Monday, October 19, 2026
The Colorado ISD Board of Trustees met Monday, October 19, with student and staff recognitions, a Superior financial accountability rating and a comprehensive review of district facilities highlighting the evening’s meeting.
Celebrating Students and Staff
Seven students were recognized as October Students of Character for demonstrating responsibility, a quality reflected in their actions both inside and outside the classroom.
Colorado Elementary School honored kindergartener Ximena Vela and second grader Lily Quiroz. Colorado Middle School recognized fourth grader Tylo Wofford, sixth grader Junior Ledford and eighth grader Galilea Lara. Colorado High School honorees included sophomore Lanee Castro and senior Jayden Amaro.
Amaro received additional recognition for her remarkable response during a medical emergency involving a teacher at Colorado High School. When the teacher experienced a seizure, Amaro immediately alerted school personnel before returning to the classroom to assist. Drawing on knowledge gained through her healthcare coursework, she remained calm, helped position the teacher safely and continued providing assistance until additional staff arrived.
Principal Palacios commended Amaro for her composure and compassion, noting that her response in a high-pressure situation demonstrated maturity and a genuine desire to help others.
The board also celebrated the educators and staff members whose dedication continues to make a difference across the district.
At Colorado Elementary School, Alexia Ornelas and Amanda Reyna received special recognition for their work in the Life Skills program. Campus administrators shared the remarkable progress students are making, from participating in classroom discussions and identifying story characters to writing their names and developing practical math skills. Their work was highlighted as an example of the meaningful growth possible through dedicated instruction and individualized support.
Casey Fox, Ashley Hernandez and Edie Niblett were also recognized for their commitment to students, strong classroom leadership and willingness to support their colleagues wherever needed.
At Colorado High School, Sam Hale was recognized as Teacher of the Month for his continued dedication to students and the band program. Despite personal challenges, Hale’s commitment to his students has remained unwavering. His recognition followed the band’s successful UIL marching competition, where the program earned Division I ratings.
Suzie Epperson was honored as Staff Member of the Month for her outstanding work as a special education paraprofessional. Administrators praised her willingness to take on additional responsibilities, provide individualized support and step in wherever her assistance is needed.
The district also celebrated National Principals Month by recognizing Principal Toombs and Principal Palacios for their leadership and commitment to Colorado ISD students and staff.
Colorado ISD Earns Superior Financial Rating
Colorado ISD received a 98 out of 100 through the state’s School FIRST financial accountability system, earning an A, or Superior Achievement rating.
Chief Financial Officer Jerri Kimball and Superintendent Dr. Larry Polk Jr. presented the district’s financial management report during the public hearing, highlighting the district’s continued strong performance.
While celebrating the rating, administrators also discussed factors that could affect the district’s score in the next reporting cycle. Increased legal expenses, particularly those associated with responding to public information requests, and additional administrative costs may result in a slight reduction in points.
Dr. Polk explained that the district is developing more efficient internal processes to reduce recurring legal expenses while continuing to meet its obligations and protect district interests. Despite the anticipated changes, administrators expect Colorado ISD to maintain its Superior rating.
Facility Assessment Brings Long-Term Needs Into Focus
One of the evening’s most significant discussions centered on the future of Colorado High School and the athletic field house.
Representatives from Parkhill and Gallagher presented findings from a facility assessment examining the condition of both properties and the potential costs of renovation compared to replacement.
The assessment identified substantial infrastructure concerns at Colorado High School, which was constructed in 1975. Aging electrical systems, deteriorating plumbing, roofing complications, accessibility limitations and structural concerns were among the issues discussed.
The Fine Arts building was identified as an area of particular concern because of cracking that may indicate foundation problems. The assessment also noted that existing roofing materials, including older layers containing asbestos, could significantly increase the cost of future roof replacement.
Colorado High School received a Facility Condition Index of 56.04%, meaning the estimated cost of addressing renovation needs is approximately 56% of the building’s replacement value. The assessment classifies facilities with an index exceeding 30% as being in critical condition.
The athletic field house received a Facility Condition Index of 41.38%. While its overall condition was assessed as better than the high school’s, the building has significant roofing and accessibility needs, along with drainage and erosion concerns that warrant further investigation.
The presentation went beyond immediate repair costs, examining how maintenance, future renovations and eventual replacement could affect district spending over several decades. Consultants explained that renovating an aging building may appear less expensive initially but can become more costly over time as additional repairs and system replacements are required.
Board members discussed the importance of preserving community history while recognizing the responsibility of making financially sound decisions for future generations of students. Questions regarding project costs, potential property values and the long-term financial impact on taxpayers were also raised.
Following the presentation, trustees approved an architectural and pre-bond planning agreement with Parkhill to assist the district in further evaluating its options.
The board has not approved construction of new facilities or called a bond election. The agreement allows the district to continue gathering information and exploring potential solutions before making those decisions.
Academic Progress Continues
During the Lone Star Governance presentation, administrators reported encouraging progress toward the district’s College, Career and Military Readiness (CCMR) goals.
Colorado ISD achieved a 79% CCMR rate for 2026, exceeding its established target. Current data for the Class of 2027, including students at Wallace, places the district at 82%, just two percentage points below its June 2027 goal.
At Colorado High School, administrators reported that only two current seniors had not yet met CCMR requirements. Additional testing, preparation and individualized support are underway to help students meet those benchmarks.
The district also reviewed its continued efforts to strengthen classroom instruction through teacher development, instructional coaching and professional learning communities.
Board Approves Campus Improvements and Safety Measures
The board approved a $146,552 upgrade to the HVAC control systems at Colorado Elementary and Middle School. The project will replace outdated equipment with a modern system intended to improve reliability and provide more efficient maintenance of campus heating and cooling systems.
Trustees also approved the district’s internet safety and cybersecurity measures. Technology staff reported that approximately 88% of employees had completed their required cybersecurity training, with additional training initiatives planned during the school year.
The board additionally approved the district’s intruder detection audit findings following a review in closed session.
Items Tabled for Further Consideration
Two items were tabled for the November board meeting to allow additional information to be gathered.
The first involved a proposed $1,502 bid for tax-sale property at 724 Walnut Avenue in Colorado City. Concerns were raised regarding discrepancies between the property information and photographs provided to trustees. Board members requested verification of the property details before moving forward.
The second item involved a proposed teacher housing contract. Administrators requested additional time to address contract contingencies before presenting the agreement for approval.
Both matters are expected to return to the board for consideration in November.