Shannon Ausmus

The board conducted several actions, including approving a Joint Election Agreement with the City of Blossom and extending an audit services engagement letter with Wilf & Henderson. Discussion items included a budget workshop, attendance and enrollment reports, and a Benchmark Data AI Policy. Additionally, the board approved a donated book list, authorized changes to the procurement method for the Higgins Elementary and Bailey Success Center demolition projects, and granted the Superintendent authority to employ teachers for the summer months. An executive session was held regarding personnel matters, resulting in the approval of presented contracts and new hires.

The Board convened to formally canvass the returns of the trustee election held earlier in the month. They verified the election procedures, including the appointment of election officers and compliance with legal notice requirements. The Board officially determined the vote counts for the candidates and declared the results, confirming the election of two individuals to the Board of Trustees.

The board meeting covered several action and discussion items, including a STEM/STEAM update, the approval of a Joint Election Agreement with Prairiland ISD and Chisum ISD, and a review of attendance and enrollment data. The board approved the SB 546 seatbelt report, a Memorandum of Understanding for Tarleton State University, TEKs certification, and the district transition plan. Additionally, a member was appointed to the Teacher of the Year selection committee. The board also authorized a TEA waiver for missed instructional days due to weather, approved the 2026-2027 school calendar, and revised upcoming board meeting dates. An executive session was held to discuss personnel matters, followed by the approval of new hires and administrative contracts.

This inaugural meeting marked the official commencement of the Advisory Council on Parkinson's Research, Care, and Services, established by the Dr. Emanuel Bilarakus and Honorable Jennifer Wexton National Plan to End Parkinson's Act. The agenda focused on the council's legislative mandate to develop an integrated national plan to prevent, diagnose, treat, and cure Parkinson's and related neurodegenerative conditions. Discussions included introductions of council members, the council's charge and operational support, presentations from federal agencies focused on research, and an outline of future work plans, including the incorporation of public comments and ongoing collaboration to accelerate research and improve care.

The council conducted a public comment portion of their meeting, receiving numerous written and oral submissions from patients, caregivers, clinicians, and researchers. Key topics addressed included the sense of urgency for improved research funding, the challenges of diagnostic delays, the impact of atypical parkinsonisms, and the severe financial and caregiving burdens on families. Commenters highlighted the critical need for bold action, expanded care resources, specialized movement disorder neurologists, and improved education to facilitate earlier and more accurate diagnoses.