The Colorado ISD Board of Trustees met Monday, March 23, 2026, for its regular meeting, with discussions ranging from student recognitions and academic progress to long-term planning tied to district growth, financial stability, and community infrastructure.
The evening began with recognitions honoring educators and staff across the district. Named Teachers of the Month were Leona Colling of Colorado Elementary School, Patty McBride of Colorado Middle School, and Sam Hale of Colorado High School. Staff members recognized included Veronica Cornutt of CES, Elizabeth Sikes of CMS, and Kailyn Free of CHS.
Students involved in FCCLA and TAFE were also recognized for their leadership and competitive success. Students named included Niko Austin, Addison Barrett, Lily Boyd, Karoline Hammond, Erin Foster, Kymani Martinez, Destiny Miller, Whitley Ovalle, Olivia Pineda, Jackson Redwine, Karah Shrode, Kezlye Strain, Isabella Wood, Ny’ajiah Yancey, and Sienna Pence, with several participating in both organizations.
During the presentation, led by Ashley Wulfjen, board members heard about the growth and commitment shown by students who have taken on leadership roles through career and technical student organizations. A highlight of the evening was recognition of Kymani Martinez, who earned first place at the state level, received Judges’ Choice honors, was awarded a TAFE scholarship, and qualified for national competition in Portland, Oregon.
Board members also reviewed updates connected to Lone Star Governance goals, including College, Career, and Military Readiness. District leaders reported that 86 percent of seniors have met CCMR indicators, with 19 percent earning industry-based certifications and that number expected to increase by the end of the year. A special education update showed the district remains in full compliance with required timelines and procedures, earning a Distinguished Level 1 rating through Results Driven Accountability.
Financially, the district continues to report strong standing, maintaining a Superior rating of 98 under the state’s FIRST system and a fund balance of approximately $15.7 million. District leadership emphasized a continued commitment to conservative financial practices while preparing for future opportunities.
The board also received an update on the Cipher Mining Barber Lake Data Center project from Lee Bratcher, Head of Policy and Government Affairs. The project was discussed in terms of its potential long-term impact on the community and the district, including future tax value, workforce opportunities, and overall economic growth. Joey Dawson of Live Oak also provided a financial overview, outlining potential valuation scenarios and how those could influence future planning and bond capacity.
One of the more detailed discussions of the evening centered on water infrastructure and the need to clearly define the roles of both the City of Colorado City and Colorado ISD. Mayor Pro Tem James Farquhar addressed the board on behalf of the city, providing an update on municipal efforts, including a $27.8 million USDA-funded project, development of a new well field, and long-term system improvements expected over the next several years. Those projects, as discussed, fall under the responsibility and management of the City of Colorado City.
Separate from the city update, the board discussed the district’s responsibility to evaluate short-term solutions that would help ensure school operations could continue in the event of a disruption. Those discussions included possible backup water options, emergency planning, and considerations related to fire protection. Board members emphasized the importance of maintaining a clear distinction between city-managed infrastructure projects and district-level contingency planning.
The board also approved agreements related to the district’s teacher housing project, including services with Bichel & Associates, Inc. as the independent design representative and KF Construction LLC as the design-build contractor.
Additional business included approval of the 2026–2027 school calendar, a memorandum of understanding with Texas State Technical College, certification of unopposed board candidates and cancellation of the May election for Districts 1, 2, and 5, renewal of the district’s food service contract with SFE, and adoption of a resolution allowing for a good cause exception related to the state requirement for an armed security officer on each campus.
The board also met in closed session to discuss safety-related matters in accordance with state law.
Throughout the meeting, trustees reviewed both current performance and future considerations, balancing recognition of student success with ongoing planning for district needs, community growth, and long-term sustainability.