School board approves visitor bleacher replacement
The Albany ISD Board of Trustees unanimously approved plans Monday to replace the visitor-side bleachers at the Albany football field, citing safety concerns, building code issues and lack of accessibility with the existing structure.
Superintendent Daryl Stuard told trustees the current visitor bleachers are several decades old and are in deteriorating condition. He said multiple contractors advised that the bleachers do not meet current building codes and are not ADA compliant, and that bringing them up to standard would cost nearly as much as full replacement.
Because of those factors, Stuard said replacement is necessary rather than optional. The board authorized him to select the contractor and proceed with the project.
One proposal totals $230,000 and includes new visitor seating and a small press box for visiting coaches. Approximately $130,000 has already been pledged through private donations. Contractors estimate the project could take up to 150 days to complete.
Stuard said he will continue gathering information from contractors and expects to select a company soon to ensure the new visitor bleachers are completed and ready for the fall 2026 football season.
Flu-related absences
closely monitored
Trustees next received an update on student attendance as flu-related absences increased across the district.
Stuard reported that approximately 60 students were absent Monday, representing about 14 percent of Albany ISD’s total enrollment of 441 students. He said administrators are monitoring attendance closely and may apply for a state attendance waiver if absences continue to rise.
Stuard noted that other school districts have been forced to temporarily close campuses due to widespread illness. Trustees discussed the importance of limiting missed instructional days while still prioritizing student and staff health.
Calendar and waiver
days approved
The board unanimously approved the 2026–2027 school calendar, which closely mirrors the current year’s schedule.
Trustees also approved applying for staff development waiver days required for the calendar to take effect. The waiver days fall on Mondays or Fridays following each six-week grading period and provide teachers additional planning time.
Administrative
contracts extended
Trustees approved extending administrative contracts with a 3 percent raise, pending budget approval.
Board members emphasized that the raise would only be implemented if district finances allow once the budget is finalized.
Board declines prayer resolution
The board declined to adopt a resolution regarding prayer and the reading of religious texts during the school day, citing concerns that the measure was unnecessary and could create unintended consequences for the district.
Trustees emphasized that current state and federal law already protects students’ rights to voluntarily pray, read religious texts and express religious viewpoints. Board members said adopting a formal resolution could require the district to allow access to a wide range of outside groups, creating challenges that go beyond the intent of the proposal.
Bats confirmed
in old gym
During administrative reports, Stuard addressed concerns about bats in district facilities.
He said bats are not present in the new gym, which has been sealed and has not experienced issues. However, bats remain in the old gym, where dozens have been observed.
Stuard said the district plans to consult with a specialist to determine the appropriate course of action for removal and prevention. Trustees discussed the need to document the issue and obtain cost estimates before moving forward with remediation.
Community
meetings scheduled
Community meetings with the district’s architect for the new school are scheduled for the weeks of March 23 and April 18.
Stuard said the meetings will give local residents an opportunity to speak directly with the architects, ask questions and view the current conditions at both campuses. Trustees said the meetings are intended to provide transparency and allow the public to better understand the needs of the district’s facilities.
The meeting adjourned following discussion of upcoming events, including prom scheduled for April 18.
