The Waco Independent School District (Waco ISD) held a significant board meeting on January 23, 2025, where community engagement and appreciation for school board members took center stage. The meeting began with a heartfelt performance by the University High School Mariachi band, the Troy Hanos, which was met with enthusiastic applause from trustees and attendees alike. This performance highlighted the district's commitment to celebrating Hispanic heritage and fostering a vibrant school culture.

During the meeting, the board recognized the contributions of its members, who serve without compensation, emphasizing their dedication to the students and staff of Waco ISD. President Stephanie Korteweg, who has been a trustee for a decade, was honored alongside other board members, including Vice President Jose Vidania and Secretary Jeremy Davis. Each trustee received gifts of appreciation from students, showcasing the strong connection between the board and the community.

Superintendent Dr. Spicer provided updates on various initiatives, including the Attendance Boundaries Committee, which is working on adjusting school attendance zones. The committee's efforts aim to address the challenges and opportunities presented by these changes, with public hearings scheduled for February to further engage the community.

Dr. Spicer also shared insights from his recent campus visits, where he interacted with students, staff, and parents. These visits have provided valuable feedback on school experiences and highlighted the importance of student voices in shaping educational policies. The superintendent expressed excitement about the upcoming deliverables based on this feedback.

A notable addition to the Waco ISD leadership team was introduced: Dr. Melissa King Knowles, the new deputy superintendent. With over 22 years of experience in education, Dr. King Knowles emphasized her commitment to ensuring quality education for all students and fostering a collaborative environment within the district.

The meeting concluded with a presentation from Prosper Waco, which received the Texas Association of School Boards' Stand Up for Public Education Award. Prosper Waco has significantly contributed to Waco ISD, providing over $400,000 in support for recruiting and retaining quality teachers.

Overall, the meeting underscored the importance of community involvement in education and the dedication of Waco ISD's leadership to enhancing the educational experience for all students. As the district moves forward, continued engagement with stakeholders will be crucial in addressing the evolving needs of the community.