Board approves new HVAC equipment for Ninth Grade Center

Prior to the start of the last Weatherford ISD school board meeting of the year on Monday, Dec. 11, trustees got the chance to see progress on the new Grizzard Regional Institute of Technology (GRIT) building and also bid a fond farewell to administrative assistant Lisa Wulfjen. 

Wulfjen, who also serves as the board’s secretary, is retiring after being with the district for 19 years. 

During the tour of GRIT, board members learned that more than 250 students have already signed up for classes next fall. Construction on the building is expected to be completed on time and within budget. 

New chiller

Due to an unexpected issue with the chiller tower over the Thanksgiving break at the Ninth Grade Center, board members approved the purchase of a new chiller at a cost of $143,450.

Superintendent Beau Rees said that the old unit rusted out after 26 years and that while maintenance has been keeping it together, it is leaking “badly” and can no longer be repaired for long-term use. 

No timeline is known for when a new unit might be installed, but depending on lead times for the equipment, Rees said it is possible work could be done during the summer if received early enough. 

He added that maintenance can keep the existing unit limping along until then. 

Crockett whiteboards

Also in bad shape are the whiteboards at Crockett Elementary School. Rees said the boards are in “awful” condition due to age and that teachers are having to cover the boards with regular paper and write on that instead. 

After receiving quotes on replacing, resurfacing or refurbishing, the most cost-effective solution is to resurface the existing boards with new magnetic panels at a cost of $59,122. Trustees unanimously approved the purchase. 

Calendar approved

Additionally, the board approved the 2024-2025 District Calendar. Stakeholders were previously presented several options and the first option was recommended by 60 percent of those who reviewed it.

Rees said the calendar meets all criteria and includes 75,600 minutes of instruction time, the 187 work days for staff that is required by the state and is similar to this year’s calendar with a full week off for Thanksgiving. 

Additionally, board members:

• Approved the purchase of 300 new Blue Belles uniforms at a cost of $96,900. Black has been removed from all the uniforms, new hats and winter jackets are silver and most pieces can be used interchangeably. The last time uniforms were purchased was approximately 11 years ago. 
• Approved the 2024-2025 Budget Development Calendar. Unlike in years past, Rees noted that there will be only one meeting in June, none in July and three in August. 
• Agreed to remain part of the Region 10 Education Service Center Multi-Region Purchasing Cooperative Interlocal Agreement for Child Nutrition Services. The agreement allows WISD better pricing on food items and the like. 

The WISD board meets again on Jan. 22.