001Okay, it is 5:00 on April the 20th. I call this meeting a Santa Fe Independent School District order. Let the record show corum board members present. This meeting has been duly called. This notice has been posted in accordance with the Texas Open Meeting Act, Texas Government Code Chapter 551. And board members will now adjourn to executive session is authorized by the Texas Open Meeting Act, Texas Government Code section 551.001 concerning any and all purposes permitted by that act. Should any final action, final decision or final vote be required, that final action, final decision and final vote shall take place in open session. And we are in executive session at 5:01 p.m. All right. Okay, good evening. I'd like to welcome uh each y'all to this uh meeting of the Santa Fe ISD Board of Trustees.
002I believe it's important that this meeting be conducted and organized in an efficient manner. And to that end, we just like to outline a few ground rules for us to follow during the course of the evening. First and foremost, recognize this is a board meeting. By law, most of the discussion and all of the voting must be done in open session, but public participation by necessity must be limited to that part of the agenda that's reserved for public input. Occasionally, the board may seek comment or clarification from an administrator in attendance or even from someone in the audience, but that's the board's prerogative to seek that information, and unsolicited participation from the audience is inappropriate. Secondly, at times it may seem we're voting on issues of importance with little or even no discussion. Just be
003advised that board members get a packet of background information about the subjects on tonight's agenda several days in advance. And after receiving those packets, we often will call and ask questions or seek uh information from various administrators as we need to to understand uh stuff that we're about to vote on. So, we thank you for being interested in your school district and that's witnessed by your presence here tonight. We encourage the active participation that educational process for your children and would appreciate your cooperation in helping us conduct the business of Santa Fe ISD in an organized and civilized manner and hope you enjoy this evening. Okay. Did any of our clergy come in tonight? If not, Mr. Davenport, would you lead us in our invocation, please? >> Please bow your heads. Heavenly Father, we come
004to you tonight just to say thank you for everything that you do for this district. Heavenly Father, we ask that as we approach the end of the school year, that you give all the administrators and staff all the energy and and wisdom that they need to help move our students along and help our district be thriving as we go into the summer season. Heavenly Father, we just want to appreciate everything that this school has been blessed with because of your name. Heavenly Father, as we go our separate ways tonight, we just ask that you watch over each and every one of us. For it is your name we pray. Amen. >> And invite Mr. >> Carter, would you come help us with the pledges, please? >> I pledge algiance to the flag of the United
005States 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. Okay, next we will move into the part of our agenda. Do we have any action from our close session? Mr. President, we got three actions tonight. The first one is that I move that we approve the superintendent's recommendations for professional contracts related to actions for the 2627 school year as detailed in the related pages in executive session. >> Second. >> Okay. It's been moved and seconded that we approve those recommendations from the superintendent. Any other questions or comments? >> If not, would you cast your votes, please? >> And then this pass unanimously. Okay,
006you have a second one. Number two action item, sir, is that I move to employee Gracie Abneider, Stephanie Garrett, Evan Delina Guerrera, Georgina Murphy, Alyssa Page, Mariah Reyes, Emory Sadillo, and Levette Wallace for the 26 27 school year. >> Second. >> Okay. Okay, it's been moved and second that we approve these employment opportunities for these personnel administrative staff. Any other questions or comments? M. Would you cast your votes, please? >> And it has passed unanimously. And you've got one more. >> And I think I'm going to have to help with Dr. Bot with this one. >> I'm marking that down. Dr. Bot, do you have something you'd like to present for us? >> Yes, sir. Uh, I'm just going to read a brief statement here. So, just hold on a minute. Um, we are very
007excited to recommend Miss Tori Stewart as the new principal at R.J. Wulm Elementary. Miss Stewart began her career in Alvin ISD where she served as for 13 years in multiple roles as a classroom teacher and as an instructional coach and for the fa past five years has served as the assistant principal at Lobat Elementary in Dickinson ISD, a campus that earned an A designation from TEA. Uh during her tenure, Miss Stewart earned her bachelor's degree from Houston Baptist University where she also played collegiate softball. Uh earned her master's degree in educational administration from Lamar University. her husband Jake Stewart, Santa Fe High School graduate, and they have two sons, both of whom are currently enrolled in Santa Fe schools. And Miss Stewart writes, she emailed this, so I had to read this. Miss Stewart writes
008that she is passionate about building strong relationships, supporting teachers, ensuring all students are successful, and she is most excited about building connections with the staff, the students, and the families of R.J., and continuing the great work that is already in place. And so, at this time, Mr. President, we're recommending that we uh hire Miss Tory Stewart. Take a look. >> Yes, sir. Um, thank you, Dr. But with that, Mr. President, I move that we employ Tory Stewart Stewart as the RJ Wum Elementary President >> Principal or the president >> for the 2627 school year. >> Okay. It's been moved and seconded that we approve the recommendation for the principal at RJ Willam Stewart. Any other questions or comments? If not, would you cast your votes, please? And it has passed unanimously. Congratulations. >> I don't
009do well with attention on me. Put me in front of the the staff, but with back to school, that's my jam. I'll be totally good at that. And I won't need a note card all the time. I promise. But bear with me when attention is on me. And things like a little bit nerve-racking to say the least. Um, so first I just wanted to say thank you for the board of trustees and to Dr. Bot for trusting in me. I'm truly honored and feel incredibly blessed to serve as next principal for R.J. Wum. Um, I'm excited to build, like you said, on the strong foundation that is already in place at R.J. W by supporting you guys and um just moving forward to strengthen those relationships that are already there. We will continue the great
010work already underway to ensure that every student has an opportunity to succeed. And then lastly, I'm just grateful to be able to serve this community. Um, and I'm eager to partner with the staff, students, and families to be able to do so. I'd also like to thank my family for and friends for their support. Um, I don't know what I would do in life without them being. Um, and lastly, I'm just already inspired uh by all the work that we will accomplish together. So, thank you all so much for being here and the whole warriors. >> So, thank you again just to the R.J. staff for showing up. We do have a brief reception uh for Miss Stewart across the hall. And so, at this time, y'all are welcome to >> make your way make
011your way over there. >> Eric's got something for you. That's good stuff. She'll always remember that sister right there. >> Okay. Next on our agenda, we have some recognitions tonight. I believe Miss Davenport. Good evening. We would like to start our recognition this evening by inviting Miss Ryan up to recognize one of our junior high students who is part of the 4H robotics team. Good evening. This evening, um, I would like to recognize Jace Vickery. Is Jace in the room? Jace, come on up. The Galveston County 4H Robotics Club meets for practice every two weeks. The team learned how to design and build a functioning Lego Mindstorm robot and how to program it to move, turn, lift, maneuver attachments effectively, use sensors, and distribute and pick up. Jayce Vicky's 4H robotics team called the Bot
012Bros, is that right? Took first place junior division at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo's 2026 a robotics contest, which was on March 18th. We would like to recognize him for this accomplishment. >> Okay, >> you're good, dude. Don't worry about it. It's all good. It's one quick picture. We got you. >> All right. >> Okay. Keep smiling. Just keep smiling. All right. One, two, three. >> Got it. Perfect. Congratulations. Congratulations. Give him a medal. Chase. >> Congratulations. >> Next, we would like to invite Mr. Cassidy up to recognize some of our junior high band students. >> I was just going to grab my clipboard. Y can come up. Y'all can come up right here. Right there. >> Some of you on this side, too. >> All right. My name is Archie Cassidy. I'm the
013head band director at the junior high. I have some of the symphonic band members here to represent the symphonic band. Um, good evening members of the board, Dr. Bot, district leadership, parents, and community. It is my honor to stand before you tonight to recognize an outstanding group of student musicians, the Santa Fe Junior High Symphonic Band. This year, our students achieved something very special at the URIL concert and site reading evaluation. They earned straight first division ratings on stage and f and 112 ratings in sight reading which together earned them the distinction of sweep stakes which means they get a UIL sweep stakes trophy. This marks the second consecutive year that our junior high band has earned superior ratings in both concert performance and site reading. an accomplishment that reflects not only talent but consistency,
014discipline, and a deep commitment to excellence. What makes this achievement even more meaningful is how these students performed. They didn't just play notes of the music. They performed with confidence, focus, and musical maturity well beyond their years. Their energy on stage and their ability to respond in the site reading room demonstrated the strength of their preparation and the culture of excellence being built in our program. I would like to also recognize the dedicated educators who made this possible. Um along with me, Miss Henderson, Miss Janet Henderson, who wasn't able to make it here tonight. She's assistant band director at the junior high. Mr. Blaine Shmier, the percussion director. He's assistant at the high school. who was invaluable to us helping us with our percussion and of course the director of bands Mr. Matt Reigns, your
015dedication and cab collaboration and commitment to students growth are evident in every performance. We would also like to extend a special thank you to Miss Andrea Troutman whose expertise and guidance as a consultant has been invaluable in supporting and continuing success to the junior high band program. To our students, you have represented Santa Fe with pride. You have shown hard work, teamwork, and belief in one another can accomplish. We are incredibly proud of you. The future of the Santa Fe Brown program is bright, and today's recognition is just one step in a much larger journey. On behalf of our community, congratulations to the Santa Fe Junior High Symphonic Band. Don't try to hide either. >> Great job, guys. >> Don't be shy. >> Come on, guys. >> Marcus, you scooch over here. There you go.
016I didn't mean to scooch back. >> You are invited. >> I was telling the rest. They weren't sure. >> Yeah. Fill that space in. If I can't see you, you can't see me. Everybody get it. >> Congratulations, guys. Exit that way. Miss Ryan has a medal for you. >> Great job. >> Thank you. >> Good job. >> Hey, Tren. At this time, I would like to invite Mr. Reigns up to recognize our indoor percussion and legacy guard. >> I'm going to turn this over to my assistant, Mr. Schmire, who's going to do the announcement. For those of you who are standing, we're not using the reserve seats anymore. You can go ahead and take advantage of those. It's okay. >> All right. Good evening everyone. Uh first I would like to thank our amazing school
017board for uh inviting us out to share our achievements tonight. This winter, Santa Fe High School percussion and legacy guard achieved a landmark season that would be remembered as a defining moment in the program's history. Competing together for the first time as a unified indoor ensemble in the percussion scholastic double A division. The group demonstrated uh exceptionary artistry, discipline, and innovation across the competitive circuit. Their their their production, something in the dark, captivated audience with a haunting and immersive atmosphere. The show blended theatrical storytelling with musical complexity, featuring selections ranging from the classic works of JS Bach to the iconic Sweet Dreams Are Made of This by Urithmics, along with the dramatic influence of Japanese rock band Malice Meiser. The music was thoughtfully arranged by yours truly, creating a seamlessly and emotionally engaging soundsscape. Visually,
018the performance brought shadows to life. The color guard portraying ghostly figures delivered a chilling and immersive choreography designed by our amazing and wonderful color guard instructor Scarlett Fanders to my right. Complementing this was the intricate marching drill by show coordinator Heather Hyde, which transformed the door or the floor into shifting spectrical forms, all under the leadership of my right-hand man who's to my left now, Matthew Reigns, our amazing band director. The entire production was expertly coordinated into a cohesive and powerful experience. The ensemble's competitive success matched its artistic ambition throughout the season. They earned fourth place at the Pasadena Memorial Contest, first place at the Friendswood contest, third place at Cypress Falls, and second place in the Cypress Ranch area contest. Their remarkable journey culminated into a second place finish at the state championship held
019at the epicenter, the highest level placement in the history of Santa Fe percussion. This groundbreaking season was not only marked by the first collaboration between the percussion and the guard in the winter comp uh competition, but also set a new standard of excellence. was something in the dark. Santa Fe Percussion and Legacy Guard didn't just performed, they made history. Give them a round of applause. >> Let's get a picture, y'all. >> Congratulations, y'all. Way to go. >> Great job. >> Way to go. >> Congratulations. >> We got the whole family up here. Yes. >> All Congratulations that way. I'm gonna go. >> Awesome job. >> Good job. Thank you. >> Good job, man. >> You are always in here, man. Great job, dude. We appreciate you, man. >> Congratulations. Great presentation. Ladies and gentlemen, >>
020all right, at this time we would like to invite Coach Shepard up to recognize our powerlifting students >> and Coach Web. No, no. Back, back, back. >> We got everybody in our ladies and men. >> How are you? >> Strong team, >> right? >> All right. Good evening, folks. My name is James Shepard. I'm the head powerlifting coach at Santa Fe High School. I have with me uh my assistant, Coach, Web. Uh and we're here this evening to recognize our uh our girls and boys uh regional qualifiers and uh our state qualifier we had on the on the boys side. Uh first uh for the girls side we we lifted in two divisions this year. We lifted in an unequipped division and an equipped division. Unequipped is it's more pure. It's more you know you
021got a singlet on, you've got knee sleeves on and weight belt and it's what you can do. There's nothing else helping you other than yourself, man. and and I've really liked it and that's the only division we lifted in on the boys side. Uh so for the girls we had Brooklyn Blake, Sierra Flowers, Sydney Malfa and Charliss Msina qual qualify for the girls regional meet for region 4. And the thing about the unequipped division on both sides, boys and girls, is they were lifting against all divisions 1A through 6A. You had to be in the top 12 in your weight class in order to make that meet. And so like that's very impressive when you're lifting against 200 other girls in that weight class and you were one of the top 12 and you got
022to go represent Santa Fe and in in our region and go have a chance to get out. On the equip side, uh they do by school classification. So 5A small schools lift against 5A small schools, 6A, you know what I mean? And it it it gives schools more of a chance to to compete against the same size school. So, we had Cali Ramos, Aaliyah McTazzuma, Jolie Van Hooton, uh Macy Pantalone, Hannah McCroy, Emma Harrison, Brooklyn Matthews, and Paige Hamka make it. We had 12 girls qualify for regionals this year. And since I've been here, that's the most I've been able to to make. And it we had a great year on the girls side. On the boys side, we had Jacob Hodgej, Lane Frell, uh Jaden Bailey, Blake Trashet, Billy Landers, Kase Kenny, and Nicholas
023Gettis qualify for the unequipped uh on the boys end. Just like I said, they were lifting against every 1A through 6A school. and we competed uh and we had uh Billy Landers win first place in the 275 pound weight class and got to go represent Santa Fe in our region at the first ever boys unequipped state meet and it was a blast. He finished in sixth place. Uh and it it was awesome just you know out of of everything. So I want to give these kids a round of applause moving forward. Uh we've got a bunch of freshman girls you know what I mean? My seniors did a great job of leading an example and and continuing the tradition that we've laid in the program. And like I said, in the past, we've had three
024boys qualify for a meet or one boy get like last year. Uh but to have seven boys uh be able to fill out a team. It just shows their dedication uh to to what we're doing, the program we're building across all sports because most of these kids don't just powerlift, they do everything. Anytime they can represent, they do. So, this just becomes another facet that they can and can prove their athleticism and and keep that competitive edge. So, this year's 2020, yeah, 2026 Boys and Girls Regional Qualifiers. And then Billy Landers, our our state representative. So, give these guys a round of applause. That'd be awesome. >> Great job. >> Congratulations. Good job, >> girls. Nicely done. Great season. Congratulations. >> Good job. Congratulations. Great team. Great job. I know, right? >> Congratulations. So, I
025changed something up. I'm superstitious. >> Congratulations. >> No speech. >> Yeah, we can make this happen. >> We know you love it. >> At this time, I would like to invite Mrs. Let's go up to recognize one of our RJW employees. >> No, you're good. You're good. >> Oh, yeah. Invite her up with you to see. >> All right, Bonnie. Come on. >> All right. Anyone who has ever been in an elementary school cafeteria at lunchtime knows how loud and chaotic it can be. It can also be extra challenging when you and a friend and a few of your co-workers are tasked with supervising them. Between opening lunch items, helping students with silverware, ketchup, napkins, bathroom breaks, and doing our best to keep everyone seated, it can feel overwhelming at times. It's certainly not glamorous
026work, and it's not for the faint of heart. But we do it because we love our kids. One day in February, after we had just finished dismissing the kindergarteners, and amidst all the movement and noise, Bonnie noticed that there was a student who began choking on a mozzarella stick. Without hesitation, she jumped into action, performed the Heimlick maneuver, and successfully cleared his airway. Thank God that she was there at that exact moment. Bonnie's willingness to give 100% demonstrates her dedication to her role at R.J. WLM and her commitment to keeping our students safe. She is truly our hero. We are incredibly blessed to have her on our campus at R.J. Woo. We love you very much, Bunny. >> Thank you. Thank you so much, Jesus. Okay, next I'm going to invite Miss Lissy up to
027recognize our volunteer photographers. All right. Hello. Lots of things happening tonight. I probably could have used some of that photography work tonight. Um, I'd like to take a moment to recognize and thank some talented individuals who help out in our district. Um, I don't know if you've noticed an uptick in excellent pictures on our social media pages and on our halls in our halls and in our walls um in our wonderful monitors out front. We um started a program, the Santa Fe ISD volunteer program, and we basically asked people who love to do hobby photography or who are already at our games to allow us to use their photos, give them credit, um and let help us tell the story of Santa Fe. And um these individuals have been wonderful about letting us use their
028their work and they are happy to do it. They're always like, "I'll be at this event. I'll be at this event." And it's just wonderful to connect with some of them. Um, I'm not sure. I've se There's one of them right here. Miss Megan, come on up. Miss Megan has been um great. Come on. I don't think I think there's another one. Is there another one? >> Yes, there he is. I was like, I know he's here somewhere. Come on up. >> Come on. >> Don't be shy. Don't be shy. Come on up. You're like, what are they going to do? I'm just going to take your photo with my camera. Um, it's because of these individuals that we're able to capture uh the kids and the parents and everything that's happening in our district.
029um they've been instrumental in helping us get those stories out. Uh what's also wonderful um like I'm going to give you an example, Miss Leah Cloyd. I don't think Leah's here tonight. I haven't seen her. Um you know, she I was able to submit one of her pieces for one of our Teespr awards. Uh so it's been wonderful. It's been helpful. Um we get to put out professional work. Um, and I just can't thank them enough and I appreciate you collaborating with us and and just helping me out because you know me and my phone, we can only do so much. Uh, and I appreciate you both very, very much. So, if I could get your photo, not with my camera, but with my phone. Thank you so much. I appreciate it so much. I'm
030going to get Mr. Daniel and Miss Megan up here to take a photo. Thank you guys. >> Thank y'all. Thank you very much. >> Thank y'all. Thank you very much, sir. >> Yeah, y'all know Megan. That's Daniel, by the way. What's up, Daniel? Dr. Bot, if you will scoot that way just a hair, Patrick. There you go. That means you shuffle, too. Perfect. One, two, three. >> All right. Thank you so much. >> Congratulations. Thank you. >> Appreciate it. >> We appreciate it. >> Thank you, Daniel. So hopefully, you know, or this year. So hopefully >> next the district would like to announce that we will be celebrating speech and hearing month, school lunch hero day, teacher appreciation week, school nurse day, and police week in May. And at this time, we would like to
031recognize our employees of the month. So if you are in attendance this evening, please join me at the podium as I call your name. From Barnett, we have Stephanie Rekoff. from Kubichek, Gabby Gardner, Raone Romano, Moreno, I'm sorry if I said that incorrectly, Carolyn Gaspart from Wulm, Bonnie Garza from junior high, Brandy me from the high school, Jenna Ryder from ISA, Rachel Harris Napoli from the transportation department, Danielle Betts Rogers from maintenance and operations. Jeff Coington from the custodial department. Martha Andino from the administration building. Delilah Owens from police. Sean Walsh. >> I love that sign. >> And from nutrition services, Helen Wilner. Congratulations and thank you for your service to our students and the district. You're going to have to get a separate picture. >> I don't think anybody's ever bought a sign before.
032>> You're going to have to get a picture of that sign. >> That is fun. All right. I don't know why I took these off. Just leave them on my head all night. Okay. All right. One, two, three. Got it. >> Congratulations. Congratulations. >> Where's your certificate? Y'all, >> bring that sign up and take a picture of that. >> Your certificates are that way. >> Bring your sign up. >> Yes. >> Thanks for being there, >> Sean. Thank you so much. Appreciate you, >> Sean. And Bonnie, y'all certificates are that way. If you want to go pick up your employee of the month certificate. >> All right. >> Yes. >> No, you're good. >> Okay. All right. Got it. One, two, three. Got it. Thank you all very much. >> And that's all of our
033recognition this evening. Thank you. >> Thank you. >> Good showing. >> Okay. Thank you, Mr. Davenport. Uh, next we will move into public comment. The board of trustees will hear public comment on agenda items at all open meetings in accordance with the Texas Government Code section 551.007. Public comment on non-aggenda items will be heard at the regularly scheduled board meetings April, August, and December per our policy. And tonight, we have no one that has signed up for public comment. So, we will move on now to our next item of business, which is our information items. Dr. Bot, what did you bring for us this month? >> Yes, sir. We just have a a brief update on the Santa Fe 10 memorial process. Um, Mr. Wheeler is going to give a that presentation. Good evening. Uh
034I wanted to give you a quick update on uh about a 30,000 foot level of how the memorial is coming along and some funding updates and along with some construction timelines. Um currently right now we're sitting at uh the the governor signed the bill in June 2025. uh March 20th of this year uh they completed the negotiation of the intellectual property ownership section uh for Santa Fe 10 memorial grant program NTEA's provisions and asurances document uh which led to April 15th of this year uh Santa Fe 10 memorial grant was posted uh currently it is in the administrative process and then the notice of grant award will be issued after the administration setup is completed at At that time, uh, once the once the grant award is issued, Santa Fe ISD will send an invoice
035to the memorial committee for an amount that will be agreed upon for the pre-construction cost and the maintenance that will start the processes. And then at that time, Santa Fe ISD will be set up as a subcontractor to oversee the construction of the of the actual memorial. Uh right now the timeline that we have is May 18th of this year. We would like to the memorial committee would like to do a ceremonial groundbreaking at the high school. Uh more details will be followed after that. I'm going to talk with Trovinho Group along with the education foundation or excuse me the memorial foundation to get actual data or actual details for how we're going to do that. The way we're going to do that um June 11th we are expected to have a 50% uh issuance
036of for an estimate July 75% and then August 95% issuance on GMP. Uh from there once a GMP submission by Trovinho Group will go for review and then September 10th the memorial committee foundation will give a GMP approval um on the in the September board meeting September of this year September 2026 they would we will bring the GMP to the board for the actual construction >> from that point after the board uh makes their decision we will give an issue uh to proceed with a substantial completion date for May 17th of 2027 with a dedication on May 18th of 2027. That time that is the update that I have if anybody has any questions. Um Megan and Chris are here. They have a lot more details um if anybody has any questions that I can
037answer. >> James, you've uh you've been the board liaison with this committee now for quite a while. Do you have anything that you want to add or anything that you think that we need updated on that we don't know what we don't know at this point in time? >> Well, I mean, as far as the actual design, nothing has changed. The the design that that y'all approved two years ago to move forward with that entire concept is almost identical to what it was two years ago. That hasn't changed. Um, one of the reasons I wanted them to bring an update to the board this month is because, believe it or not, it's been two years already since we agreed to the last agreement, and it had a two-year sunset clause on it. Part of that
038agreement also said at the sunset of it, it was to be put back on the agenda to be voted on for extension. So, next month we need to bring that and put it on the agenda for next month um to be voted on for an extension. But, I mean, basically right now they're looking at September probably for a for a final approval from us is about the time frame we're looking at right now. So, other than that, I mean, nothing's really changed as far as design and stuff. It's all the same. >> Have y'all seen any significant increase in your budget from two years ago versus today for the construction? >> Yeah. So as you can imagine some of those partnerships for examping And a lot of the things have actually came back a little
039cheaper than we originally kind of expected anyway. How long until completion once we get started? Are we targeting May of 2027 uh as an example? >> Yes. >> And so you know performance August 31st. >> I see. Thank you. >> PBK and Trevinho Group, Edgeland, uh, Landscape Art, all of them. They're they're ready to go. I mean, they're just waiting. The second that they get the word go, they're going to be ready to go. >> So, they're they're they don't want us to come out and say, "Yes, we're going to be done in eight months." But >> the pro the project is heavy on the civil side of it. It's not a lot of vertical construction. Uh the detail that's going to go into the feathers is really what's going to be a driving factor.
040Um but just like um Megan talked about Renfro being at at a place where they are and this being so long in the process that there's not going to I think the each family already has their idea of what they want and it's kind of already putting that foot forward. So there's a there's a lot that's leading into it. A lot of it was just in contingent on the money actually coming from the state. >> Any other questions for Chris? I don't have any questions, but if it's okay, I just want to say a heartfelt congratulations for getting this to this point. I know it has been a battle. So, it's really great news to hear this. >> Anyone else? You know, I definitely, you know, talk with James periodically to get updates and uh
041the same names keep getting mentioned, Chris and others, and all the help that's that's going in that and the dedication of folks. So that's and truly I I think this is going to be a great thing for everyone involved if we get this done and it's something that while we wish that the event had never taken place, it did. And I think this would be a good memorial and a good place for this community. And we are excited for that to happen. And thank y'all very much for your efforts. And again, I know you're here and there are others that enjoy, you know, they we we need to be thanking them and we are trying to do the best we can do and we want to keep moving this on. So, thank y'all very much.
042>> Thank you. >> Anything else, Mr. Wheeler? >> No, sir. >> You have anything else from sir? >> All we have. >> All right, let's move on into our consent agenda. >> Yes, sir. We We just have our minutes and accounts payable. We have a a budget amendment, some proclamations, uh the approval of some general merchandising and fast food bid awards, and some donations. >> Mr. President, make the motion that we approve all consent agenda items as presented. >> Second. Okay, it's been moved and seconded that we uh approve the consent agenda as presented. Any other questions? Not cast your votes, please. It has passed unanimously. Thank you very much. Okay, we will move into our regular agenda items. We have a few and Dr. Bot, you are going to do the first one with
043our civility policy. Yes, sir. This is an unusual uh policy. It's not something we've ever introduced before, but um I think by nature of just some recent changes in the world and society we live in, it it has become necessary. And so I first want to begin by just thanking the the teachers and the staff, the administrators of Santa Fe ISD for always working so hard to build connections uh with our our our students and with our parents. Anytime there's um any kind of an issue or concern with our students, our staff will do whatever they have to do to try to help make sure our kids are successful. That means uh working late, extra hours, nights, weekends. We care about these kids and I think any staff member would agree that they will do
044whatever they have to do um however many hours it takes to make sure our kids are successful. But having said that, we just don't necessarily live in the same world that we did 20 years ago or or 10 years ago or even 5 years ago. And uh I would say recently in the past few years, not not often, but occasionally, uh we do sometimes have interactions with parents or community members that sometimes can become univil. And it's again sad, but it is the truth. We do sometimes have individuals come into our school district that might treat our staff, our teachers, our administrators disrespectfully or unprofessionally. And so at this time we felt it was uh appropriate to introduce something new and we're calling it a civility policy because our staff works extraordinarily hard to maintain
045a semblance of respect and professionalism and maintain environment that we know is positive and welcoming if someone were to come into our district and not behave that way. Uh that we would want to be able to lean on a policy such as this to say that this is our expectation of ourselves and anyone who interacts with us. And so some some portions I would like to make sure we're we're reading that again a standard we set for our staff. We're asking that anyone engages with our staff also is to treat one another with dignity and respect at all times. Listening carefully with openness and respect. Avoid yelling or hostile tones or demeaning language. Refraining from profanity or any type of insulting gesture. Yes, sadly sometimes these things do happen and sometimes our teachers and staff
046may even be talked to or treated this way. And I also have on here avoiding any forms of of of or of threats or or statements that could cause fear or damage to to people or or property. As strange as that may sound, occasionally it does happen. And so this policy is being brought for you in an effort to support our teachers and staff and the hard work and do and that they do so that the public will know and anyone who knows that comes to SanDis, this is not something that we want to tolerate. We want to make sure that we're modeling excellence in our behavior and in our speech for everyone. And we ask that others who engage with our staff do the same. And so the sole purpose of this is to
047be as supportive of our staff as we can be in their efforts to make connections with families and parents to do what's best for our kids. I'll entertain any questions. >> Any questions for Dr. Bot on the civility policy? >> Much pleasure. >> Mr. President, make a motion that we approve the Santa Fe ISD civility policy as presented. >> Second. I I got a quick question before we vote. >> Yes, sir. >> Do do we have to have uh uh two hearings on this or we or is just one? >> So when No, sir. When >> we don't have to have a first and second reading >> No, this would be a board policy. This would be this ultimately be part of the district policy. So when parents are signing that they're registered students to
048agree with to comply with our our our code of conduct and comply with our district policies, this would now be included. >> Thank you. Great question. >> Any other questions? If not. All right. It's been moved and second that we approve this ability policy as presented. Uh to cast your votes, please. This pass unanimously. Thank you very much, sir. >> All right, Alex. We got a review of the investment policy and strategies. Yes, sir. >> Actually, you've got two of them coming up. >> Good evening. So yes, um I have two items coming up. The first one is um regarding our investment policy and strategies. As you know, uh the public uh um funds investment act uh was passed a while back and it requires school districts to follow certain rules regarding investments and just
049basically the the the finances of the district. Um, one of those, um, requirements is for the board to approve and review the policy, the investment policy every year, um, and get it just approved on a yearly basis uh, in case there's any changes in policy or in any type of legal framework. Um, again, we are coming up uh for the board for approval of that board policy as as stated under um, local and legal. Anybody have any questions for Alex on that? >> Mr. President, I move that we approve investment policy resolutions including names and brokers and investment options. >> Second. >> Okay. It's been moved and second that we approve this review of the investment policy and strategies. Any other questions? Cash your votes, please. And it has passed unanimously. Thank you, sir. All
050right. You have one more. >> Yes, sir. And under that same act, um we do have to bring an auditor every year as required by law so that they can perform auditing services for our financials um the presentation of our financial statements every year and give us uh an opinion on those financials. We have engaged in previous years with Mason Associates and we have actually asked them this year to uh provide us an engagement letter for the fiscal year ending in 2026. So, it'll be the 2526 school year that they'll be auditing. Um, so we're asking the board to consider and approve Mason Associates uh to perform the 2526 fiscal year uh year-end audit not to exceed $48,000. >> Was that 48,000? >> Yes, sir. 48. >> Any questions for Alex on that? Not what
051your pleasure. Mr. President, I'll make a motion to approve the terms of the audit agreement with Maize and Associates PLLC to perform the 2526 fiscal year end audit not to exceed 48,000. >> Second. Okay, it's been moved and seconded that we approve this terms of this uh audit engagement. Any other questions? Not cast your votes, please. And it has passed unanimously. >> Thank you'all. >> Thank you. >> All right. Next, we have a contract for our speech services, Miss Hulls. >> Yes, sir. >> So, we started off this school year with an open speech language pathologist position that never got filled. Imagine that. So, obviously, we have to provide those services that are outlined in students IEPs. So, we have uh been contracting those services this school year with the open position still posted and
052moving that position up very regularly to uh make it to where it's when you click on the apply now, you see that position at the top of the postings. Um we also even went to the um we decided instead of just posting a speech language pathologist, let's post a speech language pathologist assistant. So, I can say we have been successful there. However, that individual is not going to be able to start with us until next school year. So, we've got to we've got the remainder of the school year to um continue our contracted services for speech. So, I'm asking for you to consider and approve contracted speech services for the remainder of the 20 school year not to exceed $90,000. Is that the academic school year? >> Yes, academic school year. Yes, sir. So, that
053would be going back to August and continuing to provide these services with that open position, but through contracted services. >> Okay, I'm a little bit confused because one place it mentions 2627 school year and one place it mentions 2526. >> That was a typo on my behalf that I actually corrected. Okay, that's >> uh this evening. Um I noticed it about you know 20 minutes before we had to >> start this meeting. So my apologies. >> No, I get myself in trouble sometime making assumptions. So I just wanted to make sure that there wasn't something there that you're going to come back and say no dummy. It really is. I thought it was too accurate in that uh catch there. >> My apologies. >> No, >> my proof reading always gets better about 3 seconds
054after I hit send. Yeah, I went panic mode. >> Come back. I want it back. >> I did go to pan in panic mode to Alex. What do I do? What do I do? >> Anyway, it was fixed. And I thank Julie for >> just want to make sure that the motion and everything for the records is correct. That's >> Yes, sir. >> That is for this school year, not next school year. >> So, Mr. President make the motion to approve the contracted speech services for the remainder of this academic calendar school year which is the 2526 year not to exceed 90,000. >> That is correct. Yes, sir. >> Second. >> Okay. It's been moved and seconded that we approve the contracted speech services. Any other questions or comments? I cast your votes, please. >>
055And it has passed unanimously. And thank you for clarifying. very much. >> Okay, Harris, we have one more. >> All righty. Okay. Um All right. So, um every year we have to publicly present uh what's the taper, which is the Texas academic um wait just totally froze. performance review report. Lord, called it a paper report for so long. I'm like, golly. And we have to also um present the federal report card. Sorry. Um okay, so these numbers have been what you have already seen no less than three times this year in board meetings already. The minute the stu the students finished the test, we came out and told you what they they how they did and it was in raw data. When we um had our preliminary um looks at our ratings, we told you
056what it was preliminary rating would be. Then when the academic um A throughF rating came out, we did it again. And so this that's why I'm saying today, tonight, what I tried to do is basically come up with a way in which you're like, why are we have to do it? It's just one of those federal law types of things. And so I'm going to hit some highlights. I'm going to go kind of fast. Um but uh so if you have any questions or maybe you know didn't make sense, just let me know and I'll I'll um you know take any questions at the end. Uh but basically your taper report the the purpose of it is to find strengths, weaknesses, use it for planning and so tonight I want to show you what our
057district strengths are, things that we've already talked about and then it gives you some things, some important discussion items that you're able to talk about with our um our public and community. What are we planning? So um it's a snapshot of our performance. Again, our district is a is a B and we have several campuses that are very close to A's. Um, and it also will show trends in um areas that we need to improve on. Um there is a special education uh determination status which comes out and says meets determination. It means that we are um collecting all the data on our special education students and and doing everything correctly. It's just a meets requirement. district strengths. Um we do see academic student growth. Um a lot of our um subject areas. Now this
058is an aggregate of all of the data. So we we're not going to go line by line because we've already like I said we've already done that many times before on our our 2025 data is that we do see um a lot of expected uh growth. Our our campuses speak to that a lot. And so even students who may not meet the actual mark of an accomplished or a meets or a master's um they still are meeting growth. Um and we'll we'll take this away. Um I'm going to go ahead and make a shout out to our junior high last year. Uh saw an incredible growth um from the previous year. Uh we also have strong graduation outcomes and uh so and completion outcomes. So you'll see in class of 24 it was like around
05991% and then it improved from there. We also have an extended graduation rates of five years five and six that are above 93 and essentially that means we have about a 0% dropout rate. Why this matters is we're actually keeping them in school and getting them graduated and that is ultimately our our role here. Um, I also gave some quick reminders of our um, college and career um, service um, military readiness skills are are really high in our district in the 90s. I know we've spent a lot of time talking about how the the um, they basically now if you get a 90 it's it's you know scaled down. Um, but at least we can say that our kids are leaving college and career ready. So um we also have high performances in our end
060of course subjects of biology and US history. Um we're going to talk briefly about uh meets and masters but I do want to show you that in these subjects we not only can get high approaches uh we also get very high scores in meets and in masters. And so um those EO EOCC scores are are pretty high amongst the the state. Um so areas that we do want to address are some areas of um what I just said about the meets and masters. So essentially we have a lot if you look at the district as a whole um we we you might have pockets where our meets and masters is doing really well um especially in our elementary campuses but as we move through junior high and high school then those meets and masters um
061kind of scale down. So, uh, the federal like domain three and we won't get into the weeds tonight because we've already been in the weeds. Um, they it doesn't count anything that's an approaches. So, and when we send you that data, a lot of times you just have to remember that domain 3 is only um our meets and masters. So, that is one of the areas that we're focusing on. So, I'm kind of just trying to in a very quick way remind you of our goals as a district. So the entire district is working on um not only growth but also growth in our meats and masters. >> Ra I have one quick question comment that you have on this. >> Do we have a situation potentially not just Santa Fe but just in general
062with kid where it has become more the norm to just accept the minimum to get by and move on in all the things they're doing. I think that that's something that I mean as long as I've been in education, you know, that kind of apathy that good is good enough is something that I think teachers fight all the time. So I I mean I might would have to ask the ladies behind us if we see any any >> you're not seeing it worse now than you it was 10 years ago. >> It's always, you know, and it's always something we have to push. Uh so a lot of our language is that we're not even going to really communicate that an approaches is a passing score. Now so many times parents and students know but
063the more that we say a meets or a masters is what's required is you know we'll get into their brains but um we do lots of incentives and things like that but it's something that we fight all the time. I don't know that it's more or less, but um math is a big systematic challenge. So, uh we've been working on I know on Blue Bonnet um to bring in really good curriculum. Um, math is going to kind of be our next phase of of improvements and it is because our meats and masters tends to be lower as a district um with our um with in that one subject. Okay. Uh, also I'm going to say the middle school achievement dip. And please understand that that when I say the middle school achievement dip, we're talking
064over several years and Sarah's sitting over there having the most growth in her campus last year. And it's it's a little odd because we're talking about a a very lots of years in in a row. >> A lot of lagging data. >> Yes. And so we do have to to understand that while she did it is an improvement, it is something that as a district as a curriculum instruction department um and our staff have to understand that that that campus because of the dip because of naturally at that age what they you know what they're going through um that it that it's not tied to an end of course that I need for a graduation um that that campus does need a need the support and so that's not necessarily a bad thing, but it
065is something that you'll see me talk a lot about is making sure that we're supporting the campuses that need the most. So, um, that's just something that we'll continue with. And math is a big one. And she'll she'll she's already been saying it till she's blue in the face is that math is is her biggest focus right now. Um, also student groups. Um your taper report will um help us break down if we have student groups that are low are not performing as are all students. Um our special education population is something that we do focus on. Um but also our EB learners which is uh emergent bilingual and our uh our economically disadvantaged. This points to um MTSS. So I know we've talked about MTSS in the behavioral stance, but it is also an
066academic piece. And so we're that's a lot of the reason we're bringing those those pieces in as well. Also, our dual language program that we're starting at our elementary, there are targets that you're seeing that are coming from this data. So, we're not flying blind is basically what I'm trying to put in your hands tonight. Um, but also, uh, chronic absenteeism, you know, our rates have always lingered around 18 to 20%. Really looking forward to next year's data. So, we have improved on our attendance by quite a bit this year. Um, I appreciate you guys supporting us on um truency filings and we did uh we were able to do that and I think a little bit of that teeth has helped um helped that chronic abs absenteeism and hopefully the more that they're in
067school the better that they will do. Um, and so lastly, what I've talked about already is we're going to be working beyond approaches. Math is going to be a big strategy. Middle school, MTSS with equity, and then our attendance and engagement. So, that was a really, really quick taper view. Okay. All right. Now, federal report card. What is different with federal report card? not that much. Um the biggest differences with federal report card um it does give you a few different ways of looking at the data but truly the data um the biggest difference with federal report card is it takes our data and it puts it up to a federal target. And so we're able to say, "Okay, here's the federal target. Here's where we are in ELA or math." And they, you know,
068and then how are we how are we have we met the federal target yet or have we not? And so that's that's big big key difference. The second group is that um it does break down our subgroups just a little bit more. And so it really but it shows us the same areas of concern. So, a lot of what we've already gone over in the taper report are still going to be the same areas that we work with based on the federal um data. It's just an example of the data. Uh but it does look a little bit uh more deeply at Telpath and this kind of gets into our um support for our learn our English language learners and how are we helping them um read, speak um listen to our to English. And
069so um ultimately our our goal is to begin a program and yes it will take some time uh but to begin a bilingual program and a dual language program where we're really um have a a a place to help our students learn not just to acquire the English language but have good language skills in both of their languages which is actually what ends up helping best in those situations. So, we only really have one area that we would necessarily add from our federal report card to all of those focus areas. >> Questions? >> Anybody have any questions for Miss Harris? >> Yeah, I do. >> Sure. >> Uh f first of all, it's good report card. I appreciate everybody's effort. Uh we seem to be improving. We we got a pretty good grade there. Um,
070and you I'm I'm curious though on some of the challenges as we go forward like math. >> I I I know you said you didn't want to get down into the weeds, but can you just give a couple of examples of what we're going to do to try to, >> you know, Oh, yeah. >> get better get better at math. >> No, definitely. I can definitely tell you what we're doing. So, next year we will begin our planning year um to look at um a highly uh qualified instructional material. Um when we did this for reading, the teachers and the district chose blue bonnet. Um so I kind of went through that too quickly um in the presentation, but that's essentially what we're going to start with our um our math. Um, it will probably
071be something though that instead of just looking at it from the elementary standpoint and then phasing it in to middle school and high school is that the state of Texas has a lot more highly high quality instructional material available in math. And rather than um kind of peacemealing it, uh we may give options for multiple grade levels to begin adopting that high quality instructional materials. So they may decide uh blue bonnet or they may decide one of the other um providers. But the first the biggest phase the biggest part of ensuring that we improve our scores is making sure that our kids are on the daily um given rigorous math instruction that's done in the correct way. And so a good high quality curriculum is going to be needed. >> So it sounds like we're
072trying to master the fundamentals and then build on that as we go. >> Yes. >> Okay. >> Yes. And so we have like the elementary I think it's been uh more than five years since does anybody remember how many years ago did we did a Eureka in math? >> It's been about five years. >> Yeah. And then um the junior high in high school we have adopted things as we were waiting for um a little bit better curriculum. And so um I even remember uh Mr. Kelly asking, you know, what are we doing about some of our um junior high scores? And at that time, this that was the best curriculum we could get at that time. But now they have um much more robust, better better curriculum. And you still have to have time
073for the teachers to explore it and be ready to implement it. But that's the biggest that's going to be our biggest focus. And as far as anything else, it's just also focusing like when I have title one money, where would it go? It would go to some of the interventions and things like that that we need to do to help kids improve their test scores. >> Okay. Thank you. The the other question I have may be may go towards Dr. Bot or or you may answer this. Attendance seems to be the the other the other big thing that we'd like to improve on. It sounds like we're making some progress. Uh just as an example, Dr. bought um a 1 percentage increase uh since since attendance is so important in terms of funding. A 1
074percentage increase in attendance would equate to some dollar figure. >> That's a complicated question because students are weighted differently depending on on the weighted funding. So you might have a general education student that doesn't receive any services of any kind. You have some that are going to be involved in CT. You've got some that are going to be special ed and economically disadvantaged and involved in CT. Can you bump me? >> I mean, to a million. >> Yeah, I would say 800 to a million. >> I would say one one% could be anywhere from three or $400,000 to upwards of a million dollars. >> Actually, >> am I missing? Alex is nodding, but it just it but the reality of it is we want kids to be here when they're healthy. We want kids to
075enjoy school and they're healthy to come to school. Obviously, if they're sick, we want them to stay home. But, um even though they're home, the teacher is still here. The buses are still moving. the food still gets cooked, the electric bill has to be paid. These are things that don't change just because they stay home. In fact, the teachers would argue that they probably need more money when the kids stay home because then they're having to tutor and do makeup work and things like that after school. >> But yes, attendance is is always something that we we work very very hard with all of our stakeholders and uh even have positions that we we we have in the district that actually go out and make connections with families and try to make sure that our
076kids are taken care of. >> Thank you. I I just wanted to underscore that just to show how important that is. I appreciate the answer. >> Thank you, Miss Harris. >> Any other questions for >> Oh, go ahead. >> No, I just Any other questions for you? >> So, at this time, I'd ask to um approve the taper presentation. It just has to be done publicly. So, it's not like you can argue with it, but >> it is what it is. >> Approve the presentation, I guess. Mr. President, I make a motion to accept the TAPR and federal report card for Santa Fe ISD. >> Second. >> Okay. It's been moved and and seconded that we approve the TAPR and federal report card. Any other questions? Not cast your votes, please. And it has passed
077unanimously. Thank you very much. >> Thank you so much. >> And that is all of our regular agenda items. We will now move into some board communication if anyone has any final comments to make. Uh Mr. Couch, you have anything else you want to add? >> Yeah, if I could just indulge the board for a minute. Um, I I just wanted to shout out to the tech uh the Santa Fe Education Foundation for the Gayla success. I thought it it went well. They raised I think I think I saw what was it >> just over 300,000. >> That's just awesome. U and thanks so much to Gina Welsh and that whole uh committee. they just do a grand job. Um, the other thing I'd like to mention is uh, you know, I want to pray
078for the uh, for blessings for our students, teachers, and staff during these STAR test. Um there's just an awful lot of uh hard work that goes on and I I you know I'm just thankful that they're working hard and I pray for uh good results and blessings there. And uh I I wanted to ask the board does or or the audience does anybody know what the significance of today is April 20th? There there's probably multiple significance of today. >> Well, the the big one is it's it's April 20th is San Day. Yeah. >> Um being a little bit of a history buff, I I you know, that's when Sam Houston defeated Santa Ana. This past weekend, uh, on a humorous note, they, um, I had some family members, my grandson, grandsons, and granddaughters went to
079watch the reenactment at, uh, San. They have it every year. It's where uh, Sam Houston's riding a horse and they're firing guns and they're attacking the the uh, Mexicans in Santa Ana. Um after the guns were fired in Sana rode across the uh uh uh the battlefield, my threeyear-old almost four year old and he he's a uh he's a handful to to handle. He he's at sore sore, you know, right now and it's bless those teachers. but his comments was, "We won." And uh uh Isn't that a great thing? So, I I I thought that was pretty neat. And uh I I like to see us be reminded of some of the sacrifices that uh our forefathers uh you know, performed over the years. And uh I'm awful awful thankful that uh Texas was able
080to become a nation. and uh and eventually uh be admitted to the United States. So just just as a note, I just want to mention that. Thank you. >> Today's also Rachel Harris's birthday. >> That's what I was thinking of. >> There you go. >> Mr. Kelly, you have anything to add? >> I'm good. Just thank y'all for what you do. >> Mr. Davenport, >> thank you'all. >> Mr. Herenburgger. >> Travels home. >> Mr. grass muck. >> I choked to death. No, I mean, everybody's doing a great job as always. Chris PBK, thank you for being here. Everything y'all are doing. Um, we're almost there in the year's coming, so hang in there. >> Miss Lambert, >> I'll echo everything everyone just said, and I'll add on uh good luck to our softball team and
081good luck to all of our kids who are competing at the Galveston County Fair and Rodeo. Dr. Pot, you got anything to add? >> You know, really, it's just it's an it's such a privilege to just be able to work with the leaders in this room and the principles and and the directors and and in this cabinet. Uh I'm I'm really very humbled and and honored to just be a part of Santa Fe ISD and blessed to have such tremendous colleagues. I don't think that if there is anybody watching online, six or seven of you or eight or nine of you, however many shouldn't, I'm like I'm going to get in trouble for saying six, seven, but um just the the there he goes the the the the reality behind uh what's happening in the
082world. It's not always a simple or easy place. And um our our educators and our leaders do such a great job of making this such a positive environment. Even during testing season, we make sure these kids feel welcome and uh loved and fed. And I mean our our teachers are singing and dancing and dressing up as everything to, you know, just entertain and have a good time. So just I'm I'm truly just very very thankful for the principles and the directors and and the cabinet that we have. We are so so fortunate to have great leaders and just wanted to say thanks. I know I don't probably say that enough, but I really just especially towards the end of the year to see that y'all work so hard to step up and just address some
083of the strangest of things. You just never know what the day holds, but everybody just is always willing to help out and and support each other. It's refreshing to watch. So, thank you all for everything. >> Yes, sir. Couldn't agree more. I just appreciate everything that everyone's doing. And, you know, I'm one of these folks that I realize as I get older, time's just passing faster and faster and faster. And it just seemed like yesterday I was talking about, welcome. Let's have a great year. And now we're in the downhill slide getting ready to march into another graduation. So, you know, great year. Good luck to y'all trying to finish things out with all the testing and everything. Appreciate all the hard work. Green. Appreciate again you being here and all the efforts that you've
084put into that and I think that you and your group that that's uh going to be a very valuable thing for this community down the road. Appreciate all that. Uh with that, I will entertain a motion to adjurnn. >> Motion to adjurnn. >> Second. It's been moved and second we adjourn. All those in favor, please raise your hands. And we are ajourned. Thank y'all.