The Houston R-1 School District board of education heard updates on the Tiger Development Academy and Career and Technical Education during a meeting Tuesday (Dec. 10).
Members also heard a preliminary report on survey results related to changing to a four-day schedule.
PROGRAM UPDATES
Dakota Burchett, Tiger Development Academy (TDA) director, gave an update on the program that involves third through sixth grade athletics. Burchett reported that 92 kids are participating in the basketball program. He believes there were about 70 kids last year. The next program is volleyball.
Amanda Munson, high school principal, presented on the school’s Career and Technical Education (CTE) program. Courses at the Piney River Technical Center (PRTC) include agriculture, building trades, business, family and consumer science, graphic design, health sciences and welding. Munson announced that they recently received a $400,000 grant plus 25% matching funds for renovation of the building on Spruce Street. A smaller grant was received for a building trades storage unit and reimbursement for graphic design equipment.
OTHER MATTERS
- A budget amendment was approved. At the previous meeting, Dr. Justin Copley, superintendent, presented the amendment for review to the board. A little less than $200,000 was changed on the revenue side – representing approximately 1.3% of the total revenue budget. For expenditures, the change represents about 1.5% of the total expenditure budget – approximately $237,000.
- The board reviewed essays to nominate for the John T. Belcher Scholarship, and selected an essay from Alexandria Benoist.
- Substitute rates were approved. Non-retired teachers will receive $105 for full days and $55 for half days. Retired teachers will receive $115 for full days and $60 for half days.
- District administrators and directors presented an Annual Performance Report (APR) to the board. For more information on the state’s APR, click here.
- Copley said community surveys concerning a four-day school week will be collected through Friday, Dec. 20. Approximately 500 results representing 805 students had been collected through Dec. 10. About 70% are in favor of the measure, with no preference representing about 7% of responses. For staff, about 50% had responded, with a similar percent in favor but approximately 18% with no preference. To take the survey, go here.
The next regular meeting is at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 14 in the high school library.
