Board Briefs

 

On April 9, 2026, the TSD Governing Board convened at 10:00 AM with a quorum present. The meeting included the Pledge of Allegiance led by International Studies students.

Elementary students were recognized for their advocacy and fundraising efforts supporting the new campus playground, currently under construction. Their work, including contributions to the TSD Foundation Gala, played a key role in funding the project.

Superintendent Peter Bailey also recognized Public Information Officer Gabriel Cardenas for his eight years of service and announced his upcoming retirement, noting a transition plan with a new hire to ensure continuity.

During the consent agenda, the Board approved routine items, including prior meeting minutes, the FY26 operating budget, gifts and donations, and the operations report, in a single motion without separate discussion. Brief clarification was provided that certain student programs and travel opportunities are supported through fundraising and student activity funds rather than state appropriations, ensuring compliance with funding rules.

Director of Operations Beth Polo, along with representatives from McKinney York and the Texas Facilities Commission, presented an update on the ACCESS Housing and Kleberg Renovation Project. The design phase has been completed, with construction scheduled to begin in summer 2026. The project reflects input from multiple stakeholders, including staff and students.

The Superintendent reported on organizational changes, including restructuring the Public Information Office into a broader Communications Department to better align with current needs and oversee visual media, community relations, and future staffing expansion. He also noted a leadership transition plan, highlighting the onboarding of a new hire to ensure continuity in communications and outreach efforts.

Richard Galindo of Garza/Gonzalez & Associates presented the FY26 Annual Audit Plan, outlining a risk-based approach identifying high-, moderate-, and low-risk areas across the organization. The plan builds on prior audits conducted in student services, health services, and records management.

Discussion clarified that extracurricular and enrichment programs—such as international travel and certain student trips—are funded through student activity accounts supported by fundraising efforts, not state appropriations. This approach ensures compliance with state funding restrictions while allowing students to participate in expanded learning opportunities.

Director of Instruction Stella Egbert presented the annual allocation of Instructional Materials and Technology (iMAT) funds, outlining how resources will support classroom instruction, digital learning tools, and curriculum alignment.

She also provided an overview of the required curriculum survey submitted to the Texas Education Agency (TEA), which documents instructional offerings and alignment with state requirements.

Additionally, the proposed teacher appraisal timeline was reviewed, detailing key evaluation periods, observation windows, and reporting deadlines for the academic year.

Chief Financial Officer Justin Wedel outlined the Legislative Appropriations Request (LAR) as a strategic plan to secure state funding for the 2028–2029 biennium, highlighting key priorities such as staffing, student services, and facility needs aligned with the school’s long-term goals. He also presented the initial budget framework, emphasizing projected costs, funding assumptions, and the need to balance operational demands with available state resources.

After the Board convened in executive session in accordance with the Texas Open Meetings Act to discuss legal and personnel matters, the meeting adjourned at 2:23 PM.

Items approved by the Board included:
•    Consent Items 
     o    Board Meeting Minutes of February 6, 2026 
     o    Gifts and Donations 
     o    Operating Budget FY26 
     o    Operations Report 
•    iMAT funding 
•    Curriculum Survey for TEA 
•    Teacher Appraisal Timeline 
•    LAR and FY 2028–2029 Budget 
•    Board Policies 
     o    CNA – Transportation Management: Student Transportation 
     o    FFF – Student Welfare: Student Safety 

Please note that this brief is not the official set of minutes. For questions or further details, you are welcome to email the PIO at [email protected]