Anthony Ortiz

The board discussed and took action on several items including the appointment of new school administrators, termination of probationary and contract teachers, and the adoption of employee compensation plans for the upcoming school years. Other key agenda items included the approval of special education evaluation services, the purchase of new computer labs for Career and Technical Education, procurement of school buses, mobile bus radios, and professional construction testing services for bond projects. The board also granted utility easements for school construction sites, approved renovations for temporary classrooms, reviewed schematic designs for a new elementary school, and revised board operating procedures.

The board meeting covered a wide range of administrative and operational items. The Superintendent provided an enrollment and district update. Key discussions and approvals included the annual TEKS certification, administration of Advanced Placement exams, and the continuation of a contract for special education evaluation services. The board also addressed budget amendments, established a central counting station for the upcoming election, reviewed compensation plans for both the current and upcoming school years, and approved various service and procurement contracts, including speech services, technology equipment, school buses, and mobile radio communications. Additionally, the board granted utility easements and reviewed design estimates for bond projects, as well as revisions to the board's operating procedures. Information items included updates on safety and security initiatives, construction projects, child nutrition services, and financial reports.

The Board meeting included a public forum addressing budget concerns and agenda items. Reports were provided on district enrollment, student achievement, and advanced academic programs. The Board approved the preliminary budget for the 2026-2027 fiscal year, a waiver for remote homebound instruction, and the purchase of secondary math instructional resources. Additionally, the Board authorized guaranteed maximum prices for bond-related renovations at Fuentes Elementary and Wallace Middle School, and granted easements and right of way to the City of Buda, City of Austin, and Travis County for various infrastructure projects. An election was held for the Region 13 Board of Directors, and discussions occurred regarding the budget calendar and district safety initiatives.

The board discussed various items including the sale of real estate, personnel matters, and student achievement reporting regarding primary reading and the development of a 12-month monitoring calendar. Discussions included the selection of a mascot and school colors for Johnson High School, the transition of Fuentes Elementary School into a Fine Arts Focus campus, and planning for summer school. Additionally, the board reviewed construction and infrastructure projects, including CTE projects at Lehman High School, a new transportation center, utility easements, and HVAC and fire alarm projects funded by the 2017 Bond. Other topics included the selection of bond counsel services, the extension of a food service management contract, an increase in school lunch prices, and updates to district policy.

This District Improvement Plan for Hays Consolidated Independent School District outlines its mission to enable 100% possibility through knowledge, inspiration, dreams, and success. Its vision is to prepare all learners for higher education, careers, or military service, fostering responsible citizenship, effective communication, collaboration, and creative problem-solving. The plan is structured around four main goals: enhancing student achievement, ensuring financial stability, strengthening safety and security, and fostering positive community relations.