The Colorado Independent School District (CISD) Board of Trustees met on July 14 to address major district updates, including federal funding challenges, campus improvements, legislative mandates, and new policies set to take effect in the 2025–2026 school year. The meeting also highlighted the district’s continued recognition for excellence in leadership and student achievement.
Federal Funds May Be Delayed
One of the primary topics of discussion was the uncertainty surrounding federal funding. Superintendent Dr. Larry Polk informed the board that Title I funds, which provide roughly $200,000 annually for staffing and student resources, may be delayed due to federal budget holds and potential reallocation.
“We may need to start the school year without these funds,” Dr. Polk said, adding that other federal programs, such as funding for English Language Learners, could also be delayed. He noted that while USDA food programs remain a priority for Head Start, CISD will need to make budget adjustments, which will be reviewed in the district’s upcoming budget workshop.
Bond 2024 Projects Near Completion
Gallagher Construction provided an update on the district’s bond-funded projects. The new Career and Technical Education (CTE) building is awaiting a final power connection, after which crews will complete touch-ups and test equipment. The building is expected to be operational within one to two weeks, with furniture deliveries to follow.
The baseball and softball facilities also continue to progress. A new PA system is fully functional, bleachers are being installed, and the field lighting now includes a safety feature that automatically turns the lights on during power interruptions.
Security Improvements at CHS
The board also discussed plans for a renovation of the Colorado High School front foyer to enhance security. The proposed project includes a custom reception desk with built-in cabinetry, modeled after the secure vestibule at the elementary campus.
Board members requested that the administration work with JWT to explore alternative designs, including reusing existing brickwork, in order to reduce costs without compromising security.
Seventeenth Street Sidewalk Project Approved
To improve student safety, the board approved the installation of curbing and a new pedestrian walkway along Seventeenth Street. The project will create a safer route for students walking to and from school while also improving drainage and separating pedestrian traffic from vehicles.
Board members also discussed adding a three-foot grass buffer or landscaping to reduce maintenance concerns. The district’s bond oversight committee strongly supported the project, citing its importance for student safety.
Salary Schedule Approved for 2025–2026
The board approved an updated salary schedule to comply with House Bill 2. The new schedule includes raises of 1.5 percent for administrative and professional staff, 2.5 percent for support staff, and 3.5 percent for auxiliary staff.
Dr. Polk cautioned that while these raises are mandated by law, they could create financial strain on smaller districts if the state does not provide adequate long-term funding. “Once this is built into salaries, it becomes a permanent obligation,” he explained. The new schedule also includes positions such as nurses, counselors, and librarians, who were previously excluded from the state’s Teacher Retention Allotment.
Homeschool Students Invited to Participate in UIL
The board voted to allow homeschool students to participate in UIL activities, following the passage of Senate Bill 401. Under the law, districts are automatically included unless they vote to opt out. CISD will remain opted in.
In addition to providing more opportunities for homeschool students, the district will receive $1,500 for each homeschool participant and another $1,500 for every activity in which they compete. Dr. Polk noted that this policy could help attract families to CISD.
Cell Phone Policy Under Review
In response to House Bill 1481, which bans student cell phone use during the school day, the board discussed how CISD will enforce the law. The district is considering the purchase of CellockED pouches, which cost approximately $7,500, as a cost-effective alternative to Yondr pouches, which cost $13,000.
Under the proposed plan, students in grades 6–12 will lock their phones in the pouches upon arrival and unlock them at dismissal. Elementary students will turn in their phones to the office. The board also reviewed the proposed disciplinary process, which will begin with warnings and confiscation and escalate only if violations persist. Out-of-school suspensions will not be used for phone-related offenses.
Ten Commandments in Every Classroom
The board discussed the state’s new requirement, under Senate Bill 10, to display the Ten Commandments in every classroom and educational space. CISD may either accept donations from local churches for the displays or fund them directly.
Legislative and Finance Updates
Other legislative updates included the increase in the homestead exemption from $100,000 to $140,000, or $200,000 for residents age 65 and older. The state is also moving toward a standardized GPA and class ranking system that will be implemented across all Texas districts.
Board Recognized for Excellence
The meeting concluded with a moment of celebration. Dr. Polk praised the board for being named the Region 14 Outstanding School Board and expressed gratitude for his own selection as Region 14 Superintendent of the Year.
“These recognitions belong to our entire community,” Dr. Polk said. “They reflect the work of our staff, our students, and this board’s unwavering commitment to doing what is best for Colorado ISD.”