The Albany ISD board of trustees met Monday, August 18, focusing on accountability ratings, teacher pay, and the district’s financial outlook for the coming school year.

Superintendent Daryl Stuard reported that Albany ISD received an overall B rating (81) in the state’s accountability system. Albany Junior/Senior High earned an 84 (B), while Nancy Smith Elementary posted a 76 (C). The elementary campus scored lowest in the “Closing the Gaps” category, which measures performance among different student groups.

Albany head coach Denney Faith said he was pleased with the effort and physical play his team showed in last Friday’s scrimmage against Coleman, though there are still plenty of areas to sharpen as the season draws closer.

“We were physical,” Faith said. “I thought our conditioning was further along than I expected, and I was pleased with the way we executed without any turnovers.”

The Albany Lady Lions were back on the road Tuesday, Aug. 19, traveling to Eastland for their third match of the season. The night ended in straight-set losses for both varsity and junior varsity, but head coach MJ Reneau said the games were another important step in the team’s growth.

Varsity fell by scores of 13–25, 7–25, 16–25, while the JV girls dropped their match 12–25, 25–20, 10–15.

With the new school year underway, the Albany ISD staff is reminding families of the importance of safety, patience, and consistency during morning drop-off and afternoon pick-up – particularly in the circle drive in front of the Nancy Smith Elementary School campus.

“It’s been smooth so far,” said NSES principal Jenci Chambers. “It always takes a little longer in the beginning, but each day gets better. We really appreciate parents helping us follow the rules so we can keep things safe for the kids.”