On August 28, 2023, the CISD Board of Trustees authorized the 2023-2024 school year budget. The budget, which features a one-time $1,200 increase for all employees, was prepared by Director of Business/Finance and Human Resources Jerri Kimball and her team, who worked diligently to present a balanced budget to the board.
"We are proud to share a proposed balanced budget. In this day and time, a lot of organizations are approving a deficient budget, and for us to be in the position we are in to be able to propose a balanced budget, we are elated. Again, kudos to Mrs. Kimball and her team for all of these proposals," said Superintendent Dr. Larry Polk.
The board also unanimously approved the current-year tax rate, which was reduced by 29 cents from the previous year. Trustee John Martinez moved the motion, and Vice President Liliana Ornelas seconded the motion. The School board unanimously approved the tax rate for 2023- 2024.
In addition to budget approval, the board heard an update on TCHATT (Texas Child Health Access Through Telemedicine). With parent approval, this program provides one-on-one therapeutic sessions with Texas Tech Telemedicine for all CISD students. CISD will continue its partnership with TCHATT, along with our internal licensed counselor, Tia Follis.
"Social-emotional learning is relevant, and mental health and wellness are paramount. Our LPC-A counselor, Mrs. Follis, already has a full caseload, which is a good thing because we are trying to keep our kids safe. Not only safe, we want to keep them alive and well. We want to continue to be proactive in this area. I can't tell you how much this has helped and how it will continue to be a lifesaver," said Superintendent Dr. Larry Polk.
The CISD Board of Trustees and Superintendent Polk remain committed to providing all students with a safe and healthy learning environment. With a balanced budget and continued support for programs like TCHATT, the district is well-positioned to achieve its goals in the upcoming school year.