Mike Bickham

The board convened in an executive session to interview candidates for the superintendent position, discuss filling the superintendent vacancy, and deliberate on the potential naming of a lone finalist for the role.

The Board of Trustees discussed the district's transportation situation, including the potential acquisition of a specialized bus for students with special needs. The Board approved the purchase of a 2011 International 71-passenger bus from Groesbeck ISD for $67,400, authorized the Superintendent to utilize the assigned fund balance for this acquisition, and approved the necessary budget amendment. Additionally, the Board entered an executive session to review applications for the Superintendent search process.

The board conducted a public hearing on the 2022-2023 school budget and tax rate. Key reports were presented regarding the BARK summer program, STAAR and TSIA academic data, and district security enhancements. Actions included the adoption of Policy Update 119 and various local policy changes, approval of the 2022-2023 district budget, and authorization for HVAC equipment replacement. The board also approved a memorandum of understanding with Williamson County Juvenile Services, various extracurricular agreements, updates to the school calendar, and increases for adult meal service charges. Furthermore, the board assigned fund balances per GASB 54, approved the employee compensation plan, accepted a board member resignation, and managed various personnel actions following executive session.

The board conducted a public hearing on the district's Financial Integrity Rating System of Texas. Reports were presented by the Special Programs Coordinator regarding ACE program updates and upcoming family engagement events, and by the Elementary and Secondary Principals regarding student enrollment, assessment data, COVID prevention protocols, and safety programs. The Superintendent provided information on upcoming voting deadlines, committee meetings, and community discussions regarding a proposed bond. Action items included the approval of a resolution to temporarily amend a board policy, authorization of joint election agreements for the upcoming special election, approval of a Memorandum of Understanding with the Juvenile Justice Alternative Education Program, and the purchase of a new vehicle. The board also scheduled the next regular meeting and held an executive session to discuss personnel matters.

The Board received presentations regarding turf and track surface materials from Hellas Construction and heard reports from the Special Programs Coordinator, campus principals, and the Superintendent regarding academic ratings, enrollment figures, and safety training. Board members issued a certificate of election, administered the oath of office, and completed the statement of officer form for a newly appointed board member. Additional actions included the approval of a donation from R Bank, a memorandum of agreement for school-based mental health services, the renewal of an unemployment compensation proposal, the replacement of gym air compressors, and various purchases for the agricultural department involving a plasma cutter table, a livestock trailer, and a pickup truck. A budget amendment to utilize assigned fund balances for these agricultural purchases was also authorized, and the date for the next board meeting was established.