Karen Joyce Shafer

The board conducted a public hearing on the 2026-2027 proposed budget and tax rates, reviewing budget compliance, revenue projections based on property values and student attendance, and allocations for the general fund, food service fund, and debt service fund. Key discussions included adjustments to personnel, such as teacher retention raises mandated by House Bill 2, and the financial status of the district compared to neighboring entities. The board also reviewed and approved consent agenda items, authorized an application to the Texas Education Agency for the Optional Flexible School Day Program at Blended Academy, and approved a dual credit partnership agreement and memorandum of understanding with Southwest Texas College.

This document outlines San Felipe Del Rio CISD's strategic plan, a five-year roadmap collaboratively developed with stakeholders to shape the district's future and empower students to excel. The plan is structured around five strategic levers: Finance and Operations, Focused Leadership, Highly Effective Instruction, Innovation, and Integrated Student Support. It aims to foster a culture of collaboration, innovation, and achievement, ultimately empowering every student to excel in partnership with families and the community.

This strategic plan outlines the direction for San Felipe Del Rio C.I.S.D. from 2024 to 2030, aiming to empower students to excel through collaboration, innovation, and achievement. It provides a high-quality, innovative curriculum and supports individual needs in a safe environment. Key strategic pillars include Finance & Operations, Focused Leadership, Highly Effective Instruction, Innovation, and Integrated Student Support, with goals to ensure effective resource use, strong leadership, high academic standards, establishment of innovative programs, and comprehensive student well-being services.

The Board discussed a budget workshop for the 2026-2027 school year, focusing on projected revenue, expenditures, and the resulting budget deficit. Key topics included the potential for two $500 employee stipends instead of a general pay increase, management of health insurance fund costs, and necessary cost-saving measures such as adjustments to campus library funding, student drug testing programs, and strategic planning consulting. Additionally, the Board addressed House Bill 2 mandates regarding teacher retention allotments and explored project financing for facility repairs to maintain a balanced budget.

The board discussed the budget for the upcoming academic year, focusing on projected revenue and expenses. Key topics included reviewing three options for general pay increases based on a salary study, considering personnel changes such as reducing athletic stipends and critical needs assistant positions, and exploring potential cost savings in areas like employee and student travel, campus library funding, student drug testing, and professional consulting services for strategic planning and gifted and talented testing.