A common theme of building a supportive learning environment dominated Monday’s Alba-Golden School Board meeting.

Superintendent Macy Thompson’s report to the board described some of the measures being taken to facilitate that environment. She detailed how it is important for the school, together with the community, to celebrate the students’ successes.

Her comments were echoed by elementary school principal Chris Massey and secondary school principal Brittany Hall. Massey commented that a mentorship program between the two schools has been started and is showing great effect. Hall noted, “We are building a unified and positive culture among the schools, and all students are being encouraged to get involved.”   

The superintendent also briefed a historical review of student enrollment trends over the past 15 years. She disclosed that enrollment has remained remarkably stable. She added that although the numbers have remained steady, the needs of the school have changed. “There has been a 40% growth in special education requirements since 2007,” she added. 

High school student numbers are down slightly this year compared to last (222 versus 232), while elementary school has seen a small increase up to 435 this term.

Athletic Director Drew Webster addressed the notable sense of excitement resident at Alba-Golden this fall. He noted that participation in sports is high, with 78 students in the football program, 45 students in volleyball and two cross country teams being fielded. 

Curriculum Director Megan Smith announced the establishment of a Beginning Teachers’ Academy to aid young teachers in establishing themselves in the profession. Nine teachers are enrolled. She also noted the ongoing substitute teacher training being conducted. The school has 50 substitute teachers at their disposal. 

A number of administrative decisions were taken by the board. They included approvals of participation in the Wood County 4-H program as an extracurricular activity; inter-local agreements for tax collection with Rains and Wood counties; the district’s investment policy; the MAPP reading test as the evaluative instrument for students not meeting seventh grade reading standards; and Melissa Rhodes as an elementary school special education teacher. 

Monday’s board also recognized the first students of the month this school year. Fifth-grader Legacy Rendon and senior Tyler Perez were announced. 

Principal Massey lauded Rendon for her infectious personality. The daughter of Juan and Tisha Rendon described her favorite hobbies as sports and family. She has ambitions to become a medical doctor.

Perez was described as kind, helpful and respectful. Coach Webster commented that Perez demonstrates maturity and an intense drive for excellence. He intends to pursue certification as an auto mechanic by attending the Universal Technical Institute in Houston.      

Prior to adjourning, the board members conducted a walk-about of the campus to view possible facility improvements.

Six board members were present with trustee Russell Cole the only absentee.