During a recent meeting of the Judson Independent School District (JISD) board, key discussions centered on student attendance, funding challenges, police officer staffing, and special education vacancies.

Board members emphasized the importance of encouraging students to attend school regularly, particularly in light of ongoing health concerns. They urged parents to avoid sending sick children to school, as this could exacerbate issues within the community. The board also highlighted the need for increased funding from the state legislature to support various initiatives, including teacher raises and enhanced educational resources.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to addressing the current staffing situation of police officers within the district. The Chief of Police reported that while the district had successfully filled some positions, there remained a shortage of officers, particularly at elementary schools. The board discussed strategies for recruitment and retention, acknowledging a nationwide shortage of law enforcement personnel. They noted that efforts were being made to recruit from local academies and through community outreach.

In addition, the board addressed the ongoing challenges within the special education department, where vacancies have become a pressing issue. Dr. Armstead, overseeing special education, outlined various strategies being implemented to manage the shortage of teachers and paraprofessionals. These included partnering with contract agencies, collapsing classrooms to redistribute resources, and utilizing support staff more effectively. The board recognized the need for innovative solutions to retain special education teachers and prevent burnout among staff.

The meeting concluded with discussions on budgetary constraints, particularly regarding the allocation of funds for professional development in specialized areas such as orchestra education. Board members expressed concerns about prioritizing funding amidst a projected $37 million deficit, emphasizing the need to focus on core educational needs while also supporting specialized programs.

Overall, the meeting underscored the district's commitment to addressing staffing shortages, enhancing student safety, and ensuring that all students receive the support they need to succeed academically.