1882 incentives.
- Manor and Palo Alto Middle Schools received unacceptable ratings for three consecutive years.
Killeen ISD’s Bold Move in Education Reform
The Killeen Independent School District (KISD) is taking a significant step towards transforming its struggling middle schools by partnering with Third Future Schools, a Colorado-based charter network. The decision to turn over Manor Middle School to this charter network reflects the district’s commitment to improving educational outcomes through innovative strategies.
The Senate Bill 1882 Partnership
According to KISD administrator Terri Osborne, the partnership is part of an effort to implement a Senate Bill 1882 (SB 1882) intervention model. This legislation offers financial incentives for school districts to partner with open-enrollment charter schools, aiming to address poor performance by providing additional resources and flexibility.
Financial Benefits and Accountability Pauses
The SB 1882 benefits include a per-student allotment ranging from $1,000 to $1,300. More crucially for KISD, the partnership offers a two-year accountability pause. This could help prevent state intervention if Manor Middle School’s performance remains subpar. The district’s decision comes after receiving unacceptable ratings from the Texas Education Agency (TEA) for three consecutive years.
Selection Process and Due Diligence
KISD opened an application process in December 2025, allowing charter schools to apply. Third Future Schools was the only organization that applied, leading to a thorough evaluation. An expert team reviewed the application using criteria across academic, financial, governance, and operational domains. This rigorous selection process ensured that KISD chose a partner with proven capabilities.
Next Steps
The KISD Board of Trustees will convene on March 10 to consider approving the contract. If approved, Third Future Schools will take control of Manor Middle School’s staffing, curriculum, and budget at the end of the current school year. The district’s decision could set a precedent for other struggling schools seeking innovative solutions.
So, when you think this is just another step in an educational journey, remember that it’s part of a larger movement to address systemic issues in public education. You might think this is new, but the stakes are high, and KISD hopes to prove that private partnerships can make a difference.
