Laura Guidry

The meeting included a presentation on the Watch D.O.G. program at the Intermediate campus. A public meeting was held to discuss the Texas Academic Performance Report. The Board reviewed a facilities report and discussed monthly expenditures. An order was approved to cancel the upcoming board election due to the lack of opposition. Additionally, the board approved a memorandum of understanding regarding a telemedicine program, authorized a budget amendment, and acted on administrative contract approvals following an executive session.

The meeting included a presentation by students and a recognition of the Board President's service. The Board reviewed the district calendar, a financial update, and the Rusk Math Framework. Action items included approval of a new district crest, certification of instructional materials, approval of a budget amendment, and the review of personnel resignations and retirements. The Board also approved various administrative recommendations for the employment, renewal, and issuance of professional and probationary contracts for personnel.

The Board discussed various operational and policy matters, including facility needs, student transfers, and the Rusk ISD TIA Plan. Several board policies were reviewed and approved, along with the 2025-2026 Budget Amendments and revisions to the District of Innovation Plan. The Board also moved to hire a security firm for district safety. A financial audit report review was tabled. During an executive session, the Board conducted the annual evaluation of the Superintendent and approved an addendum to the Superintendent's contract regarding the residency timeline.

The board meeting included a public meeting to discuss the Rusk ISD's State Financial Accountability Rating for the 2023-2024 school year, where the district scored a perfect 100. Discussions covered the board calendar, noting upcoming dates for Christmas Break and the start of filing for the Board of Trustee Election. Facility needs will be reported on by DEIC subcommittees. The board reviewed monthly expenditures and student transfers. Key actions included the adoption of an amended Library Media Center Collection Development Policy to align with the Instructional Resources and Library Materials policy adopted in October. The board approved the addition of new Innovative Courses for 2026-2027 and adopted policy CSA (LOCAL) from Update 126. Furthermore, the board authorized the removal of the former CFO as the investment officer for the Lone Star Investment Pool and granted access to the current CFO/Assistant Superintendent. Authorization was also granted for the current CFO to have signing privileges on all Rusk ISD accounts with Citizens 1st Bank. The session concluded with Executive Session for Team of 8 Training and Post Legislative Update.

The Board of Trustees convened to discuss multiple topics including a presentation by Rusk Elementary students, an update on the consent agenda, a review of the board calendar, and a facility report. There was also a discussion on the District Improvement Plan and TEA Accountability Ratings, consideration of a resolution for the Board of Directors of the Cherokee Central Appraisal District, and policy updates. The board also discussed revisions to the Rusk ISD Attendance Procedures handbook, and reviewed the Play it Safe! program. The resignation of the Director of Instructional Programs was also reported.