Keely Baker

The board meeting focused on several recognition ceremonies. This included honoring students from Dodd Elementary with character awards for the trait of caring, recognizing a para-professional of the month from Hansel Elementary, and naming a teacher of the month from Dodd Elementary. Furthermore, the board honored a para-professional from the high school, recognized middle school students of the month, and acknowledged students who achieved state-level placement in band and choir.

The board discussed administrative personnel employment contracts for the upcoming school year and reviewed financial reports, including updates on budget planning and debt payments. Reports were provided regarding school enrollment, attendance, facility construction projects, and the hiring progress of the Special Education department. Action was taken to cancel the upcoming school board election, approve a student safety compliance plan, adjust high school instructional minutes, and award a contract for the High School Addition-Renovation project. Additionally, the board approved various items including budget amendments, library book lists, off-campus physical education programs, and water line easement locations.

The regular meeting covered several actions taken in closed session, including the employment of administrative personnel for the 2026-2027 School Year and the ratification of resignations. Key open session topics included special recognitions for Counselors of the Month and Students of the Month. Financial reports indicated that 92% of local revenue for the general fund has been collected, and the 2026-2027 budget is open for planning. The Superintendent provided updates on enrollment increases, the tentative completion of the CTE Center around Spring Break, and a 'New Middle School Tour Project.' The board subsequently approved the employment of administrative personnel and ratified resignations. A public hearing was held regarding the District Annual Report concerning TAPR/TPRS. Major actions included adopting a resolution regarding wage payments during emergency school closing, approving the purchase of new band instruments not to exceed $290,000, approving the change from Construction Manager as Agent to Construction Manager At-Risk delivery method for future Bond Package Projects, and approving the issuance of an RFP for the High School Addition and Renovation Project.

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 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.