Russell Holden

Discussions during the meeting included a closed session regarding a solar farm and later one regarding administration contracts. The Superintendent's report covered attendance, maintenance, safety updates, a lighting grant award of $200,000, and an update on the Teacher Incentive Allotment. Action items included denying a resolution regarding Senate Bill 11, approving the TEA Certification for Instructional Materials adoption for 2026-2027, and approving the school financial audit presented during the November board meeting. The Board also took action to cancel the School Board Election scheduled for May 2, 2026, due to unopposed candidates and approved an application to delay Teacher Certification Requirements until the 2029-2030 school year. Finally, administrator contracts for the 2026-2027 school year were approved for several positions.

The meeting included the presentation of January Students of the Month for Elementary and High School levels. The Superintendent reported an enrollment of 204 with 97% attendance. Key action items involved the consideration and approval of the order to call the May School Board election, as well as approving the polling place, election officials, and early voting clerk for the same election. The Board also discussed a bond and superintendent contract during a closed session.

The special board meeting covered two primary discussion and action items. The first involved consideration and approval of an order calling a bond election for the district, including provisions for conducting a joint election. The second item addressed the consideration and approval of a resolution establishing the district's intention to reimburse itself for prior lawful expenditures related to constructing and equipping various district improvements from the proceeds of future tax-exempt obligations. No action was taken on items discussed in the closed session.

The meeting included a special presentation by Larry Lassiter with GLS and a report on November Students of the Month. The Superintendent's report covered enrollment statistics and included various reports from principals and the Athletic Director. Key discussion items involved tabling the approval of the school financial audit pending one member survey completion, and the approval of TASB Policy Update 126. A closed session was held to discuss facilities, athletics, and behavior, with no action taken in open session afterward.

The District of Innovation Plan Renewal for Oakwood Independent School District outlines exemptions from specific Texas Education Code requirements to provide greater local flexibility and better meet student needs. Key innovative strategies address educator certification, probationary contracts, student transfers, instructional calendar adjustments, health advisory council operations, disciplinary alternative education programs, school district depositories, class size limits, professional development, student attendance rules, group health benefits, campus behavior coordination, and visitor removal protocols. The plan aims to enhance educational outcomes, improve staff recruitment and retention, and ensure a safe and effective learning environment tailored to the district's unique context.