Stream the Meeting | View the Agenda | Learn More About the Board
The Abilene ISD Board of Trustees held a combined workshop and regular meeting on Monday, Nov. 4.
Board Workshop Discussions | Workshop Recording
9-Week Grading Period: The board discussed a proposed change to the district's grading period structure, moving from a 6-week to a 9-week period. Executive Director of Elementary Instruction Keri Thornburg, Executive Director of Secondary Instruction Stevanie Jackson, and Executive Director of Athletics James Garfield highlighted the potential benefits of a 9-week period for both academics and extracurricular activities. The district is currently collecting feedback from principals and may present a recommendation to adopt the 9-week grading period starting in the 2025-26 school year.
Superintendent’s Announcements | 11:47
During his announcements, Superintendent Dr. John Kuhn shared positive testimonials from AISD families, including a family at Taylor Elementary School whose daughter’s special diet needs were accommodated following collaboration between the family, the school’s nurse and cafeteria, and AISD’s on-staff dietitian.
Dr. Kuhn also introduced the next edition of the Teaching Minute video series, featuring Dyess Elementary School teacher Tyci Western and her application of TEKS Math Readiness Standard 4.4H.
Recognitions | 18:32
Abilene ISD students, staff, and community volunteers were recognized by the Board of Trustees for their accomplishments during the November meeting.
Cross Country State Competitors
Eleven Abilene High School students were recognized for qualifying for the state cross country meet. Congratulations to Senior John Alcantar for qualifying individually, and to the following girls: Caroline Bessent, Mason Murray, Jazlyn Ortiz, Zoe Vann, Emily Brumley, Remie Batten, and Aubrey Duran. AHS cross country athletes are coached by Kayla Cunnings, RoseMary Martin, and Roy Castillo.
Purple Star Designation Campuses
The Board also recognized eight AISD schools for being awarded TEA’s Purple Star Campus Designation. The designation is given to schools who demonstrate support and commitment to meeting the unique needs of military-connected families. Click here to read more.
District Wide Consultation Committee
Community volunteers and staff members were recognized for their contributions on the District Wide Consultation Committee (DWCC). The committee advises the Board in establishing and reviewing AISD’s educational goals, objectives, and programs. Thank you to the following individuals for their service:
Autumn Phipps
Shea Roberson
McKenzy Trammell
Kajeanna Jones
Sara Garza
Julie Jackson
Beth Pruitt
Wendy Moreland
Amanda Pittman
Todd Mullins
Humberto Pina
Kenneth Chorn
Marcia Straughn
Darci Hodges
Click here to learn more about DWCC.
Finance Department Report | 37:55
The Board heard one report during the regular meeting from Jennifer Hinds, AISD’s executive director of finance. In her report, Hinds provided the board with an overview of the department’s work, which includes payroll, accounting, in addition to the overall financial work of the district. The district’s finance department regularly processes approximately $9 million in payroll figures, more than 5,200 checks, and more than 200 campus and student activity accounts.
Action Items | 51:50
Adequate funding resolution: In preparation for the upcoming Texas Legislative Session, the board joined school districts across the state in advocating for adequate funding for Texas schools. The district has added its voice to the call for increased state support for education by adopting a resolution for adequate funding. The full resolution can be found online under Item IX.A at this link.
Senate Bill 1882: The Board has approved the district's recommendation to submit an application to the Texas Education Agency (TEA) for participation in Senate Bill 1882. This bill allows school districts to partner with external entities to implement innovative strategies for improving education. If the application is approved, it will provide the Board with the opportunity to explore potential partnerships and determine whether the district will move forward with participation.
Taylor CAD Board of Directors: Following his nomination, the AISD Board approved a resolution designating Mr. John Stearns to receive AISD's allotted 1,237 votes for election to the Central Appraisal District of Taylor County's Board of Directors.
Early Notice of Departure Rate: The Board approved a one-time adjustment to the Early Notice of Departure Rate for spring 2025 only, increasing the pay for an employee's remaining local sick days from $75 to $100. In addition, retirees will receive an additional lump sum payment based on their years of service as follows:
20 Years: $3,000
25 Years: $5,000
30 Years: $7,000
35+ Years: $9,000
Cell Phone Policy: The Board approved a resolution that authorizes the district to begin planning steps to implement a bell-to-bell ban on student cell phone use during the instructional day at high schools beginning in the 2025-26 school year. Click here to read the full resolution.
Facilities Assessment Service Provider:
Following a request for qualifications (RFQ), AISD reviewed the responses and the Board authorized the district to negotiate a contract with Huckabee for a facilities assessment. The assessment is expected to be completed by February 2025, with findings to be presented to the Board in March 2025.