TISD May Drop Camp Tyler

TYLER � Tyler school officials are considering using a different camp for its outdoor education. For over years 60 TISD has been associated with Camp Tyler. But a vote could come next month that would change that.

At Thursday night�s meeting Jeff Collum, Executive Director of Student Services, presented school trustees a comparison of the Camp Tyler and Pine Cove facilities. They were compared in program availability and costs associated with each facility. According to Superintendent Dr. Randy Reid, Pine Cove was selected for the comparison because the facility has contacted the District wanting an opportunity to be considered for services. Sky Ranch had requested the opportunity as well and it was decided to use the costs associated with Pine Cove because it was financially lower than Sky Ranch.

The cost per camper for Camp Tyler is $200. For about 1400 students, the camp cost would be $286,000, which does not include additional costs of transportation, teachers needed to spend the night, and a shared arrangement to provide a nurse. Pine Cove offers a discount for Title I campuses, and 13 Tyler ISD elementary campuses qualify for this discount rate of $75. For non-Title I campuses the cost is $158 per camper.

Difference of the financial analysis is a cost savings of approximately $150,000.00. TISD Superintendent Dr. Randy Reid added it is not the cost that determines the selection but the value the district receives from the facility.