The Cypress-Fairbanks Independent School District swore in three newly elected trustees on Dec. 11 and immediately reorganized the board's leadership.

At the board work session in the Mark Henry Administration Building, trustees Leslie Gilmore (Position 5), Dr. Cleveland O. Lane (Position 6) and Kendra Camarena (Position 7) each took the oath of office. After introductions and brief remarks from the new trustees, the board conducted its reorganization under board policy BDAA (local).

Julie Heinemann was nominated and confirmed by the membership as board president. "Julie Heinemann is elected the board of trustees president," the chair announced following the nomination and raised-hand vote. Dr. Cleveland Lane Jr. was nominated and elected vice president, and Leslie Gilmore was nominated and elected secretary by majority signified by raised hands.

During the public-comment period, Bishop John Ogletree praised community coalitions that supported the recent slate of candidates and asked the community to support and challenge the trustees as they begin their terms. Nikki Cowart, representing CyFair AFT, congratulated the trustees and urged them to listen to teachers and staff.

Superintendent Dr. Killian urged the new board to think of themselves as trustees serving all students and to avoid partisan behavior, saying trustees should "preserve, protect, and defend" the public trust and collaborate with district staff. He suggested more frequent rotation of leadership roles so more trustees have an opportunity to lead.

The board paused the work session for a Bridgeland High School Choir performance and a short recess before continuing with the consent and non-consent agenda.