The Colorado ISD Board of Trustees met Monday evening for a packed session full of exciting updates, new approvals, and forward-thinking plans for the district’s future. From academic gains to facility upgrades and staff celebrations, one thing was clear, Wolf Nation is on the move.
The meeting began with a shift in gears as Dr. Polk requested to jump to Agenda Item 10: Finance. Richie Womack President of City National Bank presented a new depository contract that will now align directly with the 90-day Treasury bill rate—eliminating the previous 12 basis point reduction. With pledges totaling $22 million to protect district deposits, the board reaffirmed its pride in this long-standing partnership. The motion passed with two ayes and one abstention.
Claire Saiz from Gallagher Construction joined the meeting to share the latest on the new CTE building. While the final “punch block” walkthrough is still pending, much of the interior work and finishing touches is progressing. The space is nearly ready for transition, marking a major milestone in CISD’s investment in career and technical education.
CISD Principals delivered academic updates:
CES/CMS Principal Lorianne Toombs reported phenomenal growth in kindergarten reading, with a 28% gain since the beginning of the year. She shared a clear instructional plan to support students at every tier, aiming for even stronger results next year.
CHS Principal Steve Komppa highlighted rising STAAR scores, including:
English II: Up to 77% passing (from 71%)
Algebra I: Jumped to 82%
Biology: Climbed to 94%, thanks to Mrs. Pinkerton
History: reached 96% because of the the history boot camp led by Mrs. Bazany
Perhaps most impressive? The Class of 2025 had a 100% graduation rate and 100% College, Career, and Military Readiness. From associate degrees to industry certifications and scholarships totaling over $315,000.
A major moment in the meeting came with the announcement of new hires. Coach Daniel Mejia was officially welcomed as the district’s new Athletic Director and Head Football Coach. He wasted no time making his mark, bringing back beloved community member BJ Graham to the sidelines. “We’re raising the standard with coaches and teachers of integrity,” said Mejia.
The board approved essential HVAC repairs, replacing broken units across the district with new Trane systems—laying the groundwork for students to train on the same equipment used in CISD buildings. Phase I of the new HVAC program was also approved and will be housed in the district’s cutting-edge CTE facility. Dr. Polk highlighted the program’s unique status as the first and only Trane Center of Excellence in a K–12 school setting, providing students with real-world, hands-on experience in a high-demand industry and positioning CISD as a leader in workforce-ready education.
The board gave a green light to several facility upgrades that will benefit students and the community alike:
Tennis Courts Revamp: Located across from the former junior high, the courts will be resurfaced and painted—with new lines for pickleball included!
Paving Project: Approved between the baseball/softball complex and Wolf Stadium, helping improve flow during events (and solving parking headaches).
With Lone Star Governance coach Dave Plymale guiding the way, the board reflected on their recent progress:
Self-rated at the “Masters” level
32-35% of board time focused on student outcomes (March–May)
Targeting 86 points in the next quarter, possibly ranking #1 in their cohort
A summer workshop is set for July 21 to continue sharpening their leadership and align on goals for the upcoming school year.
Dr. Polk reported CISD continues to be recognized as a safe learning environment. With no breaches during recent unannounced safety visits, the district is exploring the addition of a marshal program to further enhance security. Legislative updates also addressed teacher pay proposals and the impact of vouchers, with budget workshops set for later this summer.
With momentum in academics, athletics, governance, and facilities, Colorado ISD is clearly building a new chapter, one rooted in grit, pride, and purpose. Wolves rise together and The Pack is just getting started.