April Zunker

The board meeting involved several key actions, including the hiring of a Girls Athletic Director and Head Volleyball Coach, authorization for the purchase and lease of real property, and the approval of various bond payments and construction proposals. The board also addressed staffing adjustments for special education services, renewed the YMCA interlocal agreement, approved several invoices, and awarded RFPs for technology and athletic supplies. Additionally, the meeting included a defeasance resolution, budget amendments for the 2025-2026 school year, and the renewal of non-administrative contracts.

The board meeting included recognitions for various staff members and student programs, along with remarks from the board president and superintendent concerning district growth and future planning. Key actions taken included the approval of pending bond payments, the establishment of upcoming board meeting dates, and the authorization of an interlocal agreement for K-9 narcotics detection. Additionally, the board certified instructional materials, approved professional learning plans, and initiated a plan for bus seat belt compliance in accordance with legislative requirements. Following an executive session, the board took action on non-administrative contracts, athletics restructuring, and the appointment of a transportation coordinator.

The board meeting included recognitions for various student groups and teams, along with remarks regarding student academic and athletic achievements. The Superintendent introduced the upcoming Bear Country Leadership Academy. Key discussions and actions included updates on bond construction projects, approval of bond payments, and procurement of sidewalk services. Financial reports were presented covering budget status and development. Additionally, the board approved changes to school dismissal times, network infrastructure upgrades for the E-rate provider, and the procurement of library materials. Policy updates were addressed, and administrative personnel contracts were approved following an executive session.

The strategic plan for La Vernia ISD aims to collaboratively educate and inspire all students to become lifelong learners and contributing members of society. Its core priorities include ensuring graduates are college, career, or military ready; fostering a high-performing and engaged workforce; maintaining safe, efficient, effective, and transparent district and campus operations; and establishing transparent and highly effective communication with students, staff, parents, and community members.

The board conducted a public hearing on the 2024-2025 Texas Academic Performance Report and received a monthly construction update regarding the 2023 bond. Action items included approval of bond payments exceeding $50,000, authorization of a two-year historic property tax exemption for the Polley Mansion, and the approval of new library materials. Additionally, the board approved the 2026-2027 and 2027-2028 academic calendars and passed a resolution declining the adoption of a policy requiring dedicated class time for prayer and Bible reading. Financial and policy reports were also presented for review.