Melanie Bowers

The meeting convened with an immediate closed session to discuss personnel matters and security. Following the open session, students from the Scurry-Rosser Middle School Robotics team were recognized for advancing to the Regional Robotics Competition, and the Board of Trustees received appreciation items. Key discussions and actions included the presentation of the TAPR report, which indicated overall annual growth and increased ADA attendance average, though further work is needed to increase scores in Meets and Masters for Accountability. Action items approved the final read and approval of Policy 126 Update, the 2026-2027 School Calendar, the selection of School District Attorneys, the order for a general Trustee election, and the adoption of an Order Calling Refunding Bond Election not to exceed $3,800,000 to be held on May 2, 2026. The Board President noted appreciation for recent repairs to the Administration Office exterior sliding.

The meeting commenced with a closed session to discuss attorney consultation, personnel matters, student discipline, and security matters. Following the closed session, the board recognized the Cheer Team for placing 2nd in the State, highlighting the Academic All-State cheerleaders. Key discussions and actions in open session included a Technology Report detailing the completion of the 1:1 device transition, network rewiring, and improved Wi-Fi, as well as the introduction of distributed audio concepts. The board approved the consent agenda, which included budget reports and several donations for the Cheer Nationals and athletic equipment. Actions also included approving a resolution for paying non-exempt employees during district closure, amending the 2025-2026 and 2026-2027 district calendars, approving the TEA School Safety and Security Audit findings, denying the establishment of a daily Prayer time, approving a policy change regarding Non-Chapter 21 contracts, approving the Kaufman Central Appraisal District's property purchase, approving administrative contracts, approving E-Rate Category 1 and 2 contracts, renewing a contract with Region 10 ESC for staff development using a Lift Grant, approving the Wellness Plan from the SHAC Committee, and approving the purchase of two buses.

This District Improvement Plan for 2025-2026 outlines the strategic direction for Scurry Rosser Independent School District across four key areas. The plan aims to maintain a positive and productive student learning environment through enhanced academic achievement, college and career readiness, a highly qualified workforce, student support programs, and fostering a culture of pride. Concurrently, it focuses on maintaining a positive and productive work environment by promoting teacher growth, providing instructional support, implementing health initiatives, and cultivating a respectful and optimistic culture. Efficient and effective district operations are prioritized through financial transparency, a safe learning environment, proactive facilities and technology planning, and local cafeteria maintenance. Finally, the plan seeks to enhance public relations and communication within the district and community.

The meeting addressed several key updates and actions. The 9-1-1 program implementation schedule was reviewed, along with progress on the prom apparel program, which is seeking volunteers and donations. The Child Nutrition Update indicated that Second Chance breakfast is not currently running, and a waiver for the summer feeding program was submitted due to low prior participation. Required student health screenings are complete, though planning is required for replacing AED batteries and pads in Spring 2027. The final version of the district's Wellness Plan was reviewed and approved by the council for presentation to the board on February 23, 2026. A discussion was held regarding ensuring adequate physical activity in PE classes based on TEKS requirements.

The meeting convened with an executive session covering personnel matters, security matters, and attorney consultation. In open session, the consent agenda was approved. The board conducted a public hearing regarding the FIRST Report, noting an improvement in rating from 79 to 80. Reports included the first reading of SRISD Board Policy Update 126 and the presentation of the 2024-2025 Audit Report, which indicated a clean audit with the unassigned general fund balance at 32.8%. Action items involved the approval of the SRISD Plan to Meet Teacher Certification Requirements, addressing the certification status of eight non-certified teachers; approval of the Superintendent's contract; approval for the disposal of two buses (Bus 69 and Bus 70) via auction, with one old bus reserved for parts; and the approval of Local Policy FDAA regarding Interdistrict Transfers for Public Education Grants. The Board President expressed satisfaction with the Board and staff retention during the transition.