Chisum Independent School District

The board conducted a public hearing regarding the Federal School Report Card and the Texas Academic Performance Report. Key actions included the approval of an auditing firm, a resolution regarding a period of prayer and reading of the Bible, and the adoption of various election-related items, including notice and order of general election and a contract for election services with the City of Paris. The board also approved a TEA waiver for missed instructional days due to inclement weather, adjustments to the academic calendar, a district plan for teacher certification requirements, and the 2026-2027 school calendar. Additionally, the board acted on employment contracts for various school principals and assistant principals and approved a budget amendment.

The board meeting included a review of the financial statement and the Superintendent's report, which covered bond project updates and budget amendments. The board also approved an adjustment to the 2024-2025 school calendar and authorized the Superintendent to secure bids or quotes exceeding the $50,000 threshold for the procurement of band uniforms and percussion equipment. Additionally, the board approved formal budget amendments.

The board conducted public hearings regarding the 2025-2026 school budget and the 2025-2026 property tax rate. Following these hearings, the board formally adopted the 2025-2026 school budget and passed an ordinance to set the 2025-2026 property tax rate. Additional actions included the approval of a resolution for the defeasement process, the approval of a resolution regarding Senate Bill 12 and parent rights, and the approval of various budget amendments. A proposal regarding committed fund balance projects was tabled.

The District of Innovation Plan for Chisum ISD aims to enhance local control and flexibility to better serve its student population. Key areas of innovation include locally determining the school start date, exercising local control over teacher certification processes, allowing for an extended probationary period for certain teacher contracts, modifying the one-year commitment for transfer students under specific conditions, seeking exemption from the 420-minute instructional day requirement for scheduling flexibility, and reducing teacher contract days from 187 to 182 with no impact on salaries to improve recruitment and morale. This plan is designed to personalize learning experiences and foster student success.

The board discussed and considered the Guaranteed Maximum Price for the 2023 Bond Series, resulting in the approval of the proposed price.