MISD board finalizes 4-day school week

The Mexia Independent School District Board of Trustees reaffirmed that the district will transition to a four-day week starting next year at its Monday, March 31, meeting..

The board spent about half of its hour meeting in a discussion with Dr. Bonnie Bomar, Executive Director of Curriculum and Instruction, about the board’s approval of a four-day week at its February meeting. While Board Vice President Jackie Craig remained opposed to the four-day week, Board President Benjie Reed announced that he would change his vote to support it. But Board Member Dr. Bill Lowry, who had previously approved the plan, expressed some uncertainty about his decision.

Despite differing opinions, Reed pointed out that making a motion to reverse the decision would be pointless, as the board’s previous vote would likely remain 5-2 in favor of the change. The board then agreed not to hold another vote..

In addition to the four-day week, the board also discussed a potential partnership with Groesbeck ISD concerning the district’s Disciplinary Alternative Education Program (DAEP). Lakechia Johnson, Execu- tive Director of Human Resources, presented the possibility of an Interlocal Agreement with Groesbeck ISD, as Groesbeck is considering closing their DAEP and ending their current partnership with Mart ISD. Under the proposed agreement, Groesbeck would reserve five seats at the Mexia DAEP, with Mexia providing only the seats and lunch, while Groesbeck would cover all other associated costs. Johnson explained that the agreement could generate additional funds for the district, potentially allowing for the hiring of an extra staff member for the campus.

The board also approved the use of athletic funds for the purchase of four additional racks for the weight room, bringing the total number of racks to 12. The $41,000 cost will be covered by the athletics budget, with the remaining balance being contributed by the athletics booster club.

While no action was taken, several items related to operations, facilities, and technology were discussed. Coordinator of Technology Drew Allen explained that the district is dissatisfi ed with its current printing services from Xerox and is considering transitioning to UBEO Printing Services. UBEO has offered to buy out the district’s remaining twoyear contract with Xerox.

Allen also briefed the board on two ongoing E-Rate projects. The first involves the replacement of wireless access points, as many of the district’s 50 existing units are nearing the end of their lifecycle. The total project cost is estimated at $77,500, with the district only responsible for 15% of the cost — $11,625 — funded through the next academic year’s budget. The second project would involve purchasing six mobile hotspots for emergency backup internet service, with an annual cost of $1,062, of which the district would pay only $106 per year.

Additionally, the board discussed the need for 50 new cafeteria tables for McBay Elementary School. Principal Carolyn Cummings has requested the tables for the past three years. The tables, which also convert into backed benches for assemblies, would cost approximately $47,000. The expenditure is not currently included in the budget, and the board will vote on the purchase in the April meeting.

All items discussed are expected to be put to a vote during the board’s next meeting.