Snyder Intermediate School

Recap of the November 14, 2024, Snyder ISD Board of Trustees Meeting

The Snyder ISD Board of Trustees held its regular meeting on November 14, 2024 at 6pm in the Snyder High School Student Center. 

1. Opening Formalities

The meeting was called to order by Board President Brad Hinton, followed by an invocation led by Trustee Leatherwood and the Pledge of Allegiance led by students from Snyder Intermediate School.

2. Recognitions

Employee of the Month

In February 2024, we conducted a recruitment and retention survey. Based on the results, we implemented several changes to our recruitment and retention strategies, one of which was a request for district-wide recognition opportunities. These individuals were nominated by their peers and affirmed by their supervisors as people who consistently go above and beyond, making Snyder ISD a wonderful place to learn and work. Here are just a few of the many positive remarks from their peers. 

Melissa Gutierrez, Operations Department
Melissa’s dedication and quick problem-solving skills ensure seamless daily operations, making her an invaluable asset to Snyder ISD.

Shana Robbins, Snyder Primary School
Shana’s is committed to inclusivity and student growth.  One example of many is her her willingness to learn the basics of Braille to help a visually impaired student, which reflects her dedication to ensuring every child thrives.

Brandi McMahand, Snyder Intermediate School
Brandi’s compassionate approach and high expectations empower students to grow and succeed, especially those navigating behavioral challenges.

Christian Chavez, Snyder Junior High School
Christian’s flexibility, positivity, and willingness to take on additional roles support both students and colleagues, creating a collaborative and uplifting school environment.

Brandy Martin, Snyder High School
Brandy’s tireless efforts to prepare students for post-graduation success and her many contributions to student programs exemplify her unwavering dedication to Snyder ISD.

Thank you to each of these outstanding employees for their exceptional commitment to making Snyder ISD a great place for students and staff alike!

Campus Spotlight: Snyder Intermediate School

Ms. Sarah Cantu, PE Teacher for Snyder Intermediate School, showcased recent programs and initiatives to make PE fun while introducing students to possible extracurricular activities available in junior high and high school.  Program highlights included the WTC soccer team’s visit, basketball with Snyder Fire Department, and an American Heart Competition, raising over $1,800.    The following students presented their experiences to the board: Roston Wilson, Hunter Hester, Finley Wadleigh, A'aleyah Collins   

3. Public Comments and Open Forum

• Two individuals spoke during the public forum.

4. Informational Updates

• Bond Planning: Jacob & Martin Architects presented updates and timelines for potential bond elections in May or November 2025.

• STAAR Interim Update: Dr. Jessica Gore discussed assessment cycle insights with a detailed presentation on student performance trends. Dr. Gore explained that this is a secure test released by TEA.  The trends were encouraging and a testament to the hard work and commitment of Snyder ISD teachers and students.  View the results here: Fall Interim 24-25 Slides.

• Research Partnership: Dr. Jessica Gottlieb with Texas Tech, Dr. Jessica Gore, and Mrs. Valerie Morris provided updates on research collaboration efforts. View emerging trends and survey takeaways here:  RPP Slides.

• Effective Schools Framework (ESF): Mrs. Candilyn Smith, with Region 14, debriefed the board on recent diagnostic outcomes and improvement strategies.  ESF Summary Slides

• Texas Strategic Leadership: Mr. Steve Post, with Region 14, provided a presentation recapping district leadership development efforts, an opt-in collaboration with Region 14, and an extension of TEA. TSL Update Slides 

• Principal Residency Partnership: Dr. Jessica Gore and Mr. Clay Cade, Director of Human Resources and Operations, presented information on potential partnerships for principal residency programs, allowing Snyder ISD to prepare qualified candidates for future leadership roles.  highlighted progress and updates on the program. 

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5. Consent Agenda
The board approved several items, including:

• Minutes from previous meetings (October 10 and November 4, 2024), to be housed here: https://meetings.boardbook.org/Public/Organization/936

• Finance reports, including budget summaries, investment inventories, and accounts payable. 

6. Action Agenda

• 2024-2025 Board Goals: Mr. Bob Rauch presented revised goals that were approved to align with district priorities. 24-25 Board Goals Slides

• T-TESS Certified Appraisers: An updated appraiser list was approved.

  1. Snyder Primary School 

     1. Bobby Fryar 

     2. Katherine Spence 

     3. Madeline Lewis

  2. Snyder Intermediate School 

     1. DeeAnna Blanton 

     2. Cinthia Solis 

  3. Snyder Junior High School 

     1. John Rush 

     2. Amy Ford 

     3. Jared White 

  4. Snyder High School 

     1. Aleida Juarez 

     2. David Tate 

     3. Carla Derryberry 

  5. District 

     1. Canita Rhodes 

     2. Kellye Starnes 

     3. Kathy Scott 

     4. Dr. Jessica Gore

• Academic Stipend Schedule: The academic stipend schedule was presented for consideration and approval, with an added stipend for the Academic Advisor at Snyder High School. This proposed stipend is in the amount of $1,250, paid per section for academic advising in lieu of a full-time counselor being hired.  The motion was approved unanimously.

• District Calendar Revision: Changes to the current calendar were discussed and approved.  Early release Days Nov 22, Dec 20, 2024 and May 22, 2025

• Resolution on Employee Pay: The board adopted a resolution ensuring pay on specified early release days.

7. Superintendent’s Report

• Enrollment Comparison: Bob Rauch shared updated enrollment statistics, highlighting key trends. Enrollment is down 82 students compared to October of last year.

• Donation Tracker: The board reviewed recent contributions from community members and organizations.

• The next regular meeting is scheduled for December 12, 2024.

8. Executive Session

• The board did not enter executive session. 

9. Adjournment 

The meeting was adjourned.