There are a number of issues that are the topic of conversation among Anna educators, parents and even students.

Exemplary Rating – “This is what we are all looking for,” said Frazier. “However, we must understand that this race is a marathon, and not a sprint, as this is an annual race with the variables changing from year to year.”

“The criteria of being rated Exemplary requires a 90 percent + rating across all subject areas, through all of our varied sub groups,” continued Frazier. “Anna is diversified and contains all of the sub groups that many surrounding districts do not have.”

According to Frazier, Anna ISD currently ranks above State Average when compared to like districts.

“However,” he said, “we will not settle with being just above average. The board, along with all district employees, knows we will continue to look for improvement.”

Hiring and retaining qualified teachers, directly or indirectly, ties back to the pay scale. While there are some that feel that Anna pays low, Frazier talked about budget and salaries. “ Anna ISD has a budget of $17.5 million, and $13 million of that is allocated to salaries.

That's 74.3 percent of the yearly budget,” said Frazier. “Our first-year teachers earn $38,688. This is the average in Collin County.

We are higher than similar districts in the area based on what step you are looking at.

“A first-year teacher in Melissa does make approximately $1,500 more in a year, but by year five, they are making less,” Frazier added.

“The main thing you must understand, as it relates to salary, is that our salary increases cannot exceed our annual growth. If we give a 10 percent increase in salary, and only experience a 5 percent growth, the funding from the State will be less, creating less revenue for the district.

“The net result is that something will have to be cut, and normally that would include staff, programs or supplies for our students,” Frazier explained. “I agree 100 percent that teachers deserve additional compensation, but there is a delicate balance when dealing with salaries.” Frazier said hiring is a top priority for Anna ISD.

“The current board recognizes the importance of the next several months,” said Frazier. “Larry Johnson will continue providing leadership, direction and the proper oversight of the daily activities. We have two assistant superintendents, a director of finance, four outstanding principals, assistant principals, and all of our highly qualified teachers will continue to provide the leadership.

“I want to continue to be a part of this leadership. Help set standards, implement policies. Be focused, be involved, listen to people. Above all, educate our children,” said Frazier.

Frazier is employed by ADT in business development as a market manager. Married to Terri, the Fraziers have three children: 11-year-old JD, 5-year-old RJ and 3-year-old Cash.