001I'd like to call this meeting to order. It is 6 pm, Miss Quay, and declare that we do have a board forum present. The mission of Brazport ISD is to graduate each student to be future ready. Will you please stand for our invitation be led by Mr. Chris Dunn and then our pledge of which will be led by Mr. Atkins. Thank you for your phone. >> Pray with me. Heavenly Father, Lord, we just thank you uh for the opportunity tonight to uh be in these wonderful facilities that we have uh taking care of business. Father, pray that uh our hearts and our minds would be sensitive on on the direction that you'd have us go. Uh, Father, we just thank you for uh for our visitors here tonight, the uh the ones that we get
002to spotlight and uh get to say thank you for just honor them for some really great things that they've been doing. Uh, Father, we're blessed as our community. I pray that you'd be with us this next week as uh weather looks like it may be a little uh impactful. Uh so we just trust that you'll keep us safe and uh and get us through it. for you fail. >> Join me in the pledges. I aliance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands. One nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. Honor Texas flagg to the Texas one state one and indivisible. Thank you. Uh I'd like to ask the board to make its way to the front as we transition into our awards
003achievements and recognition time. Good evening. We'll start our awards off this evening with five campuses being named Capturing Kids Hearts National Showcase Schools. Brazesport ISD is proud to announce that five campuses have been named Capturing Kids Hearts National Showcase Schools for the 2526 school year. Each campus received a recent announcement in recognition of its commitment to building strong relationships and fostering safe, supportive learning environments. This national distinction honors campuses that consistently implement the capturing kids heart processes with fidelity and create a culture where students feel valued, connected, and empowered to succeed. The recognition reflects the intentional work happening across BISD to prioritize meaningful relationships as a foundation for student success. Each campus is evaluated through a rigorous process that includes implementation data and evidence of growth in key areas such as attendance, student behavior, academic
004performance, and overall school culture. Site visits, stakeholder interviews, and climate surveys are also part of a part of this selection process. Tonight, we celebrate and congratulate our CKH National Showcase campus. We'll start off with Brazesport High SCHOOL represented tonight by Miss Bell and Miss Johnson. We appreciate you being here. >> Our second campus, our second and third campus will be Brazwood High School and Brazeswood 9th grade center. Our fourth campus, Flute Intermediate School, represented by Tara Fton. >> And our fifth campus recognized tonight is Rasco Middle School. >> Keith Per's here tonight. Thank you. The camera's still 8 in high. Thank you. >> Good evening. It is my extreme pleasure to honor a very special group of hardworking individuals this evening. Every year we have a dedic a very dedicated team working hard to prepare
005Hopper Field for both of our high school graduations. Even in regular circumstances, it is a very long weekend for these men and women as they reconfigure the field to meet the needs of our two separate graduations for each high school. This year, there was an opportunity to rise to the occasion for an even greater challenge, and this team delivered big time. Can you play that for me, D? >> After the team finished reconfiguring Hopper Field from our Brazesport High School graduation to our Brazeswood High School configuration, which includes the careful spacing of over 800 individual chairs, a storm blew through in the late afternoon and completely wiped out all of the hard work that was completed earlier that morning. Assistant Director Alan Hill was on site nearly immediately and began reassembling our team to get
006things back in order. This video was taken during the aftermath of the storm and highlights the extensive amount of work that had to be completed with the Brazwood High School's graduation just a couple hours away. I think Oh, he went for me. Thank you, David. Thank you to the efforts of all of these dedicated employees. Uh, thanks to the efforts of all of these dedicated employees, by the time the stands were full of excited family and friends, it looked like nothing had ever even happened. Thank you all so much for your dedication to the students and families of Brandisport ISD. If you could please come up when I call your name, Joseph Brown. >> ADAM AND FONTE ROBIN RUIZ, Michael Rivera, >> Mr. William Henley is not here this evening, but appreciate Mr. William Henley.
007Mario, MIKE, JOE BOGLE, >> Alan Hill, Martinez, >> Alejandra Vargas, BELINDA ZALA and last but not least, Mr. Taylor I don't want to We're proud of our outstanding students, campuses, employees. And this concludes our awards and achievements for this evening. Thank you. This does conclude our awards and recognitions for this evening. Next segment we have on our agenda is to administer the oath of office to board members. At this time, in accordance with DCP legal, we will ask Miss Louis Canino to administer the oath of office to our elected trustee, Mr. Mason Howard. Yeah, I might have to read >> trouble. >> I know. >> I think you burn my head. Ask you to raise your right hand and repeat after me. I state the trustee name do solemnly swear >> I Mason Howard do
008solemnly swear >> that I will faithfully execute the duties of the office of trustee of the Bratisport Independent School District of the state of Texas >> that I will faithfully execute the duties of the office of trustee of the Brasisport Independent School District of the state of Texas >> and will do to the best of my ability preserve protect and defend the constitution and laws of the United States and of this state. So help me God. >> And will do to the best of my ability preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution and laws of the United States and of this state. So help me God. All right. >> Thank you. together. >> They're all up in my next item that we have on our agenda is executive session. Uh executive session may be called for
009the purposes permitted by the Texas Open Media Act, Texas Government Code. Sections 551.001 through 551.146. Section 551.071, Consultation with Attorney. Section 551.72 for the purpose of discussing the purchase, exchange, lease or value of real property. Sections 551.074 personnel matters, appointment, employment, evaluation, reassignment, duties, discipline, dismissal or complaint. And 551.082 for the purpose of considering discipline of a public school child or complaint for charge against personnel. The board shall return shortly. Make sure that we're done. You can't go anywhere. >> That's usually starting in the room. Sorry, boys and girls. Sophie, I just found out I said she moved and I was like I was like, I'll look down for a second. It's okay. Thank you. I did take the same. >> Oh, you got it. No, he actually had it for the picture. >> Water
010was like a different like a like a Oh, you know what I mean? So much you get >> and what are you going to give? What are you going to prioritize? You >> know, that's a good question. It's always something. we have to read. I know I'm like really us too. But anyway, >> so that that protected water. a lot different very first kayak. I'll send you >> July 15 at my house. All right, we are reconvening from executive session and the time is 6:18. Uh we have one action item uh to begin with. Uh our first action item is the election of school board officers for the 26 27th school year. In accordance with policy VDA local, the board must select the president, vice president, secretary, and assistant secretary for a term of one
011year. Do I have a recommendation? >> I have a recommendation that uh for the 26 27 school year that we remain as we are now, which is Mr. Mason Howard as president, Scott Schwartner as vice president, Jerry Atkins as secretary, and Mr. Joe Reinhardt as assistant secretary. >> All right. Do I hear a second? Second by M by Mr. Schulty. Um, all those in favor signify by saying I. I. >> All oppose by nay. >> All right. That carries. Thank you again for letting me save. >> Save the speech for later. All right. Our next item that we have uh on our agenda is audiences with individuals. Uh tonight we do not have anyone who has signed up to speak. Um so then the next item that we have is our public hearing which will
012be conducted by Missino. Uh good evening board members and colleagues and community members. Thank you for joining us for the public meeting on the proposed 2026 uh tax rate and 202627 but budget for Presport ISD. Tonight, we will review the proposed tax rate, discuss the district's budget priorities, and provide an overview of the general funded service fund and child nutrition funds uh budgets before board adoption. Our goal is to ensure transparency and provide our community with a clear understanding of how district resources are being allocated to support student success. Also before you uh you have the budget uh the proposed budget uh book available that I'll be referencing throughout the presentation as required by chapter 44 of the Texas Education Code. School districts must must provide notice and hold a public meeting before adopting the
013budget as a tax rate. Throughout the year, the board of trustees have received regular budget updates beginning in January. On May 18th, the board scheduled this public meeting and on May 29th, the district published the required notice and supporting information. Tonight, we will review the three funds included in the proposed budget, the general fund, the service fund, and the child nutrition fund. Before we get into the budget, uh, one of the key outcomes of this year's budget is that we were able to continue lowering the district's tax rate while maintaining investments in student, staff, and district operations. The proposed tax rate for 2026 is 08.8890 per 100 of taxable value. While the reduction from last year is modest, it continues a long-term trend of tax relief for our community. Since 2018, Grassesport ISD has reduced
014its tax rate by more than 37 cents. During that same period, the district has continued to support academic programs, improve facilities, enhance safety measures, and invest in employee compensation. And as you can see in this slide, BISD um this is how BISD compares with surrounding school districts. Uh the proposed tax rate com uh is comprised of two rates. The M rate of 637 and the INS rate uh of 2153 for a total tax rate of890. When compared to neighboring districts, BISD continues to maintain one of the lowest total tax rates in the region and several surrounding district districts have rates above $1 while the ISD remains below 90. And then we'll be referencing some of the referencing the proposed budget book on page 23. And it'll be a little bit easier to read than in
015the presentation. Um this slide here highlights the impact of continued property value growth across process port ISD. The property value estimates are preliminary and subject to change. um will receive certified property values in July, which may result in adjustments before the final tax rule is established. And this is a little different from what we're used to seeing. Usually, we already have our certified values by the time we're looking at budget and our proposed tax rate. But since we've changed our fiscal year, we're having to move this up a little bit. So, we only have estimates so far. So, we'll come back at in the July or August board meeting with the certified values based on current estimates. M property values increased 11.7 billion, a growth of 6.11%. While INS property values increase to 20.8 billion,
016a growth of 1.83%. This growth in the tax base helps generate additional local revenues to support district operations and debt obligations. To remain conservative in our projections, the district also reduced the assumed tax collection rate by 1%. ensuring revenue estimates remain realistic despite continued growth in property values. As a result, M tax collections are projected to increase by approximately 2.8 8 million and the proposed tax rate remains 88890 consisting of the M rate of 637 and INS rate of 2153. As we developed the 202627 uh general fund budget, we carefully evaluated several changes in projected revenues. The most significant increase comes from local property tax uh revenue which is projected to grow by the $2.8 million. And we also anticipate an increase in federal revenue of approximately 715 and this is primarily due to an
017expected FEMA reimbursement related to hurricane Pharaoh. Uh in addition, TRS on behalf revenue is projected to increase by approximately 500,000 and that's part of uh expending an additional two months compared to this past year. These gains are partially offset by projected decreases in other areas. State funding is expected to decline by approximately 2.1 million and chapter 313 revenue is projected to decrease by about 700,000. As a result, budget development require balancing areas of revenue growth with reductions in other funding sources. Now, on page 22 of the booklet, we have uh our general fund revenues. And this chart here uh has a breakdown of the district's projected general fund revenues for the upcoming fiscal year. As you can see, local property taxes remain the district's largest source of revenue. So, you can see by the the
018pie chart um 60% of revenue. However, it is important to understand that Texas schools finance is designed around an equalized funding system. As local property tax collections increase, then the state revenue decreases resulting in a reduction in state aid. In other words, the district does not retain all the benefits of local property value growth because a portion of that increase if is offset by lower state funding. This is one of the reasons state revenue is projected to decrease by approximately 2.1 million even as local revenues increase. Federal RE revenue remains uh a smaller portion of the budget and includes the anticipated FEMA reimbursement for hurricane. Jumping around on the presentation. So, we're going to go back to page 10 of the uh proposed budget book. And here the budget is based uh for expenditure. The
019budget is based on projected average daily attendance for APA of 9,66 students in uh water or weighted average daily attendance of 14,243. A key component of this year of this year's budget is our continued investment in employee compensation. The proposed budget includes approximately 2.1 million uh for proposed compensation increases. If the compensation plan is approved tonight, teachers will receive an average salary increase of 1,100 along with an additional 600 contribution for tempo benefits, a 1,700 increase on average. All other staff are proposed to receive a 1.5% pay increase. While payroll costs increased overall, the district also made strategic staffing adjustments that resulted in savings of approximately 4 million help uh helping offset rising personnel costs and other budget pressures. These adjustments were achieved through a continued implementation of district staffing ratios, the closure of two
020campuses, and the reconfiguration of three additional campuses. Importantly, these changes were implemented with minimal disruption to students and families. Attendance boundaries were not changed and no employees lost their jobs as a result of these adjustments. Staffing reductions were accomplished through normal attrition, allowing the district to realize efficiencies while protecting student programs and services. Discretionary budgets increase due to the district's transition from a 10-month to a 12-month fiscal year. However, when compared as a consistent 12-month basis, discretionary budgets actually decreased by approximately 2.5 million or 15%. We were able to maintain pretty much the the reduction we had done for the fiscal year change. Uh through these adjustments and careful planning, the district was able to develop a balanced budget with no impact on fund balance while continuing to invest in the people and program people,
021programs, and services that support student success. Now, on page 22, uh this chart provides a breakdown of the district's projected general funding expenditures for the upcoming fiscal year. As is typical for school districts, uh payroll and employee related costs represent the largest portion of the budget, accounting for more than 87 and a half percent of the total expenditures. This reflects our commitment to investing in teachers and support staff and administrators who directly serve our students each day. The remaining expenditures support transportation, utilities, instructional materials, contracted services, technology, maintenance, and other operational needs required to operate our schools safely and effectively. The expenditure budget also reflects the compensation increases discussed previously while incorporating staffing adjustments and reductions in discretionary spending. And now this one is on page 18. And this slide summarizes the proposed general fund
022budget for 2026 27. The budget is balanced with no impact on fund balance and supports student programs employee uh compensation and district operations. The district is projected to end the year with a general fund balance of approximately 44.4 million with an optimum fund balance target of 38 million. The district projected to remain 6.4 million above its target providing financial stability and and flexibility for future needs. Now looking at page 20 and we are moving on to the debt service uh fund. The debt service fund is used exclusively to repay voter approved bonds and other debt obligations. The proposed INS tax rate remains flat po at 2153 consistent with the commitment made to tax taxpayers during bond uh programs. Total revenues and expenditures are projected at approximately 42.7 million resulting in a balanced budget with no
023impact on fund balance. Also uh in the budget is a plan 10 million cash defenses which allows the district to pay off debt early and future interest cost. The debt service fund is projected to end the year with a fund balance approximately 10.6 million. Now on page 21, we are looking now at the child nutrition fund and uh the child nutrition fund supports meal services across the district uh through the community eligibility provision or the C program. All Rapisport ISD students continue to receive free breakfast and lunch. The fund is primarily supported by federal reimbursements along with state matching funds and local revenue. The budget is balanced with no impact on fund balance and is projected to end the year with approximately 2.9 million in fund balance. Now on page eight page 18 we have
024the proposed budgets for all funds. Uh the general fund, the debt service fund and the child nutrition fund are each proposed as balance budgets with no impact on fund balance. Combined revenues total approximately 173.4 million supported by a plan transfer of 7.2 million. The district is is projected to end the year with a combined fund balance of approximately 57.9 million reflecting continued financial stability in responsible fiscal management across all funds. All budget information is publicly available on the district's website under the required posting and finance sections and the link is provided. And in closing, uh, BLSport ISD remains committed to responsible, uh, financial management and transparency. Since the financial integrity rating system of Texas reversed was established in 2001, breakfast has consistently earned a superior rating, the highest rating possible. We also recognize the importance
025of transparency in managing public resources. As a result, RASport ISD has been recognized by the Texas Controller of Public Accounts with a transparency star award uh for providing clear and accessible financial information to the public. These recognitions reflect the district's ongoing commitment to being responsible stewards of taxpayer dollars while supporting student success. And at this time, I would be happy to answer any questions from the board or members of the audience. We have questions from the board. We we don't expect any changes from federal level as far as child nutrition. >> No, we don't. >> I looked at it this uh for this coming year and we're pretty much on target and it'll be pretty much the same for next year. It's been very consistent our revenues reimbursement. >> We have not heard otherwise yet.
026>> Any comments, questions? So our ADA was is 9606. Can you off the top of your head? What was it last year >> for current year? >> Yes. >> Uh we are just slightly below 9800. about 9,780ish there. Anything I can't afford to write a check, so all right. Uh, >> Thank you very much. So everything you've done the last two or three months you had your glasses on and so tonight you didn't have your glasses on. So I'm guessing the numbers >> I'm guessing guessing the numbers you hit were right. >> I hope so. >> I left my glasses there. >> All right. If there's no questions from the audience then we'll close the meeting. I mean the presentation. Thank you ma'am. Uh next item that we have on our agenda is a public
027hearing. Miss Lisa. >> Thank you ma'am. Good evening. In accordance with board policy CB local and federal guidelines, I'm pleased to open this public hearing to share information on three f federal grant applications for the 2026 2027 school yearcl. These include the Every Student Succeeds Act, ESSA, which covers Title One, Title Two, Title Three, and Title Four programs, the Individuals of Disabilities Education Act, I idea, including both IDEAB B formula and IDEAB preschool grants, and the Perkins Grant, which provides support for our career and technology technical education CTE programs to ensure transparency and community input. Notice of this hearing was posted on the district's website on June 2nd, 2026 and published in the local newspaper on May 26, 2026. This gives our stakeholders a chance to share feedback or comments on the proposed application. For
028the 2627 school year, BISD will have 11 title one schoolwide campuses being designated as a title one schoolwide campus, which means title one funds can be used to support all students on the campus, not just those identified as needing extra help. To qualify for this designation and receive Title One funds, a campus must have at least 40% of its students identified as economically disadvantaged. In addition, the campus is required to complete a comprehensive needs assessment, maintain a campus improvement plan, and carry out parent and family engagement activities. Both Brazwood High School at 54.24% and Lake Jackson Intermediate School at 37.56% are served through com state compensatory education comped funds rather than title one. Districtwide, the percentage of economically disadvantaged students decreased slightly from 64.87% for 2025 2026 to 62.54% for 2026 2027. Title One Part
029A provides supplemental fundings aimed at improving the quality of education and ensuring that students from lowincome families have the opportunity to meet challenging state academic standards. Most of these funds are distributed to our title one statewide campuses based on a per student allocation. For the 2026 school year, our planning amount for title one part A is 2,326413, which reflects a decrease of 346,992 from last year. These funds will be used to support a range of activities including campus level intervention support for struggling students. Tutorials held before, during, and after school, salaries for intervention teachers and pair of professionals, instructional materials and supplies to enhance learning. Professional development for staff. Training for teachers, administrators, and parents focused on collaboration and family engagement. support for homeless students, including supplies and services as needed, resources for participating private
030nonprofit schools, and administrative costs related to implementing and managing the program. These efforts are all designed to close achievement gaps and support student success across our campuses. Title 2 Part A funding is aimed at raising student achievement by improving the quality of teachers, principles, and other school leaders and by increasing the number of highly qualified educators in our schools. For the 2026 2027 school year, our planning amount is 376,431, which is a decrease of 63,634 from the previous year. These funds will support district-wide content specialists, including a dedicated math specialist, professional development opportunities across the district, support for private, nonprofit schools that choose to participate. These investments help ensure our educators continue to grow in their practice, ultimately benefiting all students. Title three part A are used to support programs that help English learners acquire
031English proficiency, achieve high academic standards, and meet state content requirements. For the 2026 2027 school year, the planning amount is 138,544, reflecting an increase of,462,000 from last year. These funds will support a variety of services and resources including professional development for teachers such as training in seven steps to a languagerich interactive classroom, parent and family engagement activities including campus events like literacy nights and stem nights. instructional resources including read 180, imagine learning espol and classroom supplies tutorial programs to support bilingual and ESL students salaries for key support staff including a bilingual pair professional a district-wide parent and family liaison and a bilingual instructional coach. These targeted supports are designed to ensure English learners have the tools and opportunities to succeed academically and linguistically. Title 4 part A is designed to support student achievement by providing
032all students with access to a well-rounded education, improving school conditions for learning, and enhancing the effective use of technology for the 2026 2027 school year. The planning amount is 192,841 which is a decrease of 8,753 from last year. Title 4 part A funds for the 2026 2027 are being used to support student health and safety by funding health and safety specialists at Brad'sport High School, Brad's Wood High School, Flute Intermediate, and Lake Jackson Intermediate. Additional uses of these funds include professional development for staff, PSAT tutorials and instructional materials, support and resources for eligible private nonprofit schools that choose to participate. These efforts contribute to creating a safe, engaging, and supportive learning environments for all students. Perkins 5 funding is focused on strengthening career and techn technical education CTE programs and helping students build the academic,
033technical, and employability skills they need to succeed in today's workforce. For the 2026 2027 school year, the planning amount for Perkins 5 grant is 114,794, reflecting a decrease of 18,446 from last year. These funds support high quality CTE programs by providing students with hands-on experiences across all aspects of an industry through the purchase of industry standard equipment and supplies. expanding access to industry-based certifications, enhancing the use of technology and CTE instruction, supporting professional development for CTE teachers, and enhancing programs to further support academic and CTE integration. These investments help ensure our students success in both post-secary education and the workforce. The Individuals with Disability Education Act IDB formula grant provides supplemental funding to ensure that eligible students with disabilities ages 3 to 21 receive a free appropriate public education as required by federal law. The
034goal of our special education department is to offer collaborative support services in an inclusive environment helping all students reach their full potential. For the 2026 2027 school year, the projected planning amount for the IDAV grant is 2,62,623 which represents a decrease of 96,977 from last year. These funds are used to support qualified staff to deliver academic and behavioral instruction and intervention, assessment and diagnostic services, support for the development and implementation of individualized education plans, IEPs. This funding plays a vital role in ensuring equitable access and support for students with disabilities across the district. Idea B preschool provides supplemental funding to ensure that eligible children with disabilities ages three to five receive a free appropriate public education as required by federal law. For the 2026 2027 school year, the planning amount is 73,931. These funds will
035be used to support the salary of one teacher in the early childhood special education exi program. This support helps us provide specialized instruction and services during the critical early learning years. This is a public hearing, so I'm happy to take any questions or comments from the board or anyone in the audience. >> Are there any questions from the board? >> Merr is the decrease in uh funding which I think that one of them had. Is that just a reflection of the lower attendance? Is that just the formula that's based off of uh less kids? I mean, is that I'm sure there's other factors. Is that the primary reason why all of those numbers seem to decrease? >> That's Yes. >> As far as the state money formula, we have less students. We get a smaller
036share. >> I just wonder if there was any other big factor. I assumed it was, but I just Okay. Anyone else? >> All right. Thank you for your presentation. >> This closes our public hearing. The next item that we have on our agenda is our consent agenda. Are there any items requested to be pulled from the consent agenda? >> Yes, I'd like to pull item G. >> Item G. Okay. >> All right. Uh then are there any other items to be pulled from the consent agenda? All right. Hearing none, then do I hear a motion to approve the consent agenda list item G? >> So moved by Mr. Atkins. Is there a second? Second by Mr. Reinhard. All those in favor signify by saying I. >> I. >> All opposed by nay. >> All right,
037that carries. >> Next item then that we have on our agenda are action items. Public comments will be allowed before a vote is taken on each action item. The first is the employee compensation planning for 2627. Uh Jennifer neighbors. >> Good evening. In alignment with district goal, the district goal that BISD will recruit, develop, and retain highly effective staff. It's my pleasure to review the TASBY compensation recommendations and present the administration's recommendation regarding the 2627 compensation plan. I'd like to highlight administrative considerations regarding the recommendation this evening. The TASBY summary information about the existing compensation plan has been reviewed and was presented at the May board meeting. Three models were presented for consideration. A 0% increase plus a teacher step only, a general pay increase of 1 and 2% along with a cost of a
038one-time payment option in lie of a general pay increase and a benefit contribution increase options were presented as well. Administration's recommendation balances market competitiveness, employee retention, and fiscal responsibility. Taskby selected comparable regional districts within commuting distance of BISD and supplemented the analysis with private sector market data for positions that compete outside of public education. BISD teacher salaries remain competitive at approximately 96 to 98% of local market median. While salary gaps are relatively small, they widen as experience increases, creating an opportunity to strengthen long-term retention. The analysis does not include teacher incentive aotment earning. The ISD will distribute approximately 2.1 million in additional TIA compensation this August. In addition to base salary, BISD offers stipens that meet or exceed market medians in several critical shortage areas. These stipens support recruitment and retention of high need assignments
039such as bilingual, math, science, and special education. Based on the market review, TASBY recommends maintaining market alignment through pay structure judgments of general pay increase and targeted equity adjustments where needed. Since 2425, BISD has made significant progress through House Bill 2 implementation and annual compensation adjustments. On this chart, you can see that progress. The blue line represents our 2425 teacher salary skills. The red line represents our 2526 teacher skills which implemented the House Bill 2 teacher wises. While we value the increased funding, it does not cover all of the salary increases. The green line represents the proposed teacher skills for 2026 2027, which brings us closer to market data and includes a 1.5% increase to teacher market median. This is an increase of approximately $1,100 per teacher. We're working to closing the gap to market,
040which you can see represented by the purple line. In addition, TIA designated teachers will receive their earned payment in August 2026. The 2.1 million that will be dispersed is funded through TEA. It's also worth noting and celebrating the work the board of the board to bring increased compensation to our teachers. The 25 26 teacher pay increases increase the teacher teacher pay and the teacher scale on an average of six to 7% depending on their years of experience. The proposed increases for 2627 would bring the average increase for teachers over the last two years to $2550 for zero to four years of experience and $5,600 approximately for teachers with five or more years of experience. After reviewing TASBY recommendations, market data, and budget considerations, administration recommends the following compensation package for 2627. A 1.5% increase on
041pay grade midpoint for all employees. Implementation of proposed pay structure for teachers which includes a 1.5% increase for market median and strategic adjustments to improve market competitiveness through step 25 on the pay matrix. Adjust or maintain pay for employees who are below or above proposed pay grade maximum and increase the district contribution towards employee benefits by $50, which is an additional $600 per year per employee. The total estimated investment is approximately 2.1 million including both compensation adjustments and the increase in district benefit contributions. During the budget presentation, Miss Cantino will show the budget pass. At this time, I would like to make the recommendation for the 2627 compensation plan and salary increase. The administration recommends that the board of trustees approve the 2627 compensation plan as presented with a total budget impact of $2.1 million.
042>> Question. >> Any questions from the board? >> Yes. The increase in the benefit, the $50 a month, it cost us the $435,600. >> Yes. Total. >> I thought it's all a little more on the budget thing, but I guess just want to make sure I'll say the the discussion we had about this in our last meeting was I think it was strong enough that we all had had thoughts of what needed to be done but our teachers were the most important and so I want to say thank you guys for listen to a stubborn old man and help him understand where we were going and what we wanted to do. I had had one set in my mind and I'm very very pleased with both came up. >> Any other comments or questions? >>
043Yeah, in in general it seems like that there's a lot more districts uh adding to the benefit >> which is kind of I guess it's kind of sign of time but it it's also more money in the pockets. >> It is. >> So it's a win-win. Yeah, I also want to uh thank Jennifer and our HR team and Louis too. As you know, 87% of our budget is staffing. Uh our teachers are the most important part of our organization. And to be able despite the challenging financial times that we have across the state and challenging economic times that we have an economic instability that we have right here in our own community for us to be able to uh continue to value our staff, especially our teachers without having to do a layoff or reduction
044in force. you know, that's been a priority of this board uh over over the last five years as as we've been through these economic difficult economic times uh that we were able to we reduced $4 million in staff with uh this year without having to uh lay anybody off and go through a reduction in force and and that is attributed to our HR team and our principles of of how uh well they are fitting those pieces together. We closed two schools this year as you know and without any teacher uh getting laid off we were able to find every teacher a place uh to to be and and teach. So again I don't think that is a big deal uh and again a lot of effort on our HR uh team and uh our board
045making our priorities very clear >> along with what you say D. I think it uh it gives our employees a little bit of uh better understanding what we've been through because everybody as as Jerry alluded to and and Danny alluded to everybody in the state is going through these uh excuse me these times and uh you know I was in the classroom for 34 years and I know what it's like to be there. Everybody here that works at school has been in the classroom and they know what it's like and so uh it's just an opportunity to do we could not could not pass. Well, it's important that all our employees are getting >> so the maintenance people and custodians that we recognize at the beginning of the meeting, they're also getting a 1.5% pay,
046right? So, both not in the same position. I can't believe they got money. >> It's it's unbelievable. Every time I talk to those two guys I know, it's kind of like, really? You got that much money? Okay. >> I'm thrilled because when I got on the board, we were going through a much different uh discussion on on budgets and on uh specifically pay increases. Uh a couple years we didn't give any uh we did lay some people off and so for the last 13 so years uh it's gone the other direction. So, I'm thrilled even though we have some challenges, uh, that we still continue to be able to to increase salaries. So, I'm very thankful that you are able to make it all work. So, >> well, I think it's important like Danny said,
047the decisions that we have to make are hard. Nobody has lost their job, but those decisions are we're able to turn around and give raises and still acknowledge our staff because we've made this decision. >> I think it's it's been mentioned several times, but due to you and your gang and you and your gang putting all this stuff together, it's not easy. There a lot of headaches that go with it. All right. Are there any other comments from the board before we take action or from the audience are uh hearing? None. Then we do have a recommendation from the administration. We do hear a motion. I move we compensation as committed. >> All right. Mr. Reinhardt has moved that we accept the recommendation as presented. You hear a second by Mr. Schulty. All those in
048favor signify by saying I. I. >> All by Nate. >> All right. Passes. Thank you. Thank you for all your work. Next item then that we have is our adoption of the 2627 budget. Miss Kino, our chief financial officer to do our presentation. Thank you. This year marks the first time the district is adopting its budget in June as a result of the transition to a July 1st uh July 1st through June 30th fiscal year. In accordance with chapter 44 of the Texas Education Agency, notice of this public meeting was published on May 29th, 2026 uh to provide the community an opportunity to review and comment on the proposed budget and preliminary tax rate used for budget development. The proposed 202627 budget uh was used was developed using a preliminary tax rate of uh 8890
049per 100 of taxable value. The final tax rate cannot be adopted until certified property values are received and the Texas Education Agency announces the final maximum compressed rates or the MCR. The board is expected to consider adoption of the final tax rate at a later meeting. Based on current estimates, the proposed tax rate continues the district's long-term commitment to reducing the tax burden on taxpayers with the M tax rate having decreased by more than 37 cents over the past several years. Following this public meeting, the board may consider adoption of the proposed 2026-27 budget for the general fund, bed service fund, and child nutrition fund. The tax rate itself will be considered for adoption at a later date. On page 18 of your budget proposed budget book, you have the adopt the proposed budget for
050all three funds. And this slide provides a high level summary of the district's three operating funds and demonstrates the overall financial position of Rexport ISD for the 2627 fiscal year. All three funds are adop are adopted as balance budgets with no plan impact to fund balance. Combined revenues total approximately 173.4 million supported by a plan transfer of 7.2 million. The general fund includes the 1.5 general pay increase approved in the compensation plan resulting uh in the $50 per month for the contribution for employee benefits uh resulting in an approximately 2.1 million increase in compensation related expenditures. At the same time, the budget reflects staffing reductions totaling near nearly 4 million and campus and department budget reductions of 2.5 million. demonstrating the district's continue continued effort to balance employee investment and responsible fiscal management. The district
051is projected to end the year with a combined fund balance of approximately 57.9 million reflecting continued financial stability and strong stewardship across all funds. The administration recommends the board of trustees adopt the 202627 state compens compensatory budget as included in the proposed revenues expenditures budgets for the general operating fund, the child nutrition fund, and the debt service fund. >> Question. >> Yeah, I need to back up back to the public hearing thing. You mentioned the collection tax rate collection or tax collection. >> Yes. >> Did you that was an increase? It was 94.5. >> It's an increase from 95 uh decrease from 95.5 that reflected it last year. I did notice uh and I've been monitoring our tax collections compared to last year and we are seeing a little bit of a slowdown. So just
052to be on the conservative conservative side, I did decreases by by that 1%. Yeah, I think that's what the last tax report. Yes. They were coming in slow. So, >> yes. So, so we I did adjust it down a little. >> Okay. I thought you >> the overall value increase and that's why we had the increase in the tax collections, but it's still adjusted down by that 1%. >> All right. Anyone else? Audience? All right. We do have a recommendation from the administration. Uh do I hear a motion? >> Make a motion to approve the uh 2627 budget that was presented here. >> All right. Uh it's been moved by Mr. D. Do a second. Second by Miss Quayar. All those in favor signify by saying I. I. >> All opposed by nay. That also
053passes. Thank you. We can start we can start school of the year. >> Next item then that we have under our action items uh is optional flexible school day program application Mr. Ron Redden our superintendent compliance and death. Good evening and in alignment with board policy EHBC legal and local along with board goals, BISD will provide a rigorous and relevant learning experience to ensure that every student will be future ready. It's my pleasure to seek board approval and authorization to submit an application on behalf of the Brazes Success Academy to continue operating an optional flexible school day program in the 2026 2027 school year. Texas Education Code Chapter 29.0822 includes a provision to offer the atrisisk students of a qualifying campus with attendance flexibility that reduces the impact of absenteeism and that provides for average
054daily attendance funding. That provision is the optional flexible school day program. Nebraska's Success Academy as a dropout recovery campus is eligible to operate an optional flexible school day program under Texas Education Code Chapter 29.081E1. Students enrolled in the optional flexible school day program must take the required state assessments specified under the Texas Education Code Chapter 39.023 during the regularly scheduled assessment calendar. While attending the optional flexible school day program, a student may be counted in average daily attendance for purposes of funding only for the actual number of contact hours the student receives up to 43,200 minutes per year before submitting an optional flexible school day application. The board of trustees of a school board must include it as an item on a regular agenda or board meeting, discuss it, and approve the application to operate
055the program. In addition, the board of trustees of a school district must discuss the progress of the optional flexible school day program before approving and applying to operate the OS um OPLEX program for the next year. This slide and the slide that follows will present the goal and objective of the on-site Oplex program housed on the BSA campus followed by a program performance report. The goal of the on-site optional flexible school day program is to graduate greater than 70% of participants in six years or less. The objective of the program is to provide flexible attendance opportunities for qualifying at risk students who are recovered dropouts, working, pregnant, have children, who need only to complete state testing, no longer need to attend school full or have full or half time since they need three or fewer
056credits to graduate, or who have other extenduating circumstances requiring flexible attendance. The Brazesport ISD On-site optional flexible school day programs serve four students during the 2025 2026 school year. All four graduated by the end of the school year. There are no continuers into the 2026 2027 school year and no student dropped out of school. The graduation rate for 202526 on-site program will be 100%. Compared to 75% in 2024 25 and 67% in 2324. Students who attended the on-site program this year accumulated 7,466 contact minutes and 31.1 days of full ADA funding. This slide and the slides that follows will present the goal and objective of the online flex program graduation alliance and will be followed by program and performance report. The goal of the online optional flexible school day program is to graduate 10 or
057more participants each year. The objective of the program is to re-engage students who left high school without a diploma, provide an opportunity for them to complete their graduation requirements, and earn a high school diploma from the district. Graduation alliance is a program that provides an extra level of flexibility to OPLEX students. The program is designed to identify, recruit, enroll, and support students who have already dropped out of school to return to school and complete their diploma online. However, other students can qualify to participate if they are substantially behind in credits, cannot attend school because of having committed a criminal offense that makes it unsafe for them to attend classes on a district campus, or who have to provide child care to a child and cannot attend school on campus. The program also offers students who
058were administratively withdrawn due to excessive absences the opportunity to attend and complete school online. This year 37 students participated in graduation allian alliance. Of those 37 students, six students graduated. One returned to BSA to complete their requirements for graduation and two others will complete their graduation requirements later this month and will be included in the graduate count for the 2025 2026 school year. 12 students are currently active while 15 students were deactivated due to no longer actively engaging. It's important to note that when a student is deactivated, they are not dropped from the program. The graduation alliance enrollment team continues to contact them to encourage them to reactivate their enrollment. In fact, two of this year's graduates were reactivated students. Two students moved out of district and could no longer participate in the program, and
059one student left the program to complete his GED. Overall, students completed 146 courses and earned a total of 73 credits. Both were improvements over last year when students completed 133 courses and 67 and a half credits. Since enrolling the first student in October of 2023, Graduation Alliance has enrolled a total of 79 students. Of those 79 students, 14 have graduated through GA and four others returned to BSA to complete their requirements for graduation. Students have completed 320 courses and earned a total of 165 credits. I need to point out, and I didn't put this in my slide or my notes, but I thought about it today. The majority of the students that we get into Grad Alliance have singledigit credits when they enter our program and typically they're in their third, fourth or the first
060year out of high school. So this is a remarkable accomplishment for these students. Graduation alliance was added to the BSA OPLEX options for the 2324 school year. In addition, in January of that school year, we added discretionary placement options to BSA to ensure that students who were in the graduating cohort, but who were too far behind to graduate if they remained on their home campus, could catch up in time to walk with their class. The results were very successful. So, the discretionary placements were extended to include any student who was a year and a half behind their graduation cohort. Since the inception of graduation alliance and the revised placement process for BSA, the district's graduation rate has increased from 89 and a half% to 93.1% or 3.6%. The Brazesport high school graduation rate increased from
06187.7% to 92.3% or a 4.6% increase. and the Brazeswood high school graduation rate increased from 93.3% to 97.3% or a 4% increase. On-site Brad's Success Academy students can attend school at scheduled times that meet their individual needs and those times include after normal school hours or for specific times during the instructional day. Students participating in the online program through graduation alliance have 24 access 24-hour access to their lessons year round. I provided you with the optional flexible school day program guide which is the draft form of the actual application this year along with the campus designation spreadsheet which provides you with a look at the days and numbers of minutes the program will be offered each week and next summer. Approval of the optional flexible school day program is for one year and can be
062renewed following a review by the board of trustees and the submission of another application. The program is subject to reporting requirements by TEA. BSA estimates that up to 10 students will participate in the on-site program at various times during the school year, while we estimate that up to 45 students will participate in the online program through graduation alliance. The on-site program will run from August 12th, 2026 through June 24th, 2027, which includes the extended year period next summer. For students who need to complete courses that be they began prior to the end of school but have not completed, they may do so during their extended year period. The online program through graduation alliance is a year-round program. Finally, it can take up to 30 business days to receive approval of an OPLEX application. So, it
063is our intent to submit the application no later than June 12th. It is the administration's recommendation that the board of trustees authorize the district to submit an application to operate an optional flexible school day program at the Bradley Success Academy for the 2026 2027 school year. At this time, I'd be happy to answer any questions you or the audience may have. June 12th or July 12th to apply >> to apply June uh uh June 17th is when I'm putting it in. >> Okay. >> But the Did I say July? >> You said June 12th. >> June 12th. Okay. It was last week, but I haven't. >> Sorry about that. >> So, so we didn't have any uh GA graduates this year. Oh, we did. >> We did. We have six and six. We have six
064of them and one other that returned. All seven walked that Saturday. >> Where did I see? >> Okay. >> You know, you just have to attend one graduation this group to see what what it means to them and their families and their parents. That's that's Any other questions from the audience? >> All right. We have a recommendation from the administration uh that we authorize the district to submit an application to operate an optional flexible school day program at the BR success academy for the 2627 school year. Do I hear a motion? >> We presented by been moved by M. Reinhardt. There's a second question. >> All right, we have a question before. >> No, go ahead. Motion second. >> I have a motion. Have a second by Mr. Schulty. >> And I have one. Is
065there any chance the TA want to put this? >> Why did you waste your bread? Well, I mean this >> no one of the that is a great question because there there the online program now is falling falls under the attendance reporting requirements of the online schools >> stay away but we've made the adjustments based on guidance from TEA in the application. So, we've been in we've been in communication with them since back at the end of February. And there's a group of us, a group of about five school districts that have been in continual contact with them and with each other to um stay up to date with what each one's hearing from the agency to make sure that we've aligned um our application with that. So, we're confident that it will will get
066approved. >> Okay. Strengthen them. Good. >> Yes, sir. >> Thanks. All right. So we have a motion and a second uh to approve the recommendation as presented. All those in favor signify by saying I. >> I. >> All oppose by name. >> All right. Also pass. Thank you, Mr. Renick. >> Thank you, Mr. You mentioned a little bit about the I guess the process for um how we we document contact with students that are remotely learning or whatever. Can we get some information what that looks like? I was curious what our process is going to be this next year for that and what we're and we all are to a point. We're waiting for final guidance in the student attendance accounting handbook and they have not released that to us just yet. The only guidance
067we've gotten was to the administrative address letter that came out after the first of the year that told us to just follow for now what's what's in the um in the virtual school programs attendance guidelines. But these are different animals. These online programs for credit recovery and for graduation are different because they really are a 247. Guys, I can show you the data of how many kids we have that work on the weekends in this program eight and 10 hours a day to get caught up because they're working all week long out in their jobs. So, we're waiting for that guidance right now. So, I wish we had more answers for you, but we just simply don't. >> All right. Next item item we have on our agenda under action items is the selection of
068the Texas Association of School Boards delegate and alternate Mr. Max. >> Yes. As a member of the Texas Association of School Boards or TASBY, we're provided the opportunity to select a delegate to represent our district at the Tazby Delegate Assembly in Houston on October 9th, 2026. The purpose of the TASBY delegation is to elect TASBY leaderships, amend TASBY bylaws, and adopt the TASBY legislative adv advocacy agenda. It is the recommendation of the administration that BIC will participate in the TASBY delegate assembly and nominate Mr. Jerry Atkins as the delegate and Mr. Ken Schulty as the alternate. And we also want to thank Mr. Atkins for his tremendous advocacy for public schools all over the state of Texas and especially here in Brazil on these candidates. >> No. >> All right. We have a motion. >>
069We have a motion from the administration. Uh do I uh I'm sorry. We have a recommendation from the administration. Do a motion. Make a motion to approve. >> Uh Chris moves to approve. Hear a second. Miss Quay. All those in favor signify by saying I. >> All those by name. >> All right. Thank you again for your service. >> Thank you Jerry. >> Thanks Jerry. >> Thank you. Next item that we have on our agenda is the pulled uh item from the consent agenda from earlier. >> Item G. >> Yeah, I uh Rise program. >> Yeah, I pulled this. First of all, I think this is a great program. And second of all, at the Gulf Coast meeting I was at, they had region committed to do more of this which I think is great.
070So I want to point that out that no we I wasn't real sure what I know regarding all this kind of stuff but apparently with Rodney Watson they're uh looking to to do more for the district. So this is obviously an example of it. So I guess the only question I had is u uh how do we determine that this is successful? We have We're going to put numbers to it. We're going to put a percentage. And what are we focusing on at the three schools? I guess I'm not sure I saw that. >> I did. I forgot it. >> So, each I'm sorry. >> I was going to say at each of the three schools, the the program will have a three- tiered approach. The first one is instructional excellence and it's going to
071be working with teachers in the curriculum implementation along with curriculum assessments that are aligned to what they're teaching and improving their their instructional practice within the classroom. It's also building on the leadership how to become less the managers of the building and more the instructional leaders of the building. And so there will be professionals who are from region four and from our area who are really experts in this field who'll be coming alongside our our principles and their teams to help them with that. And then to answer your question more specifically, this one is different than any of the other initiatives that we've even seen come out in the grants and that the focus is on measurable outcomes. So we have to set goals and we have to be monitored on those goals. And part
072of our requirements is we have to be on calls with other schools that are part of this program and with region 4 and being held accountable for the performance of our kids where we have to we have to keep up with how they're doing and identify areas where we need to improve but also with our teachers. So it's going to be twofold. There is a teacher component for measurable outcomes and there's also a student performance and measurable outcomes. So, are we targeting uh a certain amount of students? >> It's a pilot program and so we we've opted in with three schools. We're opting in with Laneir Elementary, Preport Intermediate School, and Clue Intermediate School. >> But are we going to hone in on a certain number of kids of students or are we going to
073do it >> the schoolwide for each of those schools? Yes, sir. >> So, we'll have we'll have a a baseline of some type of score. Yes, we'll start with our baselines. I'm sure the baselines Well, we're going to know more. Let me just say this that they're waiting for us. They actually allowed us to wait until tonight to sign the agreement. >> So that and they're ready. I mean, they are poised and they are ready. And our conversation with our um region 4 contact that's been working with us on FIS um she said they are ready to go. So the teams are ready to go. They're ready to start meeting with us and to start planning. But we will use baseline data. I'm certain will be some of the accountability data from this year and
074star performance data of this year, but they'll look at attendance data and discipline data. It's going to be comprehensive in that approach. And they'll also look at teacher performance data for baselines in those areas. Okay. >> Yeah. It's several hundred,000 worth of training. >> 390,000 to be exact. >> Yeah. Yeah. Almost $400,000 of pre-training for our staff. We have we had to apply to do this. It was really an honor to um get selected, they have confidence in in our staff and our students that we can meet the goals set out in this. >> Well, I think I told you, you know, Paul Castro said in our meeting, he was really excited. That's why that's why >> he's the one facilitating. >> Yeah, that's why I brought this. I was kind of like, wow, he
075was >> he was really excited about it. And of course, none of us in the room were like when I saw that's why I asked to pull it. So, okay. We appreciate the the hard work that Ron and Mr. Red and Mr. Cole, Mr. Whead that the superintendent reads also have done to work on this application for us to be selected for it. >> So there'll be training during summer and then they'll be coming during >> and they'll be coming because it's a one-year program and it's intense as they told us up front. It's a one-year very intensive program designed to help schools make a quick turnaround. and and get right on track doing the things that they need to do. >> Excellent. >> We're very excited about this. >> I like students. >> And
076numbers >> for students. >> All right. With that explanation. >> Yes, sir. >> I motion that we approve uh the application of the rise program for the three BC schools. been moved by Jerry and second by Mr. Reinhardt. All those in favor signify by saying I. All >> my name. >> All right. Item G passes. Thank you, sir. Next path we have on our agenda is under reports. Public comment will be allowed on each report. Um are there any board committee reports uh this evening from the board members? >> It is the last meeting last Thursday and we did finalize it and sent it out. So, I'll pass that on to you guys. It wasn't a whole lot of changes, but there were a couple. It was It was an intense two and a half
077hour meeting, but had a lot of opinions. Any others from the board, committed to another year of graduation. Always my most exciting part of of this job. So, uh I'll say I regretted not being at graduation. But not sure I could have kept up the pace but watched it and never know how many lives you touch in that 2hour period and three hour period. It's very very significant to our main guys cowboy up the girls cow girl up but they made it all happen. did a great job. >> Any other >> Go ahead. >> I don't have a committee report, but >> from the comprollers's office that they put out on the uh vouchers that we showed that uh 214 ISD had been awarded. I just don't know what effect that gonna have. But it's,
078you know, I saw the number and I kept looking and had little columns and they were hard to follow and it took me like forever to find that out. But I assume those are >> early students that uh were already in private schools that applied for it. >> Yeah, there were 57% total state. >> Yeah. And and there's some preks also that are eligible for daycarees that are also eligible for it too. >> But we were uh had 113. >> Okay. >> Anyway, I just, you know, >> you need to kind of watch and see what effect that that may have. >> Any other board? >> Yeah. Go rather than go to port in the morning and look at number of kids we have program. >> Oh yeah, >> it's a big deal. There's a
079lot of kids up early over at Hopper. >> Well, the kids show up at about 10, so you want to get it all. >> All right. Next item that we have, uh, our next regularly scheduled board meeting will be right here on July 20th at 6 p.m. Next item that we have is Executive session may be called for the purpose permitted by the Texas Open Meeting Act. Texas Government Code section 551.001 through 551.146. Section 551.071 consultation with attorney section 551.02 for the purpose of discussing the purchase exchange lease or value of real property. Section 551.074 4 personnel matters appointment evaluation reassignment duties discipline dismissal or complaint and section 551.02 for the purpose of considering discipline of a public school child or a complaint or charge against personnel. Once again we'll be back. >> All right,
080we will now recession. Time is 8:25 and unless there are any objections then we will stand adjourned.