Kenna Pharmakis

The meeting included a budget workshop for the 2026-2027 fiscal year and various operational approvals, such as TEA waiver renewals, contract services for fine arts and technology, JROTC program renewal, and the authorization of investment brokers. The board approved amendments to the District of Innovation Plan and changes to Board Policy CO regarding food service pricing adjustments. Additionally, the board established three new advisory committees and approved a budget amendment for the 2025-2026 fiscal year. During closed session, personnel matters were discussed, including contract renewals, terminations, and non-renewals.

The board meeting agenda included several key items such as the canvassing of election results, a budget training workshop, the administration of the oath of office to newly elected members, and board recognition. The board also addressed various administrative and financial matters, including the renewal of several RFPs for services such as workers' compensation and student athletic insurance, contracted services for fine arts, instructional supplies, and health and athletic supplies. Other topics included the approval of partnership agreements for student support services, a shared services arrangement with Dickinson Independent School District for autism services, updates to board policy, and executive session discussions regarding legal, real estate, and personnel matters.

The council reviewed and approved the Wellness Plan Implementation Assessment and the district's Wellness Plan. They approved the inclusion of the Always Changing & Growing Up resource booklet in parent notifications for 5th-grade families and authorized the use of the Song for Charlie video and supporting materials for the annual fentanyl prevention instruction required for students in grades 6-12. Members also provided input on future focus areas, including student behavior, coping skills, stress management, bullying awareness, and transparency regarding student discipline procedures.

The board discussed several items, including the administration of an oath of office to an appointed board member and personnel matters conducted in a closed session. A public hearing was held regarding the fiscal year 2023-24 budget and the proposed tax rate. The board considered the approval of the fiscal year 2023-24 budget, discussed potential additional pay increases and benefit contributions for employees contingent on legislative or voter-approval tax rate election outcomes, and reviewed recommendations for adding, revising, or deleting board policies in accordance with the TASB Localized Policy Manual Update 121.

The council meeting focused on health and safety protocols within the district, specifically regarding automated external defibrillator (AED) training for staff and students, and the implementation of Stop the Bleed traumatic injury response training. Members participated in practical demonstrations of AED equipment and emergency injury response techniques. Additionally, the district wellness plan was presented for review, with members requested to provide feedback for future updates to be considered at the next meeting.