Jason Cochran

The meeting commenced with the establishment of a quorum, followed by a closed session deliberation regarding personnel matters, consultation with the attorney, and real estate. Upon reconvening in open session, the meeting featured special recognitions for Teacher and Paraprofessional of the Month across various campuses, as well as School Board Appreciation. Key reports included the Monthly Financial Report for December, quarterly investment reports, and campus data reports showing growth in reading, math, and science scores. The Superintendent provided updates on enrollment, construction projects (noting the CTE center opening in late February), and communications. Major actions included approving the design and timeline for the High School construction/remodel, ordering the May 2, 2026, School Board Trustee Election, approving a resolution related to Senate Bill 11, and approving the transition of the School Board Trustee election process from At-Large to Seat or Place. The consent agenda approval covered minutes from the December 10, 2025, meeting, budget amendments, and the Local Improvement Plan for Krum Middle School.

The Special Meeting of the Board of Trustees included a closed session under Texas Government Code Chapter 551 to deliberate personnel matters, specifically the Superintendent's Evaluation and Contract Extension, consultation with an attorney, and deliberation regarding real estate. In open session, the board approved the superintendent's evaluation and extended the superintendent's contract from July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2029.

The board meeting included several recognitions and presentations. Student art contest winners for the Christmas card design were celebrated, with the winning student's class receiving a pizza party. Recognitions were given for the Paraprofessional of the Month (Mrs. Wendy Ariyaga), Teacher of the Month (Miss Banks), and Student of the Month recipients from Krum Middle School (Hannah Matwani) and Krum High School (Lexi Doyle). An open forum segment featured a presentation by Representative Andy Hopper's office to present Ten Commandment posters for placement in every classroom, in compliance with Senate Bill 10. Additionally, a resolution was presented regarding the Krum High School marching band advancing to state. Discussions during the initial portion of the meeting also touched upon logistical matters, such as moving an ice machine and setting up a related account.

The board meeting commenced with the call to order and confirmation of a quorum, followed by an adjournment into executive session. Upon returning to open session, the meeting included acknowledgments for the Pledge of Allegiance leaders from various elementary school houses. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to recognizing school counselors for Counselor Appreciation Month from Hansel Elementary, Dodd Elementary, and the middle school level, praising their dedication, care, and impact on students and staff. A public forum speaker, Vince Handler, a candidate for Justice of the Peace, discussed the intersection of the court system with truancy cases, emphasizing accountability, early intervention, and partnership with ISDs. The financial report highlighted local tax collections, noting an achievement of 92% collection rate as of January 31st, despite initial delays due to an ice storm, and expenditures showing salary and benefits as the largest category. The superintendent reported on attendance tracking against the financial target and provided an update on current construction projects, including a positive event involving middle school students touring the construction site.

The board meeting commenced with a closed session at 6:00 p.m., reconvening to an open meeting at 6:33 p.m. Significant portions of the meeting were dedicated to recognizing outstanding individuals: UIL participants and coaches, Hansel Elementary teacher Miss Jian, Special Education Paraprofessional Andrea Bearing, and middle and high school students of the month (Brandt Burns, Madison Copley, and Joshua). The high school teacher of the month, Mrs. Wallace, was also recognized. Additionally, the board acknowledged School Board Appreciation Month. Discussions included the initiation of the 2027 budget process, specifically the creation of an expenditure projection plan set for January 23rd to manage future spending on items like curriculum, facilities, and athletics. The financial report presented revenue collections through December 31st, noting a temporary lag in local revenue collection compared to previous years due to tax holds by neighboring ISDs.