Various policies were the focus of the March 25 meeting of the Blanco ISD board of trustees.
These included additional discussion regarding the dress code, cell phone guidelines and random drug testing at the high school.
No action was taken on the random drug testing policy at Blanco High school, but different consequences and scenarios were suggested and reviewed. A letter and consent form for parents outlining the random drug testing policy for students involved in the following extracurricular activities: athletics, band, cheerleading, FFA, FCCLA, UIL Academics, Theatre, Spanish Club, National Honor Society, Student Council, Leo Club, AAVTC, and any volunteer opportunities was included in the meeting packet.
The dress code discussion was revisited with additional information provided by trustee Erika Sykes regarding the guidance supplied by TASB (Texas Association of School Boards) in relation to the legal action of George vs. Abbott, in which a student sued a school district alleging discrimination based on hair style and length. The board discussed the importance of consistency in relation to enforcement of the dress code, and the board’s aim to be responsive to the public comments which had been brought before them over the last school year.
The cell phone guidelines were revisited with no action taken. Trustees discussed having a panel with parents to glean further feedback while considering how much cell phone usage on school premises during the school day is beneficial for students.
A presentation of the teachers who are part of the Teacher Incentive Allotment (TIA) program and a discussion of the BISD renewal of the program in April 2026 was given by Assistant Superintendent Brad Kinney. The district first began the TIA program in 2021 and it must renew the program every five years. For teachers to be eligible for the allotment, students must show growth in test scores over the prior year. This year, there are three new recipients at the “Recognized” level with one at each campus, and three at the “Exemplary” level, also one per campus. There are also four prior designees who moved up from their prior designation. The recipients of the allotment will be recognized by the district at a dinner in May. The allotment amount changes based on a few factors, including the “ruralness” of the district and how many economically disadvantaged students are served.
The board voted to approve a resolution complying with Blanco County Hazard Mitigation Plan, and also approved the appointment of an election judge for the May 3, 2025 bond election.
Students of the month were Rafael Isidro (BES), Brooklyn Plahy (BMS) and Martin Lescano (BHS). The district staff member of the month was Kristina Huskerson and district teacher of the month was Stefanie Roemer.
The bond on the May 3 ballot aims to fund (through two propositions): HVAC projects, spaces for special needs students, a CTE (Career & Technical Education) building, district renovations, bus purchases and new technology equipment. More information on the bond can be found at https://www. blancoisd.com/59315_1. Community meetings are scheduled for April 4 in Kendalia, April 16 at Blanco Middle School, April 23 at Blanco Elementary School and May 1 at the ECA.
