Estela Arriaga

This document outlines the vision and goals for Jasper ISD, aiming to prepare all students for success by providing a safe, effective, and consistent learning environment. The strategic goals are focused on significantly increasing student proficiency in STAAR Reading and Math for 3rd and 6th graders, and enhancing college, career, and military readiness (CCMR) for graduates.

Key discussions and actions during the meeting included the recognition of students from the Career & Technology Department. Under the consent agenda, the board approved several resolutions and items, such as the resolution regarding employee pay during a weather emergency, delaying the Teacher Certification Action Plan, applying for approval of the Teacher Certification Plan under House Bill 2, declining to establish daily prayer time under Senate Bill 11, reviewing the Lone Star Governance Board Time Tracker, approving election officials, and reviewing the January 2026 Tax Collection Report, alongside approving Budget Amendment 25-07 for G/T Travel reallocation. Action items included the approval of the Lone Star Governance Monitoring Progress and professional appointments for a Deputy Superintendent and a Sixth Grade Teacher. The Superintendent provided an update on the field house and the first reading of the 2026-2027 calendar was presented. Informational items included notifications of several retirements and resignations.

The meeting agenda included several key items for discussion and action. Under Consent Agenda items, the board was set to consider resolutions regarding employee compensation during school closures due to the January 2026 Winter Storm, teacher certification extensions under House Bill 2, action regarding Senate Bill 11, approval of the Lone Star Governance Time Tracker, transfer students for 2025-2026, appointment of election officials, the January 2026 Tax Collection Report, and budget amendments. Business/Action items included approving the Lone Star Governance Monitoring Progress and approving professional appointments. The Superintendent's Report covered a reminder about the moved March meeting, the first reading of the 2026-2027 calendar, and informational updates on retirements and resignations.

The meeting commenced with a public hearing regarding the FIRST Financial Accountability Rating System. Key actions taken included the approval of the 2025 Financial Audit by Weaver and Tidwell, LLP. The board also approved a budget amendment (25-05) to record donation balances, appropriate funds for December's retention stipends and benefits, and increase debt service payments. Furthermore, approvals were granted for the Lone Star Governance Monitoring Progress and the Lone Star Governance Board Self Evaluation. The board voted to cast specific votes for representatives on the Jasper County Appraisal District Board. Finally, a bid from Stewart Glass was approved to install security window film on ground level windows and doors across all campuses.

This plan outlines how Jasper ISD will achieve full compliance with statutory teacher certification requirements by the 2029-2030 academic year. Key strategies include developing individual certification plans for uncertified teachers, fostering partnerships with Educator Preparation Programs (EPPs), and establishing robust recruitment pipelines. The plan sets targeted annual goals to reduce the number of uncertified teachers, strengthen hands-on preparation, and prioritize the hiring of certified educators, ensuring long-term sustainability and compliance.