Bandera ISD Board Briefings

This briefing is a summary of action taken by the Bandera Independent School District Board of Trustees at their recent scheduled meeting. It is provided as a courtesy and not a requirement of the Texas Open Meetings Act. It is not intended to act as the official minutes which are maintained by the Superintendents office and approved by the Board at a later date.

Bandera ISD Board Briefings December 8, 2009

Call to Order and Establish Quorum:

• A meeting of the Bandera ISD Board of Trustees was held on December 8, 2009 at the Bandera ISD Central Office located at 815 Pecan Street in Bandera.
• Board President, Dr. Barbara Skipper called the meeting to order at 7:00 PM. A quorum was established with Board Members Rick Groomer, Greg Hicks, Laurie Neff, Barbara Skipper, Lee Haile, and Don Miller in attendance.

Pledge of Allegiance:

• The Pledge of Allegiance to the United States and Texas flag was presented by Anthony Mireles, a student from Bandera High School.

Recognition:

• Brad Domitrovich, Bandera ISD Communications, presented the recognition items to the Board which included: Anthony Mireles and Miriam Hanna from Bandera High School, were recognized as "Students of the Month" by Superintendent Dr. Kevin Dyes, Board President Dr. Barbara Skipper, and Assistant Principals Richard Joyer and Jo Ellen Fisk.
• Ms. Catherine Holmes and the Bandera High School Choir performed two songs for the Board and the audience.
• Cerise Merrit Ripps, Executive Administrator from the Bandera County Chamber of Commerce, presented awards to the winners of the Hunters Bar-B-Que Art Contest. They included: Ethan Grevan, Scott Pofahl, and Sarah King from Bandera Middle School and Andrew Garza from Hill Country Elementary School. Teachers Amy Kepp and Holly Mydland were also recognized.
  

Consent Agenda:

• The Board approved the Consent Agenda which included: Approve Minutes of November 10 Board Meeting; Budget Status Report; Approve Quarterly Investment Report; Approve Personnel Report; and Food Service Report.

Information:

• No one signed up to be heard for Citizen's Comments.
• Dr. Kevin Dyes presented the Superintendent's Report which included: Student Activities and District Goals.
• Dr. Barbara Skipper presented an Update on Board Member’s Continuing Education Hours.
• Dr. Kevin Dyes presented information on TAC Energy Savings Performance Contracting.
• Dr. Kevin Dyes presented information on the Calendar for 2010-2011 Year.
• Dr. Kevin Dyes distributed the Superintendent Evaluation Tool.

Regular Agenda:

• The Board approved the recommendation by administration to Approve School Health Advisory Committee Members.

Adjourn:

• The meeting was adjourned at 7:41 PM.

Bandera ISD Board Briefings – November 10, 2009

This briefing is a summary of action taken by the Bandera Independent School District Board of Trustees at their recent scheduled meeting. It is provided as a courtesy and not a requirement of the Texas Open Meetings Act. It is not intended to act as the official minutes which are maintained by the Superintendent’s office and approved by the Board at a later date.

Bandera ISD Board Briefings – November 10, 2009

Call to Order and Establish Quorum:

• A meeting of the Bandera ISD Board of Trustees was held on November 10, 2009 at the Bandera ISD Central Office located at 815 Pecan Street in Bandera.
• Board President, Dr. Barbara Skipper called the meeting to order at 6:30 PM. A quorum was established with Board Members Rick Groomer, Greg Hicks, Laurie Neff, Barbara Skipper, Lee Haile, and Don Miller, in attendance.

Pledge of Allegiance:

• The Pledge of Allegiance to the United States and Texas flag was presented by Bandera Middle School students Jacob Carrillo and Danise Leal.

Recognition:

• Brad Domitrovich, Bandera ISD Communications, presented the recognition items to the Board which included: Jacob Carrillo and Danise Leal from Bandera Middle School, were recognized as "Students of the Month" by Superintendent Dr. Kevin Dyes, Board President Dr. Barbara Skipper, and Principal Joy Ryan.

Consent Agenda:

• The Board approved the Consent Agenda which included: Approve Minutes of October 13, 2009 Special Board Meeting; Approve Minutes of October 13, 2009 Regular Board Meeting; Budget Status Report; Approve Personnel Report; Food Service Report; Consideration and Possible Action to Add, Revise, or Delete (LOCAL) Policies as recommended by TASB Policy Service and according to the Instruction Sheet for TASB Localized Policy Manual Update 86; Consideration and Possible Action to Approve Changes to Investment Policy: CDA(LOCAL)-Other Revenues Investments; and Consideration and Possible Action to Approve Changes to Extracurricular Absences Policy: FM(LOCAL)-Student Activities.

Regular Agenda:

• The Board accepted a donation from the Bandera ISD Education Foundation in the amount of $26,389.00 for teacher grants.

Information:

• No one signed up to be heard for Citizen's Comments.
• Dr. Kevin Dyes presented the Superintendent's Report which included: Student Activities; an update on the AEIS Report; and a Facilities Update.
• Dr. Kevin Dyes presented the results of the 2009-2010 Staff Survey and the 2009-2010 Parent Survey.
• Dr. Kevin Dyes presented information on a proposed calendar for the 2010-2011 school year.
• Dr. Kevin Dyes presented information on Committee Members for School Health Advisory Council.

Regular Agenda:

• The Board approved to adopt the rankings of contractors as presented for the Softball Field Renovations at Bandera High School.

• The Board approved casting 3,072 votes as tallied for the election of the Board of Trustees for the Central Appraisal District. The Board approved the resolution of the votes cast.

• The Board approved the list of Security Brokers and Dealers as presented.

• The Board approved the Resolution of the Board Regarding Review of the Investment Program.

• The Board approved the Bandera ISD Audit for 2008-2009 school year.

Adjourn:

• The meeting was adjourned at 8:16 PM.

Bandera ISD Board Briefings – October 13, 2009

This briefing is a summary of action taken by the Bandera Independent School District Board of Trustees at their recent scheduled meeting.

It is provided as a courtesy and not a requirement of the Texas Open Meetings Act. It is not intended to act as the official minutes which are maintained by the Superintendent’s office and approved by the Board at a later date.

Call to Order and Establish Quorum:

• A meeting of the Bandera ISD Board of Trustees was held on October 13, 2009 at the Bandera ISD Central Office located at 815 Pecan Street in Bandera.
• Board President, Dr. Barbara Skipper called the meeting to order at 6:30 PM. A quorum was established with Board Members Laurie Neff, Barbara Skipper, Lee Haile, Don Miller, and Genevieve Modarelli in attendance.

Pledge of Allegiance:

• The Pledge of Allegiance to the United States and Texas flag was presented by Hill Country Elementary student Trevor Karnes.

Recognition:

• Brad Domitrovich, Bandera ISD Communications, presented the recognition items to the Board which included:

• Trevor Karnes and Vanessa Mendoza from Hill Country Elementary, were recognized as "Students of the Month" by Superintendent Dr. Kevin Dyes, Board President Dr. Barbara Skipper, and Principal Renee Cadena.

Consent Agenda:

• The Board approved the Consent Agenda which included: Minutes of September 8, 2009 Special Board Meeting; Minutes of September 8, 2009 Regular Board Meeting; Budget Status Report; Personnel Report; and the Food Service Report.

Information:

• No one signed up to be heard for Citizen's Comments.

• Dr. Kevin Dyes presented the Superintendent's Report which included: Student Activities, Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) Report, and Facilities Update.

• Dr. Kevin Dyes presented information on the district's Stimulus Funding.

• Dr. Kevin Dyes presented information on the district's Highly Qualified Report.

• Dr. Kevin Dyes presented information on the district's Optional Flexible Year Program (OFYP).

• Dr. Kevin Dyes presented information on the district's extra-curricular absence policy.

• Dr. Kevin Dyes presented information on the district's Local Investment Policy.

• Dr. Kevin Dyes presented information on the district's First Reading of TASB Policy Update 86.

Regular Agenda:

• The Board approved to adopt a Resolution to Nominate Bob Tomasini, Tommy Beer, and Anthony Gonzales as Candidates for the Bandera County Appraisal District Board of Directors.

• The Board approved the Proposed 2009-2010 Budget Amendment.

• The Board approved the Designation of Fund Balance as presented.

• The Board approved the recommendation by the Textbook Adoption Committee for Locally Selected Textbooks.

• The Board approved the adoption of the District Performance Objectives and Objective Measures.

• The Board approved the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Boys & Girls Club of Bandera County.

• The Board approved the Sale of Foreclosed Property (Lake Medina Shores E BLK Lot 13).

Adjourn:

• The meeting was adjourned at 7:37 PM.

Bandera ISD Would Like to Know What Parents Think

Over the next week, parents with children enrolled in Bandera ISD Schools will be receiving the 2009-2010 Parent School Survey. In an effort to continuously improve our schools, input from parents is a vital connection. The survey will need to be completed and returned by October 30, 2009.

The questionnaire should take less than five minutes to complete, and consists of 15 single response questions with one open ended comment statement. The survey is divided into four sections: Campus Communication, District Communication, School Environment, and District Education Expectations. All responses to the questions will be anonymous. A report of the survey results will be presented to the Board of Trustees at the December 8^th Board Meeting.

If for some reason a parent does not receive their Parent School Survey, they are encouraged to contact the Superintendent’s Office at 796-3313 and one will be provided.

Homecoming Week Starts September 28th with Annual Parade

Homecoming Week begins on September 28^th and the kick-off event is the annual Homecoming Parade. Entry fee is $15 and must be paid in advance in order to participate. The staging area for the parade is the parking lot at Bandera Middle School. Line-up will begin at 5:00 PM and with the parade beginning at 6:00 PM. The Homecoming Parade and subsequent activities are being organized by the Bandera High School Star Steppers. Please contact their sponsor Rebeca Gibson for more information rgibson@banderaisd.net about this very important fundraiser. The application to participate in the parade may be downloaded from the Bandera ISD web site. Immediately following the parade, a post parade pep rally will be held at Bandera High School.

BHS Homecoming Parade Entry Form

BHS Homecoming Parade Rules

Bandera ISD Board Briefings – September 8, 2009

This briefing is a summary of action taken by the Bandera Independent School District Board of Trustees at their recent scheduled meeting.

It is provided as a courtesy and not a requirement of the Texas Open Meetings Act. It is not intended to act as the official minutes which are maintained by the Superintendent’s office and approved by the Board at a later date.

Bandera ISD Board Briefings – September 8, 2009

Call to Order and Establish Quorum:

A meeting of the Bandera ISD Board of Trustees was held on September 8, 2009 at the Bandera ISD Central Office located at 815 Pecan Street in Bandera.

Board President, Dr. Barbara Skipper called the meeting to order at 6:30 PM. A quorum was established with Board Members Greg Hicks, Laurie Neff, Barbara Skipper, Lee Haile, Don Miller, and Genevieve Modarelli in attendance.

Pledge of Allegiance:

The Pledge of Allegiance to the United States and Texas flag was presented by Deja Morrow from Alkek Elementary School.

Recognition:

Brad Domitrovich, Bandera ISD Communications, presented the recognition items to the Board which included:

Trenton Thomas Friederich and Deja Morrow from Alkek Elementary School, were recog-nized as "Students of the Month" by Superintendent Dr. Kevin Dyes, Board President Dr. Barbara Skipper, and Principal Scott Tipton. Both of these students best exemplified one of the characteristics listed in Bandera ISD’s Graduate Profile.

Consent Agenda:

The Board approved the Consent Agenda which included: Approve Minutes of the August 11, 2009 Regular Board Meeting; Approve Minutes of August 26, 2009 Special Board Meeting; Budget Status Report; Quarterly Investment Report; Personnel Report; Consideration and Possible Action to Adopt a Resolution regarding Extracurricular Status of 4-H Organization and recognize Bandera County Extension Agents as Permanent Adjunct Faculty.

Information:

No one signed up to be heard for Citizen's Comments.

Dr. Kevin Dyes presented the Superintendent's Report which included: Student Information; New Programs; Update on Facilities; Parent, Community and Staff Services.
Mr. David Brown, Technology Director presented the Technology Report.
Dr. Kevin Dyes presented the Preliminary Designated Fund Balance.
Dr. Kevin Dyes presented the Status on FIRST Report.
Dr. Kevin Dyes presented the Status on Financial Audit which included an Update on 2008-2009 District Audit and 2008-2009 Investment Compliance Audit.

Regular Agenda:

The Board approved the Bandera ISD Emergency Operation Plan.
The Board approved to adopt changes to Policy DEA (Local) Disaster Pay as presented.
The Board approved the Bandera ISD District Improvement Plan as presented.
The Board approved the Board/Superintendent Goals.
The Board approved adopting a Maintenance and Operations tax rate of $1.04, and an Interest and Sinking tax rate of $0.17, for a total Tax Rate of $1.21, and that the attached Ordinance Setting Tax Rate be incorporated by attachment into the minutes of this meeting.

Adjourn:

The meeting was adjourned at 7:32 PM.

Bandera ISD’s Preventative Approach to the Flu Season

Bandera ISD takes a preventative approach in preparing for the flu season. Campus custodians take care to routinely disinfect areas that are touched frequently by students and staff. The district custodial crew fogs each campus regularly with a quat disinfectant to prevent air borne transmission of infections. Bandera ISD schools were equipped with hand-sanitizer stations earlier this calendar year. The district is currently working on updating its Emergency Operations Plan to include Infectious Disease planning.

Information on flu was included in each student’s first day packet. Campuses have extra copies of the brochure “Pandemic Influenza: What Do You Need to Do to Prepare?.” Teachers and administrators are reinforcing common non-pharmaceutical interventions such as those listed below. More information will be distributed as it becomes available.

Parents are asked to check their children each morning for illness and keep them home if they have a fever of 100 degrees or higher. The student must remain home until they are fever free for 24 hours without the aid of fever reducing medications. The student must be seen in the clinic upon returning to school for a temperature check by the nurse. In this way you will help prevent others from catching your illness.

To help prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses such as the flu, take extra precaution to:

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, or sneeze into the crook of your arm.

• Wash hands often with soap and water, especially after coughing or sneezing. If you are not near water, use an alcohol-based hand cleaner.

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick. When you are sick, keep your distance from others to protect them from getting sick as well.

• Do not share personal items or drink from common containers.

• Stay home from work, school and social gatherings if you get the flu.

• Keep your hands away from your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread rapidly this way.

• Stay informed of the facts by reading all information sent home on the flu.

Welcome Back from the Superintendent

Dear Students and Parents,

Welcome to the 2009-2010 school year! So many of our employees have been working hard this summer getting our facilities ready for another school year. The summer has already ended for many of our coaches, band directors, and other extracurricular sponsors as they have been working hard with our students in preparation for the new year.

2008-2009 was a good year academically for our students and that is evident in the growth in all areas on the TAKS test, AP scores, and our high school completion rate. Our teachers, administrators, and students did a great job this past year and I believe they have built a strong foundation for even greater achievements during 2009-2010.

The mission of Bandera ISD is: “To provide ALL students with the opportunity to succeed at their highest levels; academically, ethically, and socially, allowing students to advance successfully throughout their lifetimes.”

Our goal as a school district is to provide all of our students the opportunity to grow academically, in extracurricular activities, and as a person. Academically the goal is to prepare students to graduate from BISD prepared to enter into post-secondary education or their chosen vocation. Extracurricular success means providing high quality experiences for our students in athletics, the arts, UIL academic contests, and participation in clubs and organizations. All of these endeavors require support and input from parents, teachers, businesses, and community members

Whether you are new to our community or a returning student, on behalf of Bandera ISD and the Board of Trustees, we welcome you and hope you have a great year.

Kevin L. Dyes, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools

School Starts on Monday!

Don't forget that school starts on Monday - August 24th! Here are some quick and easy links for you to use:

• School Calendar
• School Supply Lists
• Immunization Requirements

Bandera ISD Board Briefings – August 11, 2009

This briefing is a summary of action taken by the Bandera Independent School District Board of Trustees at their recent scheduled meeting.

It is provided as a courtesy and not a requirement of the Texas Open Meetings Act. It is not intended to act as the official minutes which are maintained by the Superintendent’s office and approved by the Board at a later date.

Call to Order and Establish Quorum:

• A meeting of the Bandera ISD Board of Trustees was held on August 11, 2009 at the Bandera ISD Central Office located at 815 Pecan Street in Bandera.
• Board President, Dr. Barbara Skipper called the meeting to order at 6:00 PM. A quorum was established with Board Members Greg Hicks, Laurie Neff, Barbara Skipper, Lee Haile, Don Miller, and Genevieve Modarelli in attendance.

Pledge of Allegiance:

• The Pledge of Allegiance to the United States and Texas flag was led by Board Vice-President Genevieve Modarelli.

Recognition:

• Dr. Kevin Dyes introduced new administrators to the district including Dayle Heiner (BMS Assistant Principal), Chip Jackson (Alkek Assistant Principal), Kay Miller (Transportation Director), and Felicia Bell (Food Service Director).

Consent Agenda:

• The Board approved the Consent Agenda as presented.

Information:

• No one signed up to be heard for Citizen's Comments.
• Ed Barnes from the Bandera County Appraisal District presented the Bandera ISD Certified Property Values and Bandera County Central Appraisal District 2010 Proposed Budget.
• Dr. Kevin Dyes presented information on the Bandera ISD Interest and Sinking Tax Rate.
• Dr. Kevin Dyes presented an Update on Extra-Curricular Charters/Constitutions and Handbooks.
• Dr. Kevin Dyes presented Policy DEA(Local) regarding Disaster Pay.
• Dr. Kevin Dyes presented information on the Campus and District Improvement Plans.
• Mrs. Regina Howell presented the 2009-2010 Personnel Report.
• Dr. Kevin Dyes presented an Update on Graduation Requirements.
• Dr. Kevin Dyes presented the 2009-2010 State of the District Report.

Regular Agenda:

• The Board approved the Investment Grade Energy Audit Agreement with T.A.C.
• The Board approved the Student Code of Conduct and Recommended Changes for 2009-2010 with one revision.
• The Board approved the Digital Records Management Resolution for Bandera ISD.

Adjourn:

• The meeting was adjourned at 8:15 PM.
  

Teachers Represent District at State Level

Did you know that six Bandera ISD teachers were chosen to serve on the state textbook committee this summer? The teachers were: Regina Hillis, Michelle McLerran, Johnette McWhorter, Cindy Mazurek, Yvette Milner, and Tammy Royal.

$50,000 for Math-A-Thon

Hill Country Elementary has raised over $50,000 in the past ten years through a Math-A-Thon? Math-A-Thon is a volunteer based fund-raising program that benefits St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. The program provides a math curriculum supplement for grades K-8 that students complete after obtaining sponsorships from family and friends.

Join in the conversation. Click "comments" below to tell us what you think about this blog posting.

Campus Wide Reading at Bandera Middle School

Did you know the entire student body and staff of Bandera Middle School will be reading the same book as part of a campus wide book study when school returns next month? Every person on the BMS campus will receive a copy of the book thanks to a grant from the Bandera ISD Education Foundation.

Join in the conversation. Click "comments" below to tell us what you think about this blog posting.

Bandera ISD Board Meeting - July 14, 2009

This briefing is a summary of action taken by the Bandera Independent School District Board of Trustees at their recent scheduled meeting. It is provided as a courtesy and not a requirement of the Texas Open Meetings Act. It is not intended to act as the official minutes which are maintained by the Superintendent’s office and approved by the Board at a later date.

Call to Order and Establish Quorum:

• A meeting of the Bandera ISD Board of Trustees was held on July 14, 2009 at the Bandera ISD Central Office located at 815 Pecan Street in Bandera.
• Board President, Dr. Barbara Skipper called the meeting to order at 6:30 PM. A quorum was established with Board Members Rick Groomer, Lee Haile, Greg Hicks, Laurie Neff, Barbara Skipper, Don Miller, and Genevieve Modarelli in attendance.

Pledge of Allegiance:

• The Pledge of Allegiance to the United States and Texas flag was presented by Board Member Laurie Neff.

Consent Agenda:

• The Board approved the Consent Agenda which included: Approve Minutes of June 9, 2009 Special Board Meeting; Approve Minutes of June 9, 2009 Regular Board Meeting; Approve Minutes of June 16, 2009 Special Board Meeting; Approve Minutes of June 18, 2009 Special Board Meeting; Approve Minutes of June 25, 2009 Special Board Meeting; Approve Minutes of June 25, 2009 Special Board Meeting; Budget Status Report; Approve Personnel Report; Consideration and Possible Action to Appoint an IPM (Integrated Pest Management) Coordinator for Bandera ISD; Consideration and Possible Action to Approve 2009-2010 Grounds Maintenance Contract with Hilltop Landscaping.
  

Regular Agenda:

• The Board agreed to accept a donation from the Frontier Times Museum to offset transportation costs for 4th and 7th grade field trips.
• The Board agreed to approve T.A.C. as the provider of Energy Savings Performance Contracting for Bandera ISD.

Information:

• Theresa Keel, George Wintle, and Dan Zavorka signed up to address the Board during Citizen’s comments.

Information:

• Dr. Kevin Dyes presented the Superintendent's Report which included: M&O Audit Information; Stimulus Report/Budget; District Information; Legislative Update; District Improvement Plan/State of the District; Board Planning Calendar; Board Operating Procedures; Board Self-Evaluation; VSS (Vertical Scale Score) and TPM (Texas Projection Measure)
• Dr. Dyes presented the Preliminary TAKS Scores and Preliminary District Rating.
• Dr. Dyes presented Bandera ISD Graduation Rate Information.
• Dr. Dyes presented the Proposed Handbook Changes for the 2009-2010 School Year.
• Dr. Dyes presented a Priority List for Renovation Projects.
• Dr. Dyes presented information on a Digital Records Management Resolution.
  

Regular Agenda:

• The Board adjourned into closed session pursuant to Section 551.074 of the Texas Government Code, Deliberation on the Formative Evaluation of the Superintendent at 7:32 PM.

Adjourn:

• The Board reconvened and adjourned the meeting at 9:45 PM.

Board Unanimously Approves New Teacher Payscale

The Bandera ISD Board of Trustees approved the administrative recommendation for employee pay raises, and unanimously approved a new teacher payscale for the 2009-2010 school year.

Beginning teachers with a Bachelors Degree will earn $41,600 per year. This is an increase of $1,700 from the 2008-2009 payscale. Teachers with one to 30 years of experience will receive a pay raise of $1,800. The Board also continued to reward veteran teachers by maintaining the payroll scale through 30 years of experience, versus the State’s 20 year maximum. Para-professional employees will receive a $50 per month increase, auxiliary employees will receive a seventy five cent per hour increase, and administrators will receive a $2,000 per year increase. A complete listing of the 2009-2010 Teacher Payscale is available for download from the Bandera ISD web site at www.banderaisd.net/HR.

Bandera ISD payroll costs for the 2009-2010 school year is $15,186,878 which is approximately 81% of the district’s total budget. The Bandera Independent School District is the largest employer in Bandera County.

Bandera ISD E-Mail Now OK

Bandera ISD's E-Mail service is up and running again.

Bandera ISD Summer Hours

Bandera ISD Central Office (815 Pecan Street)

Superintendent's Office (Superintendent, Personnel, Federal Programs, Communications)

• Monday through Thursday: 7:30 AM - 4:30 PM

• Friday: 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM

Business Office

• Monday through Thursday: 7:30 AM - 4:30 PM

• Friday: Closed

Technology Department:

• Monday through Thursday: 7:30 AM - 4:30 PM

• Friday: Closed

Support Facility (1576 Hwy 173)

Transportation Department:

• Monday through Friday: 5:30 AM - 4:30 PM

Bandera ISD E-Mail Service

Bandera ISD's E-mail service is currently down. No timeline has been established for services to be enabled.

Bandera ISD June 9, 2009 Board Meeting

This blog will be updated through the evening instead of sending constant tweets from Twitter. Agenda

Bandera ISD Board Briefings - June 9, 2009

This briefing is a summary of action taken by the Bandera Independent School District Board of Trustees at their recent scheduled meeting. It is provided as a courtesy and not a requirement of the Texas Open Meetings Act. It is not intended to act as the official minutes which are maintained by the Superintendent’s office and approved by the Board at a later date.

A meeting of the Bandera ISD Board of Trustees is being held on June 9, 2009 at the Bandera ISD Central Office located at 815 Pecan Street in Bandera.

Board President, Dr. Barbara Skipper called the meeting to order at 6:30 PM.

A quorum was established with Board Members Rick Groomer, Greg Hicks, Laurie Neff, Barbara Skipper, Lee Haile, Don Miller, and Genevieve in attendance.

The Pledge of Allegiance to the United States and Texas flag was presented by Board Member Greg Hicks.

The Board approved the Consent Agenda which included: Approval of the minutes from the May 12, 2009 Regular Board Meeting; the Budget Status Report; the Quarterly Investment Report; and the Personnel Report.

The Board tabled agenda item “Consideration and Possible Action to Approve Three Year Contract with Cambridge Strategic Services for Strategic Planning” until the July 2009 Board Meeting.

Mark Holliday signed up to be heard during Citizen's Comments.

Dr. Kevin Dyes presented the Superintendent's Report which included district activities, a legislative update, and a budget update.

The Board approved the Owner/Architect Agreement between Bandera ISD and Pfluger Associates Architects for renovations to the District’s existing facilities.

The Board approved the adoption of the Educational Support Calendar for the 2009-2010 school year.

The Superintendent withdrew the recommendation to approve the BISD Teacher Pay Scale and Employee Pay Increase for 2009-2010 due to legislative approval pending.

The Board approved the calendar for appraisals and the appraiser list for 2009-2010 as presented.

The Board approved the changes to Policy DEC (LOCAL) Leaves and Absences as presented.

The Board approved the recommendation to add, revise, or delete (LOCAL) policies as recommended by TASB Policy Service and according to the Instruction Sheet for Localized Policy Manual Update 85.

The Board adjourned to closed session at 7:18 PM pursuant to Section 551.082 and 551.0821 of the Texas Government Code , Level III Appeal Hearing and Deliberation of a Parent/Student Grievance Concerning Timeliness.

The Board reconvened in open session at 8:20 PM.

The Board granted Mr. and Mrs. White a hearing regarding the matters disclosed during closed session.

The Board adjourned to closed session at 8:22 PM pursuant to Section 551.074 of the Texas Government Code, Level II Appeal Hearing and Deliberation of a Parent/Student Grievance Concerning Complaint filed against Superintendent.

The Board reconvened in open session at 9:30 PM.

The Board denied the Level II Grievance to the Whites and further denied the requested remedies.

The meeting was adjourned at 9:31 PM.

Bandera ISD E-Mail Now OK

Bandera ISD’s E-mail service is working again. Mail can be sent and received from outside the district’s network.

Bandera ISD E-Mail Service

Bandera ISD’s E-Mail Service is unable to send or receive mail from outside of the district. The technology department is hoping to have the situation rectified as soon as possible.

Bandera ISD E-Mail Now OK

Bandera ISD's E-mail service is working again. Mail can be sent and received from outside the district's network.

Bandera ISD E-Mail Service

Bandera ISD’s E-Mail Service is unable to send or receive mail from outside of the district. The technology department is hoping to have the situation rectified as soon as possible

Ryan Named Principal at Bandera Middle School

Effective immediately, Joy Ryan has been named the new Principal at Bandera Middle School. Ryan joined Bandera ISD in 2007, serving as the Assistant Principal at Bandera High School for the past two years. She began her educational career 18 years ago in Junction ISD, and then taught middle school at Lueders-Avoca ISD before spending the next 15 years with Lampasas ISD.

“Ms. Ryan will do a great job serving the students and staff at Bandera Middle School”, stated Superintendent Dr. Kevin Dyes. “Her attitude and professionalism will keep the campus successful and on target”.

“I am excited and humbled to have this opportunity”, explained Ryan during a meeting with faculty and staff earlier today. “I look forward to getting to know all of you and our students as we work together to continue the great tradition of success that Bandera Middle School has enjoyed”. Ms. Ryan earned both her Bachelors and Masters degrees from Texas Tech University.

Bitzkie Named Principal at Bandera High School

Mr. Gary L. Bitzkie has been named Principal of Bandera High School effective immediately. Bitzkie has served as Principal for Bandera Middle School since 1998, the same year his tenure with Bandera ISD began. He started his career as a science teacher and coach at Southwest ISD in 1990. Bitzkie has taught science and biology to students in 7^th, 8^th, 9^th, 10, and 11^th grades. Prior to his arrival at Bandera ISD, he was a Vice Principal at Pleasanton ISD south of San Antonio.

Bitzkie holds his Bachelors of Science degree in Education from the University of Texas at San Antonio. He earned his Masters in Mid-Management from Texas A&I University in Kingsville. “I have been very fortunate to work with such a great staff at Bandera Middle School, it will be hard to say goodbye”, said Bitzkie.

“Mr. Bitzkie has been a great asset to our district with his leadership role at Bandera Middle School”, stated Superintendent Dr. Kevin Dyes. “We look forward to success following him as he takes on his new responsibilities”.

“Last week my house was struck by lightning and then hail came down on the open roof, but when I found out I would be Principal at our flagship school, I felt like the luckiest man in the world!”, Bitzkie told the staff of BHS at a faculty meeting this afternoon. He will assume his new job in the morning.

Bandera High School Commencement

Photos from the May 29th Bandera High School Commencement Exercise have been posted to the school district's web site.

To view the photos, click here.

UIL sets Tentative Schedule for Regional Track

After collaborating with University of Texas officials and the twenty UIL Regional Track meet hosts, the UIL has tentatively rescheduled the Regional Track meets to take place after interscholastic competition resumes on May 11. Additionally, the State Track meet is scheduled to be held June 5-6 at Myers Stadium at the University of Texas at Austin.

To view the complete news release from the University Interscholastic League, please click here.

Health Update for April 30th

Currently, our local health officials have indicated that there are no cases of H1N1 (Swine Flu) in our county. Bandera ISD’s attendance rate remains high, with 97.5% of students in school today. Parents are encouraged to frequently visit the Bandera ISD web site (http://www.banderaisd.net) for updated information, and to follow our official district account on twitter (http://twitter.com/BanderaISD) for any breaking news.

To once again review, here are some common sense actions you can take to stay healthy:

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
• Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way.
• Try to avoid close contact with sick people.

There is a public information line established by the Texas Department of State Heath Services if you have any questions. The number is (888) 777-5320.

UIL Alters Schedule Due To Health Concerns

On the recommendation of Dr. David Lakey, Commissioner of the Texas Department of State Health Services, and in consultation with Texas Education Agency Commissioner Robert Scott, the University Interscholastic League is altering its schedule of events due to the outbreak of the swine flu in Texas. Effective immediately, all UIL interscholastic competition is suspended until May 11.

Click here for the complete news release from UIL.

Parents are encouraged to visit the Bandera ISD web site (http://www.banderaisd.net) for updated information and to follow our district account on twitter (http://twitter.com/BanderaISD).

Health Information Update

With additional announcements of confirmed cases of Swine Flu in neighboring school districts, Bandera ISD administration wants to assure parents that the safety and health of our students is always a top priority. Currently, our local health officials have indicated there is no cases of Swine Flu in our county. Bandera ISD’s attendance rate remains high, with 98% of students in school today, and 96% of students in attendance yesterday. Parents are encour-aged to visit the Bandera ISD web site (www.banderaisd.net) for updated information and to follow our district account on twitter (http://twitter.com/BanderaISD).

Again, here are some common sense actions people can take to stay healthy:

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
• Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hands cleaners are also effective.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way.
• Try to avoid close contact with sick people.

There is a public information line established by the Texas Department of State Heath Serv-ices if you have any questions. The number is (888) 777-5320.

Bandera ISD Health Information for Parents

With the recent announcement of some confirmed cases of Swine Flu in a neighboring school district, Bandera ISD administration wanted to assure parents that the safety and health of our students is always a top priority. The custodial staff of Bandera ISD routinely cleans and disinfects classrooms and general use areas using the most effective and safe chemicals available. Many precautionary measures are taken on a daily basis in our schools to keep our children safe and healthy. “I want to reassure parents that we are in communication with our local health officials and they have confirmed that there is no reason to panic”, stated Superintendent Dr. Kevin Dyes. “I have also directed the custodial staff to increase the already high standards we have in place to keep our schools clean”.

Here are everyday actions people can take to stay healthy.

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
• Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hands cleaners are also effective.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way.
• Try to avoid close contact with sick people.

There is a public information line established by the Texas Department of State Heath Services if you have any questions. The number is (888) 777-5320.