Chris Dowdy

Key discussions included the presentation of the safety and security report, noting the completion of door sweep inspections, testing of police radio communications, and the transition of the School-Based Law Enforcement officer role. The board accepted the Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR) for the year ending August 31, 2025, following a closed executive session review of an audit section. Action was taken to approve the order and notice for the school board general election scheduled for May 2, 2026, and an interlocal agreement with Bosque County for election administration. A determination was made that purchasing eight new buses with 3-point seat belts was not financially feasible. Information items covered current enrollment, upcoming Senate Bill 11 vote requirements, personnel updates, the 2026-2027 school calendar survey status, and receipt of proceeds from the Markum Solar Farm Project (313 update). Following a subsequent executive session concerning personnel, property, and security matters, the board voted to increase the Superintendent's salary by four percent and add two years to his contract, effective July 1, 2026.

The meeting focused on safety and security matters. Key discussions included a report on the upcoming 3-year safety audit and an explanation contrasting it with the district vulnerability audit scheduled by TEA in March. Updates were provided regarding new safety and security mandates resulting from the 89th legislative session. The committee also addressed requirements for its members, noting the mandatory inclusion of a special education representative. Staff reports covered recent drills conducted by each campus, the successful outcome of an intruder audit at the high school campus with zero findings, and confirmation that weekly door sweeps surpassed minimum requirements.

The meeting commenced with a public hearing providing an overview of the School FIRST (Financial Integrity Rating System of Texas) report, where Valley Mills ISD received an 'A' for Superior Achievement for the 2024-2025 school year. District and campus reports covered elementary, junior high, and high school updates, including student/teacher recognition, fundraising efforts, UIL competition results, and upcoming student exchanges. The Safety and Security report detailed police department activities, including inspections, drill performance, and compliance audits. Action items included the approval of the Superintendent Evaluation Tool, approval of an Interlocal Agreement for participation in the Region 10 ESC Multi-Region Purchasing Cooperative for the 2026-2027 school year, and the purchase of a new HVAC system for the elementary gym for $57,490.00. The board also approved the SHAC committee members for the 2025-2026 school year and discussed options for improving handicap accessibility at the baseball/softball fields. Information items covered district enrollment (664) and the closing of the lunchroom checking account.

The meeting began with reports from various departments. The Elementary reported on Teacher/Employee of the Month recognitions, completion of T-TESS walkthroughs, and holiday programs like Santa's Sidekicks and Turkey Trot. The Junior High recognized its Teacher/Employee of the Month and noted the success of its Turkey Trot fundraiser and presentations on therapy dogs. The High School recognized its monthly awardees, hosted a volleyball game, and advanced in FFA competition. Athletics reported on Volleyball and Football playoff progress and the start of Basketball season. Curriculum and Instruction confirmed the start of TSIA2 and PSAT testing. Safety and Security reported on extensive door sweep inspections, traffic control services, an accidental 911 call, snake removal, and various protocol drills, along with safety audits and report submissions. Under Action Items, the Board approved Policy Update 126 covering numerous legal and local policy areas, approved the donation and purchase of books for the elementary library, and cast ballots for board members in three separate appraisal districts (Coryell Central, McLennan Central, and Bosque Central). Enrollment information was also presented.

The special board meeting focused on the presentation, discussion, and possible approval of an order canvassing the returns and declaring the results of the November 4, 2025 bond election. The motion to adopt this order passed unanimously among the members present.