Football field designation honors local coach

A unanimous vote by the Albany ISD board of trustees named the football field at Robert Nail Stadium “Faith Field,” surprising longtime Albany coach Denney Faith with the honor near the end of Monday’s regular meeting.

Board president Betsy Parsons presented the proposal, following up a suggestion made by Albany High School alumna Holly Harvick Cauble.

After the decision was made, Faith and his wife Angelyn were called to the meeting so he could be formally notified.

“Nobody has spent as much time to bring honor to that field as you have,” said Parsons, “and we are proud of what you’ve done for this school and this district, and for a lot of young men and women.”

She added that a public presentation will be made in the fall, probably at the first football game of the 2019 season.

Parsons said that the stadium itself would continue to be known as Robert Nail Stadium, but signage would be added to designate the field itself as “Faith Field.”

“This is an unbelievable honor,” said Faith. “A lot of coaches have come through here and been a part of it; your kids have been a part of it.”

Federal Report Card

Superintendent Jonathan Scott reported that the district had received complete results from the 2018 Federal School Report Card, showing that both campuses had “met standard” and were above the state and region in most areas. 

Nancy Smith Elementary earned a distinction in science while the secondary campus received distinctions in science and social studies.

Broadcast Contract

Jacob Cleveland, local owner of The Albany Edge, requested that the board consider his company when they look at next year’s sports broadcasting contract.

Cleveland commented that 100 percent of the proceeds would stay in Albany, and that he “focuses all loyalty on one community and one school.”

The trustees directed Scott to clarify the current contract renewal date with the district’s attorneys before pursuing the matter.

Other Business

•The contract of business manager Angelyn Faith was extended for one year, but there was no action on principals’ contracts after a closed session. Any raises will be contingent on the 2019-2020 budget.

•A rental agreement for the Aztec Theater was approved so that the district can utilize the facility if needed.

•The trustees voted to renew the district’s risk management insurance with TASB, despite a 26 percent increase, because the renewal is due March 1.