Hempstead Independent School District

The board conducted a public hearing on the Texas Academic Performance Reports and received a comprehensive report from the superintendent covering various district activities, including achievements in arts and athletics, communications, and upcoming events. Recognitions were presented to students, staff, and operations employees of the month, along with the Higher Heights Award. The board approved the 2026-2027 district calendar, a budget amendment, employee compensation for inclement weather, a resolution concerning Senate Bill 11, and the appointment of a new band director following an executive session.

The Special Meeting commenced with a call to order and declaration of quorum, though two trustees were absent initially. Following the invocation, the Board entered a closed session for discussions authorized under the Texas Open Meetings Act, specifically concerning personnel matters, including the Superintendent Evaluation and contractual provisions, as well as legal consultation with the School District's Attorney. Upon reconvening, the Board voted on the Superintendent's contract, approving a one-year extension to the contract and authorizing the Board President to finalize execution, which resulted in a split vote.

The Regular Board Meeting included several key components. The Superintendent presented reports covering New Year greetings, Board Appreciation Month, participation in the MLK Day Parade, legislative updates, bond progress, and weather awareness. Recognitions were given for the January Students of the Month across all campuses (High School, ECC, Elementary, Middle School) and January Campus Staff of the Month, as well as the January Operations Employee of the Month. Under action items, the Board approved the renewal of the Resolution for the 2026-2027 Truancy Prevention Grant, authorized the Order Calling the Board of Trustees Election for May 2, 2026 (Positions 4 and 7), and approved the Resolution Authorizing Submission of an Application for the Office of the Governor School Safety Grant Program. Administrative reports were heard from the Early Childhood Campus, Elementary, Middle School, High School, and Operations departments. The Board also approved new hires during a post-executive session action.

The meeting commenced with the Pledge of Allegiance and the reading of the District's Vision and Mission Statement. A Public Hearing was held regarding the FIRST (Financial Integrity Rating System of Texas) Report, where Hempstead ISD received a Superior Rating of A. During the Open Forum, a community member addressed the Board regarding renaming Sam Schwarz High School. The Superintendent's Report covered various campus activities, including holiday events, concert performances, athletic updates, and the upcoming Winter Break. Several recognitions were presented, including December Students of the Month, Campus Staff of the Month, the December Operations Employee of the Month, and the Superintendent's Higher Heights Award. A new Police Officer, Sataria McEwen, was introduced and took the Oath of Office. Action items included the unanimous approval of Budget Amendment #2, acceptance of the Annual Financial Report for the fiscal year ending August 31, 2025, approval of the Resolution for Annual Review and Adoption of Investment Policy, and approval of TASB Policy Update 126 concerning various local policies. Administrative reports were provided by campus principals and the Athletic Director, and information was presented regarding a Bond Update. New hires for the district were also approved.

The strategic plan for Himmstead ISD aims to transform instruction and ensure student success across the district. It highlights significant growth since 2022 in accountability ratings for high and middle schools, while addressing ongoing challenges at the elementary level. A key initiative involves implementing an 1882 partnership with an in-district charter to accelerate elementary school improvement. The overarching goal is to rapidly advance the district and its elementary campus while preserving local control.