Para leer esto en español, haga clic en el botón de traducción ubicado en el menú en la parte superior de la página. 
The Taylor ISD Board of Trustees met for its Regular Meeting on Oct. 20. Highlights from the meeting include:
- Taylor HS band student Ethan Green is selected as the Superintendent 1+ Coin of Excellence student recipient
- Taylor HS band director David Motl is the Superintendent 1+ Coin of Excellence staff recipient
- TISD earns an “A” Superior rating for financial integrity from the TEA
- THS student, the dual language program, and the school board earned awards at a national conference
PUBLIC HEARING
Taylor ISD Earns Superior Financial Rating for 7th Consecutive Year
Taylor ISD has once again earned a Superior Rating on the state’s financial accountability system, receiving a 94 out of 100 from the Texas Education Agency (TEA).
During the public hearing portion of the board meeting, CFO Jina Self shared an overview of the many indicators that go into determining this score, highlighting the rigorous standards and detailed financial review each district must meet to achieve this top rating.
This marks the seventh year in a row that Taylor ISD has earned an A rating, reflecting the district’s continued strong and conservative financial stewardship of taxpayer funds. The achievement is a testament to the dedicated financial team and the steady leadership of the Board of Trustees who work together to ensure Taylor ISD’s long-term stability and success.
RECOGNITIONS
Superintendent 1+ Coin of Excellence - Student
Ethan Green, a Taylor HS student, was the October Superintendent 1+ Coin of Excellence recipient for students. THS band director David Motl, described Ethan as a dedicated student leader who consistently goes above and beyond expectations.
As a section leader in the marching band, Ethan leads by example and is always prepared, proactive, and willing to help peers and teachers alike. From managing equipment and props to lending a hand to the color guard, he demonstrates integrity, teamwork, and a positive attitude that uplift those around him.
Superintendent 1+ Coin of Excellence - Staff
David Motl, band director at Taylor HS, was the October Superintendent 1+ Coin of Excellence recipient for staff. With more than 25 years of service to Taylor ISD, Mr. Motl and his team have consistently earned top marks at UIL region contests, advancing to the area round, and representing Taylor ISD at the state level.
“Mr. Motl inspires his students every day by leading a high achieving band program that reflects the very best of our school spirit and community pride,” said THS Principal Matthew Wamble. “Beyond musical excellence, he creates a welcoming environment where students find belonging, purpose, and confidence through a shared love of music.”
Principal Appreciation Recognition
All six TISD principals were recognized for Principal Appreciation Month for their continued dedication to the success of all students in the district.
“Thank you for leading with heart, with courage, and humility,” Chief Academic Officer Megan Zembik told principals. “You make the impossible seem effortless, and I know how impossible it can seem. Your influence reaches far beyond what most will ever see. We see you, we appreciate you, and we are deeply grateful for the way that you serve our students, staff and community. You are truly a one plus.”
You can watch a special video for principals at this link: https://youtu.be/LqTQY96IKzg
Football District Champs 2024-2025
The Board also recognized the 2024-25 THS varsity football team for being named the UIL 13-4A district champions. A few alumni team members joined current players who formed part of the winning team for the recognition, marking a special reunion for the team. Congratulations to our players and dedicated coaches!
2025 MASBA Awards
THS art student Amia Vega was honored for earning second place in the Mexican American School Board Association District Art Contest in San Antonio recently. Her work earned top marks among all the submissions, reflecting her artistry and talent.
The Board also celebrated two additional honors at the meeting for Outstanding English Language Learner Initiative and Outstanding MASBA School Board.
These recognitions highlight Taylor ISD’s ongoing commitment to student success and excellence, both in the classroom and beyond. They reflect the hard work of our educators, the visionary leadership of our Board, and the continued support of our families and community.
TEE Foundation Grant Presentation
The TEE Foundation presented its latest round of teacher and staff grant recipients. These grants fund projects across the district that either supplement instructional materials, provide innovative enrichment opportunities, or launch new programs altogether. Here are the latest recipients and their projects:
- Rochelle Snearl at NPE - Tune up for our future - $1,319
- Marcie Svatek & Davide Motl at THS - Mobile color guard station - $1,047
- Daniel Thomas at TOC - Advancing through achievement - $1,500
- Heidi Weber at TMS - White board class sets - $350
- Elaine Edwards at MSE - Austin Symphony friends visit Main Street - $1,750
- Eliza Ackerman at TOC - Listen and learn - $480
- Joseph Thompson at THS - Introducing esports to THS - $37,186
PRESENTATIONS
Preview of Universal Screener & Beginning of Year Data
Chief Academic Officer Megan Zembik shared results from the district’s beginning-of-year screener, now used consistently across all elementary and middle schools. Pre-K uses a specialized tool.
Initial data shows growth in reading, reflecting the district’s targeted efforts. The screener helps teachers create personalized learning plans and identify students who may need extra support. Teachers actively guide the process to ensure every student succeeds.
Emergent Bilingual Program Update
The dual language and English learner programs provide instruction in both English and Spanish, helping students achieve full proficiency in both. Certified bilingual and ESL teachers deliver at least half of instruction in the non-English language, guiding students toward success in English-only instruction within six to seven years.
Student Highlights:
- 5th grade outperformed monolingual peers in Math; focus continues on Reading.
- 7th grade led in Reading; Math gap remains a focus.
- English II cohort performed closest to monolingual peers in English II; Math progress continues.
Program Growth & Support:
-
615 students enrolled, up from last year.
-
Teachers receive ongoing training, certification support, and stipends ($1K–$7K annually).
Professional Learning Communities
Taylor ISD’s Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) provide teachers with dedicated time to connect with peers in their content areas. During these sessions, teachers share strategies, coordinate lessons, and design targeted approaches to ensure all students are learning and making progress.
The effectiveness of MSE’s PLC structure has gained wider recognition—it will now be featured in Region 13 training on Lesson Internalization, highlighting the district’s commitment to data-driven teaching and student success.
District & Campus Improvement Plans
Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources Jennifer Patschke talked about the process of developing custom improvement plans for each campus based on data and guided by the district’s strategic plan. By analyzing this information, leaders and staff determine priorities and implement strategies designed to achieve goals and support student achievement.
Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports
Taylor ISD uses PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports) to create safe, supportive, and equitable learning environments. The program focuses on teaching expected behaviors, providing positive reinforcement, and offering support tailored to student needs.
By setting clear expectations, recognizing positive behavior, and using data to guide interventions, PBIS helps students succeed academically, socially, and emotionally while supporting educators and strengthening school culture. This program is in place at every campus, with incentives like “Duck Bucks” driving success among students.
CONSENT AGENDA
8B. Tax Report
8C. Monthly Financial Report
8D. Purchasing Approval
8E. Budget Amendment
8F. Quarterly Investment Report
8G. Approve Universal Screener iReady
8H. Approve District and Campus Improvement Plans
8I. Adopt Revision of FEC (LOCAL)
9. PERSONNEL ITEMS FOR ACTION:
9A. Resignation of Personnel
