Quitman ISD trustees gave approval Monday for an “innovative” sports medicine program to be taught at the high school.

Sports medicine has been taught for the first time in the 2018-19 school year, but the program does not fit the description as “innovative.”

According to the Texas Education Agency, “innovative” courses allow students to gain knowledge, skills and competencies above and beyond the essential knowledge and skills in the required curriculum.

Superintendent Rhonda Turner said school board approval is required for an innovative course to be taught at the district.

QISD athletic trainer Scotty Almon explained the students work in a practicum setting to learn treatment plans for injuries, physical therapy, and improve healing rates for athletes. Students receive job assignments in class to become well-trained in protocol, medical equipment and working with patients.

Almon is teaching the course with three students. He said the optimal number would be six due to the hands-on nature of the course.

Courses available under an “innovative” distinction would include sports medicine levels one, two and three.

In other actions, the board voted to increase student lunch prices and a 10-year plan (2019 to 2029) for lunch pricing at all campuses. The price will increase from $2.65 to $2.75 for the 2019-20 school year. The price will stay the same for 2020-21, and afterward increase by 10 cents each year until the price reaches the free lunch reimbursement rate, which is $3.31. That amount, however, could change with increased food cost.

In another matter, new QISD Board of Trustees goals were approved. The three goals are: QISD has monitoring systems and supports to ensure appropriate academic growth and preparation of all students; recruit and retain quality teachers; foster a positive work environment for professional growth, teamwork and high morale.

Trustees called a special board meeting on July 29 to decide on a public meeting date to discuss the next fiscal year budget and tax rate.

The district’s depository contract with BTH Bank was extended for a two-year term.

In her report, Turner shared preliminary drawings for the new tennis courts.

The board was also presented preliminary fifth and eighth grade STAAR math and reading scores.