School board approves pay raises
By Melinda L. Lucas
The hiring of several new staff members came toward the end of the June 21 morning meeting of the Albany ISD school board, and teacher pay raises were approved for those who have “topped out” on the state salary scale.
Trustees also went over preliminary EOC and STAAR results, administrators expecting to have the final numbers by next week.
The board met in closed session with Texas Ranger Bo Brown to discuss “school safety plans,” but no action was taken when the meeting reopened.
Teacher Salaries
On a recommendation by superintendent Jonathan Scott, the board voted to approve a three percent salary increase for certified teachers and support staff who have 20+ years of experience and have “topped out” on TEA’s teacher pay scale.
They also okayed another one-time payment of $1,500 as a teacher retention stipend from ESSER II funding, to be included with December checks.
Personnel Changes
Kelly Windham was offered a one-year probationary contract, and Elizabeth Martin was offered a one-year employment agreement.
Windham would be assigned to fourth grade math and science, after Brittany Lefevre moved to the position of technology integrationist and secondary technology classes. Martin will be at the secondary campus for seventh and eighth grade speech and health, along with girls coaching duties.
In addition, Sage Spencer has signed a contract since the May meeting and will teach third grade math and science, replacing Shelby Coffee, who is moving to sixth grade.
Other new staff members include Kassiah Hudson, who will teach seventh and eighth grade science while Michelle Lowery moves to high school science classes. Laci Cook has been employed for seventh and eighth grade math; MJ Reneau has been reassigned to a new position in the elementary special education department.
Danna Vaughan will replace Robbin Westmoreland as half day music teacher and will continue her part-time position as assistant band director.
Other Business
•New district IT specialist Matthew Howard explained how “Clear Touch” boards will replace aging “smart boards” in local classboards, a $136,168 purchase that will be paid with ESSER funds.
•Copies of broadcast contract proposals from Concierge Ventures and Lone Star Sports Radio were given to trustees and will be reviewed by the district’s attorneys before the next meeting.
