MISD discusses teacher shortage, plans for instruction
The Marlin ISD Board of Managers met June 6 in the Marlin Middle School Library with President Billy Johnson presiding. Board Managers present were Misty Ehlers, Byrleen Terry, and Dr. Darryl Henson, Superintendent of Schools. The Board of Managers went into closed session for deliberation of personnel matters including addressing the teacher shortage with campus and district leadership team members and the recommendation to hire Coordinator of Student Services and Head Boys’ Basketball Coach (supplemental duty).
After the board returned from closed session, superintendent’s reports followed.
Lawrence Galloway, Chief Operating Officer, presented the 2022-2023 budget overview. It was noted the final Average Daily Attendance (ADA) will be reviewed at the June 20 meeting. He projected a balanced budget for 2021-2022.
Recommendations for renewal operating contracts included Longhorn Bus Sales (transportation) to replace aging vehicles with 2023 models, SSA/Cooperative Business Software Contract, ESC Region 12 Business Service Support and Payroll Service Support. The budget also included the addition of another campus police officer.
Galloway discussed the TEA Financial Compliance: 2021 Financial Audit. Several non-compliances were reported and noted the Beasley, Mitchell & Co. Auditing Service representing Marlin ISD was not completely familiar with the State of Texas policies and procedures. Responses requiring actions have been corrected and submitted by the auditors. The district is waiting for TEA response. A new contract with Singleton, Clark & Company Auditing Services was also recommended.
Dr. Stacy Parker, Executive Director of Academics/Student Services, spoke on the nationwide teacher shortage and what the district has planned to ensure high-quality instruction.
Plans are to incorporate Central Administration staff in classrooms, establish new master schedule to allow more time to teach, learn, and grow professionally, use high-quality instructional materials (HQIM) and research-based strategies. HQIM promotes full TEKS coverage, supports all learners and enables frequent progress monitoring.
Dr. Parker stated, “in addition to using an all hands-on deck approach to address the nationwide teacher shortage, the district will continue to grow its staff by cohort coaching plan in partnership with Region 12, design and use model classrooms to promote joy of teaching and learning.”
Dr. Henson, Superintendent of Schools, reported the organizational chart will remain the same. He addressed the Pre-Bond Advisory Committee whose purpose is to serve as the voice of the community and advice the district on the scope of projects and financial capacity. It consists of 25 community members, including the mayor, former school board members and current district employees. The pre-existing committee will meet July 19, July 26, Aug. 2, 9, and 16. Focal areas are Legion Field and MHS. Dr. Henson recommended FFA Sponsor receive a $5,000 stipend for extracurricular activities and programs.
Jesse Bustamante, Director of Human Resources/Special Services, recommended the selection of North Texas Environment & Demolition Services to remove asbestos and oversee the demolition of school properties on 209 Green Street. This will be the new site for the MISD Bus Barn/Maintenance & Operations departments.
J. Adam LeJeune, Director of Technology, recommended the purchase of the 22nd Century Learning Environment classroom models at each campus, elementary (3), middle school (2) and high school (2), with an estimated cost of $69,355. Each model classroom will consist of an 86-inch interactive learning display, EGlass writing surface, high-quality webcam/speaker system, high-quality mounting hardware with teacher station and teaching software for interactive learning displays.
Byrleen Terry moved to approve the recommendations including the approval of Coordinator of Student Services and Head Boys’ Basketball Coach (supplemental duty), seconded by Misty Ehlers. Motion carried. With no further business, the meeting adjourned.