January 2023 BoardBits
This e-newsletter highlights important news from the Jan. 24 regular board meeting of the STISD Board of Directors.
District recognizes students for excellence in academic, athletic, and/or extracurricular endeavors
During the Jan. 24 board meeting, the administration and Board recognized and congratulated individual students and teams from throughout the district for excellence in academic, athletic, and/or extracurricular endeavors.
Thirty-four Health Professions BPA students qualify for State Competition
Science Academy students recognized for earning welding certification
Rising Scholars students host inaugural 'Sock Hop' to benefit the community
Preparatory Academy student a '2022 Angel Ambassador' for toy drive contributions
Science Academy students place in Congressional District in Congressional App Challenge
Virtual Academy student recognized for achievements at STISD
Campus Basketball Teams recognized for season achievements
STISD says 'thank you' to Board of Directors during School Board Recognition Month
Students and administration from across the district came together during the Jan. 24 board meeting to recognize the members of the STISD Board of Directors during School Board Recognition Month. Students thanked the board for their dedication and commitment to serving the STISD community and for the programs and initiatives they have made possible. Representatives also shared with the board a small token of appreciation on behalf of their campus communities.
STISD recognizes Douglas Buchanan for years of service as board president
The STISD Board of Directors and administration recognized immediate past president, Doug Buchanan of Raymondville, during the Jan. 24 board meeting and presented him with a glass plaque commemorating his four years of service as board president. Buchanan has served on the STISD board for 22 years to-date, including the last four years in that leadership role.
From left to right: STISD superintendent Dr. Marco Antonio Lara, Jr.; Doug Buchanan, immediate past board president; and Henry LeVrier, current STISD board president
Former STISD board president Doug Buchanan and fellow board members applaud students and staff during recognition portion of Jan. 24 board meeting.
Reports and Action: Construction projects from across the district
The Buildings and Grounds Committee and Assistant Superintendent for Finance & Operations Marla Knaub reported on the following construction projects from across the district:
Board discusses next steps in plan for MacKenzie Scott donation
Dr. Marco Antonio Lara, Jr., superintendent of schools, reported to the Board on the types of discussions that have been held to-date to determine the best use of the unsolicited $8 million donation from MacKenzie Scott, and asked board members for any specific suggestions they have about ways through which the donation can benefit the STISD community.
The board members mentioned several different ideas as possibilities to be taken back to the campus discussions and brainstorms; however, the board also wanted administration to get more information from students and staff about what they would like to see.
Administration is working to determine how the funds can best be spent for our students and to complement what we are doing as a district. The plan is to use it on something that is lasting, like expanding our Career and Technical Education programs. Administration will continue discussions at the campus level and will bring to the board proposals and a timeline for approval.
To show appreciation, the board members asked to prepare a resolution for all board members to sign at the next board meeting to thank MacKenzie Scott for her generous donation.
Other Board Actions
- The Board approved the addition of new courses at Health Professions, Medical Professions, World Scholars, Virtual Academy and Science Academy to provide students exposure to much-needed skills in the workforce and to help ensure STISD school programs align and comply with the new approved programs of study as outlined by the TEA.
- The Board approved extending the contract for legal services with Walsh, Gallegos, Trevino, Russo & Kyle PC (RFQ 19-010) for another year.
- The STISD Board of Directors conducted the annual evaluation for Marco Antonio Lara, Jr., Ed.D., STISD Superintendent of Schools, during the Jan. 24, 2023 board meeting. The board voted to extend his contract for another year and to provide him with a salary increase in the coming year.
- The Buildings & Grounds Committee provided a report on the Districtwide Intruder Detection Audit Report Findings.
December 2022 + January 2023 Students in Frame
Chloe Nguyen, Health Professions
Lando Cisneros, Rising Scholars Academy
Inside STISD Video Highlights
STISD 2022: Year in Review
Science Academy Esports Wins State Title, Moves to Next Level
STISD Alumni: Let's Connect! We want to tell your story.
Complete the Alumni Questionnaire
STISD Alumni:
We want to connect with you!
Please take a couple of minutes to complete the STISD Alumni Questionnaire to share with us your success after STISD. If you’re interested in participating in a district testimonial, let us know through the form, and we’ll reach out.
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We look forward to hearing about what you’re doing now!
STISD Alumni Spotlights
Anerey Yerena, World Scholars (Teacher Academy) Class of 2003
Jorge Vidal, World Scholars Class of 2015
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Mental Health Matters: Understanding Feelings- Helpful Resources for Students and Parents
Reminders: Holidays and District Events
- February 6-10 is National School Counseling Week. Let your counselors know they are appreciated!
- There will be no classes on Monday, Feb. 13. That is a Bad Weather Day, a district holiday for students and staff (except for 226 employees).
- February 18: STISD Superintendent's Cup Soccer Tournament
- February 24 is a District Professional Development Day. There is no school for students on this day.
- Open Houses are coming up. Reference the schedule in the newsletter to see when it will be held for your school.