Marcus Schulz

The Board of Trustees held a special meeting to conduct election canvassing and address administrative items. Key actions included the approval of an MOU with Region 10 ESC for teacher mentorship training and the formal canvassing of the bond election and school board trustee elections held in May 2026. The board also approved updates to compensation scales and stipends, discussed salary increases, approved professional personnel hires, and authorized a new position and corresponding stipend.

The Ponder Independent School District's Improvement Plan outlines a comprehensive strategy to empower students to achieve greatness and positively impact their world, and to equip future leaders. It focuses on several key areas including fostering student growth, ensuring high-quality instruction, preparing students for college, career, or military, promoting engagement in extracurricular activities, and prioritizing student safety and emotional well-being. Additionally, the plan addresses staff recruitment, retention, development, and engagement, along with robust communication strategies for students, staff, and the community, and prudent financial stewardship to ensure operational effectiveness.

The board discussed and approved several operational and financial items, including district budget amendments and service contract renewals for after-school childcare, child nutrition, transportation, and custodial services. Key approvals included the Basic and Cooperative Contracts with ESC11, the Certification and Provision of Instructional Materials, the OER Transition Plan for Bluebonnet Math, and revised policies regarding Parent and Family Engagement and Title 1. Personnel actions included approving professional hires, a reduction in force for a teaching position, new position additions, and contract renewals for teachers and professional staff. The board also received reports regarding bond and construction updates, district finances, and board training.

The board meeting included several key discussions and approvals. The Board of Trustees addressed district budget amendments, determined that financial constraints prevent compliance with Senate Bill 546 concerning mandatory seat belts, and approved the Construction Manager-at-Risk delivery method for future bond projects. Additionally, the board approved updated board operating procedures, authorized participation in the ESC 11 Benefits Cooperative for 2026-2027, engaged an independent financial auditor, and approved the purchase of a new SRO vehicle. The board also reviewed reports on campus operations and personnel, including new employment and administrative contract renewals.

The meeting commenced with an Executive Session concerning personnel matters, followed by Student Recognitions for achievements in Band, Choir, and as PES Lion Leaders. Key actions taken during New Business included the approval of a joint elections agreement and contract with Denton County Elections Administrator for the May 2, 2026 election. The Board also voted to render a finding that good cause did not exist for a teacher's contract abandonment, authorizing a complaint to SBEC. Additionally, the Board approved the House Bill 3 Goals and Plans for the 25-26 school year, approved the Targeted Improvement Plan for Ponder Elementary School, approved a resolution for a land swap with Tabor 380 Development, revised Board Policy FL(LOCAL), approved updated District Hiring Pay Scales for 2026-2027, and approved contract renewals and additions for central administration and professional/paraprofessional positions for the upcoming school years. The Consent Agenda included approval of monthly reports covering District Finances, acceptance of donations, and approval of recommended books.