January 19, 2010

The Granbury ISD Board of Trustees met for its regular monthly meeting on January 18, 2010, and heard a report on the High School Allotment Fund.

Curriculum director Sharon Williams reviewed the fund, a state initiative to prepare students for higher education, to encourage students to take advanced academic course work, and to support promising high school completion and success initiatives in grades 6-12.  The program has provided funding for instructional specialists, Granbury High School summer school, Crossland Ninth Grade Center summer academy for incoming freshmen, college field trips, dual-credit course fees and books, credit recovery programs, preparation for college entrance exams, and technology items.

Williams reported to the board about the district’s goals and results under the program, which evaluates progress in student completion rate, student participation in the recommended and distinguished graduation plans, and college readiness in English and math.  The district and schools will continue to push higher standards and to address areas of weaknesses.

The board affirmed the need for GHS seniors to take full class loads.  Superintendent Ron Mayfield explained that it was important for the district to increase the rigor of academics for high school students.  Additional classes are also necessary with the implementation of state requirements for four credits in English, math, science, and social studies.  Consideration would be given to those students taking college courses or participating a work program.  The requirement is necessary as school districts will be evaluated regarding college readiness.

Board members adopted a plan to help prepare students to succeed in a technology-driven world.  Amy Wood, director of technology, stated that the plan follows a needs assessment and was based on the Texas Teacher STaR chart covering areas such as teaching and learning, professional development, administration and support, and infrastructure.  Input was received from all campuses and departments.  School plans called for each classroom to have a mounted projector, interactive whiteboard, student response system, and document camera.  Other needs included additional computers and software as well as mobile computer labs.

Trustees approved a contract to purchase ten acres of land for the future construction of school facilities.  The acreage, which is currently owned by the estate of former Granbury educator Doris Luton, is located at the corner of Old Granbury Road and Peck Road north of the First National Bank branch on U.S. Highway 377.  Architects and engineers will evaluate the property to make certain that the property meets the district’s needs.

Following action in December to possibly implement a standardized school logo, trustees approved a committee to address the issue.  The committee, which will be chaired by former GHS principal Marsha Grissom, will consider a district-wide policy on establishment of logos to include colors.

Board members postponed final action on the 2010-11 school calendar.  Superintendent Ron Mayfield will seek further input from teachers, staff, and the District Advisory Council primarily regarding whether to end the first semester prior to the Christmas break.

The board designated portions of reserve funds toward improvements in instruction, facilities, and transportation.  Also in finances, board members approved the refinancing of existing bonds.

Trustees heard several other reports:

• The monthly financial report was reviewed by Executive Director of Finance Sharay Boynton.
• Superintendent Mayfield reported that an online survey will be issued to parents and community members, teachers and staff, and students.  Based on effective correlates advocated by Dr. Larry Lezotte, the survey will evaluate the district and campuses and allow respondents to provide additional feedback received with a similar survey conducted in May 2009.
• Necessary repairs to the high school auditorium were outlined by Mayfield.  To address safety concerns, stage rigging will be corrected to allow for fine arts productions during the spring.  Further repairs will likely take place during the summer.
• Mayfield reported that campuses and departments were prioritizing facility needs. 

In personnel matters, board members approved the extension of the superintendent’s contract through the 2012-13 school year.  The board also approved the appointment of one teacher and received notifications of retirements and resignations.  One request for catastrophic sick leave was granted.

In addition to approving budget amendments and minutes from the last regular meeting, purchases and bids were approved for technology items; administrative and office furniture; towing services; fire alarm systems; and kitchen and building suppression systems and fire extinguishers.  The board also approved a proposal from WRA Architects for architectural and engineering services.  Other action included approval of an out-of-state trip by the volleyball team during the summer.