Courtney Ann Anika

The committee meeting involved several key actions. The committee voted unanimously not to adopt a resolution pertaining to SB11 for a daily period of prayer and reading of the Bible or other religious texts. Furthermore, the committee conducted interviews with five construction firms regarding Construction Manager at Risk (CMAR) services for bond projects.

The meeting included superintendent recognitions for students receiving recognition in the Christmas card artist contest and the College Board National Recognition Program. The Board also recognized a community member, Wes Westers, with the Friend of Temple Wildcat Award for significant contributions. Two teachers were honored as Rotary Educator of the Month: Lynn Katon and Shirley Groman. Action items involved approving consent items (excluding item C, which required an abstention) and approving the termination of an at-will contract for R Daniels. Facility operations included consideration for approving a guaranteed maximum price for the cafeteria kitchen renovation project at Temple High School. Key upcoming dates discussed included a board retreat, campus tours, and a visioning retreat.

Key discussions included an update on the local optional homestead exemption for individuals over 65 and disabled, which is slated for consideration at the December board meeting. The committee reviewed options for Middle School Fine Arts Improvement, preferring an option that incorporates a black box theatre and another gymnasium in the master plans for all three campuses. The committee discussed architect assignments and the selection timeline for Construction Manager at Risk (CMAR) for the 2025 Bond projects, with CMAR approval expected in late February or early March. Updates were provided on power washing projects across the District and the status of seatbelts on buses per SB 546 requirements. The committee unanimously approved a contract with Emerson Construction as CMAR for the Transportation Complex Project. Additionally, the committee unanimously approved a contract with Parsons Roofing for the storm-related roof replacement at the Temple High School Auditorium, utilizing the TIPS state purchasing contract for pricing.

The Policy Committee meeting focused on reviewing proposed library books for purchase, which will be presented to the full Board in December. The committee also reviewed and highlighted recommended policy changes within Update 126 Local Policies, which are also slated for presentation to the full Board in December. Furthermore, the annual review of the Investment Policy was conducted, with no changes recommended; this review is also scheduled for the December regular board meeting. Finally, the Optional Homestead Exemption was discussed and is set for consideration by the full Board in December.

The meeting included recognition of District 54 Representative Brad Buckley, recognition of the Temple High School Highlighters as National Winner of the Mark of Excellence National Jazz Honor Project, and an alumni spotlight featuring Mrs. Renee Henry. The Temple Education Foundation provided an update, highlighting fundraising efforts, teacher grants, and student scholarships.