Barbi Ernst

The board meeting covered several key items, including student recognition, a review of quarterly budget and investment reports, and a discussion regarding SB 546 reporting on school bus seat belt requirements. The board approved lists of library materials, the 2026-2027 school calendar, adjustments for the 2025-26 school calendar, and a service agreement with Interquest Canines. Additionally, the board authorized the purchase of Chromebooks, approved a resolution to nominate the Superintendent for the TASB ESC 12 Superintendent of the Year award, reviewed the Teacher Incentive Allotment application, approved various teaching and counseling contracts, and extended contracts for assistant principals.

The board discussed and approved several items, including the allocation of supplemental income from Chapter 313 agreements for an additional compensation stipend, a new school bus, gym floor replacement, and cafeteria tables. Further actions included the approval of budget amendments, an increase to federal procurement micro-purchase and simplified acquisition thresholds, and the 2026-2027 Instructional Material Certification Survey. The board also voted against a resolution regarding Senate Bill 11, certified unopposed candidates for the May election, and cancelled the corresponding election. Executive session business involved contract extensions for various district administrators and staff, as well as the approval of new employment contracts for instructional and coaching positions.

The hearing focused on the presentation of the 2024-2025 Texas Academic Performance Report. The Assistant Superintendent and Curriculum Director provided an explanation of the report, including details on data masking and the performance overview, followed by an opportunity for public comment.

This District Improvement Plan for Clifton Independent School District, covering 2024-2025, outlines key goals, performance objectives, and strategies. The plan is dedicated to enhancing student achievement by increasing third-grade STAAR Reading and Mathematics scores annually by 5%, and by boosting the percentage of graduates meeting College, Career, or Military Readiness indicators by 5% annually. Guided by the mission 'STUDENTS ARE OUR MISSION' and the vision 'Let's Be Great Together!', the district focuses on academic excellence, student support, and preparing students for future success.

The meeting included a Roll Call, the Pledge to the United States and Texas Flags, and Board Recognition where principals thanked the trustees for their service. Key discussion items included the approval of the consent agenda, which covered minutes from previous meetings in November and December 2025. The board discussed and approved an Interlocal Agreement with Bosque County for election services related to the May 2, 2026, trustee election. The Order of Election for the May 2026 election was also approved. The date for the March Board meeting was moved from March 23rd to March 30th, 2026, to avoid conflict with the Middle School Cub Relays. The board discussed options for additional district communication, specifically focusing on installing a digital LED information board. A resolution regarding Senate Bill 11 concerning periods of prayer and Bible reading was addressed, along with a review of the 2026-2027 Cheer Handbook. Following an executive session covering personnel matters and the Superintendent's annual evaluation and contract review, the board voted to extend the Superintendent's contract by one year through June 30, 2029.