ALL THE BUZZ
SEPTEMBER 2025
Dear Caldwell ISD Community,
The Burleson County Fair is always a highlight of the fall, and this year was no exception. From livestock projects and baked goods to ag mechanics and public speaking, our students showcased their hard work and talents in so many ways.
We are proud to celebrate a new Burleson County Fair Queen from Caldwell High School, as well as the many students who participated in contests throughout the week. Our youngest Hornets also had the chance to experience the fair firsthand, guided by our high school FFA members who shared their knowledge and love of agriculture.
Thank you to our community for the tremendous support you show our youth—not only at the fair, but throughout the year.
Sincerely,
Dr. James Barton
Superintendent, Caldwell ISD
September 22, 2025 Board Brief
The Board meeting was called to order at 6:00 PM followed by the pledge and prayer, led by Craig Ayers.
Recognize Students & Staff
Dr. James Barton, Caldwell ISD Superintendent, recognized Walker Herman and Elena Almaraz-Hernandez, who were selected as Caldwell ISD’s “October Students of the Month.” Additionally, he recognized Tabbatha Pipes as the “October Employee of the Month.”
Public Input
There was no public input this month.
Superintendent’s Report
Enrollment Report:
The enrollment of Caldwell ISD is currently 1,849 students.
Informational Reports
Finance Reports:
Heather Escalante, Deputy Superintendent, presented the August Financial Reports. The full report can be viewed HERE.
Teacher Incentive Allotment:
Erin Supak, Chief Academic Officer, updated the board on potential future participation in the Teacher Incentive Allotment (TIA), a state-funded program that provides additional pay for highly effective teachers. The district has formed a committee of 18 teachers from all campuses to explore the program and gather feedback. No immediate action was required, and if the district chooses to participate, an application would be submitted in April 2026, with initial payouts beginning in August 2028.
Update: Delinquent Collections, John Banks:
John Banks, of Perdue, Brandon, Fielder, Collins & Mott, presented the Board with a tax collection report that featured a timeline of collections from the issuance of tax statements.
New Business (Action Items)
Consider/Take Action to Approve a Resolution Authorizing the Public Resale of Trust Property Identified on the Tax and Appraisal Rolls as PID 18128 (situs: 216 W Walnut Street, Caldwell, TX):
The board unanimously approved a resolution to authorize the public resale of the trust property at 216 W. Walnut Street.
Consider and Approve Tax Rate:
Mrs. Escalante presented the district’s tax rate for 2025-2026, approving a total rate of $0.8161 per $100 valuation. This rate is below the previous year’s rate and was approved unanimously by the board.
Consider and Approve District Improvement Plan:
Mrs. Supak presented the 2025-2026 District Improvement Plan to the Board of Trustees, who unanimously approved the plan. The full plan can be found on our website HERE.
Consider and Approve Campus Improvement Plan:
The four CISD campus Principals highlighted important points from each of their campus improvement plans. The Board of Trustees unanimously approved the 2025-2026 Campus Improvement Plans. The full plan for each campus can be found on our website HERE.
Discussion and Possible Action to Approve a Resolution Certifying Compliance With Texas Education Code §§ 11.005 and 28.0022(h) Regarding Prohibitions on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Duties, and to Authorize the Superintendent to Submit the Required Annual Certification to the Texas Education Agency on or Before September 30, 2025:
The board unanimously approved a resolution certifying compliance with state law regarding diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), authorizing the superintendent to submit the required annual certification, and confirming that the district will not require any DEI-related duties or trainings.
Consent Agenda
Meeting Minutes - The Board of Trustees unanimously approved the meeting minutes.
The Board Meeting adjourned at 7:15 PM.
LEARNING IN ACTION: Highlights from September
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About Caldwell ISD
Caldwell Independent School District was officially established as a public school district in 1923 and serves the northern and western portions of Burleson County. In 1990, Caldwell ISD became the largest school district in the county that serves just under 2,000 students and is comprised of four campuses: Caldwell Elementary (PK - 3rd), Caldwell Intermediate (4th - 6th), Caldwell Junior High School (7th - 8th), and Caldwell High School (9th -12th). The district also has a District Alternative Education Program and an Alternative Center of Education. Caldwell ISD is the home of the Hornets. The official colors are Texas orange and white. Texas UIL classifies Caldwell ISD Hornets as a 4A district.
Email: info@caldwellisd.net
Website: caldwellschools.net
Location: 107 South Hill Street, Caldwell, TX, USA
Phone: 979-567-2400
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CaldwellISD
Twitter: @CaldwellProud
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/caldwell_proud/