Norman Jones

The board discussed and approved the selection of the Falls County annex in the industrial park as the polling location for the school board trustee election. Additionally, the schedule for early voting and the designated hours for the upcoming election were shared with the board members.

The board discussed personnel matters during a closed session, resulting in the approval of a new athletic director and head coach. Additionally, the board voted to table the board operating procedures pending further review. The superintendent provided updates on community partnerships and emphasized support for students during the upcoming testing period. The chief academic officer presented an update on college, career, and military readiness (CCMR) goals, discussing progress metrics and adjustments to the district's strategy in light of evolving state requirements.

The board recognized several students and staff, including a student of the month, teacher of the month, athletes, and a band performer. Additionally, the new executive director of student services was introduced. The board moved into closed session and later returned to open session. Discussion items included a superintendent report and an update on the 2022 bond projects, specifically focusing on the new gymnasium construction. Finally, a report on the Falls County Rural Collaborative was presented, highlighting dual credit student enrollment, program growth, and potential future grant opportunities for career and technical education.

The board discussed and approved a Texas certification waiver and a district plan to address non-certified teachers, with a commitment to achieving 100% state certification by the 2029-2030 school year. A resolution for EIF Local was approved, allowing certain eligible individuals to qualify for a high school diploma through an alternative review process. Additionally, the meeting included proclamations for National Social and Emotional Learning Week, recognition of National Maintenance Worker Appreciation Day, and National Educational Diagnostician Week. A presentation on board governance framework training was also provided.

The board meeting included a review of the 2022 bond updates, specifically regarding completed auditorium work, ongoing boardroom AV installations, site work for the new gymnasium, and the certification of a new elevator. The board also reviewed beginning-of-year data and common assessment results, followed by a discussion on strategies to drive student interventions and improve performance. Additionally, the administration addressed concerns regarding support for uncertified teachers and discussed roles within the central administration.