Joel Willie Barton

The meeting included an invocation and presentation of the pledges by students from Reay Elementary School's leadership team, who detailed their community service efforts including a food drive and upcoming fundraiser. The board received a presentation celebrating National Career and Technical Education Month, highlighting achievements in culinary arts, cosmetology, welding, and law enforcement training, including student success at state competitions. Recognition was given to two bus drivers: Chris Grant as the district's Bus Driver of the Year and Eugenio Garcia for his quick, life-saving action in preventing a student from exiting the bus into the path of an 18-wheeler. The Superintendent's report covered updates on the district's swimming team qualifying for the state meet and the McMichael Middle School 8th-grade basketball team winning the district championship, along with an announcement regarding a student's artwork being selected for a state exhibition. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to introducing CarePortal, an initiative mobilizing community resources to support students and families in need, which received positive feedback from stakeholders. The board also conducted a public hearing concerning the Texas Academic Performance Report (TAPER) for 2024-2025.

The meeting began with an invocation and recognition of guests, including fifth graders presenting on their trip to Camp Olympia, a science camp. The board then entered an executive session to discuss items related to Texas Open Meeting Act provisions, reconvening later into open session. Discussions and actions in open session included recognizing the board's commitment during Board Recognition Month, Superintendent announcements highlighting significant academic achievements such as placing on the AP School Honor Roll and success in Advanced Placement courses, and updates on fine arts accomplishments. The Superintendent's contract was renewed for one year. Financial business included approval of the consent agenda, which contained standard reports and donation approvals, and discussion and approval for the rollover purchase of five fleet vehicles for plant services, involving the sale of six older vehicles via a third-party vendor auction.

The superintendent provided updates, noting the upcoming Christmas break and highlighting student achievements. Key discussions included a student-run technology help desk program where NHS seniors assist peers with Chromebook issues, training for which was provided by the technology department. Another highlight was the science and engineering fair showcasing projects from 21 high school seniors in various STEM fields. Fine arts performances, including the Brigade Choir and combined bands, were also mentioned. The board addressed the consent agenda, approving items including a donation of $465 from Andy Matar Construction LLC for HOSA conference needs. The primary action item was the consideration and approval of the 2026-2027 High School course guide, which includes a proposal for 10 new courses (six CTE and three core subject electives). Furthermore, the board considered a proposal for a district-wide access control and camera upgrade project, costing approximately $3.62 million, with the majority funded by the Safe Cycle One grant and the remainder from local funds. The new system will include comprehensive redesign, camera upgrades, a new video management system, centralized access control panels, and readers with integrated video monitoring for exterior doors. The system capabilities discussed included license plate readers and integration with local law enforcement agencies. Finally, the board acknowledged the passing of a board member's mother and requested remembrance for the family.

The meeting commenced with an invocation and pledges to the flag, led by members of the TJR Flag Crew from Thomas J. Ros Elementary School, who were introduced for establishing a new campus group dedicated to flag care and patriotism. The board received recognition for the Nacadocious High School Golden Dragon Marching Band for their performance at the state military marching contest and their continued streak of first division ratings. The Superintendent provided updates regarding district progress, including the upcoming ribbon cutting for the new facility on December 11th, and highlighted capital projects completed under the 2018 bond, such as new elementary and prek campuses, and a new CTE center. Information was also shared regarding the opening of a new elementary school playground. The Superintendent detailed upcoming December events, including band and choir concerts, and noted the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday break. The board then proceeded into a closed executive session to discuss items pursuant to Texas Open Meeting Act provisions, reconvening to open session afterward. A public hearing was conducted for the Financial Integrity Rating System of Texas (FIRST) report, which showed the district rated 98 out of 100 points, an increase from 96 points the previous year. The presentation detailed performance across various financial indicators, noting successful compliance in areas like timely debt payments, fund balance maintenance (211 days of operational expenditures), and low administrative cost ratios.

This Turnaround Plan, developed by Nacogdoches ISD, addresses the need for improved performance at Brooks-Quinn-Jones Elementary, Emeline Carpenter Elementary, and Mike Moses Elementary. The plan's goal is for these campuses to achieve an acceptable rating (C or better) during the 2025-2026 and 2026-2027 school years. It outlines an intensive strategy for curriculum and instruction improvements, centered on the implementation of the Bluebonnet Learning Curriculum. Key pillars include creating conditions for success, setting implementation goals, leading internalization and professional learning communities, establishing observation and feedback practices, and aligning assessment strategies to ensure high-quality, TEKS-aligned instruction and promote educational equity.