Jill Balderas

The meeting agenda includes discussions on drug-free initiatives, PreK/Kindergarten roundup procedures, and reunification training. Additionally, the council will conduct a review and recommendation process for the district wellness plan and receive a report from the Child Nutrition Department.

This document outlines the definition, identification process, and support mechanisms for gifted and talented students. It details the criteria for defining gifted and talented individuals, specifies the collection of qualitative and quantitative data through multiple measures for identification across different grade levels (Kindergarten, 1st-5th, and Secondary), and establishes a timeline for assessments and service commencement. Additionally, it describes a formal reconsideration and appeal process for qualification decisions, aligning with state plan guidelines.

This document outlines the 2026-2031 District of Innovation Plan for New Braunfels ISD, proposing flexibilities from state education codes to optimize educational operations. Key areas addressed include school start dates, teacher certification requirements, teacher appraisal systems, minimum days of attendance, planning and preparation periods, probationary contracts, and grievance procedures. The plan also details strategic goals focused on increasing access to academic, behavioral, and emotional support; fostering engaging and future-ready learning experiences; strengthening community engagement; and ensuring consistent experiences for students, families, and staff.

This plan outlines New Braunfels ISD's strategy to align with House Bill 2 (HB2) teacher certification requirements through a structured, time-limited transition. The plan details a two-phase approach: Phase 1 focuses on ensuring all currently uncertified core content teachers actively pursue certification within a three-year timeline (enroll in an EPP in Year 1, obtain Intern Certificate by Year 2, achieve Standard Certification by Year 3). Phase 2 implements a systematic reduction of uncertified new hires in Foundation Curriculum areas, aiming for full compliance (0% uncertified new hires) by the 2029-2030 school year. The plan leverages state incentives for workforce stabilization and certification to facilitate this transition while minimizing disruption to student learning.

Key discussion topics included a presentation on a Teen Youth Mental Health preventive program delivered to 9th graders at NBHS and LCHS, which yielded positive student evaluation results across support, conversation, and awareness metrics. Services available from the Comal County Health Department for uninsured families, including current promotions for vaccinations and screenings, were reviewed. A detailed discussion covered the Kerrville Flood Response Coordinated Effort, noting over 800 rescues and 117 fatalities, and highlighting issues with self-deployed responders and the implementation of on-site morgue and family assistance services supported by the Pulsera identification system. The committee also addressed Child Nutrition, specifically Smart Snack standards and the introduction of a new frozen coffee drink exclusively for high school students. The item regarding Employee Wellness was tabled for the subsequent meeting, and plans were made to distribute a Campus Wellness Survey after the holiday break.