The Montgomery ISD Board of Trustees has adopted a new property tax rate of $1.0479 per $100 of assessed property value, representing a 4.33 cent reduction from the district’s current tax rate of $1.0912.

The newly adopted rate is also lower than Montgomery ISD’s tax rate prior to the voter approved tax rate election passed by Montgomery ISD voters in November 2024.

Importantly, the reduction in the district’s tax rate does not eliminate the additional revenue generated by the 2024 voter approved tax rate election. Montgomery ISD will continue to receive approximately $5.5 million in additional annual revenue approved by voters through the election. The lower tax rate reflects the district’s ability to maintain that additional revenue while reducing the rate applied to property values. 

The new rate includes a Maintenance and Operations rate of $0.6977 and an Interest and Sinking rate of $0.3502. The Maintenance and Operations portion supports the district’s day to day operations, including staffing, instruction, student programs and other essential services. The Interest and Sinking portion is used to make payments on voter approved bonds that have funded facilities and other long term district needs.

The Board had two options for the Interest and Sinking portion of the tax rate. Trustees could have maintained the current Interest and Sinking rate of $0.3743, which would have resulted in an overall tax rate reduction of approximately two cents while potentially providing additional bonding capacity for future district projects.

Instead, the Board chose to reduce the Interest and Sinking rate to $0.3502, allowing the district to lower the overall tax rate as much as possible while maintaining a balanced Maintenance and Operations budget and continuing to make payments on the district’s existing voter approved bonds.

“Montgomery ISD voters stepped up for our schools when we needed their support, and we are incredibly grateful for that,” said Board President Eddie Winn. “Our community made a decision to invest in the future of Montgomery ISD, and we have a responsibility to honor that trust by being good stewards of those resources. When we had the opportunity to lower the tax rate, our Board felt strongly that we should do everything we could to provide that benefit to our taxpayers.”

Trustee Matt Mitchell said the Board carefully considered the district’s long term financial needs before making its decision.

“There were two responsible options available to the Board,” Mitchell said. “We could have maintained the existing Interest and Sinking rate, reduced the overall tax rate by about two cents and preserved additional bonding capacity for the future. Instead, we chose to lower the Interest and Sinking rate as well. That decision allows us to provide the greatest possible tax rate reduction while continuing to meet our existing financial obligations and maintain a balanced budget.”

Trustee Nate Robb said the decision demonstrates the Board’s commitment to being responsive to taxpayers while continuing to responsibly manage the district’s finances.

“When Montgomery ISD has an opportunity to reduce the tax rate, we believe we have a responsibility to take that opportunity seriously,” Robb said. “We looked closely at the financial needs of the district, our existing bond obligations and our ability to maintain a balanced budget. After considering all of those factors, the Board made the decision to lower the rate as much as possible.”

Robb also emphasized the distinction between property values and the tax rate set by Montgomery ISD.

“Property values are determined by the Montgomery Central Appraisal District, not by the Montgomery ISD Board of Trustees,” Robb said. “What we can control is the tax rate set by Montgomery ISD. We cannot control the value placed on a property, but when we have the opportunity to lower the rate, we believe it is important to do so.”

The Board’s decision comes less than two years after Montgomery ISD voters approved the district’s 2024 voter approved tax rate election, which provided approximately $5.5 million in additional annual revenue to help address the district’s financial needs.

“Two years ago, our community made a clear investment in Montgomery ISD and in the future of our schools,” Winn said. “That additional revenue remains important to maintaining a balanced budget and continuing to invest in our students and staff. At the same time, as our financial position has strengthened, we believe our taxpayers deserve to see the benefit of a lower tax rate. We can honor both commitments, responsibly using the revenue our voters approved while lowering the tax rate as much as possible.”

Montgomery ISD remains committed to maintaining financial stability, investing in students and staff, meeting its existing financial obligations and being responsible stewards of taxpayer dollars. 

Accountability Ratings Reflect Continued Academic Progress 

During the Board meeting, Montgomery ISD trustees received an update on the district’s 2025-26 Texas Education Agency Accountability Ratings, which reflect continued academic progress across the district. Montgomery ISD’s overall accountability score increased from 87 to 88, marking the third consecutive year of improvement. 

Four Montgomery ISD campuses received an A rating, four received a B rating and three received a C rating. The four A rated campuses represent the highest number of A rated campuses the district has received since the state’s accountability redesign in 2022 to 2023. Both of Montgomery ISD’s comprehensive high schools also received an A rating. The district continues to outperform state averages at every achievement level in every content area measured by the Spring 2025 STAAR and remains the highest rated district in Montgomery County.

You can see all Montgomery ISD 2025-26 campus ratings here. 

“Seeing this continued progress across Montgomery ISD is incredibly encouraging, and it is a reflection of the dedication of our teachers, campus leaders, students, families and community,” said Superintendent Dr. Mark Ruffin. “To see our district improve for a third consecutive year and to have both of our comprehensive high schools earn an A rating is something our entire community can be proud of. These results represent thousands of individual moments every day when educators choose to believe in a student, challenge a student and help a student see what is possible. We are grateful for the people who make that work happen. At the same time, we know these ratings are not the finish line. There are students who need us to do more, campuses that have opportunities to grow and work still ahead of us. We will celebrate this progress, learn from the data and continue working together, in partnership with our families and community, to ensure every Montgomery ISD student has the opportunity to reach their goals and dreams.” 

Looking ahead to the 2026-27 school year, Montgomery ISD has strategically restructured its Teaching and Learning Department to provide more intentional, targeted support in identified areas of need. The district is also streamlining teaching and learning processes to promote greater consistency in instructional practices across campuses and ensure effective practices are implemented and sustained throughout Montgomery ISD.  

Conroe/Lake Conroe Chamber of Commerce Recognized

The Conroe/Lake Conroe Chamber of Commerce was recognized as an MISD Premier Partner. This designation is awarded to local businesses and organizations that lead with generosity and investment in young people in our community, through support of our schools and educators.  

Scott Harper, President of the Conroe/Lake Conroe Chamber of Commerce, and Pauline Veazey, Vice President of Operations & Finance, received the recognition. 

The Conroe/Lake Conroe Chamber of Commerce was honored for its support of MISD through the Get Back to School Day, an annual event where the Chamber, its members, and community members come together to help get the schools ready for the first day of classes. The Chamber works with local businesses and organizations to sponsor the day. This year, over 300 volunteers were deployed across the district to tackle last-minute projects ranging from organizing chromebooks, cleaning the Ag Barn, assembling furniture, and stuffing first day folders. The Chamber organizes this army of volunteers who show up every year, ready to tackle any assignment to get our campuses and teachers ready to greet students on the first day of school.

Additionally, the Chamber supports the district financially, awarding new teachers with funds to offset the cost of setting up their first classrooms. Every first-year teacher received $200 and 32 “new to the district” teachers received $100, for a total of $8,800.  This year, the Chamber also supported the MISD Saddle Up convocation event, providing over $3,000 in gift cards that were raffled off to additional staff members, including support staff.   

“The Conroe/Lake Conroe Chamber of Commerce continues to be an incredible partner to Montgomery ISD,” Superintendent Dr. Mark Ruffin said.  “ From hosting Get Back to School Day to supporting our new and returning staff members, the Chamber can always be counted on to connect our community and MISD schools. We are incredibly grateful for their partnership and the impact they make across our district.” 

District Maintenance Team Recognized

Finally, the MISD Maintenance Team was recognized for their dedicated efforts to ensure MISD campuses are clean, repaired, refreshed, and ready for a strong start to the school year.  

Under the leadership of Maintenance Director Sid Chacon and Assistant Director David Crow, the team worked tirelessly throughout the summer to pressure wash, clean, make repairs, and address countless projects across the district. Their work has helped our schools look their very best, creating welcoming environments our students, staff, families, and community can all be proud of.

Chacon and Crow have also worked to streamline the Maintenance Department’s approach to summer projects, creating a more efficient process for tackling the long list of repairs, improvements, and maintenance needs that can be addressed while school is not in session.

“We are grateful to Mr. Chacon, Mr. Crow, the entire Montgomery ISD Maintenance Team for their commitment, hard work, and pride in our schools,” Trustee Mark Keelen said. “ Their efforts behind the scenes made a noticeable difference across our district and helped ensure our campuses were ready to welcome everyone back for another great school year.”

The Montgomery ISD Board of Trustees approved a balanced operating budget for the 2026-27 school year during its regular meeting on June 23, 2026.

The adopted operating budget totals approximately $108.9 M and reflects the district’s continued commitment to responsible financial stewardship while strategically investing in students and staff.

Key highlights of the 2026-27 budget include:

• A balanced operating budget for the upcoming fiscal year
• A $2.4 million ongoing investment in employee compensation
• Approximately $220,000 in market-based stipend and salary adjustments for hard-to-staff special education positions
• Nearly $1 million allocated for new positions supporting special education, classroom instruction and employee recruitment and retention efforts

The budget includes the following new positions to address identified needs in the Special Education and Teaching and Learning Departments:

• Additional assistant principals at Montgomery Junior High and Montgomery and Creekside elementary schools
• Four special education teachers and eight special education paraprofessionals
• A K-12 science coordinator
• A speech language pathologist

A major investment included in the budget is the compensation plan approved by the Board in April. The compensation plan for 2026-27 includes a $2,100 increase for teachers and employees on the teacher hiring schedule, as well as a 3% salary increase for all other eligible employees based on the midpoint of their pay grade.

The 2026-27 budget also reflects the significant progress Montgomery ISD has made in strengthening its financial position over the past two years. Prior to the 2024-25 school year, the district was facing a projected $4.3 million budget deficit. Through strong financial management and the community’s support of Proposition A in November 2024, Montgomery ISD has not only maintained balanced budgets but has also delivered on the commitments made to voters during the Prop A process.

Since the passage of Prop A, the district has invested more than $5 million in ongoing employee compensation increases, resulting in salary increases ranging from 7% to 12%. In addition, full-time employees have received a combined $2,500 in one-time stipends. The district has also expanded support in critical need areas, including special education, school safety, and student services, while continuing to maintain strong financial stability.

Superintendent Dr. Mark Ruffin said the adopted budget reflects the district’s continued commitment to supporting the people who make the biggest difference for students every day.

“Our people are a huge part of what makes Montgomery ISD special, and this budget reflects our commitment to continuing to invest in them,” Dr. Ruffin said. “Every day, our teachers, paraprofessionals, bus drivers, custodians, counselors, cafeteria teams, and support staff show up for kids in meaningful ways. We want our employees to feel valued and supported because when we take care of our people, our students benefit. This budget allows us to continue strengthening student support systems, investing in key academic areas, and making sure Montgomery ISD remains a place where families want to be and great educators want to work.”

Board President Eddie Winn said the Board remained focused throughout the budget process on balancing strategic investments with responsible financial stewardship.

“Our Board understands the importance of maintaining the trust our taxpayers place in us,” Winn said. “We take seriously the responsibility of managing district finances in a way that is thoughtful, transparent, and focused on what’s best for students. This budget allows us to invest in our employees and address important needs across the district while also maintaining strong financial stability. At the end of the day, we want every dollar invested to have a positive impact on students and help continue moving Montgomery ISD forward as a premier school district our community can be proud of.”

Montgomery ISD continues to operate on a July 1 through June 30 fiscal year calendar.

The district’s ability to honor its commitments to voters, invest in employees, expand student support services, and maintain balanced budgets demonstrates Montgomery ISD’s commitment to responsible stewardship of taxpayer resources and its continued pursuit of being a premier school district for students, staff, and the community.

Employee Healthcare Benefits Update

The Board also received an update from Higginbotham, the district’s third-party health insurance benefits broker, regarding the district’s healthcare benefits package for the upcoming 2026-27 school year. Representatives from Higginbotham shared that the district’s health insurance premiums will increase beginning next year, reflecting continued cost pressures impacting employer-sponsored healthcare plans across Texas and the nation.

Each year, Montgomery ISD works diligently to provide employees with comprehensive healthcare benefits while minimizing the financial impact of rising healthcare costs. District leaders routinely evaluate available options and collaborate with benefits consultants to balance quality coverage with affordability for employees and their families.

Last year, the Montgomery ISD Board of Trustees approved an increase in the district’s monthly contribution toward employee healthcare premiums from $370 to $400 per month, representing an annual district contribution of $4,800 per employee. The increased contribution was designed to help offset rising healthcare costs and provide additional support for employees and their families.

“Rising healthcare costs continue to be a serious challenge facing public education,” Dr. Ruffin said. “School districts across Texas are experiencing substantial increases in insurance costs, which places additional pressure on already strained budgets. As we look ahead to the 2027 legislative session, I look forward to working with our state legislators and education leaders to explore solutions that help make healthcare coverage more affordable and sustainable for school employees. Our teachers and staff deserve access to quality healthcare benefits, and this is an issue that requires continued attention at the state level.”

District administrators will continue working with Higginbotham and the district’s insurance providers to communicate plan details, available coverage options, and enrollment information to employees prior to the start of the new plan year.

Student Recognitions

Trustees celebrated the Lake Creek Softball team that secured the UIL Class 5A Division II state championship in May.  The team finished the year with an impressive 40-1 record. This is the fourth state championship in program history, having earned the title in 2022, 2023 and 2025.  Since the school began varsity play in 2019, the Lions are 268-23 and a fixture at the state tournament in Austin.

“This state championship is a testament to the character, resilience, and composure of this incredible team,” Board Vice President Paul Cameron said.  “After facing an early deficit, they never lost confidence, never panicked, and stayed committed to their game plan. They trusted one another, and executed when it mattered most. That kind of determination and poise under pressure is what champions are made of. We are incredibly proud of these athletes and coaches for representing Lake Creek High School and Montgomery ISD with excellence on the biggest stage.” 

Trustees also recognized the Lake Creek Baseball team, runners-up in the UIL Class 5A Division I State Championship earlier this month.  Facing off against defending champions Aledo, the Lions endured nearly three hours of weather delays during the championship. Lake Creek (26-18) was making the program’s first appearance in a state title game after winning four elimination games in the previous two rounds. 

“Congratulations to the Lions on an outstanding baseball season and an impressive postseason run,” Trustee Shawn Denison said.  “Reaching the state finals for the first time in program history is a remarkable accomplishment and reflects the determination and character of this group. From overcoming a challenging start to the season to battling through the playoffs and earning a spot in the championship game, these student-athletes made Lake Creek High School and our Montgomery ISD community proud. We congratulate the student-athletes and coaching staff for an outstanding season.” 

Finally, trustees acknowledged the Lake Creek Clay Target Team, recently named the USA High School Clay Target League Texas High School State Champions.  The group finished first place in the conference for the 2026 season, with several students claiming individual awards in the sporting clay, trap, skeet and 5-stand divisions.    

“The success of the Lake Creek Clay Target Team is a wonderful example of what can happen when students are given opportunities to pursue their passions and develop their talents,” Trustee Nate Robb said. “ In just a few short years, this program has grown from a small group of dedicated students into a nationally recognized team that competes with some of the best programs in the country. We are proud of the way these students represent Lake Creek High School through their hard work, sportsmanship, and commitment to excellence. We congratulate the student-athletes, sponsors and the Lake Creek families who have helped make this program such a success.”

The Montgomery ISD Board of Trustees held its regular monthly meeting Tuesday, May 12, highlighted by the swearing-in of trustees, the announcement of the district’s new Executive Director of Teaching & Learning, recognition of the Lake Creek High School Girls Soccer Team’s historic state championship season, and celebrations honoring teacher and leadership development programs across the district. 

Board Reorganization and New Trustee

During the meeting, Montgomery County Judge Wayne Mack administered the oaths of office to re-elected Trustees Eddie Winn (Position 1) and Shawn Denison (Position 2), along with newly elected Trustee Matt Mitchell (Position 3).

Mitchell fills the board seat vacated by Laurie Turner, who is retiring from board service after serving two terms, which included one year as board president and three years as vice president.

“I am deeply honored to have the opportunity to serve Montgomery ISD as a trustee,” Mitchell said. “I look forward to collaborating with my fellow board members and engaging with teachers, staff, parents, and community members as we continue moving MISD forward together. I’m eager to listen, learn, and help ensure Montgomery ISD remains a premier school district in Texas.”

Winn, entering his second term on the board, added, “It is a privilege to continue serving this outstanding community. I’m confident our board will stay focused on supporting students, uplifting our teachers and staff, and advocating for the high-quality education our families value and deserve.”

Denison begins his third term on the board.

“It continues to be an honor to serve Montgomery ISD and the families who place their trust in us,” Denison said. “I’m proud of the progress our district has made, and I look forward to continuing the important work of supporting students, strengthening relationships across the district, and helping Montgomery ISD grow and thrive for years to come.”

“On behalf of Montgomery ISD, I want to express my sincere gratitude to Laurie Turner for her dedicated service and leadership as a trustee,” Superintendent Dr. Mark Ruffin said. “Every decision she made was thoughtful and always centered on what would best serve students. Her commitment to MISD families, staff, and the entire community has made a lasting impact on our district. We are thankful for the time, energy, and heart she invested in MISD, and we wish her all the best in the future.”

See the trustee’s message to Laurie here:

Following the election, the board selected new officers to serve in leadership roles for the coming year

Eddie Winn, Board President

Paul E. Cameron IV, Board Vice President

Dr. Lizzy Ivey, Board Secretary

“It is an honor to be selected by my colleagues to serve as Board President,” Winn said. “I look forward to working alongside my fellow trustees and Dr. Ruffin as we continue investing in our people, supporting our students and staff, and building on the foundation that makes Montgomery ISD both strong and great. Together, we remain committed to serving our community and ensuring every student has access to a premier education.”

New Executive Director of Teaching & Learning Announced

C. Steele Hantgin was announced as Montgomery ISD’s new Executive Director of Teaching & Learning. Steele brings nearly 20 years of experience in public education to the role, most recently serving as Principal of Lake Belton High School in Belton ISD.

Throughout her career, Steele has served in a variety of leadership roles, including principal, associate principal, campus academic director, instructional coach, department chair, and classroom teacher. She has extensive experience in curriculum and instructional leadership, educator development, data-driven decision-making, and academic programming.

During her time at Lake Belton High School, Steele helped lead significant academic growth, including improving the campus accountability rating from a “B” to an “A” through strategic instructional alignment, focused planning, and expanded college and career readiness opportunities. She has also led initiatives involving Advanced Academics, CTE pathways, Early College High School programming, Dual Credit, and teacher development systems.

“I am incredibly excited and honored to join Montgomery ISD and become part of a district with such a strong reputation for excellence and student success,” Hantgin said. “I look forward to building relationships with teachers, staff, students, and families as we work together to continue supporting high levels of learning and opportunity for every student.”

“We are excited to welcome Steele Hantgin to Montgomery ISD,” Dr. Ruffin said. “She brings a strong background in instructional leadership, a passion for supporting teachers and students, and a proven track record of improving student outcomes. Her experience and vision will be a tremendous asset as we continue striving for excellence across our district.”

Lake Creek High School Girls Soccer Team

Members of the Lake Creek High School Girls Soccer Team were recognized for earning the 2026 UIL Class 5A Division II State Championship title after a thrilling 3-2 victory over Grapevine last month. The championship marks the first state title in program history.

“We are incredibly proud of the Lake Creek girls soccer team for an unforgettable season and historic accomplishment,” Trustee Mark Keelen said. “This championship reflects the dedication, resilience, and teamwork displayed by these student-athletes all year long. We also want to congratulate Head Coach Alyssa Maynard and Assistant Coach Will Davidson for the leadership and commitment they poured into this program. Their success is a tremendous source of pride for all of Montgomery ISD.”

MISD Ambassadors Recognized

The Board also recognized the district’s inaugural group of MISD Ambassadors, a group of nearly 30 parents and community members from across Montgomery ISD who participated in the district’s first-ever ambassador program during the 2025–2026 school year.

Throughout the year, the MISD Ambassadors met five times and participated in presentations, discussions, and behind-the-scenes learning experiences with district leaders, campus principals, school board members, and department representatives. Participants gained insight into the day-to-day operations of Montgomery ISD, district initiatives, academics, school finance, student programs, safety and security, and more.

The program was designed to strengthen relationships between the district and community while empowering participants to become informed advocates and ambassadors for public education in Montgomery ISD.

“As both a parent and member of the first MISD Ambassadors cohort, this experience gave us a deeper understanding of the incredible work happening across the district every day,” MISD Ambassador Sheremetria Davis said. “The program created meaningful opportunities to engage with district leadership, ask questions, and learn more about the decisions and processes that impact students and staff. The Ambassadors program truly helps turn district knowledge into community impact, and I’m grateful to have been part of the inaugural group.”

The district plans to continue the program during the 2026-27 school year with its second cohort of MISD Ambassadors. Information about the application process and participation opportunities will be shared with the community later this summer. 

MINT Program Recognized

The Board also recognized members of the 2025-26 MINT Year 3 Cohort, honoring teachers who successfully completed three years of structured professional learning designed specifically to support educators during their first years in the classroom.

The MINT program is a key part of Montgomery ISD’s long-term commitment to developing and supporting high-quality teachers through intentional mentorship, collaboration, and professional growth opportunities. Throughout the program, participants engage in targeted learning experiences aimed at strengthening instructional practices, building confidence in the classroom, and supporting long-term success in the teaching profession.

District leaders shared that programs like MINT play an important role in both teacher development and retention by equipping beginning educators with the tools, support, and relationships needed to thrive early in their careers.

“The MINT program reflects Montgomery ISD’s commitment to investing in our teachers from the very beginning of their careers,” Trustee Dr. Elizabeth Ivey said. “By providing meaningful support, mentorship, and professional learning opportunities, the district is helping educators grow in confidence and effectiveness while also building a strong foundation for long-term success in the profession. These teachers are making a tremendous impact on students, and we are proud to celebrate their dedication and accomplishments.”

ElevateED Leadership Development Program 

The Board also recognized participants in ElevateED, Montgomery ISD’s leadership development program designed to support and prepare aspiring leaders from across the district.

The inaugural cohort included 17 employees currently serving in a variety of roles throughout Montgomery ISD, ranging from classroom teachers to department coordinators. Throughout the school year, participants met regularly to engage in leadership development sessions focused on topics such as organizational structure, effective communication, strategic leadership, district operations, and professional growth.

The program provided participants with opportunities to collaborate with district leaders, gain insight into school leadership and decision-making processes, and further develop the skills necessary to serve and lead at higher levels within the organization.

“It is exciting to see a group of employees who are committed to growing professionally and expanding their leadership within Montgomery ISD,” Trustee Paul Cameron said. “Investing in leadership development is important not only for our staff, but for the continued success of our students and district as a whole. ElevateED is helping cultivate future leaders who care deeply about serving this community.”

The Montgomery ISD Board of Trustees has approved the district’s compensation plan for the 2026–27 school year, making a $2.4 million ongoing investment in employee pay, along with a separate one-time employee Impact Recognition Stipend. Together, these actions represent a total investment of $3.6 million in employees, including both ongoing compensation increases and a one-time recognition payment.

The plan delivers a $2,100 salary increase for teachers and employees on the teacher hiring schedule, along with a 3% salary increase for all staff beginning in the new fiscal year, calculated from the midpoint of each employee’s pay grade. These increases represent a lasting investment in employee compensation.

In addition to these ongoing raises, every full-time district employee will receive a $1,000 Impact Recognition Stipend, paid out in the May 20 payroll. This one-time stipend reflects the district’s appreciation for the continued dedication and impact of its staff.

“This compensation plan is about recognizing the hard work and commitment of our incredible team across the district,” Superintendent Dr. Mark Ruffin said. “Our employees go above and beyond each day to support students and one another, and that effort does not go unnoticed. We are excited to make this investment as a way to show our appreciation and to continue supporting and retaining the outstanding people who serve our district.”

The $1,000 stipend is made possible through responsible budgeting and additional revenue generated from voter approval of Prop A in 2024. While district officials emphasized that one-time stipends are not guaranteed annually, they expressed appreciation for the opportunity to provide additional recognition this year.

District leadership also noted that the compensation plan was developed through careful financial planning and reflects a balance between fiscal responsibility and the district’s strategic goal of investing in people.

“Our Board has made it a priority to support our employees and ensure that we are investing in the people who make this district premier,” Board President Eddie Winn said. “We are especially committed to ensuring that funds generated through Prop A directly benefit our staff, and this plan reflects that commitment.”

The full compensation plan is available here.

Student Recognitions

As part of the meeting, the MISD trustees recognized the MISD Class of 2026 Valedictorians and Salutatorians. From Montgomery High School, Santiago Bustillos is the Valedictorian and Brooke Peterson is the Salutatorian. Lake Creek High School’s Valedictorian is Matthew Fitzgerald and the Salutatorian is Evangelina Stowers.

“On behalf of the Board of Trustees, we proudly congratulate our district’s valedictorians and salutatorians,” Trustee Dr. Elizabeth Ivey said. “Their hard work and dedication have led to this remarkable achievement, and we are honored to celebrate their success. We wish them all the best in the future and are confident they will continue to make Montgomery ISD proud.”

Trustees also recognized The Montgomery Marvels for their hard work this year. Sponsors Shara Phillips and Heather Hebert shared about the success of these student athletes who have participated this year in bocce ball, cheerleading and track & field competitions.  

“We are incredibly proud of the Montgomery Marvels and the heart, determination, and joy they bring to every competition,” Trustee Mark Keelen said. “Their participation is a testament to their perseverance and the inclusive spirit of our district. We are equally grateful for the leadership of their coaches, Shara Phillips and Heather Hebert, whose dedication and encouragement helps these students shine.”

At the regular monthly meeting of the Montgomery ISD Board of Trustees, trustees approved the district’s spending plan portion of the Teacher Incentive Allotment (TIA) application process.  TIA is a state program designed to recognize and reward highly effective teachers with increased compensation.

Through TIA, teachers may earn a designation based on their effectiveness in the classroom and student growth outcomes. The program provides additional state funding that is directed to designated teachers for compensation. This initiative reflects Montgomery ISD’s continued commitment to recruiting, retaining, and rewarding high-quality educators.

Over the past several months, the district has engaged teachers and administrators in the development of its TIA framework. This work included multiple teacher and administrator committees meeting over several months, focusing on key components of the TIA implementation plan such as teacher evaluation weighting, student growth measures, eligibility criteria, and financial planning.

Montgomery ISD will now move forward with submitting its application to the Texas Education Agency in April 2026. If accepted by TEA, the district will begin a data capture year during the 2026-27 school year, collecting teacher performance and student growth data to submit for validation. Following submission of that data in fall 2027 and state review, designated teachers could begin receiving TIA funding as early as August 2028.

“The Teacher Incentive Allotment represents an important opportunity to invest in our teachers and recognize the incredible work happening in classrooms across Montgomery ISD,” Superintendent Dr. Mark Ruffin said. “This is a meaningful step forward in supporting our educators and strengthening outcomes for our students, and we appreciate the Board of Trustees for their support in moving this work forward.”

New Math Instructional Materials Adopted

Also during the meeting, trustees approved the recommendation for the district’s new math instructional materials, beginning with the 2026–2027 school year. Following a comprehensive review process that included input from teachers, administrators, and community members, the Board approved the selection of Savvas Learning K-12 Math for Kindergarten to Algebra I and McGraw-Hill Texas for Geometry and Algebra II.

The review process included a committee of nearly 50 teachers and instructional leaders from across the district who evaluated materials from multiple math curriculum providers. In addition, the district provided an opportunity for parents and community members to review materials and share feedback through a survey.

Montgomery ISD follows a structured curriculum adoption cycle, in alignment with the State Board of Education’s IMRA Review process, designed to ensure high-quality instructional materials are selected through a collaborative and transparent process. Each cycle includes a committee of educators and community representatives who review the resources and provide recommendations prior to Board consideration.

“I am grateful for the dedication and time our educators invested in this process,” Trustee Dr. Elizabeth Ivey said. “Their expertise and thoughtful input were essential in helping ensure we selected high-quality instructional materials. I also appreciate the district’s diligence in building a strong, transparent process that will support both our teachers and students with the resources and professional development needed for success.”

Lake Creek High School Receives National Recognition

Representatives from Varsity Sports named Lake Creek High School as one of the first-ever National School Spirit Championships award winners.

Lake Creek High School was recognized for its outstanding performance at the inaugural National School Spirit Championships (NSSC) Division I, where the school earned a 3rd place national finish through the combined efforts of its cheer, dance, and band programs. The cheer team earned 225 points and a 6th place national finish in the highly competitive Large Varsity Intermediate division, while the dance team contributed 125 points in the Small Varsity Jazz division. The varsity pep band added to the total with a 2nd place national finish at the National School Band Championship, and the combined spirit program earned 3rd place in the Game Day Live division. Together, these performances secured Lake Creek High School the title of NSSC Division I – 3rd Place National School Spirit Champions, along with a $5,000 award to support its spirit programs.

“We are incredibly proud of the dedication, talent, and teamwork displayed by our students and directors who embraced this opportunity and represented Lake Creek with excellence on a national stage,” Board President Eddie Winn said. “Their commitment to each other and to our school community is what defines Lion Pride. This recognition is a reflection of the hard work happening across all of our student programs, and it is great to see Lake Creek recognized among the very best in the nation.”

New Director of Maintenance Introduced

Sid Chacon was introduced as MISD’s new Director of Maintenance.  

Mr. Chacon brings to MISD more than two decades of experience in maintenance and facilities. Most recently, Chacon served Conroe ISD as Administrative Maintenance Coordinator of Compliance, acting as the primary liaison with the Fire Marshals and other regulatory agencies and managing operations to ensure facilities are safe, secure, code compliant and fully functional in instructional continuity.   

“Sid is process-oriented, and brings a wealth of experience with technology integration, including developing systems to track preventive maintenance for the district’s equipment and digitizing inspections, insurance claims and door audit reports,” Chief of Operations Brad Mansfield said. “He is also committed to building relationships with all staff members. I am confident his knowledge, experience and interpersonal skills will help our maintenance team ensure a safe, healthy and nurturing learning environment for all students to thrive socially and academically. “

“I’m honored to join Montgomery ISD and excited to serve the students, staff, and community,” Chacon said.  “ I am a Montgomery resident with two children attending MISD schools, so this opportunity is especially meaningful to me. I look forward to supporting safe, reliable, and well maintained campuses for our students and staff.”

Teachers Recognized for Achieving Certification to Support Reading

Trustees recognized a group of MISD teachers who recently earned LETRS (Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling) certification. Over a rigorous two-year period, ten educators completed 100 hours of coursework, four live sessions, and job-embedded “bridge-to-practice” activities. The program covers the science of reading, including phonological awareness, phonics and orthography, morphology, fluency, vocabulary, comprehension, and strategies for lesson planning and assessment.

LETRS is a nationally recognized professional certification, and MISD’s cohort was facilitated by the Region 6 Education Service Center. Trustees congratulated the following staff members for this achievement: 

Patty Anderson

Kimberly Birkett 

Brandy Bowers

Teresa Burt 

Brittany Furr 

Kayal Hayes 

Annie Holcomb 

Christy Morris 

Jessica Stubbs

Alice Winn

Board also renews mutual aid agreement with outside law enforcement agencies

 At the regular monthly meeting of the Montgomery ISD school board, trustees approved a guaranteed maximum price (GMP) for the buildout of the Montgomery ISD Career & Technical Education Center – The DEN, to relocate personnel at its Education Support Center (ESC) at 20774 Eva St. to currently unfinished and unoccupied available space on the second floor of the newly-constructed facility. This decision follows a careful evaluation by district leadership, the Board of Trustees, and the district’s Long-Range Planning Committee, which explored options to maximize the district’s facilities and resources. Construction will begin in the summer of 2026 and the district anticipates the transition will be completed by the end of the year.

During the Board Meeting, trustees approved converting empty space at the CTE Center into offices at a Guaranteed Maximum Price of $3.2 million, which is a savings of over $2 million from the $5.4 million originally allocated in the 2022 bond for repairs to the ESC. Construction will occur in summer 2026 when students are not on campus, minimizing disruption to instruction. By completing the work over the summer rather than after school hours during the spring semester, the district saved nearly $500,000 in construction costs.

“The current ESC building is aging and has significant structural concerns and deteriorating conditions that make continued, long-term use impractical,” said Superintendent Dr. Mark Ruffin. “A significant portion of the building is currently not in use because it is not accessible. Relocating staff to The DEN provides functional space for our administrative team while using district resources wisely and planning strategically for the future. I appreciate the work of the long-range planning committee that encouraged this as a realistic and financially responsible solution for our ESC staff. Our objective is always to maximize the impact of our taxpayer funds, and allocating millions of dollars to partially repair the ESC building simply does not align with that objective.”

The move also allows the district to realize an annual estimated operational savings of approximately $90,000 while preserving over $2 million in bond funds for campus improvements. There will be an additional savings in custodial costs, as well.

“The Board of Trustees is committed to using taxpayer dollars responsibly while meeting the district’s operational needs,” said Board President Eddie Winn. “This relocation addresses immediate concerns at the ESC in a cost-effective way and provides flexibility for future growth of our facilities and programs.”

The new office space at The DEN is designed to be flexible, allowing the area to eventually be repurposed for instructional and classroom use as CTE programs continue to expand. 

The slide deck that was presented to trustees during the February Board meeting can be viewed here.

For more information about Montgomery ISD facilities and long-range planning, visit the MISD Long-Range Planning Committee.

New Classroom Furniture at Five Elementary Campuses

The district has also announced that five elementary campuses will receive all new classroom furniture during the summer of 2026. The campuses include Lincoln Elementary School, Lone Star Elementary School, Madeley Ranch Elementary School, Montgomery Elementary School, and Stewart Creek Elementary School. The upgrades will be funded through the “comparability” funds included in the 2022 bond program. When the bond was presented to voters, the district made a clear commitment to ensure comparability across campuses, and this investment reflects that promise in action. 

“We are very excited to move forward with these important classroom updates,” Dr. Ruffin said. “Our Board of Trustees has remained focused on ensuring that the comparability funds contained in the 2022 bond are maximized to impact as many campuses and students as possible. Elevating all learning environments across our district was a promise made to our community throughout the bond process, and we’re grateful to see these improvements take place this summer.”

Montgomery ISD Education Foundation Awards $125K in Educator Grants and Fellowships

During the meeting, the district also recapped the MISD Education Foundation’s annual Grant Express. On January 9, members of the foundation were joined by district leaders and community partners aboard an MISD school bus that stopped at campuses to award 42 educator grants and Foundation Fellowships, an initiative that supports MISD employees in their pursuit of higher education in the teaching profession. This year, the foundation awarded $125,000 to the school district via educator grants and other initiatives.  

Each fall, the Montgomery ISD Education Foundation hosts a competitive grant application process. Grants are awarded based on creative and innovative ideas that district staff can implement in the classroom to positively impact student learning.

Grant applications are evaluated based on whether the proposed program represents an inventive approach to improve and enrich learning and includes sound evaluation procedures tied to student performance.

 Some of the items that will be purchased with 2026 grant funds include:

• Direct-to-Film equipment to support the design and production of custom apparel items for MISD programs.
• Vision screening technology to provide access to vision care for every MISD student.
• Classroom set of guitars, to promote music education and specialty clubs for elementary students with an interest in learning guitar.
• Herb garden at the MISD Den will provide resources for Culinary Arts students to design and build a garden and grow herbs to use in their recipes.

Other grants will fund experiences for students, including:

• MISD Postsecondary Success Project provides college readiness support for MISD high school students.  
• Code, Create, Compose, an Xploris STEAM Lab that enhances lessons and experiences in the classroom and outdoors.  This program allows elementary students to participate in hands-on activities to empower innovation.

“Grant Express Day is the culmination of our fundraising efforts and one of the best days in Montgomery ISD,” MISD Education Foundation Executive Director Tiffany Ortiz said.  “We look forward to this event all year, and love providing our educators with the tools and experiences they know will make a big impact in their classrooms. We are so grateful for the incredible support of our community partners and were honored to have so many of them join us to award the grants.”

“There is nothing like the excitement on the faces of our teachers and staff as they receive grants that will make a real difference for their students.” Superintendent Dr. Ruffin said. “The 42 grants awarded represent the MISD Education Foundation’s commitment to MISD and helping us deliver a gold standard experience for our students and staff.”

The Montgomery ISD Education Foundation hosts several fundraising events including a state of the district Victory Breakfast and golf tournament held in the fall, and the Embers & Antlers Soiree, scheduled for February 21, 2026 at Margaritaville on Lake Conroe.  

To learn more about the Montgomery ISD Education Foundation, click here: https://montgomeryisdef.org/

Partnership with local law enforcement agencies 

Montgomery ISD trustees also renewed the district police department’s Mutual Aid Agreement and the Montgomery County Law Enforcement Memorandum of Understanding with agencies that have overlapping jurisdiction within district boundaries. These agencies include the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Department, City of Montgomery Police, Montgomery County Constables, and the Texas Department of Public Safety.

The MISD Police Department works with these law enforcement agencies to ensure a well-coordinated response in the event of an emergency.

“The Montgomery ISD Police Department’s partnership with neighboring law enforcement agencies greatly enhances their ability to protect and serve our students, staff, and community,” Trustee Shawn Denison said. “We are grateful for the strong support of our law enforcement partners and truly value the collaboration and shared commitment between our agencies.”

Students Recognized for National Merit Scholarship Program Achievements

At the regular monthly meeting of the Montgomery ISD school board, trustees heard an update on projects funded by the 2022 bond.  

District leadership shared with trustees that, over the summer of 2026, Montgomery Elementary School and Keenan Elementary School will receive updated playground equipment as part of the 2022 bond program. Once these projects are complete, every elementary campus in Montgomery ISD will have received new playground equipment funded through the bond under comparability improvements, fulfilling a commitment made to voters during the informational campaign.

The 2022 bond program included the construction of Creekside Elementary School to address enrollment growth, Phase 2 of Lake Creek High School to align its capacity with Montgomery High School, the development of the new CTE Center and Agricultural Science Center serving both high schools, major renovations at Montgomery High School, upgrades to the MISD athletic complex and stadium, and comparability upgrades and facility improvements across all MISD campuses.

“We are proud to deliver on the promises made to our community through the 2022 bond,” Board President Eddie Winn said. “Montgomery families expect a high-quality education for their children, and our students deserve facilities that reflect that standard. These projects provide safe, modern, and high-quality learning environments across the district, ensuring our campuses are ready to meet today’s needs and support student success for years to come.”

When the district communicated information about the 2022 bond, voters were advised that an increase to the Interest and Sinking (I&S) tax rate would be necessary to support the bond program. Through careful planning, conservative financial assumptions, and disciplined project management, the district has been able to keep the I&S tax rate unchanged. Additionally, the 2022 bond program was completed under budget, reflecting strong fiscal oversight and a commitment to responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars.

“Montgomery ISD takes seriously its responsibility to be accountable and transparent with our taxpayers,” Winn said. “Completing the bond program under budget while maintaining the I&S rate reflects our commitment to fiscal responsibility and ensures that every dollar is used wisely to support students and the community.”

Also during the meeting, district leadership provided the board with an update on Goal 2 of the Pathway to Premier strategic plan, which encompasses safety and security. A departmental update on the MISD Police Department was also provided as part of the Goal 2 update. 

Montgomery ISD has a dedicated police department staffed with a Chief, Lieutenant, Sergeant, Detective, and at least one full-time officer assigned to every campus. MISD police officers undergo extensive training and carry the same law enforcement authority as sheriff’s deputies, constables, and municipal police officers. Their goal is to create a safe and secure learning environment for students and staff, ensuring that every campus is a place where students can focus on learning and staff can teach with confidence.

“I am extremely proud of the high level of professionalism, preparedness, and dedication consistently demonstrated by the MISD Police Department,” Trustee Shawn Denison said. “Their consistent focus on the safety and well-being of our students and staff is reassuring, and it is always encouraging to see the positive interactions between our campus police officers and students. Those relationships play an important role in creating safe school environments.”

YES Montgomery Recognized For Support of District’s Resource Center

YES Montgomery was honored as an MISD Premier Partner. This designation is awarded to local businesses and organizations that lead with generosity and investment in young people in our community, through support of our schools and educators.    

YES Montgomery’s Board President Rich Raun was joined by fellow directors of the organization to accept the Premier Partners recognition for their longstanding support of MISD students.

YES Montgomery is a vital partner of the MISD Resource Center, contributing gift cards to assist students in need through the annual Back to School Bash, donating goods, and offering vital volunteer support—often on short notice.

“November marked the one-year anniversary of the MISD Resource Center, and YES Montgomery has been with us every step of the way,” Community Services Director Courtney Dyer said. “Their partnership has been instrumental in helping us serve families well. From setting up shelving and stocking the food pantry to helping students pick out a new backpack for school, YES Montgomery volunteers can always be counted on for their selfless dedication to our kids.”

In addition to providing consistent support for the Resource Center, YES Montgomery has also contributed funds to cover past-due school lunch accounts. YES Montgomery supports the Specialized Learning Department’s Mission Possible Field Day by providing lunch for all participants. They also partner directly with Creekside Elementary by supplying caps and gowns for Kindergarten graduation, serving as Angel Tree sponsors for 20 families, and offering a tutoring program for approximately 40 students.

National Merit Scholarship Students 

The trustees also acknowledged students from both MISD high schools who have earned recognition in the National Merit Scholarship contest. 

This competition actually begins in the fall of a student’s junior year, when they take the PSAT. This is their one shot at National Merit qualification.  

Nationally, about 34,000 of those students are named Commended Students. About 16,000 are named Semifinalists, resenting the top 1% of test-takers, and will advance to the next phase of the scholarship competition. National Merit Scholars are named each February.  

This year MISD has six commended students and one semi-finalist:

LCHS

• Stiles Abbe – Commended
• Julia Louwerens – Commended 
• Matthew Fitzgerald – Semifinalist

MHS 

• John Hart – Commended 
• Elson Chan – Commended
• Luke Chang – Commended
• Brooke Peterson – Commended

At the regular monthly meeting of the Montgomery ISD school board, trustees heard a report on the district’s financial audit.  

Pattillo Brown & Hill, LLP serves as the district’s external auditing firm. Partner Kent Willis reported that the firm had completed their audit of the district’s 2025 financial statements and issued an unmodified opinion – the highest level of assurance provided in a school district audit.

“We appreciate our auditors for conducting a thorough review of our district finances,” Superintendent Dr. Mark Ruffin said. “I also want to thank CFO Ben Davidson and our financial services team for their diligent work to ensure the district’s financial operations are managed with transparency and integrity, and guided by a strong system of internal controls.”

Following the annual audit, the district had the capacity to add money back into its fund balance. Best practice recommends that school districts maintain the equivalent of 90 days of operational costs in their fund balance, and auditors noted that this year’s deposit was a positive step toward strengthening the district’s overall financial position.

“A school district’s budget is not unlike a household budget, and strengthening our fund balance – our ‘savings’ – is one of the most important steps we can take to protect the long-term financial health of Montgomery ISD,” Board President Eddie Winn said. “Adding money back into the fund balance after the audit demonstrates that we are being responsible stewards of taxpayer dollars and planning wisely for the future.”

Demographers Update

The board also received an update from a third-party demographic study conducted by Zonda, a firm specializing in housing market research and school district enrollment projections. 

Representatives from Zonda reported there are 33 active housing subdivisions within Montgomery ISD, with 18 potential future subdivisions in various stages of planning. Groundwork is currently underway on more than 2,500 lots within nine subdivisions.  

“This demographic report reinforces how important it is for us to be proactive in future planning in a fiscally responsible way,” Superintendent Dr. Mark Ruffin said. “Gathering accurate data is essential to ensuring we are utilizing our school facilities as efficiently and effectively as possible, while preserving the qualities that make MISD a place where families want to be.”

Zonda will provide the district with a final demographic study for the 2025-26 school year this upcoming spring. The fall report can be viewed here.