001[Music] The board of trustees of the Harris County Department of Education is now convened in a regular board meeting on Wednesday, September 10th, 2025 in room 401 at 6300 Irvington Boulevard, Houston, Texas at 1:16 p.m. We wish to extend a warm welcome to everyone present at this meeting of the board of trustees. As trustees, we are here to set goals, listen to reports from the superintendent, approve budgets, contracts, personnel appointments, and set policy for the district. It is not the role of the board to make day-to-day operational decisions, the management, and day-to-day operations of the department are the responsibility of the superintendent. We have policies and procedures in place to resolve concerns and issues. This is a public meeting of the board of trustees, not a meeting of the public. Prior to this meeting, board
002members received information related to agenda items on items on today's agenda. Agenda items will not necessarily be handled in the order listed on the notice. The meeting is open to all who wish to attend and hear matters discussed. During the course of this meeting, the board may determine that a closed session is necessary. In that event, the board will meet in close session to consider matters duly posted for this meeting as permitted by section 551.071 to 551.084. inclusive of the Texas government code. I respectfully ask that you please refrain from talking while others are speaking and that cell phones are turned off or in silent mode. Thank you for taking time today to join us and for your interest in the Harris County Department of Education. Welcome everybody. We will begin with invocation and we
003have Shanti Johnson here for the invocation. [Music] >> Good afternoon everyone. All right, if we can bow our heads. Father God, we thank you for granting us all traveling grace to get here today. I stand here today humbly asking that you rest your hand on every staff member, student, and anyone connected to the HCDE family. We ask that you guide Mr. Colbert as he leads this organization. Give him the wisdom to make decisions, supernatural favor for opportunities, heightened discernment, courage to not compromise his convictions, and a grace to lead. Cover and guide his team, the board members and trustees on the ways to support him and this organization as one united team. We thank you for divine connections and divine disconnections as you continue to cultivate this organization. Continue to bring employees, contractors, and staff
004that align with your will for HCDE. May the hearts of those in power in leadership and employ be solely led by you. We ask that you touch every educator, meet each one of them where they are, and empower them through this year. We thank you for each student of HCDE. May their lives be forever positively changed by the seeds that are sown, the work that is done, and the love that they are shown by the employees of HCDE. We ask for your continued protection and safety for every employee, member, and student connected to us. We thank you in advance for a successful year of growth, collaboration, impact, and varsity level excellence as we run this race. In your son, Jesus's name, we pray. Amen. >> Amen. Varsity prayer. >> All right, we will uh next
005up is the pledge of allegiance and we have Courtney Atkinson to lead us. Hello. Good afternoon everyone. I pledge allegiance 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 the Texas flag. I pledge allegiance to thee, Texas, one state under God, one and indivisible. Thank you very much. And we do not have anyone here for open forum and uh consider approval of certified property values and the submission of the no new tax rate. Dr. Musqua, >> there's a copy of the presentation in your in your desk. Yes, sir. So the uh values that uh were received as preliminary uh several months ago uh was at 600 between 639 billion and 706 billion. The uh values
006were certified to us on September the 3 and that number was 640 billion 315,3 315,334,177. Also there are 32 billion that are uncertified at this point in time and then 17 billion that are not uh are not pro under protest but are not included in that number. So we need to adjust uh the numbers to be able to do that. So as we adjust uh the uncertified but not included and then we apply a trend for the certification uh we end up with a um values of 681 billion70,689,66 the percentage of collection as uh uh per the uh TNT uh calculation is 97.57 Um it's basically the highest that we can uh we can u um calculate based on the on the on the trend and the history. The property values are basically an increase
007of approximately 31 billion for and you see that trend in the last few years in terms of the tax rate for the last uh 12 years uh it has declined uh since uh 000522 and it has uh declined ever since. It's been a decade of tax decreases. Uh 31% or $4.55 less than back in 2013. So as we uh received the calculations from the uh Harris County uh tax office, the uh current tax rate is 047.99. The no new revenue rate is 0.4725 4725 and the U border approved rate is 0.00 and the proposal is for the M rate for Harris County Department of Ed to be proposed at 04798. Uh the next slide gives you the uh a graphic as the values go up the the uh rate has been coming down. In terms
008of uh what's included in the budget, uh it will give us uh 30 3 uh1 million730,617 of tax collections. When we look at the calendar, because our proposed rate is higher than the no new revenue rate, it will require a public hearing and then a a notice for 7 days and then the adoption uh projected on October 15 because the uh no new revenue rate is not above uh the voter approved rate. We don't we don't require uh anything of just uh just a public hearing. However, it will require a 60% vote of the governing body for the adoption of the tax rate. Um, and so the uh motion would be that for the October 15 uh timeline. So the uh the next steps are to uh uh have the uh plan adopted which will
009be and then uh uh schedule the advertising for the public hearing and then schedule it for October 15 for the adoption on October 15. And what questions do you have? >> Does anyone have any questions? Yes. >> Yes. You need a motion to uh to approve the uh the plan to adopt the tax rate and that would trigger for us to do the the advertising and the and schedule the hearing for the October 15 adoption. Madam President, I move to approve a plan to adopt tax rate of 0.004798 per per $100 of valuation which is effectively less than the current tax rate. >> And so moved by uh Trusty McGee, seconded by Trusty GU, >> and then that's going to trigger the October vote. >> Yes. Uh we would need to have uh seven days
010to schedule a public hearing uh publish the notice. the public hearing and it can be on the same day the public hearing and the adoption. >> Okay. >> Uh probably the board meeting >> the next board meeting that's a regular board meeting. >> Okay. >> Yes. And it will require 60% vote because it's above the non new revenue rate. >> Okay. >> So then do we we don't have anything to vote. We just make the motion and then >> Yeah. >> Okay. So we vote to actually make the make the Okay. >> Okay. So any discussion? Seeing none, let's put it to a vote and motion passes 70. >> Thank you. We will move on to reports and presentations and we'll start with the Hispanic Heritage Month presentation. Thank you, President Hinosa, members of the
011board. Mr. Colbert, throughout the year, we honor and recognize different cultures in our community and their impact on education, as well as topics of interest in the education community. Beginning September 15th through October 15th, we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month. And Communications has put together a little little video for you talking about how HCD is going to do that this year. [Music] Across Texas, generation of Hispanic educators, advocates, and leaders have helped shape the path of learning. They've expanded access to classrooms, strengthening the opportunity for students and paving a pathway for future generations to pursue greatness. From early efforts to ensure children had a place to learn to groundbreaking policies in higher education, their work shows a shared belief. Education is the foundation of strong communities. Their impact can still be felt today. Reminding us that
012learning creates growth and opportunity for everyone. A saying that my dad told me every single day when I would go to school. [Music] My little daughter, there are three things no one can ever take away from you. Your name, your word, and your education. In Harris County, Hispanic students make up more than half of all learners, reflecting their vital role in shaping our school and our future. This Hispanic Heritage Month, HCDE celebrates the power of education and the community it strengthens. We proudly support learning for all. We here at HCDE celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month. [Applause] [Music] Okay, on to employee of the month. [Applause] >> President Hinosa, board of trustees, Superintendent Colbert. Today I am proud to introduce to you ACDE September 2025 employee of the month, Miss Denise Alamos Jones, admin administrative assistant in
013the school's division. Denise is a critical member of the school's team, handling contracts with local school districts for the four special schools and taking care of the division budget. Denise is so skilled in her work, she is called the budget whisperer and often mentors other administrative staff about finance procedures. Budget preparation is a trying time for many of the campuses and Denise makes herself readily available to walk them through the process. Dr. Charles Ned wrote in his nomination, she is always working with administrative assistants to ensure that they have have clear understanding about how to complete task for the various projects that they come up uh with through the school year. Denise is known for putting the needs of others ahead of herself, going above the normal duties with outstanding customer service to ensure staff,
014parents, and district partners feel supported. Dr. Ed summed up Denise as this. D is for dedicated. E is for excer. N is for nurturing. I is for interactive. S is for spirited. E is for easygoing. Our comm's team created a short video about Denise's amazing work here at HCDE. [Music] She's your assistant. >> I would describe Denise Alamos Jones as a superstar. She is the glue that binds our school's division. She's numero morono in my books when it comes to the work that she does for our campuses, for our students, for our staff, and for our partner districts as well. >> Hi, Denos. Um, the budgets for all the campuses, including ours. >> As the administrative assistant to the school's division senior director, Denise Alamos Jones is known as the budget whisperer and the queen
015of contracts. That's because Denise writes every single contract for students attending HCDE schools. >> Denise plays a role in ensuring that every student placement happens. If she's not involved, then the student placement does not occur. >> If if you have availability, then someone send me. >> People call her all the time cuz I don't think anybody else can do a contract like Denise does. She is customer service to its utmost because she takes care of our our home districts. She makes sure that each one of them feels like a valued part of the HCDE family. I always want to help them because I always put myself in their situation. Like as a parent, you know, I've called this program, I've caught this program, they haven't been able to help me. And then so at that
016point, I was like, "Okay, well, let's let's let's let me know what the situation is and we'll figure out from there." >> Denise has served HCDE for 20 years. Her knowledge in part comes from working at ABS East and West and High Point North before the campus was converted to today's Fortis Academy. I still know people at the campuses. Um I work with a lot of the new people coming in like the secretaries, the clerks, and the and the principles. I train them. I help them with their budget. And even sometimes I hear her answering the same question over and over and over again and that does not change her tone at all. >> Remember it's an >> and to smooth out the budget process for principles Denise created templates of worksheets enabling the campus
017leaders to carry over information from year to year saving countless hours and frustration. >> So I created this system so it could be easier for them so that way when they come back next year you know they have something to fall back on. And not only does Denise keep the schools out of Pecar jail, she's also the creative force behind the school's division professional development meetings and the annual schools update with partner districts. From the decor to the details, Denise brings it all to life. She loves doing what she does. She loves supporting the schools. She loves supporting the students. And I think a lot of that comes from what she experienced as a child in her own school. So she makes it better for everybody else. Denise grew up in Houston and did not
018like school. She skipped classes, had some scuffles, and was a student like many of HCDEs who needed guidance and attention. I was in school. I just wasn't where I was supposed to be. And I said, "Wait a minute, you know, what am I doing with my life?" I decided to take some courses so I can catch up. And and in doing so, I met some great people that helped me and encouraged me. And it was at Houston Community College she met a former ABS East principal who encouraged her to apply to HCDE. And it was also at HCC she met her husband Nicholas. They've been married for 14 years and have four children, Nick Jr., Marik Cruz, Olivia, and Mario. And she considers her team to be part of her family. >> I love the
019people. I like to work for a program that helps the kids do better for themselves and go back. Sometimes they just need a little bit of love and attention. >> Denise is truly truly varsity. You know, good people are hard to find and sometimes they're harder to keep. You know, Denise is a keeper and you know, we're we're definitely a better place because of Denise. Please join me in congratulating Miss Denise Alamos Jones, the 2025 September employee of the month. [Applause] No, no, no. Get people. >> I help you. I tried. >> Sorry. One more. >> Congratulations. It's nice to have employee of the month back now that school's back in session. Those are always >> fun. Oh, yeah. Uh, do you want to say a little bit about your family? [Laughter] >> Yeah. See,
020this is my wonderful husband, Nicholas. My my daughter Marie Cruz, my son, Mario, my daughter Olivia, my son. >> Um, I have my mom and dad here, and my in-laws here celebrate with you. [Music] Oh, and then my brother. My brother back there. >> Wonderful. >> My brother Johnny >> and they are live. I had the privilege to ride the elevator with them. >> They are live. >> Thank you. And thanks for everybody that came and thank you for nominating. [Applause] All right, moving right into the superintendent monthly report with Mr. Colbert. >> Thank you, Madam President. I'd just like to say that if I ever get in PECAR jail, I'm going to find Denise to bail me out cuz Lord knows we all been close to Pecar jail before. Um, trustees, I I don't
021have much to update you on this month. Uh, just two things. First, I'd like to just inform you that our special schools have gotten off to a great start. They really have. Um, our schools are more popular than ever. You know, uh, business is booming and our principles are prepared and ready to go. They're fully staffed and the campuses are are fully and ready to go. So, we'll talk a little bit more about that once they present. and I'll talk about some of the other things we're getting into. Uh other thing is we had an initiative that was started by Trusty Duhan with tools of teachers for teachers. Uh once that went out and gave teachers the opportunity to apply, we had over 2,000 teachers uh respond to that in less than five minutes countywide.
022And so this is an initiative where they get $100 vouchers to be able to get supplies to assist them in their instruction throughout the year. Uh, and it's something that has gained a lot of momentum and we're continuing to do through our foundation. With that, that's all I have. >> Very nice. Thank you. >> And on to our annual. >> Wait, wait, really quick. Really quick. How long was that? How long did it take to fill it up? >> I think I said uh what did I say? Five minutes. >> Five minutes. >> Oh, I'm sorry. Uh, our attorney here said that I said less than five minutes. So, >> thank you, attorney. >> Four minutes and 38 seconds. >> I wonder how many would sign up in 10 minutes if it was expanded. >>
023I wonder what would happen if we had unlimited money. >> Thank you very much. >> Okay. Annual division update. Schools division. [Applause] All right. Good afternoon, Madam President, board of trustees, Mr. Colbert. Uh, my name is Dr. Charles Ned, and I proudly serve as a senior director of schools here with the Harris County Department of Education, and I'd like to thank you all for your service and the opportunity to highlight the special schools. Uh I stand here before you a fortunate and a blessed man to have an outstanding team that works within the schools division. And at this time I'd like to begin by asking members of the schools division team to please stand and be recognized. We have Dr. Margaret Patton. She's the director of curriculum and compliance. You already met our our outstanding
024employee of the month, Denise Alamos Jones, who's my admin assistant. Uh Miss Courtney Atkinson, who's our instructional coach. Miss Shante Johnson, who's our instructional coach, Joanne Galindo, clerk, Catalina Ramos, parent engagement liaison, and Michelle Racing, compliance officer. These individuals are truly varsity level, and they do an amazing job of supporting our schools and the work that we do with our client districts to ensure that their needs are being met. So again, I'm very thankful and appreciative for all of you. So our teams, our special schools, they provide services to students that have severe emotional or physical disabilities, adjudicated or expelled youth, and students that are struggling with addiction. And truly the face of the school's division is our campus principles. Um, principles, when your name is called, please stand. Mercedes Love, she is the principal
025of Academic and Behavior School East. Miss Love is entering her third year as principal at ABS East and under her leadership, ABS East has undergone a cultural transformation that's resulted in an increase in client satisfaction, faculty retention, and a decrease in student restraints. Jata Hutton, [Applause] Mr. Hutton is also entering his third year as principal at ABS West. Mr. Mr. Hutton empowers his staff to be creative and think outside the box when it comes to motivating and engaging students. Mr. Hutton also values making connections with his students. Uh his campus has also realized an increase in student transitions back to their home campus typically in less time than originally intended. Dr. Tvita Godfrey. Dr. Godfrey is entering her fifth year as principal at Foris Academy. Dr. Gopri has been a champion for students dealing with
026substance use disorders. Under her leadership, Foris earned their accreditation from the Association of Recovery Schools this past May. And Dr. Goffrey is also a member of the Association of Recovery Schools Board of Directors. [Applause] Courtney Waters. Miss Waters is entering year number five as principal at High Point. And like any exceptional principal, she inspects what she expects. And this past July, Miss Waters was recognized as the Texas Association of Alternative Education's Administrator of the Year. [Applause] >> Thank you guys. Appreciate you both. So, today class has been in session about two and a half weeks. Uh, and there's been a lot of planning and preparation that went into ensuring that we got off to a great start. And I must say that our first day of school was indeed very special. Take a look. [Music]
027>> Good to see you, boy. I'm excited this school year to welcome 40 new students to our campus. As everyone know, we were on hold and we were unable to receive new students. But this year, we are starting with about 78 students. In my second year, I want to improve a lot of instructional practices in our classrooms. So, that's one of our goals this academic school year. [Music] We are varsity at Fortis Academy for sure and we are starting out with a refresh, a re-energize. We have so many of our students from last year who have come back this year and we're excited to see them and we want to refresh, renew and re-energize. uh once all the time. >> But with all of the buzz around Fortis, we cannot wait for all of these
028projects to come to fruition. And our students are excited. We're excited. And we know that it's going to be a great 2526 school year. >> I can get you up to work making. [Music] So, I'm starting my fifth year here at High Point. The biggest thing that I'm hoping for this year is that we continue to break barriers and build lives one kid at a time. We want kids to not just come here because they're placed here, but when they come here, we want them to experience a life-changing experience. That way, when they go back, they won't come back here. [Music] So we are live at 7:45 in 2025 PBS. [Music] >> We have a lot of great things happen this year. We're going to build on everything that we started last year. We have
029great momentum. One of our biggest goals this year, we're focusing on making sure our kids experience success. We really want to make sure we give every student opportunity to be successful. >> Come on. >> You got a coach. So, I I see myself as a coach. They got the playbook. We going to snap the ball. >> When the whistle blow, you ready to play? >> You got a hair slick back in the back. [Music] [Applause] So that's just a glimpse into our first day and you know I feel confident in speaking for the principles on this that you know again you know the school year starts off with a honeymoon period and then we get to know our students they get to know us and then business picks up as we go through the year
030and as Mr. Co mentioned business is booming and you know our staff they're well prepared and they're ready to receive students and provide those services to them. Uh as you can see um we continue to see the need for our services to expand beyond Harris County. In total we provide services to 54 public school systems, 22 in county, 28 out of county and four charter systems. So why do districts partner with us? We offer specialized services to school districts for far less than they could on their own. Not to mention the fact that we're able to staff our classrooms with certified teachers and offering therapeutic services in buildings that are built for students whom we serve. And on top of that, we graduate students uh since 2022. And I'm I I know that you know
031our ABS East and West campuses graduate students, but I want to highlight for this because since 2022, they've averaged six graduates per year. I think since Dr. Gota has taken over they have a grand total of 25 graduates. So that's that's quite amazing in comparison to the previous few years where they've only had two. So great work going on at Foris Academy. Professional growth and development. Uh we've been very intentional about improving the quality of classroom instruction and behavior management by providing our staff with ongoing PD throughout the year. Uh this past school year, our staff was provided with 214 hours of professional learning content, which we continue to build on this each year uh as we identify what the needs are and make sure that we are providing timely professional learning to our teachers
032and our teacher assistants. Um we had a very successful back- tochool kickoff during which staff received exciting, engaging, and relevant professional learning. And as you can see from the photos, uh, you know, we have them back for 10 full days before the student return for return. So trying to keep their energy level up, you know, that can be a challenge, but making sure that what we're pre presenting to them, it's re relevant and it's also engaging and it's applicable. They can take it and they can utilize it from day one. So, our staff does an amazing job of connecting with students and incorporating behavior management practices that allow our students to thrive in an alternative setting. Many parents depend on our schools to make breakthroughs in areas where the traditional schools have failed, making HCDE
033special schools a place for hope, healing, and opportunity. In Harris County, there's a place where second chances aren't just possible. It's the plan. The Harris County Department of Education has created four unique campuses serving students with some of the greatest needs. From those with behavioral, physical, and intellectual disabilities, many with autism, to students facing addictions, expulsion, or involvement with the justice system. Our schools are not just for learning, but for healing, hope, and for opportunity. Highpoint student, 16-year-old Carderek Pennywell, has already faced more than many adults ever will. >> Like, I'm a very impatient person. If I want something, I want it right then. I know my mom, she'll break her back to give me whatever she wanted. But like, it hurts to see your mom break her back. can do. >> Because of his
034offenses, Carderic spent two weeks in juvenile detention in downtown Houston. >> This year, he has attended High Point, a disciplinary alternative education program in Northeast Harris County. >> When he first came, I could see some uh immaturity. But over the weeks and months that he's been here, I've actually seen him growing, making better choices. >> Recently, Carderic and another student spent the day at Sire. there. He experienced the healing power of therapeutic horsemanship, one quiet moment at a time. >> I also walked away with the skill or just the idea of sometimes peace is needed. Sometimes stuff doesn't always have to be as loud. For the most part, I come in with a smile on my face. I get my work done. And I just found out that I actually have all my sophomore credits
035and any more credits that I get will be counted as junior credits. We're focusing our attention on what the students are doing, not allowing uh the mistakes of the past to usurp the possibilities of their future. >> Academic Behavior School East is where 14-year-old Joe Nelson has found his place and a path that's right for him. His parents say Joe possesses a special gift, the kind you're just born with. >> Joseph, we kind of joke he's kind of like the animal whisperer. And for fun, I like to fish, too. I like to ride my horses. I like to pet my animals, my dogs, my cows, my chickens, and I had a cat, but it passed away. As a baby, Joe missed developmental milestones. But it wasn't until the fifth grade he was officially diagnosed with
036autism. And as Joe began school, the frustrations grew when calls from the school were common occurrences. Joe's home district advisor Nelson's ABS East may be the perfect place for Joe >> coming here much smaller classes you have a special education teacher that is actually facilitating the lessons plus the paras are in the classroom for extra support >> still get the phone calls we don't get them as often but now the phone calls are talking about what happened talking about how we handled it and how ABS was able to deescalate the situ situation, we can continue enforcing the expectations and the rules at home and make sure that we're all on the same page with with all the teachers and principles and and support staff here. >> Always good to see you. >> And it's the
037school's special programs that have also given Joe something more, chances to be seen, to speak, and to shine. in his home district. He would have never gotten in front of a room full of his peers or strangers and been confident enough to public speak. And in West Harris County with an identical layout and mission is ABS West, where 12-year-old life skill student Wyatt Andsky attends. Wyatt is non-verbal, has severe autism, lives with a genetic disorder, and faces the challenges of epilepsy and other physical ailments. >> I remember coming here and taking a look at the campus and just really being very excited for Wyatt. Wyatt fell in love with the school and he's enjoyed coming to school ever since. He's learning life skills. He's learning functional skills. He's getting his occupational therapy and his speech
038therapies. There is a sensory lab here. The playground is um well suited to his needs. Um and the staff that work here truly um appreciate the unique qualities that are my son. In the academic behavior schools, 5 to 22 year olds are supported. Young adults like Colin Johnson are preparing to take the next step toward independence. Colin has been with ABS West since middle school and now he's working on gaining skills for a job through the life skills adult transition program. Every Monday he and his classmates visit the food bank and he is known as the leader of his group. He's definitely ready to transition because he's uh very verbal and he's one of those students that have gained the skills and it really can be a leader in our class. >> And it's not
039just about the job skills, it's about purpose, confidence, and belonging. >> I want to accomplish finding a girlfriend and getting a house. My little brother Colin is an amazing person. Just noticed a change in his ability to speak out, his ability to speak up, his ability to get his point across and do it in a manner to where he's not being aggressive. Colin being a student here, it's it's been amazing for everybody. And in North Houston, students like Madison Gilbert are learning to heal, rebuild, and push forward through life's toughest moments at Fortis Academy. >> My mom passed away last month, and that was like really hard to get through. So like I feel like without them, like I would just be like in a terrible spot right now. >> Madison is in the middle
040of a hard but hopeful journey and is committed to leaving vaping behind. >> I'm trying to quit really. Like it's it's really nasty and it's not good for me and it hurts me like mentally and physically. >> Charging this open drain. >> The culinary arts program also offers Madison a breather, a chance to step away from life stresses and focus on something she loves. They won't like talk down on you or like make you feel like um you're a bad person for doing drugs and having a drug problem. They'll help you get through it more than anything in the world. >> In HCDE special schools, students are not defined by their challenges. They are all individuals with unique gifts and potential. At HCDE, we believe that every student deserves a chance to thrive. And for
041these incredible young learners, that's exactly the opportunities the Harris County Department of Education provides. [Applause] This concludes the school's division annual update. Thank you all for your continued support. What questions do you have? Thank you, Dr. Ned. That's a excellent job. I just I want to inform the board that, you know, we have renovated every single facility for our special schools. And when we invested millions of dollars in these facilities, the principles were given a task. And that was, do not let your building outperform you. Don't be in a big shiny fancy building and have a terrible program. your program needs to be at par with what your building is and they have taken that to heart and I think that we have exceeded that expectation in many ways. uh we are set to try
042to change the perception of alternative education not just in Houston or Texas but the country you know no longer we've realized that the punitive model doesn't work what works is loving on kids you know and seeing something in them that maybe even their parents don't see you know to give them a cultural excursion and to show them that the world is not flat that's why you see programs like Ecquin and trying to teach them to be chefs. And so, you know, it's it's the most amazing thing is our ABS campuses where almost 100% of the parents do not want to send their kids to that school because they think it's a prison or they're thinking punitive. Within three months, they don't want to send them back to their home school. They want them to stay
043at our schools. So, it's not just the facility, it's truly the leadership, the structure, u but it's also the quality of the staff where our principles handpick people who care about kids. They handpick kid people who aren't scared of students. They're just kids, who can believe in them and try to help them aspire to be something greater than what they are. So that's what makes Harris County Department of Ed special and that's what makes our special schools special. I'll say this and this the last thing I'll say. There's only 25 school districts in Harris County, but our special schools serve over 50 school districts. We have school districts that will send their children 90 minutes one way just to go to one of our schools every single day and have done it for years. and
044it's because of the effectiveness of the school. So, Dr. Ned, kudos to you and your staff. Y'all have done a fantastic job. I truly appreciate our leaders, our principles, because it's not easy to run a building. They're responsible for every human in that building, whether it's a student or not. Um, and we just need to keep it going. I mean, you know, our our challenges with our students aren't easy. one of our students is could be the equivalent of five or six other kind of kids. Um, but you know, we're not afraid of that and that's why we're varsity. JV is afraid of that yesterday. I know Mr. Parker's got some pictures and it'll be in the newsletter. We went and rode some horses. I was on Fabio, the biggest horse out of all of
045them. I mean, he was a big old he was up to my nose. Fabio was stopped. Fabio was a little stubborn. But, um, we went there and we rode for what, 40 minutes all up through the woods and sticker briars and everything else only to see if that we were doing reconnaissance to see if this was a place that would help our students. We weren't there trying to ride the horses. We were trying to figure out, is this a place that we want to send our students to that could take them someplace that they haven't been before, you know, someplace that would make them curious, you know, and what I told the owner of the of the ranch is, I don't care how tough you are, I have never seen a student who's tougher than
046a horse. Oh, they back down real quick when you get around a big old horse. So, you know, I truly love what our special schools do. I see myself in so many of those students. Um, I enjoy watching our staff hug and love on kids and not be afraid of them because they're not used to that. They're used to being isolated, left alone, or whispered about, and that doesn't happen in our schools. So, keep it going. Outstanding job, and I look forward to having a great year. >> Thank you, sir. Do we have any other reports from board members concerning attendance or participation in a board or HCDE related conference event activity? And any report from board committees? Don't think so. Okay. And so we can move on to our monthly financial reports with Dr.
047Musqua. [Music] halfway. Okay, these are the financial highlights as of August 31st. And uh our highlights for for the month are uh we haven't uh received any tax revenue this month. This is the last month of the fiscal year. Uh the debt service payment is due in February. We're at 90% revenues and 83% in expenditures. Uh please know that this uh report is preliminary um before acruals and year-end procedures and adjustments. So it is a tentative how we're going to end the year but not exactly because we still have to acrue some of our uh payroll and some of our expenses that are some invoices that are still coming in. However, we have equity at 38 million fund balance uh donations for the month were 38,740 and this is one of the uh changes and
048then we just talked about it earlier. We started the year with 665 billion projected and we ended up with 653 billion only and so that was a a adjustments in our tax revenue. However, in number eight we did have received over 10.2 million in benefit variance from choice and then our foundation is at 238,000 in equity. Our small business uh um program is at 12%. Uh, Urban is at 99% and all our face up projects we're just pending release of one uh retainage. Excuse me. The tax calendar public hearing will need to be scheduled. And then we have IP pass uh for small businesses on September the 12th. Uh, and we did receive the number 22 in a row, the ASW uh award for for our financial report. So, we have that and we keep
049on uh receiving that and we're working on number 23, the uh the uh the uh tax calendar. Um today is the approval of the uh of the uh presentation for the approval of the the plan. We'll post a notice on October the 7th and then October the 15 uh we'll have the public hearing and also the approval on October the 15 as well on the tax rate. Again, we'll require a 60% motion to approve. As we mentioned, we have 688 billion in terms of values and ended up with 640 mill billion uh with certified values on September the 3. And uh I added this just to let you know the uh you know basically the the law that we follow in terms of calculating the uh the tax rate for for the year. Our balance
050sheet uh we're at 42.5 million in assets. Uh liabilities at 2.9, equity at 38 million. Uh and so that's our balance sheet as of August 31st. Again it is unodudited is uh tenative. uh we still have to do some year-end adjustments and so we have excess uh revenues right now at 4.9 million and so we will see how the adjustments that we need to make at the end of the year so we can end up uh with our revenues and the expenses on assigned fund balance we're at 31% versus 27% uh from last year working capital ratio we're at 39 uh versus 35 million our um u of unassigned fund balance ratio. We're at 52% versus 46% at the same time last year. Again, these are before the year end adjustments and 4% in debt
051to income ratio. Uh our debt is a total of uh 57.4 million combined debt service and uh our first payment for this year will be in the February time frame. Tax revenue, we're at 24% versus 21% from a year ago. And then indirect cost 3.1 to 2.9 from a year ago. Fee for service re revenue is at 18%. And then our growth ratio is at minus 10% due to the the u um not not receiving the uh u the abs early early enough to to be able to to add some additional uh contracts. Uh budget activity um these are the uh previous activities uh for for budget amendments. Uh we don't have any for for this particular month. Uh revenues and inflows we have 70.7 million or 90%. Overall we're at 81% budget to actual
052in terms of revenues and expenses we're at 79%. So we always want to have those two be um consistent u the same or one lower than the other. our um donations report we're at uh 38,740 in um donations for the month of August uh primarily for the safe schools uh donations that were received and also for after school program and this is the um progression of the tax values o over the year we started at 665 and we ended up at 653 and so that's how we track it every month with a presentation to the Uh we are at uh from budget we're at 99.1% versus 99.3 from a year ago in terms of budget to actual. And then we have 5,777,663 in terms of our dispersements, 455 funds and uh 701 transactions and six
053transfers. And then in our variance report for our uh schools, we have center for education benefit variance of 1.6 million, records management 676,000, uh therapy 3.6 million, and schools at 6.3. And we have uh um choice partners uh at 10.3, which is at 333% benefit ratio uh going strong. No budget amendments this month. um educational foundation, we're at $238,7 uh $446 in equity in the uh foundation. And in terms of our PFC and projects, uh we have uh the small business program where basically we have a 12% uh ratio from small business to large business uh taking into account the um government and utilities. uh from the uh from the ratio our uh cash uh balance for the uh PFC we have um 1,730 349 from the 2020 uh uh series and we still have
054656,219 in retainage uh due on the 2020 bonds. On the 24 uh notes, we have 10,643 uh,61 and we have 330 uh 330,612 pending in retainage. Uh in our maintenance notes, uh we have pending uh not committed yet 8,218,227. Um and uh pretty much all our projects are at 90 95 plus uh percent uh in terms of uh the uh um year-to- date uh payments. Um this is the report for the month of August. And uh what questions do you have on the uh financial report? >> Questions from the board? >> Superintendent. The next one is the investment report and our again the uh federal uh funds rate uh continues to be steady at 4.2 to uh 4.4 and a half. Uh the uh next meeting will be next week. expected uh rate at least
055two rate cuts in uh late 2025 but I think uh it is uh assumed that the market is uh uh already factor in at least one rate uh for for next week. Uh these are the rates you see from 441 to 492 uh on the yield curve. Our um portfolio is uh 53 million 4,308. Uh the majority is in Lonear 34%, Chase 5%, Texas class 17%, Texas Star 21, and text pool 23%. U in PFC, we still have 349,379 um for and they're all in the Bank of Texas funds. uh in comparison to a year ago, we're at uh 8.6 million less uh portfolio than a year ago is spending all the uh proceeds uh down. So that's minus4%. Our funds are pretty much all overnight. Uh and uh we've been earning uh year to
056date 2.4 million uh58,079 for the year to date and 26,178 in the PFC. the uh uh yield is 4.28. Um and so we're tracking that with a benchmark of 4.32. And as you can see is uh a year ago we were in 5% scenario and the the rates have come down steadily uh slowly u but you may see a a bigger drop uh in the month of September. So that's the report for investments. What questions do you have? No questions. Thank you. >> Thank you. >> Okay, moving on to consensus action items. >> Bless you. I have a few items that I will bring up for discussion before we vote. So, please take note of any items that you'd like to bring up for discussion and differentiate those from items that you'd like to actually
057pull from a separate vote. Are there any items you'd you'd want to pull for a separate vote? Okay, seeing none, I have one clarification if I may. Um, President Henosa for item 7F1. This is for HC case for kids division and the GF Coast Workforce Board. If we could just make a note um that for this agenda item to add language to um also delegate authority to the superintendent to negotiate, finalize, and execute the agreement. um because it's my understanding that although um this agreement is somewhat finalized that it that the GF Coast Workforce Board is still awaiting word from the state and so the it may changed based on um based on word from the state and so we we'd like to add that caveat to delegate authority to the superintendent. >> Thank you.
058Um, so we're going to add language to 7F to also delegate authority to the superintendent to negotiate, finalize, and execute the agreement. Um, because there may need to be some contractual changes to the agreement. Um, because the GF Coast Workforce Board is still in negotiations with the state. Um, because that money flows through to from the state to the G Coast Workforce Board then to us. Um, and so there may need to be some alterations or continued negotiations with that may change our agree the agreement that you're approving today. Okay. All right. Do I have a motion for consensus items? >> Uh, moved by Trustee Gantu, seconded by Trustee McGee. Okay. Any items up for discussion? C1 >> and we're just looking for an explanation. >> Okay. >> So, this is consider approval to submit
059a continuation application for a grant to the US Department of Health and Human Services. >> Headart. Yeah, that's the Office of Head Start. >> Yes. You have questions? >> Yeah, I think she's just looking for an explanation. >> Okay. So, we were just we have our first year of continuation for our large grant. That's the Head Start grant where we serve 800 students and we have 64 early Headstar students. So, we're required every October to resubmit a continu a continuation grant. So, this is for us to be able to get our notice of award. >> She's rolling. >> Thank you. >> Anyone else? >> Okay. I have a question. Uh I'm just looking for explanation for item D1 and D2. So D1 is consider approval of a contract award uh for minor construction, maintenance, repair,
060alteration, renovation. Hello there. D1 is u there are uh those are those are what we call full jaw general contractor type uh contracts. And these are two that were still under negotiation from uh the rest of the uh uh vendors uh uh went through in July and they were still under negotiation. So it's been a couple of months they're just coming through. D2 is separate. It's what we call trade jocks. They're like uh roofing companies HVAC and it's a totally it's not a separate it's a separate contract. So >> this is like work on our buildings, >> right? The guys say the guys that'll that'll Okay. >> Yes. Yes. Yes. Like the guys that will manage a bunch of trades. Okay. Will be a general and then the trades guys will be uh separate. >>
061So >> it's a it it's the contract for the choice uh partners contractors. >> Yes. >> For job order contract. >> These are these are awarding vendors to do work here or KDISD or wherever and for future work. >> Right. >> And one is general contractors. The other one's what we call trade contractors. They're more specific like roofers or whatever. >> Okay. And then so the next question I have just for explanation is D4 consider approval of contract award for right hydroponic farm. >> It's the same thing choice partner contract. >> Yes. >> All of D is choice. >> Okay. >> Yes. That's something that's become very popular with schools and things like that now is these hydroponic farms. And so we got a vendor that we can offer to schools, child nutrition department. >>
062Very nice. >> Okay. >> All right. Any questions? Anything else before we go to a vote? All right. Thank you very much. All right. All in favor to approve consensus items. Motion passes 70. For non- consensus action items 81, consider approval of renewal insurance premium for property and casualty insurance with McGriff, Cybles, and Williams of Texas, Inc. for all HCDE properties. Do I have a motion? >> Motion by Trusty Gantu. seconded >> by trustee >> Joshy. Thank you. >> Um any discussion? Uh trust me, Trusty McGee, >> just a quick question. Is this an increase in our premiums or how's the rates? How are the rates? These numbers actually reflect a decrease in premiums this year >> because we have fewer buildings that are covered or >> just the market. >> Declining the market. >>
063Well, when has that happened? Okay. >> Right. >> They they told us we would have a nice surprise and they paid came through and we said thank you and now we're here before you to get it. >> Nobody move. Nobody touch anything. >> That's right. >> That's it. Okay. Okay. >> I won't ask about the deductibles. All right. Any further questions? >> Seeing none, all in favor. All right. Motion passes. 70. And action item 82. Consider approval of change order number two with Durotch, Inc. for phase 2 miscellaneous building improvements including outdoor dining project at 6300 Irvington Boulevard, Houston, Texas in the amount of $93,328 and delegate authority to the superintendent or his designate to negotiate, finalize and execute the change order and any guaranteed maximum price amendment. Do you have a motion? A motion
064by trusty GU, seconded by Trusty Duhan. Any questions? >> Looking for an explanation? I was remiss and didn't wish all a good afternoon earlier. Um, so the 93,000 covers the rest of the work that needs to be completed here at Irvington. Primarily the work that we have added, which is the outdoor dining area for the benefit of our employees. And that will be um that will include everything from lighting to tile to fans to furniture and be a nice area for our employees to be able to go outside and and enjoy their lunch or whatever break moment that they need. >> That is the end of the phases that I'm aware of. Yes, ma'am. >> Any other questions? All in favor? Trusty Joshy. Okay. All of motion passes 70. >> Okay. And with that, we'll
065move into executive session under Texas government code pursuant to any and all purposes permitted by section 551.001 through 551.084, including but not limited to 551.071 and 551.074. and we'll move into session at 2:21 p.m. Thanks. >> The board is now reconvened from executive session at 2:45 p.m. And we are back for consideration of possible action items discussed in executive session. Do are there any? And uh discussion of any possible action regarding future agenda items. Do we have any? Okay. Seeing none, do I have a motion to adjurnn? >> So move. >> Motion by Trusty Davis, seconded by Trusty Duhan. All in favor? Motion passes. 6. >> Okay. >> And we are adjourned at 2:45 p.m. [Music]