Jennifer Copeland

The Board of Trustees discussed various administrative and operational items. Key topics included a student services update regarding enrollment and the installation of vape detectors, as well as an investment report. Action items approved included the purchase of library books and clear backpacks, a 2nd quarter payment to NCAD, and a clear backpack policy for the upcoming school year. The board also authorized budget amendments, the allocation of funds to renovate the old green gym into elementary classrooms, and approved the 26-27 instructional materials survey. Following an executive session, the Board approved various teacher and administrative contracts for schools and the Navarro County AEP, the appointment of a new CFO, and the hiring of a band director.

The Board recognized students of the year and received reports regarding student services, campus events, and administrative updates. The Board approved the school calendar for the 2026-2027 school year and discussed the planned implementation of clear backpacks for the upcoming year. Additionally, the Board took action to appoint co-athletic directors and approved an order of cancellation for the scheduled school board election.

The meeting included discussions and reports from District Administration and Principals regarding enrollment numbers, a bus survey, spring projects, school events, and testing. The Superintendent reported on upcoming Spring Break and commended basketball coaches. Key actions taken by the Board included the approval of budget amendments and the purchase of library books. Furthermore, the Board approved the annual review of the KISD Investment Policy and authorized the purchase of a plasma table for Agriculture and Career Technical Education (CTE). The Board also voted to move the March meeting date to the fourth Monday to avoid Spring Break. During the executive session, administrator contracts for the 26-28 school years were considered and approved.

The meeting addressed several administrative and operational items, starting with the approval of the consent agenda, which covered monthly expenditures. District administration provided updates on enrollment numbers, campus projects, Teacher Incentive Allotment, and Instructional Materials Allotment. Key action items included the approval of budget amendments, payments to UMB Bank and BOK Financial, and the final audit report. A Public Hearing was held regarding the 2024-2025 TAPR Report, with no audience questions. The Board approved calling for an election in May for two open board seats and voted on compliance with the SB 546 Bus Seat Belt Requirement, deciding to implement seatbelts during fleet updates with a goal of compliance by 2029. Additionally, the Board passed a motion against adopting a state-organized prayer policy per SB 11. A plan was approved to delay full compliance for non-certified teachers until the 2029-2030 school year. During the subsequent Executive Session, the Board approved a raise for the Superintendent and removed the nepotism clause from their contract.

The meeting included recognition of employees of the month from both elementary and secondary levels. Discussions covered the Turkey Drive event, enrollment updates, campus activities, TIA, and the upcoming Thanksgiving Break. A public hearing on the Final First Rating for Kerens ISD, which received a score of 98, was held. The 24-25 Kerens ISD audit presentation was given. Budget amendments were approved, and the purchase of a Suburban was considered, ultimately deciding to purchase a 2026 model instead of a 2025. Employee Longevity Stipends were approved. The board also approved giving all votes for the Navarro County Central Appraisal Districts Board of Directors to A.L. "Buster" Atkeisson and approved a First Quarter payment to NCAD. An executive session was held, followed by approval to hire Traci Keele for an Elementary Teaching Position.