Bryan ISD trustees will review potential changes affecting student attendance flexibility, transportation safety technology and future learning options during a May 4 special meeting and workshop.
What's happening
Board members will receive updates and consider action items tied to district operations, budgeting and instructional programs.
Key topics in the agenda include:
- Flexible and virtual learning options: Associate Superintendent of Teaching & Learning Barbara Ybarra is slated to present an update on Bryan ISD's exploration of flexible learning models. Trustees will also consider a partnership with Connections Education LLC to expand virtual learning programs. If approved, the partnership could expand hybrid schooling and better support students who need nontraditional education.
- RFID card readers for tracking bus ridership: The board will learn about the Wayfinder ridership system, which uses radio frequency identification card readers to digitally track when students get on and off school buses. This is an informational item, not an action item.
- Low attendance waiver: Trustees will consider approving a low attendance waiver from Jan. 27, likely due to winter weather. School districts can request waivers when severe weather and health or safety-related events lead to reduced attendance. Approval helps protect district funding.
- Ongoing 2025 bond and budget planning updates: Several items focus on long-term financial planning, including:
- Updates on the district's budget development process.
- Bond updates, including recognizing architectural partners who are completing renovations, restorations and rebuilds at most campuses.
- Partnerships with Sam Houston State University: Trustees will consider agreements with SHSU tied to educator preparation programs. The two programs under consideration are designed to improve long-term teacher recruitment and retention.
- The Grow Your Own program aims to improve student success by giving them high-quality and well-prepared teachers. It also creates a pipeline for current school employees to earn their bachelor's degrees and teacher certifications while working for Bryan ISD.
- The residency program aims to create a "learning-centered" partnership in a more in-depth process where future teachers will get real-world experience in Bryan ISD classrooms.
Get involved
The Bryan ISD board of trustees will meet at 6 p.m. on May 4 at the Bryan ISD Administration Building, located at 801 South Ennis St., Bryan. This is a public meeting and times will be slotted for public comment.
