The Longview ISD Board of Trustees convened for their regular meeting on Monday, November 11, 2024. During this session, they received crucial updates regarding facility upgrades throughout the district, granted approval for a visit to Hawaii for the Longview High School Choir, and sanctioned playground repairs essential for student safety.
Bond project updates
Trustees reviewed comprehensive plans for a new fencing installation at Longview High School presented by E4 Contracting owner/operator Mr. John S. Erickson IV. Alongside him, Procedeo Program Director Mr. Paul Miller outlined the timelines for the upcoming Career & Technology and multipurpose buildings, pivotal developments aimed at enhancing educational facilities.
E4 is tasked with managing district-wide upgrades as part of the Bond Project, ensuring that infrastructure meets modern standards, while Procedeo is responsible for spearheading the construction of five new facilities slated to break ground next year.
Mr. Erickson elaborated on planned improvements, indicating that the district’s soccer, baseball, and tennis courts will benefit from upgraded lighting and other enhancements that are yet to be finalized.
Mr. Miller informed board members that the expansion of the Transportation Center is expected to reach completion by 2026, followed by the inauguration of the other structures, which is anticipated by 2027. “Our proactive timelines reflect our commitment to addressing the district’s increasing needs,” he added confidently.
The new Early Childhood Learning Center is set to include 30 classrooms, a library, a full-service kitchen, and a gymnasium, while the Transportation Center addition will effectively alleviate ongoing space issues faced by the district.
The forthcoming Multi-Purpose Indoor Facility will feature a 120-yard turf field suitable for marching band rehearsals and various sports, along with batting cages, golf simulation technology, a weight room, locker rooms, and dedicated coaches’ offices.
The new Natatorium is promising to provide regulation 25-meter lanes, a diving well complete with boards, and significantly increased spectator seating compared to current offerings. This is a vital step towards promoting aquatic sports within the district.
Mr. Erickson reported his team’s diligent progress with upgrades across the district, emphasizing that security enhancements remain the top priority. Additionally, improvements in flooring, lighting, and the PA system within the Lobo Coliseum are scheduled to commence immediately following the conclusion of the basketball season.
Both Lobo Stadium and Judson Stadium are expected to undergo lighting and facility enhancements within a tight timeframe of 30 months, further affirming the district’s commitment to modernizing athletic venues.
In compliance with new state mandates, the board authorized an expenditure of $175,000 for purchasing materials and implementing glass reinforcement film across all campuses and district facilities. Chief Financial Officer Dr. Wayne Guidry clarified that this funding will derive from the School Safety Standards Formula grant as well as the Safety and Facilities Enhancement Grant, effectively using available resources for critical upgrades.
Wellness Pointe plans
Later in the meeting, Wellness Pointe CEO Mr. Chad Jones outlined an updated timeline for establishing the health clinic at Longview High School, emphasizing its significance in supporting student wellness.
“Construction work on plumbing, electrical systems, and interior walls is set to begin this month, with an aim for completion by January of next year,” he disclosed to the board.
Long-range plans aim to extend the health clinic to Bailey Elementary and Judson Middle School, with additional sites considered for future expansion. “The clinic is designed to enhance access to comprehensive medical and mental health services for both students and staff at LISD,” Mr. Jones stated, highlighting its importance in the community.
Anchored by the success of a similar health center launched in 2022 at a different district location, Mr. Jones relayed that the facility “has served over 1,300 patients in its inaugural year, facilitating more than 4,500 medical and counseling visits,” underscoring its impact.
District and school leaders collectively emphasized that delivering medical and mental health services on campus aims to dismantle barriers to student care, thereby boosting academic performance, reducing absenteeism, and promoting better long-term health outcomes for students.
Longview FFA recognized
The board proudly recognized the achievements of Longview FFA Agriculture students for their significant accomplishments this year. Trent Keebaugh earned distinction as a National Finalist, securing a top 4 position nationally for Agricultural Processing Proficiency. Similarly, Maggie Mayes also claimed a National Finalist title, finishing in the top 4 nationally in Goat Production Proficiency.
At the State level, Jocelyn Rice emerged as the State Star Greenhand Placement Winner, alongside Lane Foreman, who was named a State Star Greenhand Placement Finalist. Additionally, David Lopez received recognition as a State Star Greenhand Agribusiness Finalist. Furthermore, Brynn Woods showcased her skills by qualifying at the state level for Public Speaking.
The Longview FFA Program has seen tremendous growth, expanding from 3 teachers and 200 students in 2020 to an impressive 8 teachers and 1,322 enrolled students. Their aspirations do not end there, as they are gearing up to become the largest chapter not just in Texas, but nationwide, featuring an impressive tally of 20 Lone Star Degree recipients and 6 American Degree recipients.
Choir headed to Hawaii
The board granted approval for an exciting out-of-state trip to Hawaii for the Longview High School Choir, allowing them to participate in the upcoming 50th Anniversary ceremonies and celebrations marking the end of the Vietnam War from March 25-30 in Honolulu, Hawaii.
LHS Choir instructor Mrs. Melody McMullen expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “The director of Historic Programs extended a verbal invitation to our Lobo Choir following our last concert in France. This is a remarkable opportunity for our students to delve into the historical impact of the Vietnam War on our nation and engage with our veterans. Additionally, they will have the chance to visit the historic Pearl Harbor.”
Mrs. McMullen anticipates that approximately 30 to 35 students will participate, accompanied by several chaperones and school officials. Notably, the funding for this trip will not come from district resources but will instead rely on fundraising efforts.
New playgrounds for Ware, Bramlette
The board members approved a budget allocation of $345,261 aimed at designing, repairing, replacing, and installing new playground equipment across Ware and Bramlette elementary campuses.
A recent safety inspection has highlighted the necessity for critical repairs and replacements to ensure that both campuses’ playgrounds meet safety standards.
The authorized work will be managed by Child’s Play, with funding sourced from the district’s General Operating Budget for the fiscal year 2024-25.
“Our certified safety inspection has identified necessary upgrades to maintain compliance with current safety standards,” LISD Chief Financial Officer Dr. Wayne Guidry said. “After evaluating proposals from BuyBoard vendors, we determined that Child’s Play presented the most comprehensive plan for the required playground improvements.”
The BuyBoard cooperative purchasing program streamlines procurement for Texas governmental entities, enhancing purchasing power and ensuring optimal value. The district’s alliance with the BuyBoard Cooperative, under contract No. 679-22, facilitates these upgrades while maximizing taxpayer resources.
Superintendent’s Report
In her comprehensive report, Superintendent Dr. Marla Sheppard provided valuable updates on numerous district initiatives, covering crucial developments in facilities and charter partnerships.
Maintenance Supervisor Mr. Mike Gipson confirmed during the Facilities Report that there were no significant maintenance issues reported over the past month.
However, he stressed ongoing efforts to resolve sewer line blockages and warranty work on rooftop units in partnership with Schneider Electric. In addition, the replacement of chillers is scheduled to take place over the holiday break, and Schneider will conduct surveys across campuses this week to prepare for planned solar panel installations.
District Donations
Board members unanimously approved a series of generous donations to support the district’s activities:
- $30,000 from the Lobo Football Booster Club intended for purchasing essential equipment and supplies;
- $1,607 from the Lady Lobo Soccer Booster to cover travel expenses;
- $756 from the Hudson PEP Parent-Teacher Organization for the purchase of two iPads and pens through a PTO grant; and
- $504 from Texas Bank & Trust, stemming from royalties received from the sale of Lobo-branded “Fandemonium” Bank Cards.
In other business…
During the course of the meeting, the LISD Board of Trustees also:
- APPROVED Board Policy Update 12 addressing topics such as School Security Personnel, Employee/Student Complaints, and Instructional Resources and Policies;
- APPROVED nominations for Jon Cromer, Keith Honey, and Rev. Lonnie Murphy to the Gregg Appraisal District Board of Directors for the 2025-26 term;
- APPROVED the Minutes and Time Use Tracker for the regular meeting on October 21, the special meeting on October 25, and the team-building retreat on October 26;
- APPROVED revisions to Board Policy DFE (LOCAL) and FL (LOCAL);
- REVIEWED the Investment Policy and Investment Strategies;
- APPROVED the 2023-24 Fourth Quarter and Annual Investment Report;
- APPROVED Budget Amendment No. 3.
For more info
Trustees typically convene in the boardroom of the LISD Education Support Center (1301 E. Young Street), but they also schedule special meetings at various district locations. The next regular meeting is tentatively slated for 6 p.m. December 6, 2024.
For more information about the Longview ISD Board of Trustees, please click here.
Irling equipment and uniforms;
These contributions underline the strong community support for local educational programs and the district’s continued commitment to enhancing student resources.
Next Steps
Looking ahead, the board is eager to track the progress of facility upgrades and the establishment of the health clinic, ensuring that all initiatives are executed on schedule. Plans for future meetings will continue to address budget allocations, project updates, and student accomplishments, fostering an environment that prioritizes student wellness and educational excellence.
Trustees expressed their gratitude for the collaborative efforts of staff, parents, and community members that have contributed to the district’s growth and success. The next board meeting is scheduled for December 9, 2024, at the Longview ISD Administration Building.
