In the Feb. 13 board meeting, Midland Independent School District (MISD) discussed several topics, ranging from the principal incentive allotment to updates on the 2023 school bond and other action items.
The board began with an overview of the principal incentive allotment (PIA), emphasizing the importance of recognizing and retaining effective school principals. The PIA system aims to financially reward outstanding principals, offering stipends ranging from $10,000 to $37,000, contingent on factors such as campus size and demographic status. This initiative, supported by federal funds and a generous donation from the Permian Strategic Partnership, aligns closely with MISD's strategic goals.
Another discussion focused on the implementation of an employee sick pool, designed to provide extended sick leave for employees facing catastrophic personal or family illnesses. This initiative aims to enhance financial stability during prolonged absences and foster a supportive community within the district.
In action items, the board approved the issuance of Midland ISD unlimited tax school building bonds at $900 million, with the first bond issuance covering approximately 28-30 months of projected expenditures. The remaining bonds are expected to be issued in 2026 based on necessity.
The board received updates on the progress of the 2023 school bond, covering recent tours, architectural and engineering services, construction manager timelines, and requests for bond underwriting services.
An academic update highlighted goal progress measures (GPM) in various areas, including pre-kindergarten math, 3rd grade reading and math, and 4th-8th grade reading and math. The district showcased positive trends and outlined strategies for ongoing improvement, emphasizing the implementation of district PLCs, targeted professional learning, and enhanced district assessments.
Addressing attendance zones, the board approved changes for the 2024-25 school year to alleviate crowding and ensure more balanced capacity across campuses, specifically impacting Bunche and Lamar elementary schools.
Three new hires were also welcomed to MISD, and the board approved various firms for crucial projects associated with the 2023 bond, including surveying, architectural, and engineering services for new high schools, Goddard Junior High, Midland Freshman High School, and an eight-elementary school package.
Additionally, the board made a revision to local board policy, amending board operating procedures to include the district's new vision and mission statement: "Educating the Future with Excellence” and “All students will graduate prepared for college, career, or military."
The board decided to maintain the existing policy related to the formulation of the board agenda. This policy allows a single trustee to propose the inclusion of an item in the agenda for an upcoming meeting. Any individual board member retains the right to remove an item from the consent agenda for independent consideration and action.
To view the school board meeting agenda and minutes, visit their website.