James Bennett

The meeting included policy review and discussion on several topics. Key discussions involved Texas House Bill 1481 concerning district device practices, specifically addressing bell-to-bell restrictions, removal of restrictions during bus/transportation times, and limiting restrictions to 'instructional times' due to safety concerns for bus drivers monitoring device usage. Another discussion focused on online/digital work, covering the 2025-2026 Grading Guidelines and clarity issues related to Canvas assignments. The committee recommended that the Instruction and Technology department present at the next meeting to explore staff training related to adhering to the 5-day rule.

This document outlines the salary schedules for various employee groups within Carroll ISD for the 2025-2026 school year. It details daily rates, minimum, midpoint, and maximum salaries for Teachers, Administrative/Professional staff, Auxiliary personnel, and Clerical/Paraprofessional staff. The schedules also specify advanced degree stipends for Master's and Doctoral degrees. All salary plans are based on creditable years of service and are subject to annual review and approval by the Board of Trustees.

The President's Report highlighted several positive developments for the district. Key topics included the achievement of the highest possible bond rating by Moody's Investor Service, which places the district in elite company in Texas, attributed to five years of disciplined fiscal responsibility. Recognition was given to the Facilities Department for their extensive work ensuring schools were safe and ready after the recent ice storm. The process for selecting the new head football coach was commended, concluding with the announcement and congratulations for Coach Lee Munn as the 16th head football coach.

The Audit Committee meeting included the selection of the Committee Chair and Secretary. Key discussions centered on the presentation of the FY24-25 Audit Report Results by the auditor, who confirmed an unmodified opinion and reviewed financial statements and required reporting on FIRST indicators. Committee members inquired about an increase in 'Due to Other Governments' liability related to recapture and TIF payments following the fiscal year-end change. The committee also discussed the strength of internal controls, opportunities for AI integration to modernize operations, and the need for a technology roadmap. A question regarding potential school closures due to declining enrollment was addressed by referring community members to the next board meeting. An update on surplus property sales was also provided. The committee subsequently made a motion recommending approval of the FY24-25 audit report at the December 15th Regular Meeting. Finally, the committee reviewed and updated the FY25-26 Audit Committee By-laws, including timeline adjustments.

The President's Report focused on welcoming everyone to the new year and outlining the process for hiring the District's next head football coach. A hiring committee has been formed, and interviews are scheduled to commence shortly, with a goal of finalizing the selection by March 1. The Board also announced its decision to decouple the athletic director and head football coach positions, meaning the selection for the athletic director will follow the head football coach selection. Additionally, the report mentioned the Board's decision to approve the BRAC Tiger Team recommendation.