Pablo De Santiago

The meeting began with establishing a quorum and the invocation, followed by the approval of minutes from previous meetings held in July and August 2023. Financial reports, including current bills and various trust/activity fund reports, were approved. Enrollment figures showed a slight increase from the previous school year. Administrative reports covered elementary enrollment status, productive in-service training focused on mental health for JH/HS staff, and updates on the athletic program, including a new Cross Country Coach. The Superintendent reported on the positive start to the new school year, the submission of a School Safety Grant, and the eventual assignment of a chassis for a new bus. Key actions included the approval of the student handbook with a new hair policy mandated by state law, approval of contracts with Interquest Detection Canines, and approval of agreements and a resolution with the Lipscomb County Extension Service to sanction 4-H as an extracurricular activity. The Board also approved moving forward with school security measures mandated by HB3 regarding arming staff via the Guardian Program. Budget reviews for fiscal years 2023 and 2024 were conducted, and possible Bond projects were discussed. The meeting concluded with an executive session followed by adjournment.

The agenda for the Regular Meeting of the Board of Trustees focused on several key areas. Financial matters included the approval of financial statements, current bills, activity fund reports, the Buddy Wright Trust report, and a review of the TEA Financial Compliance concerning State Allotment Funds. Operational items involved reports from administrative staff, the Superintendent's update on grants (Safety-doors, LASO), and discussions on enrollment. The Board was scheduled to review 2024 STAAR results, review the 2021-2022 Student Attendance Compliance Review Final Report, and consider engagement letters/contracts, including one for collection services and policy updates. Significant attention was given to bond projects, including updates on activity buses, building renovations (Childers Leveling), asphalt projects, and concrete work. Personnel actions included discussing staffing patterns, possible re-assignments, accepting resignations, and approving the hire of Bobette Doerrie for Secondary Science. The agenda also set aside time for Board Training requirements and reviews of policies like the grievance policy.

The Board meeting commenced with an honoring ceremony for six students who achieved success in the State Solo and Ensemble Contest and All-Region Band. Key actions included the approval of financial statements and reports, including current bills and the Buddy Wright Trust report. Enrollment figures were reported, showing 168 students at the elementary level and 168 at the secondary level with a 96.2% attendance rate. Administrative reports detailed preparations for UIL contests and positive benchmark testing results at the elementary level, while the secondary campus is also engaged in benchmark testing and planning for spring activities. The Athletic Director provided updates on realignment and sports practices. The Superintendent reported on college incentives, the status of a Safety Grant, and receipt of a new Math and ELAR Grant. Discussions on bond projects indicated $1,078,954.15 remaining for allocation. The board approved the 2026-2027 School Calendar, retaining Spring Break in the second week of March. Furthermore, the board approved participation in the R-PEP program for career pathway courses and adopted a resolution regarding student prayer, opting to maintain a moment of silence. An application for a delay in implementing teacher certification requirements mandated by HB-2 was approved. The board also approved TASB update 72 and waived a local requirement for early graduating students. In closed session, administrative contract renewals for the principals through June 30, 2028, were recommended. Upon returning to open session, the contract extensions were approved, followed by the acceptance of the Elementary Principal's resignation.

The agenda for the meeting includes establishing a quorum and pledges, followed by public participation time. Key items for reports and action involve approving financial statements and reports (including current bills and the Buddy Wright Trust Report), reviewing enrollment, administrative staff reports (Elementary Principal, JH/HS Principal, Athletic Director), and the Superintendent's report covering grant updates (LASSO 4) and bond project updates (Band Hall). The Board plans to consider approving the 2026-2027 School Calendar, reviewing the School Board Team Effectiveness report, authorizing participation in the Rural Pathway Excellence Partnership (R-PEP), considering a resolution regarding prayer at school, and considering an application for a delay in teacher certification requirement implementation. Other actions include approving TASB update 72 and waving the local requirement for Lifetime Nutrition and Wellness for early graduating students. Personnel items include recommending administrative contract renewals for principals, reviewing staffing patterns, and approving new hires, with specific student discipline matters reserved for a closed session.

Key discussions during the meeting included the acceptance of a resignation for School Board Seat, Place 7. A strategic planning workshop was presented by consultants from Region 16 to define focus areas for the next three to five years. The Board accepted the findings of the FIRST Rating for the 23-24 school year, which resulted in a perfect score for Booker ISD. Financial reports, including current bills and the activity fund report, were approved. Enrollment figures indicated 336 students with a 96.3% attendance rate. Administrative reports covered upcoming testing schedules, professional learning committee efforts for new teachers, and updates on spring sports. Superintendent reports provided updates on the Safety Grant, including the purchase of shields and tools, and the Strong Foundation Grant, noting submissions for the next cycle and potential collaboration on CTE programs (HVAC, diesel mechanics, IT). Updates on bond projects noted that the architect firm has reviewed the band hall for necessary improvements. Additionally, the Board approved the Annual Investment Policy and waived the Local Credit requirement for a senior transferring into the district. The Board entered into and exited executive session to discuss student discipline/safety/other issues and staffing patterns.