PfISD Administration Report
September 19, 2024
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Purpose
- Radical Transparency - unprecedented levels of accessibility to information
- Keeping Trustees and Stakeholders connected with the work of the Administration
- Staying cohesive from the Boardroom to the Classroom
- Keeping us open and learning, together!
- Continuous improvement in all that we do
The new Pflugerville ISD Administration Report is a groundbreaking initiative designed to promote transparency and create an unprecedented level of accessibility to information. This report is strategically aligned with the district's mission and goals, ensuring that every stakeholder is informed about the administrative decisions, board meeting outcomes, and district-wide initiatives that impact the educational environment.
The report aims to align the district's strategic efforts seamlessly across all levels by bridging the gap between the boardroom and the classroom to support student success and community trust. It serves as a comprehensive resource for parents, students, teachers, and community members, reflecting Pflugerville ISD's commitment to open communication and collaborative governance. Through this initiative, the district seeks to support student success and foster a sense of community trust by keeping all parties well-informed and engaged in the educational process.
Academics
Special Education Scoop Newsletter Launch
On August 22, 2024, Pflugerville ISD proudly launched the first edition of the Special Education Scoop Newsletter, reaching over 3,200 families whose children receive special education services. This inaugural edition provided valuable back-to-school tips and essential resources for families, reflecting our ongoing commitment to supporting students with diverse learning needs.
Our Family Engagement Specialist, Julie Schwart, has planned a series of parent engagement events designed to foster community and provide support, including Coffee Talks, Parents Supporting Parents meetings, Parent Connection Night, and Lunch and Learn training sessions. These opportunities are intended to empower families through shared learning and community connection.
In addition to district-hosted events, the newsletter featured both local and virtual support groups as well as regional training opportunities for families. This comprehensive approach ensures families are well-equipped with resources tailored to their specific needs.
The newsletter also included a special education family needs assessment, giving families a voice in shaping the future of our programs. This initiative demonstrates our dedication to listening to and partnering with our families to continuously improve services.
In alignment with our district's commitment to inclusivity, the newsletter can be translated into any language, with instructions provided in Spanish and Vietnamese. All Google forms linked within the newsletter are also available in Spanish and Vietnamese. The Special Education Scoop will be distributed monthly, and we are thrilled to report that within 24 hours of the first publication, more than ten families had already reached out to our Family Engagement Specialist for assistance.
We are excited to highlight one upcoming event: Coffee Talk for Families. This monthly series, held at West Pecan Coffee (100 W. Pecan Street), offers a casual and supportive environment for families to connect and engage in meaningful conversations. Meeting dates are as follows:
October 11, 2024
November 5, 2024
January 21, 2025
February 18, 2025
March 25, 2025
April 22, 2025
May 20, 2025
Pflugerville ISD is committed to providing ongoing support and fostering strong connections with our families to ensure that every student receives the care, attention, and opportunities they deserve.
Celebrating the Excellence of PfISD’s Department of Fine Arts
The Pflugerville ISD Department of Fine Arts is dedicated to offering students meaningful opportunities to grow as artists, leaders, and individuals. Through district-wide events and the support of Well-Rounded Education and Title IV funding, we proudly highlight three programs that exemplify this mission: the College and Career Fair, Student Leadership Seminar, and District Dance Seminar.
College and Career Fair
This annual event connects fine arts students with over 40 representatives from top universities, colleges, and professional organizations, offering portfolio reviews, audition tips, and personalized guidance. With more than 250 students and parents in attendance on Friday, August 23, 2024, the fair empowered students to explore higher education and career opportunities in the arts, reflecting our commitment to their future success.
Student Leadership Seminar
Designed to enhance leadership skills, the Student Leadership Seminar brought together 173 students from all fine arts disciplines—band, choir, dance, theater, and visual arts this summer. Through expert-led sessions, students developed communication, collaboration, and team-building skills, fostering a strong community of young leaders poised to excel in their programs and beyond.
District Dance Seminar
This event celebrated the talent of 140 PfISD dance students through masterclasses, workshops, and performances led by professional dancers and choreographers. Students refined their skills, explored new techniques, and collaborated with peers, showcasing the diversity and creativity within our district’s dance programs.
These events exemplify how Pflugerville ISD Fine Arts enriches students' talents and prepares them for bright futures. We are proud of our students' achievements and grateful for the support of our educators and community. Special thanks to Sarah Martinez, Lisa Trittin, Elizabeth Araujo, Lori Lesikar, and Lizett Valles for their contributions. These events were made possible through Title IV funding and Well-Rounded Education.
We Teach Computer Science (CS) Launch_K5 Training
This summer, Pflugerville ISD’s Instructional Technology Department partnered with We Teach CS UT to offer 91 elementary teachers and campus leaders hands-on training in the K-5 Technology Applications TEKS. The two-day LAUNCH_K5 professional development program focused on integrating computer science and computational thinking into core content areas, providing teachers with practical strategies for coding and tech integration.
Participants explored block-based coding tools like Scratch, Scratch Jr., Vex 123 robots, and Micro:bits to support physical computing and scaffold learning. The training also included plug-and-unplugged lessons that teachers can immediately apply in their classrooms, ensuring students develop foundational computer science skills.
Each participant received a pair of Vex 123 robots or a set of Micro:bits to support classroom initiatives. The Instructional Technology Department will continue providing support for the integration of these tools and the Tech Apps TEKS throughout the 2024-25 school year.
Emergent Bilingual Summer Programming & Exciting Grant News
Pre-Kinder and Kinder Emergent Bilingual Summer School
To measure growth, students are administered a pre-test and a post-test. In Pre-K, we assess foundational skills, while in Kindergarten, we evaluate language proficiency across various domains: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Students demonstrated significant growth at both grade levels.
In addition to helping students grow their academic and language proficiency skills, summer school provides opportunities for students to engage in activities to build their background knowledge and sense of belonging in the community.
This summer, we invited the police and fire departments to build relations between our students and community authority figures.
Welcome Center
Due to the growing number of qualifying refugee students, as well as the efficiency of the
Pflugerville ISD Welcome Center, the RSI grant amount more than doubled from FY24 to FY25, increasing from $513,000 to $1,040,000.
We were an official partner of World Refugee Day celebrations at the Bob Bullock Museum. Staff and students attended with their families.
STAAR
The 2023-2024 End of Year Academic Report highlights key academic performance indicators for Pflugerville ISD, including Math and Reading screener data for K-2nd grade, STAAR results for 3rd-8th grade and End-of-Course (EOC) assessments, as well as College, Career, and Military Readiness (CCMR) outcomes. This report provides a comprehensive overview of student achievement, growth, and areas for continued focus, aligning district efforts with state and regional trends. The findings and next steps outlined in this report will guide future instructional and improvement efforts to support student success across all campuses.
VI. Consent Agenda Items
VI.B. Consideration and Possible Approval for the Hendrickson High School Color Guard Program to Travel to Dayton, Ohio to Perform at the Winter Guard International World Championships on April 2-6, 2025
Board Policy FMG(LOCAL) mandates Board approval for all out-of-state overnight travel. Hendrickson High School Color Guard plans to participate in the Winter Guard International (WGI) competition, which involves about 60 regional events leading to a World Championship. The team will travel by airline and charter bus with 30 students and 3 adults, maintaining a 1:10 adult-student ratio. The trip is estimated to cost between $1,340 and $1,500 per participant, funded through fundraising efforts like the “Hawk Angels” Calendar Fundraiser and DoubleGood Popcorn, as well as student payments. Payment plans will be available through the travel company and the Hawk Band Booster Club. Students who need financial assistance can apply for support through the Booster Club. The trip will take place from April 2–6, 2025, with students missing three days of school. There are no conflicts with testing during this period, and participation in the competition is voluntary for students.
The administration recommends the Board approve as presented.
V.I.C. Consideration and Possible Approval for the Weiss School Choir to Perform at Disney World and Participate in Workshop Activities at the Imagination Campus in Orlando, Florida on April 10-14, 2025
Board Policy FMG(LOCAL) requires Board approval for all out-of-state overnight travel. The Weiss High School Choir program plans to perform at Disney World and participate in workshops at the Imagination Campus in Orlando, Florida. Students will learn about the life of a professional performer, both on and off stage, gaining experience in Disney performances and backstage professionalism. The group will travel via airline and charter bus. The trip will include 50 students and 7 adults, maintaining the required 1:10 adult-student ratio. Costs range from $1,860 to $1,980 per participant, funded through student payments and fundraising activities such as Spirit Night, Mattress Sales, and the Little Howlers Choir Camp. Scholarships through the Booster Club will be available, and payment plans will be offered through the travel company and the Booster Club. The trip is scheduled for April 10–14, 2025, with students missing three days of school. There are no conflicts with testing, and participation in the event is voluntary for students.
The administration recommends the Board approve as presented.
VI.K.11. Fred J Miller, Inc. for Purchase of 200 New Uniforms for Weiss High School Band
In accordance with Pflugerville ISD's Fine Arts uniform rotation schedule, Weiss High School is due for new marching band uniforms. The school received its current uniforms when it opened in 2017, and after seven years of use, new uniforms are needed to maintain the quality and appearance of the band. The purchase of 200 new band uniforms from Fred J Miller, Inc. totals $134,350, sourced from the General Fund. This expenditure is part of the district’s commitment to ensuring that all fine arts programs are properly equipped and aligned with the uniform rotation cycle. It’s important to note that we can anticipate a 4% yearly inflationary increase in uniform costs moving forward, emphasizing the importance of timely replacements to manage long-term expenses effectively. Our Fine Arts Department manages the equitable rotation of all performance uniforms for our middle and high school programs across marching band, choir, dance, and concert band. We are grateful for the keen organization and fiscal oversight of our Fine Arts Department in this practice.
The administration recommends the Board approve as presented.
VI.D. Consideration and Possible Approval to Submit an Application for a State Waiver to the Texas Education Agency for Remote Homebound Services for an Individual Student
The District is seeking approval to submit a state waiver application to the Texas Education Agency (TEA) to offer Remote Homebound services for a student with severe medical circumstances that prevent face-to-face instruction. This option is available under the Student Accounting Handbook Section 12.3.3, allowing districts to provide instruction to students hospitalized outside the district for at least four weeks (non-consecutive). By offering Remote Homebound instruction, the student can remain enrolled in their home district without needing to transfer between districts. If approved, the waiver will enable the District to count the student as present for funding purposes under the Foundation School Program (FSP).
The administration recommends the Board approve as presented.
VI.E. Consideration and Possible Approval of the Travis County 4-H Organization as an Approved Extracurricular Activity and Their Agents as Adjunct Faculty Members
Under 19 Texas Administrative Code, Chapter 76.1, local school boards can designate local 4-H organizations as approved extracurricular activities, allowing related absences to be considered school-related. For this to apply, County Extension Agents must qualify as adjunct faculty but receive no compensation from Pflugerville ISD, remaining employees of Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service. These adjunct faculty are supervised by the District Extension Administrator or Travis County Extension Director, with nine eligible agents in Travis County. This appointment, in accordance with Section 129.21(k)(1) of the Texas Administrative Code, allows students participating in 4-H programs to be counted as present for foundation school program funding purposes. Pflugerville ISD has approved this request in previous years, recognizing the educational benefits 4-H provides to students and the community, and wishes to continue the partnership.
The administration recommends the Board approve as presented.
Finance
Special Meeting of the Pflugerville Independent School District Public Facility Corporation
In 2021, Pflugerville ISD established the Public Facilities Corporation (PFC) as a strategic mechanism to help meet the district’s growing infrastructure needs. A PFC is a nonprofit corporation created by school districts to finance, acquire, construct, or improve public facilities such as school buildings and other educational facilities. By forming the PFC, the district gained access to alternative funding sources, which allowed the District to purchase the Calvary Church of Austin located near the current administrative office.
The Board of the Public Facilities Corporation (PFC) is made up of the same members as the Pflugerville ISD School Board. This means that the same trusted individuals who make decisions for the school district are also responsible for overseeing the PFC, ensuring alignment between the district’s educational goals and its facility planning and financing. This structure provides continuity and accountability in managing the district’s resources and facilities.
Report on Implementation of the Corporation’s Capital Plan
As part of the Public Facilities Corporation (PFC) financing transaction for the purchase of Calvary Church of Austin, the PFC Board, which consists of the Pflugerville ISD Board of Trustees, will receive an update on recent PFC activities. This update will include a discussion of the PFC’s capital plan, in compliance with Section 4.1(c) of the PFC’s Bylaws.
Additionally, the Board will be provided with a brief report outlining the current capital plan, which includes the management of the administration building acquired through the issuance of the Series 2021 Lease Revenue Bonds.
Approval of Corporate Budget for the Fiscal Year Ending June 30, 2025
In accordance with Section 4.2 of the PFC’s Bylaws, the PFC’s annual budget must be adopted by the Board. With Pflugerville ISD transitioning its fiscal year to end on June 30th, the Corporation’s fiscal year will align with this new timeframe. The proposed budget for the anticipated revenues and expenditures for the 2025 fiscal year will be presented for the Board’s review and approval.
The administration recommends the Board approve the budget as presented.
August Financials and Tax Collections
General Fund
August is the final month of the 2023-2024 fiscal year. In August, general fund revenue totaled $22.7 million, bringing the year-to-date revenue to 86% of the budgeted $286.6 million. This represents a 16% decrease compared to the same period last year.
Expenditures for August amounted to $31.8 million. Year-to-date, 95% of the overall budgeted expenditures of $287.3 million have been recognized, which is 1% lower than last year’s realized percentage.
As year-end adjustments are made, both revenue and expenditure figures will more closely align with the amended budget presented in August.
Food Service
The Food Service department received $1.2 million in revenue, reaching 89% of the budgeted $17.9 million for the fiscal year. On the expenditure side, the department spent $2.3 million, bringing the year-to-date total to 80% of the overall budgeted expenditures of $21.6 million. Year-end adjustments are still pending, and as these adjustments are made, the revenue and expenditure figures will continue to evolve, providing a more accurate reflection of the final financial position for the 2023-2024 fiscal year.
Debt Service
In August, the Debt Service Fund did not receive any revenue due to tax adjustments and refunds issued to taxpayers by the Travis and Williamson County Tax Offices. However, the year-to-date percentage of revenue realized remains 1% higher than at the same time last year. The second of two annual debt payments was made in August, resulting in expenses totaling over $16.9 million for the month. Year-end entries are still being made, and these figures will continue to be updated as adjustments are finalized.
Tax Collections
Local tax collections are at 97.33% of the $277,350,389 levied. This percentage reflects a 0.54% decrease from last month, primarily due to the tax adjustments and refunds that were issued.
2008 Bond: The remaining balance is $417.8 thousand, earmarked for technology projects.
2018 Bond: Approximately $16.7 million remains available for general project use. This includes $3.2 million in unspent interest revenue and $871.7 thousand from COVID reimbursements, which have been allocated for technology projects. Additionally, the balance includes $1.1 million generated from the sale of surplus school buses, which will be used to purchase micro-buses and suburbans to transport smaller student groups.
2022 Bond: The remaining balance across all propositions is $308.7 million. Since the bond sale, the 2022 Bond program has earned $29 million in interest revenue.
Financial Integrity Rating System of Texas (FIRST) Rating
Enrollment and Attendance Impact on Budget
Enrollment for the school district has exceeded budgeted projections. This positive trend could result in increased funding should it continue. As attendance plays a critical role in revenue generation, district leadership will continue to closely monitor attendance patterns to ensure sustained financial benefits and identify areas for further improvement in student engagement.
District Memberships
District leadership conducted a thorough evaluation of organizational memberships and dues, aiming to optimize costs without compromising services. By carefully assessing the value and relevance of each membership, the district identified memberships that no longer provided significant benefits. As a result, leadership was able to reduce costs by 22%.
VI.K. Consideration and Possible Approval of Purchases in Excess of $50,000
In compliance with District policy CH(Local), any single, budgeted purchase of goods or services costing $50,000 or more requires Board approval before a transaction may take place. The following items are presented for consideration:
McGraw Hill Texas Math License Subscription Renewal
Purpose: This is a renewal request for online access to Algebra I, Algebra II, Geometry and Precalculus district-adopted high-quality instructional materials.
Cost: $85,983.03
Funding Source: Instructional Materials Allotment
Vendor: McGraw Hill
Rationale: Previously the review and adoption process determined the instructional materials eligible for adoption by the State Board of Education (SBOE). As this process is transitioning to the new Instructional Materials Review and Approval (IMRA) gaps in adopted material have occurred. We are requesting to purchase another year of digital subscription of the previously adopted Mathematics instructional materials for students and teachers in Algebra I, Algebra II, Geometry, and Precalculus that have not yet been included in the IMRA process.
PSAT College Board Test Order
Purpose: PfISD provides free school day testing: PSAT 8/9 for all 8th-grade students and 9th-grade AVID students; PSAT/NMSQT for all 10th and 11th-grade students and 9th-grade students enrolled in Algebra II or above may opt to take the assessment.
Cost: $69,186
Funding Source: General Fund
Vendor: College Board
Rationale: The Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test (PSAT) provides first-hand practice in critical reasoning, math problem-solving, and writing skills which are found on the SAT reasoning test. The PSAT also serves as the National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (NMSQT) which qualifies students for an array of scholarship programs.
Air Filters
Purpose: Funding for air filters District-wide for 2024-2025.
Cost: $300,000
Funding Source: General Fund
Vendor: Advanced Filtration Products
Rationale: The replacement of air filters is essential to maintaining optimal air quality and HVAC efficiency district-wide, ensuring a healthy environment for students and staff. The estimated cost reflects the ongoing need for regular replacements for the 2024-25 year.
HVAC Roof-Top Unit (RTU) for HHS
Purpose: Adding a new roof top unit (RTU) for the CTE building on the campus at Hendrickson High School.
Cost: $200,000
Funding Source: 2022 Bond
Vendor: TF Harper & Associates
Rationale: Currently, the flower shop in the HHS CTE building lacks air conditioning. Installing an HVAC system will provide better temperature control, allowing students and staff to work in a more comfortable and conducive environment.
Electricity Utilities
Purpose: Funding for Austin Energy electrical utilities.
Cost: $276,200
Funding Source: General Fund and Food Service Fund
Vendor: Austin Energy
Rationale: The estimated costs for electricity and wastewater services to all district sites located within the City of Austin for the 2023-2024 fiscal year have exceeded the originally approved budgeted amount. This increase will allocate additional funds to cover the remaining services for the fiscal year.
Water Utilities
Purpose: Funding for the City of Pflugerville water utilities.
Cost: $350,200
Funding Source: General Fund and Food Service Fund
Vendor: City of Pflugerville Water
Rationale: The estimated costs for water services to all district sites located within the City of Pflugerville for the 2023-2024 fiscal year have exceeded the originally approved budgeted amount. This increase will allocate additional funds to cover the remaining services for the fiscal year.
Records Retention
Purpose: Service to provide records retention District-wide.
Cost: $75,000
Funding Source: General Fund
Vendor: GRM Information Management Services of Austin
Rationale: District-wide records retention services for the 2024-2025 school year are essential for ensuring proper management, security, and compliance with legal requirements for all district records.
KACE SDA Software Windows Deployment Technology Records Retention
Purpose: Replacement technology for deployment of Windows based systems.
Cost: $205,700
Funding Source: 2022 Bond
Vendor: GRM Information Management Services of Austin
Rationale:The KACE System Development Appliance (SDA) software will replace the end-of-life technology platform currently used to streamline the provisioning, deployment, and reimaging of Windows based system district wide. This is a three-year term agreement.
District Fiber Move
Purpose: Relocation of District fiber for Colorado Sands expansion.
Cost: $163,525
Funding Source: 2022 Bond
Vendor: Astound Grande
Rationale:The relocation of District fiber is necessary to accommodate the expansion of Colorado Sands per agreement with the City of Pflugerville. Fiber will be rerouted via conduit under the Tollway and extended to the rear of HHS property.
NIM Identity Management Tool Renewal
Purpose: Annual renewal of identity management tool.
Cost: $56,185
Funding Source: General Fund
Vendor: SHI
Rationale: The annual renewal of the Identity Management software tool is essential for efficiently managing account creation and access across multiple system environments, ensuring secure and streamlined user provisioning throughout the district.
WHS Band Uniforms
Purpose: Replace aging uniforms for Weiss High School Band.
Cost: $134,350
Funding Source: General Fund
Vendor: Fred J. Miller, Inc.
Rationale: The purchase of new band uniforms for Weiss High School is necessary as part of the scheduled replacement cycle to replace the aging uniforms, ensuring students have durable, professional attire for performances.
BrainPop Subscription Renewal
Purpose: Subscription renewal request for grades K-8.
Cost: $87,428
Funding Source: General fund
Vendor: BrainPop
Rationale: BrainPOP offers access to more than 1,000 standards-aligned topics intended to build background and deepen learning across curriculum SEL-themed topics, and embedded creative and computational projects on BrainPOP, BrainPOP Jr., BrainPOP Español, and BrainPOP Français.
SORA OverDrive Subscription Renewal
Purpose: Subscription renewal request for grades K-12
Cost: $150,000
Funding Source: General Fund
Vendor: OverDrive
Rationale: Sora by OverDrive is an award-winning digital reading app that allows K-12 students to discover age-appropriate ebooks, audiobooks, and more from their school library. Sora boasts a large, diverse catalog of digital books and provides students and educators unified access to curriculum titles, leisure reading, professional development books, and the public library. Students and teachers can access the Sora app 24-7 through their school-issued or personal devices.
Micro-Buses for Transportation
Purpose: Transport smaller student groups to events.
Cost: $463,656
Funding Source: 2018 Bond
Vendor: Rush Truck Center, San Antonio
Rationale: Micro buses can transport 14 passengers plus a driver, and because of their capacity, drivers are not required to have a Commercial Driver's License (CDL), allowing anyone with a good driving record to operate them. These buses are designed for small group transportation, offering a fuel-efficient solution for various district needs. They are particularly beneficial for small athletic teams, and the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance program, which serves students from different areas in Pflugerville and surrounding cities.
Two-Way Campus Communication System
Purpose: Allows Principals and Teachers to have a two-way communication system with parents.
Cost: $106,250
Funding Source: General Fund and Title 1
Vendor: SchoolStatus
Rationale: The SchoolStatus program is already being used at six District campuses and we would eventually like to extend this program District wide to give all our campuses the opportunity to have two-way communication ability with parents.
Modernization Projects at Four Campuses
Purpose: Create educational equity across 4 campuses by modernizing the interior layout of Rowe Lane Elementary, Kelly Lane Middle School, Pflugerville Middle School, Dessau Middle School.
Cost: $400,000.
Funding Source: 2022 Bond
Vendor: Reliance Architecture
Rationale: The district-wide modernization process will continue with updates to student restrooms at Kelly Lane Middle School, completion of flooring and wall renovations in classroom areas at Pflugerville Middle School, and full cosmetic modernizations at Rowe Lane Elementary School and Dessau Middle School. These improvements will enhance the learning environments and ensure facilities meet current standards.
The administration recommends the Board approve these purchases as outlined.
School Nutrition Highlights
Meal Participation
Meals have seen an average increase of 210 per day compared to the same time last year. This growth is largely attributed to breakfast opportunities and the success of the Second Chance Breakfast program. Notably, the new breakfast programs at Windermere ES are performing exceptionally well.
Equipment Enhancements
Summer capital expenditures have been completed, including the installation of serving lines at Hendrickson HS, Brookhollow ES, Wieland ES, Park Crest MS, Spring Hill ES, and Pflugerville ES. Additionally, new walk-in freezer/cooler units have been installed at Hendrickson HS, Westview MS, Park Crest MS, and Copperfield ES. All of these upgrades were funded by the food service fund balance. Looking ahead, cafeteria tables across the district and serving lines at Connally HS and Pflugerville HS are expected to arrive and be installed in Fall 2024.
Free/Reduced Lunch Applications and Socio-economic Forms
Socio-economic initiatives have been implemented to increase participation in the Free and Reduced (F&R) program. These efforts include communication from principals, household communications, participation in back-to-school nights, and information sharing via email blasts, the district website, and phone calls.
It is important to note that the free and reduced lunch status "grandfathered" drop day deadline is September 24, 2024. Families who were receiving benefits last year but have not submitted an application to re-qualify will have their status changed to paid lunch starting on September 25, 2024. To continue receiving benefits, it is essential that these families complete and submit their applications before the deadline.
Human Resources
PfISD Leadership Profile
Seventy-five campus, department, and central office leaders came together on an inspiring journey to shape the future of leadership at Pflugerville ISD. Through a collaborative effort, we identified the key competencies that define leadership excellence, resulting in the creation of the PfISD Leadership Profile—a comprehensive guide that embodies our core leadership values and beliefs.
Why a Leadership Profile?
Leaders provide direction, vision, and motivation, inspiring others to achieve the goals of our learning organization. A Leadership Profile outlines the essential competencies and attributes leaders must possess, serving as a vital tool in hiring, evaluation, and promotion processes. It also helps identify and nurture emerging talent within the organization.
The PfISD Leadership Profile reflects our collective vision of leadership excellence as we continue to serve our students, staff, families, and community, guiding our district toward success for years to come.
Staff Leadership Academies
Pflugerville ISD is dedicated to cultivating strong leaders at every level to ensure excellence in serving our students, parents, staff, and community. Recognizing the powerful role great leaders play in student success, we are thrilled to introduce the PfISD Leadership Academy Framework—a comprehensive, tiered program designed to foster growth and leadership development. Starting annually in September and continuing throughout the school year, this unique program provides an incredible opportunity for both aspiring and current leaders to elevate their skills. If you’re passionate about advancing your professional development and making an impact in our district, this is the perfect platform for you. We can’t wait to see the incredible achievements of our leaders as they participate in the PfISD Leadership Academy Framework! The Aspiring Leadership Academy has 26 individuals this year, maintaining the same strong engagement as last year. The Leadership Academy Institute (Level I) experienced a growth in interest, with 26 participants, up from 19 the previous year. Similarly, the Leadership Academy Institute (Level II) saw a significant increase, with 11 participants compared to just 4 last year.
VI.F. Consideration and Possible Approval of Elementary Class Size Waivers
Each school district in Texas is required to conduct a class-size enrollment survey for Kindergarten through Grade 4 no later than the 30th day after the start of school. If the survey indicates that any class for Grades K-4 exceeds the allowable class size limit of 22:1. The district, the District must receive approval from the local school board of trustees and the Texas Education Agency for approval. Because student enrollment increases have increased at multiple elementary schools, the administration is requesting approval of class-size waivers, as necessary, for the 2024-2025 school year. Parental notification will be sent as required by law. As of 9/13/2024, the District is requesting authority for 20 class-size waivers.
The administration recommends the Board approve as outlined.
Position Management / Staffing
The staffing process begins annually in January or February, prior to the new school year. Our demographer provides anticipated enrollment reports, which are reviewed by District Leadership and the HR department. Using these reports and additional demographic updates, staffing allocations for each campus are determined and communicated to principals in March or April. As hiring progresses and actual enrollment figures come in, HR, campus principals, and district leadership continuously monitor and adjust these allocations as necessary. Final staffing decisions are made when students arrive in August. Due to fluctuations in student enrollment across campuses, seven teachers were reassigned to campuses with higher student needs.
VI.G. Consideration and Possible Approval of 2024-2025 T-TESS Appraisers
Since the 2016-2017 school year, Pflugerville ISD has utilized the Texas Teacher Evaluation and Support System (T-TESS) to appraise teachers. Annually, Board policy DNA (Legal) states that T-TESS appraisers must be annually approved by the Board of Trustees. Educational Service Center Region XIII and other service centers throughout the state provide training for our campus administrators. Administrators must complete the T-TESS appraisal training and Advance Educational Leadership (AEL) to be considered trained to appraise teachers. Starting in September and continuing throughout the fall as administrators complete their training, PfISD Human Resources will provide a monthly list of administrators eligible to appraise teachers for PfISD Trustees to continue.
Vacancy List
The district started the 24-25 school year with 26 teacher vacancies out of nearly 1900 teacher positions and 28 education associate (aide) vacancies. This number of vacant positions at the start of this school year is approximately half the amount of vacancies in the past few school years. Here is a chart of beginning school year vacancies for the last two school years:
The increased focus on spring and summer recruitment events has contributed to our lower number of vacancies. In addition, our increased online recruitment efforts have contributed to higher fill rates for this school year. Our district teacher certification officer Ms. Keitra Johnson has provided top level credentialing support for educators entering the education field.
District HR-Benefits Baby Shower
Pflugerville Independent School District (PfISD) is thrilled to announce an upcoming event designed especially for our district employees who are expecting or planning to become parents. We are pleased to host the PfISD HR-Benefits Baby Shower, a special occasion dedicated to providing valuable information and support for our employees during this exciting time.
Event Details:
Purpose: The PfISD HR-Benefits Baby Shower aims to offer comprehensive information on maternity and paternity leave policies as well as the benefits available to employees. This event will help expecting and soon-to-be parents navigate and fully understand the options available for the upcoming benefits enrollment period, which will be effective starting January 1, 2025.
What to Expect: During the event, employees will have the opportunity to:
Learn about the details and procedures for maternity and paternity leave.
Explore the various benefits and resources available to support employees and their growing family.
Receive guidance on how to maximize employee’s benefits and make informed decisions during the enrollment process.
Engage with HR representatives who will be available to answer any questions you may have.
Why Attend: Attending this baby shower will ensure employees are well-informed about the benefits and support systems in place. It will also provide a platform to address any concerns or uncertainties regarding their leave and benefits, allowing employees to plan effectively for their family’s needs.
PfISD Department of HR/Benefits looks forward to celebrating this joyful milestone with our employees and helping them navigate the important decisions ahead.
Preparation for Employee Benefits Open Enrollment
Pflugerville ISD is implementing several important changes to our benefits plans for the upcoming open enrollment (October 1 - October 25th):
Medical Plan: The BCBS Low Option PPO is being replaced with a BCBS HMO option.
Dental Plan: The dental plan is transitioning to The Standard, expanding from two to three options and offering access to a larger network.
Vision Plan: Enhancements have been made to improve coverage.
FSA, HSA, and COBRA: These will now be managed by Inspira, which includes new features such as a mobile app and extended customer service hours.
VII. Consideration and Possible Ratification of Personnel – General Counsel (551.074)
Per Policy DC(LOCAL), the Board holds final authority over the employment of Principals and Central Office Administration at the Director level or above. The General Counsel position was duly posted and advertised, with applicants screened and interviews conducted. The administration's recommendation will be presented to Trustees at the upcoming Board meeting.
Having a General Counsel is crucial for school districts as it ensures legal oversight, helps navigate complex regulatory frameworks, and provides immediate access to legal advice. This can save the district money by reducing the need for outside legal services, mitigating legal risks, and proactively addressing issues before they lead to costly litigation. Additionally, a General Counsel can assist in contract negotiations, policy development, and compliance, helping the district operate more efficiently and avoid potential legal pitfalls.
Operations
Security Projects
District security projects continue to progress. With elementary vestibules completed, full attention turns to vestibule upgrades at secondary schools and exterior door replacements.
The key replacement project is now working through Phase 2 which involves installation of the key box inventory system. We will begin the replacement of keys for staff once all boxes are installed.
The installation of impact-resistant safety film on doors and windows is making steady progress, with several campuses already completed. This project will continue through the spring of 2025. The team responsible for applying caulking to the safety film is currently working on several additional campuses.
The new security fencing surrounding Connally High School and Northwest Elementary (shown in image) are nearing completion. We are awaiting the arrival of the new gate near the football field at CHS that will restrict traffic flow through the campus to and from Howard Lane.
Phase 3 of the district-wide compartmentalization project is currently underway at one of our high schools. The next campus scheduled to receive these security enhancements will follow shortly.
As part of the 2022 Bond, the district-wide access controls (badges) project will add a number of badge access control readers to many doors across the district. The project is scheduled to go out to bid during the first week of October.
2022 Bond Projects
New Construction
The Career and Technical Education (CTE) Center is currently awaiting permitting approval from the City of Austin and Travis County. We will likely stay in this holding pattern for several more months and hope to break ground on the campus in 2025.
The Weiss High School Weight Room bid has been closed and multiple bids were received. Staff will provide a recommendation to the Board at the September board meeting. Construction is expected to last one year with substantial completion scheduled for September 2025.
The Weiss High School Generator bid is currently open. Multiple general contractors were at the bid opening, and site visits took place over a three day period during the week of 9/4/24. Current expectation is that a recommendation will be provided to the Board at the October board meeting.
We have released a new survey for the Teacher Housing initiative. We believe a refresh of data and teacher sentiment is warranted as we continue developing processes and policies. The new survey has yielded approximately 1100 responses.
Playgrounds
The Phase 3 playground updates are also moving forward, with the playgrounds at Timmerman, Mott, Murchison, and Highland Park underway. The overall project is still on track for completion by Spring Break 2025.
Renovations
The new generator for the Police Department has been delivered, however, given the extensive requirements for installation, we are waiting for a long term break for installation to ensure minimal disruption to daily operations.
Construction documents for the “Administration Auxiliary Building” (Old Albertsons) are at 75%. Teams continue to review plans for what are now minor adjustments. A budgeting exercise was conducted with PBK and Braun and Butler and thus far all budgeting is within expectations. In an effort to begin work in a timely fashion, staff will propose a GMP for demolition at the October Board meeting with final GMP for renovation at the November board meeting.
Providing access to demolition first will allow for the general contractor to begin work within the building while plans are completed and renovation permits are approved. This will be recommended to minimize delays in movement in the building while providing time for final design completions.
Pflugerville High School Field
The Maintenance team recently coordinated with a contractor to clean and power wash the bleachers at the PHS football field. The concrete was in dire need of cleansing and the teams worked over several days to power wash and clean the bleachers.
Technology
The Technology Services team is happy to report that over 15,000 Chromebooks and associated charging carts have been delivered to all campuses.
We are also expecting to have all interactive projector upgrades completed by the end of October. This year the Technology Services team will have upgraded 396 projectors across PHS, CHS, HHS, and OC.
The replacement of uninterruptible power supply (UPS) equipment across all instructional and support locations is on track to begin on October 7th and is expected to be completed by December 19th.
Summer 2025 Bond Projects
The Operations team recently met to begin full preparations for the 2025 summer bond projects. Our team has identified four critical categories for projects:
Safety/Security
Impact Film
Access Control Additions
Intrusion Detection
HVAC (Tentatively Scheduled):
Northwest Elementary
Wieland Elementary
Windermere Elementary
Kelly Lane Middle School
Provan Opportunity Center
Hendrickson High School
Campus Renovations (Tentatively Scheduled):
Rowe Lane Elementary
Dessau Middle School
Kelly Lane Middle School
Pflugerville Middle School
Connally High School. Renovations for Connally High School are expected to take place over multiple years across several phases.
Technology:
Projector replacements for all Elementary Campuses and Weiss High School
Computer replacements
District Data Center UPS Upgrades
Athletic area fiber installation (Press Boxes for CHS and PHS)
Our goal is to limit each major category to 3-4 bullet points in an effort to provide focused success on projects. If additional campuses are in urgent need we will consider the use of third party management firms to oversee any overflow projects (AGCM, Procedeo).
Items for Board Approval
VI.J. Consideration and Possible Approval of a Contract to Build a New Weight Room at Weiss High School
As funded by the 2022 Bond, this project addresses the need for additional weight room space at Weiss High School. Three responses were received to our open bid, and evaluated based upon specific criteria contained within the proposal document and ranked accordingly. The responding firms, their proposed pricing, and average evaluation scores are outlined in Boardbook. A recommendation through Consent will be made at the September board meeting.
The administration recommends the Board approve as presented.
Communications
Strategic Planning
Pflugerville ISD is currently working to create a Visioning Task Force to guide the Strategic Planning Initiative. The Task Force will have 50-60 participants comprising a mix of Board Members, staff, parents, students, community members, and business partners. An online signup form will be posted on the website and shared in all communication channels soon for individuals interested in serving on the Task Force. The group will meet in the evenings twice a month through January to provide a draft to the School Board in early Spring.
Pflugerville Education Foundation Update
Attached is an annual update on the progress and activities of the Education Foundation. In the 2023-2024 school year, the Pflugerville Education Foundation raised $454,391 and provided $233,248 in teacher grants and student and teacher scholarships. Annual Report
December Meeting Date Change
In consideration of the upcoming winter break, we are proposing to reschedule our regular board meeting from December 19 to December 12. This adjustment would allow us to maintain our Thursday meeting schedule, provide the public with a three-month advance notice, and allow a full week for the necessary administrative follow-up that typically occurs after a board meeting.
VI.K.15. SchoolStatus for Expansion of Two-Way Communications System District-Wide for Principals and Teachers to Communicate with Parents, which is Already in Use at Six Campuses
PfISD currently lacks a district-wide system for parent-teacher communication, resulting in the use of various platforms such as Class Dojo, Remind 101, and SchoolStatus across campuses. Feedback from Dr. Shepherd’s Listening and Learning Tour highlighted a strong demand for more consistent communication. After evaluating several options, we selected SchoolStatus as the preferred platform due to its existing use in multiple campuses, established training, and integration with our Student Information System. Campuses with existing contracts for SchoolStatus will be rolled into the district subscription. We plan to implement SchoolStatus district-wide in the coming months, streamlining communication and providing principals and administrators with oversight of all interactions.
Volunteers
Pflugerville ISD has updated its Volunteer Application software to Raptor Volunteer Management. The new software simplifies the process, is easier for adults to complete, and reduces staff workload. The program allows for time tracking, event management, and a robust reporting system. Additionally, it reduces the approval process from weeks to hours. As of Wednesday, Sept. 11, 2024, we have 3,514 approved volunteers in our system, versus only 1,108 at the same time last year.
Leadership PfISD
Leadership Pflugerville ISD will give approximately 20 Pflugerville ISD stakeholders the opportunity to participate in an interactive, in-depth monthly learning experience from October through May. As a member of the Leadership Pflugerville ISD class, you will go behind the scenes and learn what it takes to run a public school district with more than 25,000 students and nearly 4,000 employees. During a series of meetings, you’ll gain access to District leadership, have the opportunity to ask in-depth questions, and take a deep dive into learning. Session topics will include District operations, finance, curriculum, and other areas of interest.
The deadline to apply is Sept. 13. Apply Now!
$20,000 Assistance League of Austin Donation
Pflugerville Independent School District (PfISD) was excited to accept a $20,000 donation from the Assistance League of Austin toward student lunch debt. The donation is in celebration of the organization’s 50th Anniversary. It is part of the nonprofit’s ongoing mission to support children and their families in ways that transform lives and strengthen communities. During the first month of the school year, PfISD had $17,000 in student lunch debt covered by the ALA donation.
Dr. Shepherd serves as a Panelist at the Austin Chamber State of Talent and Education
Pflugerville ISD Superintendent Dr. Shepherd was featured as a guest speaker at the Austin Chamber of Commerce's annual State of Talent and Education luncheon on September 5. The event, which brought together key leaders and stakeholders from across Central Texas, focused on current trends in education and workforce development, emphasizing partnerships between schools, employers, and city-driven initiatives.
Dr. Shepherd participated in the featured panel, "Growing Local Talent - A Conversation with Central Texas Superintendents," where he addressed critical questions about the future of education and how school districts are preparing students for success in the evolving workforce landscape.
Policy
VI.I. Consideration and Possible Approval of TASB's Local Policy Update 123 and Additional Local Policy Adjustments – Second Reading
For a quick refresher on how policy is developed, implemented, and managed in a school district, please take a moment to review the Policy 101 video. Policy 101.
The Texas Association of School Boards (TASB) provides policy updates for Texas schools to ensure policy manuals remain compliant with the law. TASB Policy Service and Legal Services monitor changes in state and federal law, court cases, and other decisions that may impact school district policies. They prepare recommended revisions to policy manuals and issue numbered updates to districts two to three times a year. These updates include legal requirements and revisions to local policies that may be affected. Currently, the PfISD Board of Trustees is considering Policy Update 123.
If you would like to review a video summary of the policy changes recommended in Policy Update 123, please take a moment to watch the provided video link.
Policy Explanatory Notes
The Texas Association of School Boards (TASB) explanatory notes in policy updates serve several important functions:
Clarification: They provide detailed explanations and clarifications about the recommended changes, helping district officials understand the rationale behind each revision.
Context: These notes offer context by explaining how the changes align with new state and federal laws, court cases, or other legal decisions that necessitate updates.
Overall, TASB's explanatory notes aim to make the policy update process as clear and actionable as possible for school districts.
This link will provide an overview of all of the policies associated with Update 123, 123 Explanatory Notes.
Local Policies Recommendations
The Board of Trustees only adopts LOCAL policies, not LEGAL policies. LEGAL policies are based on state and federal laws and regulations, which the district must follow; therefore, they do not require Board adoption. This link, 123 Local Policy Comparison, provides the LOCAL policies the Board is considering and may potentially adopt.
The Superintendent of Schools has requested that the Board consider adjusting the policies outlined in this document to better align with practice and intent. Additional policies the Superintendent has requested.
The Board Policy Committee
The Board’s Policy Committee met to review the policies outlined in Update 123 and the Superintendent's Policy recommendations. The Committee’s initial recommendations are outlined below. Adjustments may be made to these recommendations based on feedback from Trustees, community, and staff. These policies will be considered for possible approval during the September Regular School Board meeting.
Membership
Chair- Trustee Torres
Members: Trustee Daniel and Okafor
Committee Recommendations
Policy (LOCAL) - Committee Recommendation
BBD - Adopt TASB Recommendations
BBFA - Adopt TASB Recommendations
CKC - Adopt TASB Recommendations
CKE - Defer for Further Discussion
CQC - Adopt TASB Recommendations
DCE - Adopt TASB Recommendations
DEC - Adopt TASB Recommendations
DGBA - Adopt TASB Recommendations
EEH - Adopt TASB Recommendations
EF - Adopt TASB Recommendations
EFA - Adopt TASB Recommendations
EFB - Adopt TASB Recommendations
FNG - Adopt TASB Recommendations
GF - Adopt TASB Recommendations
- CW- UPDATED (The Board Policy Committee reviewed feedback on this policy, met to discuss it, and made adjustments to their initial recommendations based on the input received. Please review the attached policy to see the updated recommendations.) - Add fourth option for naming facilities – 4. Name can be for program housed in the facility or describe the function of the facility
BE - Adjust to read “with start time no later than 7:00 p.m.”
- GKG - Adopt Version A