Wolf Nation Shows Out at April School Board Meeting
The April 16 board meeting wasn’t just business—it was a full-on celebration of student wins, staff shout outs, and big things happening across our schools. Here’s what had everyone buzzing:
Honoring Excellence Across Campuses
We kicked off by celebrating the amazing people who go above and beyond for our students, The Board recognized March honorees for their dedication and impact:
Cindy Chavez Lee revitalized the PE program at CESCMMS and continues to inspire after knee surgery.
Katie Lejha was praised for stepping up to serve Pre-K 4 students after a staff transition.
Britanny Arellano, though absent due to softball commitments, was applauded for her teaching and coaching.
Christian McKinney was honored for leadership in esports and technology.
Kim Brown, high school nurse, was commended for three years of care across campuses.
Coach Mejia was celebrated for his 28 years in education, military service, and all-around impact.
The Board expressed deep gratitude to all honorees for their contributions to students and staff.
Campus Highlights:
Student Wins Everywhere from band, robotics, and reading scores to butter churning and baby chicks—our kids are doing it all.
CES/CMS - Mrs. Toombs:
Band earned high marks under Mr. Patterson and Mr. Hale.
Robotics team advanced to Worlds; 30 students will travel, with budget-friendly flights secured.
Esports continues to grow, with another team qualifying for competition.
Academics: STAAR reading tests completed, science and social studies testing underway. 4th and 5th grade teachers were praised by TEA during a Zoom call.
Classroom Innovation: Colonial-era hands-on projects in kindergarten, chick hatching in 2nd grade, and ladybug lifecycle studies in 3rd.
Athletics: Despite a shortened track season due to dust storms, middle school athletes showed growth.
Partnerships with NIT continue to support professional development.
CHS - Coach Komppa:
Enrollment remains stable with 241 students.
College, Career, & Military Readiness (CCMR):
91% of seniors CCMR-qualified.
7 seniors will graduate with associate degrees—highest to date.
53 industry-based certifications earned; CNA, welding, FCCLA, and vet tech students advancing.
Testing: EOC English exams completed; biology, US history, and algebra up next.
Academic Growth: Reading levels have increased across all grades; assessment scores improved by 10–12 points.
Community Service participation rose to 60%; an online tracking system is in development.
Athletics: Regional qualifiers in track and golf; baseball and softball are in playoff rounds.
College Prep: Students attended programs hosted by Howard College and met with recruiters from TSTC and Texas Tech.
Bond '24 & Building Updates. Softball and baseball field upgrades are nearly done, the CTE building is taking shape, and the cafeteria’s getting a Wolf Pack glow-up along with visual upgrades in the auditorium.
Other Board Actions
Allotment and TEA Certification: Approved textbook allotment list for 2025–2026.
Board Continuing Education: Trustees confirmed to be in compliance with training requirements.
2025–2026 Calendar: Tabled pending waiver day approval; special meeting set for April 17 at 12:00 PM via Zoom.
Closed Session Approvals
The Board approved several priority projects:
CTE Phase Buildout – Approved unanimously.
Property Acquisition/Improvements – Approved 4-2 (1 recusal).
Staff Housing/New Build – Approved unanimously.
Certified personnel recommendations were also unanimously approved.
Student Safety Service Complex – Did not pass (3 for, 4 against).
CISD crushed our state safety audit with a perfect score, and while state ratings are still coming, Dr. Polk reminded us: our students are learning, growing, and thriving.
From coding robots to hatching chicks, Wolf Nation is howling loud with pride.