The Alba-Golden community took a big step toward establishing an educational foundation for Alba-Golden Schools at Monday’s school board meeting.

Based on a recommendation of Superintendent Macy Thompson, the board unanimously approved funding a consulting fee to create the foundation, as well as funding the web design for a foundation website.    

During the public forum, resident Debbie Perry presented a strong argument in support of funding a consulting firm to create the foundation. Perry noted that a consulting firm can get a foundation up and running in short order, train foundation members on the legal and ethical restrictions associated with foundations and provide access to funding streams which are unknown to local foundation members. 

The board also received summaries of two recently-completed financial reports. Representatives of Rutherford, Taylor and Company briefed their audit of the district’s finances ending Aug. 31, 2022. 

The district received an unqualified audit with no significant deficiencies and no failures in compliance. The audit reflected a net balance of $7.9 million, up from the previous year’s net balance of $7.6 million. The auditors noted that 60% of the district’s budget goes to direct funding of classroom education.

Business Manager Brenda Kelley reported on the Financial Integrity Rating System of Texas rating, completed by the Texas Education Agency for the period ending Aug. 31, 2021. The district received a rating of ‘superior’ with a perfect score.  

Trustees also approved a teaching contract for David Havard. He is expected to take the duties as leader of the Construction Technology classes, following anticipated retirement of long-time construction teacher Ron Davis in early 2023. 

Approvals were also rendered for local incentive, retention and recruitment pay; a waiver of the summer feeding program; and approval of a statement confirming the district’s compliance with the Children’s Internet Protection Act.

Staff reports to the board highlighted the many activities occupying the students and teachers at this time of year. Highlights included the satisfactory completion of a safety audit, an update on the number of student athletes involved in the athletic department at the change of seasons, the upcoming “Adulting 101” day being hosted for seniors Friday, and preparations underway for the expected 150 visitors to the campus for the upcoming Thanksgiving meal. 

Sophomore Emily Hlavaty and youngster Lia Rendon were recognized as secondary and elementary school Students of the Month, respectively. Hlavaty is eyeing LeTourneau University for her collegiate studies with a focus on criminal justice. Rendon who is renown for her seemingly permanent smile – and matching positive attitude – has her sights set on becoming a medical doctor. 

Five trustees were present with Randall Cole and Matt Haisten absent.