Kress Independent School District

The meeting includes the reorganization of the Board of Trustees and the recognition of students. Board reports cover enrollment, appraisal district data, utility and financial evaluations, maintenance, and an official intruder detection audit. Business items focus on setting a budget for playground improvements, deciding on the retrofitting of seatbelts in minibuses or completing a feasibility report, and approving calendar changes for sports playoffs. Personnel actions involve reviewing and accepting staff resignations and hiring new personnel. The meeting concludes with the superintendent providing updates on the spring calendar, upcoming board training, baccalaureate, and graduation events.

The board discussed several items including the decision to leave a trustee position vacant until the next election, the approval of Region 16 contracts, and the acceptance of the Swisher County Appraisal budget. Additional actions included filing for a professional development attendance waiver, exploring participation in a regional collaborative police department, scheduling the next board meeting, and designating a location for a new softball field. The board also authorized the purchase of land, set a future meeting to address the budget and tax rate, updated the superintendent's evaluation goals, reviewed personnel and salary schedules, and received updates on legislative sessions and school safety.

The Board conducted a public hearing regarding the proposed tax rates and the school district budget. Business items addressed included the approval of budget accruals for 24-25, the adoption of proposed tax rates for maintenance and operations and interest and sinking funds, and the authorization of Region 16 contracts. Additionally, the Board approved the 2025-2026 budget, an increase in student meal allowances, and adjustments to the district calendar. Operational and instructional time waivers for safety training were approved, along with new adult meal prices. Furthermore, the Board authorized a contract for turf and lighting with Hellas Construction and approved an agreement with MWM Architects for professional services related to 2025 Bond Projects.

The board discussed and took action on several items, including the approval of Region 16 contracts, the acceptance of the Swisher County Appraisal Budget, and the approval of the ESSA Fund Budget. The board appointed Johnson & Sheldon as the district auditor for the 2024-2025 school year. They tabled a resolution regarding the tax rate and adopted a proposed tax rate for a future public hearing. The board also set the date for the regular August board meeting, approved a district-wide policy banning cell phones and smart devices during instructional hours, accepted a personnel resignation, hired a new staff member, and approved the list of district guardians. Superintendent remarks were provided regarding expectations for the new school year.

The meeting agenda focused on personnel matters, specifically the discussion and potential approval of hiring an Assistant Superintendent for the upcoming academic year and the authorization of a job posting for a new high school principal for the 2026-27 term.