Kristi Daws

The board conducted a public hearing regarding the status and estimated costs of school bus seat belt requirements under Senate Bill 546. Administrative reports included updates on campus enrollment, activities, and construction progress, along with a list of TIA teachers. The board adopted a resolution to acquire property located at 203 S. Church Street, approved budget amendments for the General Operating and Child Nutrition funds, and adopted the 2026-2027 school calendar. Additionally, the board approved a Staff Development Waiver for 2026-2027 and tabled the certification of the instructional materials survey. Discussion items included designated prayer time in schools, upcoming board training, and staffing reviews.

The regular meeting included student recognition for academic UIL awards and the five-time UIL State Champion Cheer Team. Student presentations covered findings and survey results on supporting student well-being. Administration reports detailed campus updates on enrollment, curriculum, and academic progress, alongside a Superintendent report covering the 2023 Construction Bond progress, Silver Tigers Event status, School Safety and Security Audits, and the 2026028 UIL District Alignment. Action items included the approval of the Consent Agenda (Tax Office Report, Investment Report, and Financial Report), consideration and approval of several Local Policy Updates (including BDAE, DBA, DCA, DK, DNA, EB, EEB, EFB, and FDA), approval of Amendment #2 to the 2025-26 School Calendar, approval of the Jacksboro ISD Teacher Certification Plan, calling a Board Trustee Election for Places 1 and 2 on May 2, 2026, setting dates for the Ballot Position Drawing and Canvassing of Votes, rescheduling the March Regular Board Meeting to March 16, 2026, and approval of recommended Administrator and Director professional contracts.

This Certified Teacher Recruitment and Retention Plan by Jacksboro ISD addresses the statewide teacher shortage in rural districts by focusing on attracting and retaining certified educators in core academic subjects. Key strategies include active recruitment via Region 9 ESC, developing a 'Grow-Your-Own' teacher pipeline, supporting new teachers through academies, providing ongoing professional development, and ensuring certification compliance. The plan aims to achieve a stable, fully certified core academic teaching staff for Mathematics, English/Reading, Science, and Social Studies by the 2029-2030 school year.

This District of Innovation Plan for Jacksboro Independent School District outlines a strategic approach to gain exemptions from specific Texas Education Code provisions, thereby achieving greater local control, increased flexibility, and empowerment to innovate. The plan addresses areas such as teacher certification, probationary contracts, student growth measures, teacher contract days, transfer students, uniform school start date, class size ratio, grievance policies, instructional plans, library advisory councils, acquisition of library materials, and bank depository contracts. Its strategic priorities include Student Safety and Success, Staff Recruitment, Retention, Safety, and Capacity-Building, Strong Community Partnerships, and Effective and Efficient Operations. The overarching vision is to provide a safe and supportive learning environment that empowers students with opportunities, fosters academic growth, and lifelong success.

The meeting included a closed session for a summative superintendent evaluation and discussions regarding a Level Three Parent Appeal, which included legal consultation. During the open session, the Board upheld the Administration's decision regarding the Parent Appeal. Student recognition was given to a JHS junior for his achievement in being chosen to represent the Texas section High School Youth Forum. A public hearing was held on the District's Academic Performance Report. Administrative reports covered campus enrollment, attendance, and construction updates, alongside the presentation of the Election Calendar. Action items included approving the Consent Agenda, approving TASB Policy Update 126 (with specific local policies excluded for revision), amending the District of Innovation Plan, approving the 2025-2026 School Calendar, approving a Library Book order for JES, JJH, and JHS, and extending the Superintendent's contract with specified salary deferral compensation.