Melanie Kasper

The meeting included discussion of the high school health science program, which offers certifications in phlebotomy and pharmacy tech, as well as the Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) initiatives like an upcoming blood drive. The benefits of enrolling in the school meals program and methods to raise awareness and encourage participation were shared. Members were encouraged to recruit new members for the committee. Future agenda items include cell phone policy updates, mental health and stress reduction prior to state testing, and transition prep before the elementary campus split.

The Salado Independent School District's plan aims to empower youth to be leaders in a global society through educational excellence, emphasizing success, innovation, self-reliance, and determination. Key strategic goals include increasing student academic performance and college, career, and military readiness, maintaining a safe and secure environment, successfully gaining full approval for the Teacher Incentive Allotment program, developing a balanced budget, and researching options to expand Career and Technical Education offerings. The plan is built on a vision of excellence and values strong relationships, student strength cultivation, and continuous innovation.

The meeting included a Red Ribbon Week update for TAE and SMS, detailing activities such as dress-up days and counselor-led sessions. There was also a recap of the flu shot clinic held for staff and high school students, with discussions on participation rates and potential opportunities to increase them, including offering more vaccines through the Bell County Health Department. The committee explored ways to increase parent and community involvement, such as advertising for members on the district's Facebook page. The next meeting was scheduled to discuss school nutrition program participation and efforts to raise awareness about the benefits of filling out the application.

The Salado Independent School District's District of Innovation Plan aims to leverage House Bill 1842 to gain exemptions from specific provisions of the Texas Education Code. This plan seeks to increase local control and flexibility, fostering innovative programming to enhance educational opportunities for students, staff, and the community. Key areas of exemption include the first day of instruction, teacher certification and employment contracts, student absences for college/military visits, transfer student requirements, school district depositories contracts, required professional development, grievance policy, local school library advisory council, acquisition of library materials, and authorization for a standard GPA/class rank.

The public meeting discussed the 2023 Bond Facility Projects, including the construction of a new high school and stadium, renovation of the current high school, and expansion of Thomas Arnold Elementary School. Grade level alignment of elementary schools into preK-5th grade was discussed, highlighting benefits such as easier scheduling, vertical teaming, and centralized programs. The plan, recommended by administrators and approved by the school board, aims for balanced elementary schools with transfer options, considering enrollment, demographics, and facilities.