Yesenia Smith

This document is a Draft Proposal outlining Palmer Independent School District's plan to renew and amend its District of Innovation status for the period of 2026-2031. The plan details exemptions sought from specific Texas Education Code requirements to allow for greater local control. Key areas addressed include Teacher Certification, Group Health Benefits for District Employees, School Start Date flexibility, School District Depository Contracts, Statutory Time to Revoke Transfer Status, Probationary Contracts, and Acquisition Policy. The proposal also includes a provision for exemption from future TEC mandates, aiming to enhance district flexibility, attract and retain highly qualified staff, improve operational efficiency, and align school operations with community needs.

The board discussed results from the school safety and security audit and reviewed early academic performance data. Financial actions included the approval of Texas Connect as a new liquidity option and revisions to the district's investment policy to align with the Public Funds Investment Act. Additionally, a compensation plan for the upcoming school year was approved, featuring salary increases, longevity stipend adjustments for non-exempt staff, and a reworked attendance incentive program. The superintendent provided updates on district revenue, the status of portable building installations, the introduction of supplemental student insurance, and a change to the employee pay date.

The board meeting included the swearing-in of a newly elected member and the certification of election results. Board officers were elected for the 2026-2027 term. Campus reports were reviewed, and an annual report was presented by the School Health Advisory Committee regarding the district's Wellness Plan and goals. The board reviewed a Texas School Safety Center audit survey and approved the student transfer list for the upcoming academic year. Financial matters, including the engagement letter for the annual audit and budget amendments, were approved as part of the consent agenda. The Superintendent's report covered enrollment figures, housing permit updates, status of facilities, and details on the compensation plan and retention incentives.

The board received campus reports and a status update on continuing education requirements for trustees. Actions taken included the approval of an interlocal agreement for health benefits, a library management services contract, and certification for instructional materials. The board also authorized the filing of FCC Form 471 for service funding and approved the use of a statutory exception regarding school bus seat belt requirements due to budget limitations. Additionally, the board approved ACH transfers for vendor payments and reviewed superintendent reports regarding enrollment numbers, building permits, and district updates on the teacher incentive allotment process.

The board reviewed several agenda items, including campus reports and a presentation by Mentor's Care. Key actions taken included the approval of the spring library book order and the cancellation of the May election for unopposed board candidates. The board authorized changes to representatives on various district commercial and investment accounts. Additionally, the board approved Memorandums of Understanding with the Ellis County JJAEP and Tarleton State University for dual-enrollment programs. The superintendent provided updates on enrollment statistics, housing permits, teacher incentive allotment status, and future planning efforts, including bond planning, demographic studies, and discussions regarding district facilities and bus fleet regulations.