Godley ISD school board trustees held its regular monthly meeting on April 22, 2024, at Godley High School.

Trustees approved moving the district’s fiscal year to begin July 1 and ending June 30 - a change from the current fiscal year of September to August.  The change will align the fiscal year with the school year while also allowing staff to focus budgets from the first day of school rather than holding back from the prior year.  

A second review of comprehensive district policy amendments was presented by Assistant Superintendent Jason Karnes, who stated that district and campus administrators had recently conducted the local policy review with a consultant from the Texas Association of School Boards.  The recommendations included aligning policy to current practices, removing or consolidating obsolete or repetitive policies, and adding policy language to comply with recent changes in state law.  The board will consider the policy recommendations at a future meeting.

Trustees approved a memorandum of understanding with Hill College for dual credit classes in the 2024-25 school year to continue the program allowing Godley students to earn both high school and college credit through 13 courses in art appreciation, economics, English, government, history and statistics.  The agreement also extends to two career and technical education courses - automotive and cosmetology.

Trustees reviewed an amendment to its agreement with the Huckabee architectural firm for future possible construction and renovation projects.  The board will consider the agreement amendment at a future meeting.

Board members adopted a resolution in support of military-connected students and families.  This resolution will be incorporated into campuses’ applications for Purple Star designation with the Texas Education Agency, which recognizes schools that show their support and commitment to meeting the unique needs of military-connected students and their families.

In personnel, the board extended contracts for teachers.  Trustees also authorized the addition of a registered nurse at GHS beginning next school year.

Reports to the board included:

• Facility progress was presented by Satterfield & Pontikes Construction Company regarding Phase 2 projects at GHS including The WILD career and technical education center and competition gymnasium. In addition, REEDER Construction reported on Phase 3 construction for the high school’s fine arts wing.

• CTE director Nikki Nix reported on the opening, move in and ribbon cutting for The WILD, while fine arts director Joe Walker reviewed the opening for the fine arts wing.

• Trustees heard a campus spotlight from R.B. Godley Elementary School.

• Board president Matt McKittrick announced that all trustees completed required continuing education.

The board approved minutes from recent meetings, budget amendments as well as financial investment and tax reports. Board members approved an amendment recognizing a $39,000 equipment grant from the Texas Department of Agriculture for the district’s child nutrition program.  Trustees also approved 2024-25 contracts with the Region 11 Education Service Center.

Trustees took no action on a request by a board member for legal representation in a personal lawsuit.

School trustees have their next regularly scheduled board meeting on Monday, May 20.