Business Writing: Sending a Direct E-mail

TO: Tyler Independent School Board Members, Directors and other Managerial Staff

FROM: De’Airra Marchbanks

DATE: September 26, 2010

SUBJECT: Making Better Decisions

The last couple of years, our school district was privileged to pass 2 bond referendums, thanks to the support of our community. The opportunity allowed Tyler ISD to build almost a dozen new schools for our elementary students. Thus proving a better learning environment increases test scores, attendance, even school morale. It is evident the bond program was a great decision made by our school board members.

However, we cannot just excel at making the big decisions. We must strive to make well thought out, well executed decisions all year long. When deciding budgets cuts, the same thorough thought process used in the bond decision must be applied. Recently a decision was made to not give raises to Tyler ISD faculty and staff. I realize this decision was impartial. Everyone was affected, from administrators to janitors. However, was this a great choice? Due to a weak economy many inside the district are struggling to pay mortgages, medical bills, even gas. Were Tyler ISD leaders listening to the needs of their staff and faculty? Soliciting feedback and input on certain situations helps to make a more informed decision. This approach takes humility, compassion and more importantly a willingness to work with the people dedicated to ensuring the success of our students.

This is just one example highlighting our need for improvement. In the coming weeks, I will present to you a report on becoming effective decision makers. I will discuss the following processes: defining a problem, weighing the pros and cons, selecting the best alternative, and then evaluating that decision. I will also include concrete examples of how we have failed in making the everyday choices while succeeding in making the big decisions. Balance is needed.

My hope is the report will motivate us to become better leaders. We all share the same passion for Tyler ISD, to reach its highest potential - someday becoming an exemplary district. This can only be achieved one great decision at a time!

Thanks for your time.