Denton Independent School District

The meeting included several formal actions and informational items. The Board dismissed a grievance as untimely filed. Recognitions were presented to a high school student for winning a third consecutive UIL State Cross Country Championship and to the district's Fine Arts Theatre Departments for earning Exemplary status from TxETA, as well as being named a 2025 District of Distinction by the TAEA. A public hearing was held concerning targeted improvement and turnaround plans for several campuses, followed by informational discussions on the Energy Audit for facilities management and the draft calendar for the 2026-2027 school year. Further updates were provided regarding the Child Nutrition Department and the 1st Quarter Investment Report. The Board reviewed the 2nd Period Attendance Report and discussed the Intruder Detection Audit Report. A Head Start Annual Financial Compliance Report was presented. Policy Update 126 from TASB was reviewed. Items approved via consent agenda included minutes from previous meetings, personnel matters, budget amendments, purchasing items, and change orders. Additionally, the Board approved the 2025 Certified Tax Roll, allocated voting resolutions for the Denton Central Appraisal District, and approved the previously presented Targeted Improvement and Turnaround Plans. Finally, the Board approved an interlocal agreement with the City of Denton concerning property exchange near McMath Middle School.

This document defines Denton ISD's curriculum as a standards-driven, Understanding By Design process-based learning pathway. It outlines the district's developed scope and sequence, instructional materials, and learning experiences for students. The plan primarily details the elementary instructional materials for Pre-K through 5th grade across various subjects, including Language Arts, Math, Science, Social Studies, and Health, alongside supplemental and intervention resources.

Key discussions during the meeting included several presentations and recognitions, such as the achievements of the Braswell High School Jazz Orchestra, Wind Symphony, and Percussion Ensemble, and recognition for the sixth annual Denton Mac and Cheese Fest fundraiser. A mandatory public hearing was held regarding a Petition for Detachment and Annexation concerning property in the Windsong Ranch neighborhood. Discussion items covered updates on active construction projects, including rebuilds and renovations for several schools and facilities. The Health Services department provided its annual update detailing office visits and services rendered. The board reviewed proposed updates to the 2026-2027 Secondary Course Planning Guides and discussed TASB Policy Update 126. Other reports included the Campus Capacity Report, Intruder Detection Audit Report, and the Q3 2025 Growth Report. Under action items, the board approved the 2026-2027 School Year Calendar and adopted TASB Policy Update 126 with revisions. The board declined to adopt a resolution regarding voluntary prayer and religious text reading, finding existing law sufficient. Following a closed session, the board voted to adopt a resolution disapproving the petition for detachment and annexation, authorized the Superintendent to pursue resolution on a 2008 delinquent tax lawsuit, and approved a water line easement with Elm Ridge Water Control and Improvement District.

The meeting began with the Pledge of Allegiance and included the approval of the Consent Agenda, covering personnel matters, leaves, absences, and an HB 3372 Outside Employment Disclosure. The Board convened into a Closed Session for the Superintendent Evaluation, followed by reconvening into an Open Session. During the Open Session, the Board authorized the Superintendent to retain legal counsel to represent Denton ISD in the matter of Charles v. Denton ISD, TEA Docket Number 051-R6-01-2026, and to execute necessary defense documents.

The meeting featured presentations recognizing the Texas Dance Educators' Association All-State Dance Team members and acknowledging School Board Appreciation month, with books donated in honor of the Trustees. A public hearing was held regarding the Texas Academic Performance Report (TAPR), noting the district achieved a B signifying significant growth, with 72% of campuses demonstrating overall performance growth. Discussions included a bond progress update covering financial status and construction reports for several schools, an overview of the 2026-2027 budget planning process and priorities, a mid-year update on student progress in English language arts and mathematics, and a report on the 3rd Period Attendance. A Property Tax Report indicated delinquent collection rates exceeding 99% for the 2024-25 tax year. An Intruder Detection Audit Report was presented, with further details reserved for executive session. The Board approved the Consent Agenda, which included personnel matters, budget amendments, interlocal agreements, purchase approvals, change orders, and donation approvals. Additionally, the Board approved the 2026-2027 Secondary Course Planning Guides and the Order of Trustee Election for May 2, 2026. Following a closed session, Charles Stafford was nominated and approved as the new Board Secretary after Lori Tays' resignation.