Gonzales Independent School District

The board approved several key items, including a 2% raise for all district staff and a Memorandum of Understanding with Texas A&M International University for a counseling internship program. Additionally, the board approved the appointment of a tax assessor-collector to calculate tax rates, authorized interior door safety and security improvements, approved a change order for district-wide HVAC improvements, and awarded a contract for district-wide maintenance improvements. Approval was also granted for the Gonzales High School band to travel to Orlando for a performance. Reports were presented on the Teacher Incentive Allotment, budget development for the upcoming school year, the status of the 2023 Bond Program, and a discussion regarding potential random drug screening for employees.

The committee reviewed the purpose and functions of the School Health Advisory Council as mandated by law. Discussions included feedback on recent health education programming, strategies for improving parent communication regarding consent, and a recommendation to continue the current health education program for the upcoming school year. The committee also coordinated upcoming community awareness events, youth programs, and wellness activities. Additionally, updates were provided on mental health referrals, athletic sports physicals, and the placement of automated external defibrillators for school events.

The meeting included a review of the council's purpose, responsibilities, and frequently asked questions regarding health-related advisory matters. Key discussion topics covered a food services tasting menu, a presentation on a parenting program by Methodist Healthcare Ministries, and a triennial review of the wellness plan. The council reviewed health education initiatives, including the SHARE program schedule for upcoming months and vaping education presentations. Additionally, updates were provided on counseling and mental health services, health and nutrition services, and UIL sports and exercise protocols. Participants also discussed community resource collaboration and brainstormed ideas for family and community involvement.

The board discussed and took action on the 2026-27 academic calendar, ultimately voting to table the proposal with the removal of start times. Additionally, the board convened in a closed session to conduct a superintendent evaluation and discuss facilities.

The board discussed and took action on several items including a donation agreement with Guadalupe Valley Electric Cooperative for a new stadium scoreboard, the financial feasibility of equipping school buses with 3-point seat belts in compliance with SB 546, and the approval of a 2026-27 prekindergarten tuition rate. Additional business included a resolution supporting the 2025 Hazard Mitigation Plan update, the approval of an E-Rate Fiber project, the 2026-2027 Academic Calendar, a TEA staff development waiver, and commissioning services for HVAC units as part of the 2023 Bond Program. The board also received reports on quarterly investments and bond program updates.