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.

Campus Leaders Also Recognized for National Principals Month

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

The final projects from the bond are either complete or nearing completion, including upgrades at Stewart Creek Elementary, Madeley Ranch Elementary, and Lone Star Elementary; renovations at the MISD Athletic Complex; and improvements to the Liberty Transportation Center, which include a new fuel center, bus wash, and concrete parking lot. The entire bond program has been delivered under budget, reflecting careful planning and strong financial stewardship.

“Seeing all of the projects from the 2022 bond now benefiting our students, teachers, and the entire community is incredibly rewarding,” said Board President Eddie Winn. “Completing these projects under budget is a testament to the thoughtful planning and strong fiscal oversight that guided the 2022 bond program, and it demonstrates our continued dedication to investing in outstanding facilities and learning spaces for the students and staff of Montgomery ISD.”

MISD staff members from across the district enthusiastically shared their insights and experiences from projects recently completed.

“The upgrades to our athletic complex have really enhanced our facility and continue to show why our school district is premier,” Montgomery High School Head Football Coach and Athletic Coordinator Grant Cooper said.  “Visiting coaches and players have been very impressed with the new turf, the expanded bleachers, and the renovated field house.  Our players greatly appreciate the opportunity each Friday night to play in one of the best facilities in the area. They are creating lasting memories from the tremendous experience of getting to play Texas High School football in such an outstanding venue.”  

“Our new turf and updated logos bring a fresh vibe for the teams,” Lake Creek High School Head Football Coach and Athletic Coordinator Pat Kennedy said. “The modernized fieldhouse makes a huge difference for both players and coaches. With more seating, more fans can come out to cheer for their favorite team, and it also allows us to host playoff games. The film deck stands out for its spaciousness and clear pathways, making video work much easier. It’s also exciting to celebrate Montgomery’s history as the birthplace of the Texas flag, connecting our students and community.”

Updates at the Liberty Transportation Center include a freshly-paved parking for the bus fleet and for department employees. “We love our new parking lot,” MISD Transportation Supervisor JoAnn Harris said. “No more mud and rocks tracked in our building, buses, or vehicles. This is a much needed, much appreciated upgrade to the Transportation Center.”

Board Learning Walk Reflections

MISD Trustees recently shared their reflections and key takeaways from participating in a series of Board Learning Walks during the first quarter of this school year. Accompanied by Superintendent Dr. Mark Ruffin, trustees visited several MISD campuses to gain a firsthand view of the outstanding teaching and learning taking place in classrooms. These visits also highlight the board’s commitment to being engaged, approachable, and actively supportive of student success.

“I left Montgomery High School feeling incredibly proud of the work happening there and extremely optimistic about the future,” Board President Eddie Winn said. “Under Dr. Collavo’s leadership, the Bears are building a strong foundation for lasting success, and the future is exceptionally bright for this campus.”

“For the first time, I had the incredible opportunity to see students actively engaged in learning at the Den and it was immediately clear how much thought and care has gone into creating these spaces,” Board Vice President Laurie Turner said. “The facilities were buzzing with hands-on activity and real-world application, giving students the chance to practice skills they will carry into their future careers.”

“Visiting Lake Creek HS and Creekside ES was a powerful reminder of the incredible work happening every day in our classrooms,” Trustee Paul Cameron said. “Between strong leadership, dedicated teachers, and engaged students, it’s exciting to see the culture of collaboration and excellence that continues to grow across our district.”

“I was really excited to visit Lake Creek High School and Creekside Elementary for my first round of learning walks. Trustee Nate Robb said. “Both campuses were full of energy, collaboration, and great examples of leadership in action.”

Bilingual/ESL Department update

Trustees also heard a report from MISD Bilingual/ESL Specialist Jennifer DeHart, regarding MISD Limited English Proficiency (LEP) students. The number of emergent bilingual students enrolled in MISD increased by 10 percent during the 24-25 school year. Emergent bilingual students in MISD continue to make progress in developing English language proficiency, with 29 students eligible to transition out of the LEP program at the end of the 24-25 school year, an increase over the prior year.

National Principals Month

Trustees also recognized National Principals Month, thanking MISD’s campus principals for their leadership on campuses and commitment to the district.

“As a school board, we look forward to celebrating our principals,” Trustee Mark Keelen said. “We are deeply grateful not only for their impactful leadership but also for the care, passion, and long hours they dedicate to their roles. They inspire students to achieve success, set a positive tone on every MISD campus, and serve as outstanding examples for our students, families, teachers, and staff.”

MISD Employee Recognized for Life saving actions

Lincoln Elementary Early Childhood teacher Tyler Bussell was recognized for her quick thinking, when she administered the heimlich maneuver to one of the students in her classroom.  

“Mrs. Bussell acted quickly and courageously to save a student who was choking,” Lincoln Elementary Principal Kerri Ashlock said. “By performing the Heimlich maneuver, she prevented a potentially dangerous situation and ensured the student’s safety. Her calm, decisive response and care for our students exemplify the heart of what it means to be an educator.”

Lone Star Chick-Fil-A Recognized

Finally, the Lone Star Parkway Chick-Fil-A was announced as the first 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.    

 Mr. Joseph Piotrowski, Lone Star Parkway Chick-Fil-A Owner & Operator,  Mr. Tom Zupko, Director of Operations, and Mrs. Erika Sumner, Director of Marketing & Sales received the recognition. 

Chick-Fil-A was honored for its dedication to the school district through their catering services, donations, financial support for the Montgomery ISD Education Foundation via MoTown Showdown Spirit week activities, and sponsoring the athlete of the week program for the district. Their leaders have served on MISD’s District Advisory and Bond Steering Committees to lend a local business perspective to district initiatives. 

“It is fitting that Chick-Fil-A has been recognized as the first recipient of this designation,” Board Vice President Laurie Turner said. “Since their opening in 2020, the Montgomery location has offered unwavering support of the district, in countless ways, big and small. Chick-Fil-A is a trusted partner to MISD as we work to deliver premier education experiences for our kids.”

Lake Creek Softball has been selected as one of only 12 high school programs in the nation to join the prestigious Nike Elite High School Softball Program. 

The honor recognizes programs that exemplify excellence, performance, and athlete development. It is designed to provide top-tier support for the best high school athletes in the United States, equipping them with resources and support they need to reach their goals.

Lake Creek High School Softball will now be a distinguished member of the program, deal exclusively with Nike and collaborate with the brand at a national level. 

“Coach Carter has done a fabulous job in building a tremendous culture in her softball program,” Montgomery ISD Athletic Director Brad LaPlante said. “Her players give great effort, take pride in what they do, positively impact each other, and have fun doing it! The Nike Elite program puts Montgomery ISD, Lake Creek HS, and our awesome Lion Softball team on the map as one of the best not only in Texas, but in the nation.  I am very proud of Coach Carter and our players for what they are building!”

Lake Creek High School opened for the 2018-19 school year, and the softball program has earned three Texas UIL 5A state titles in under a decade. In 2022, the team notched a perfect season, and was named National Team of the Year. In 2023, the team again won a state championship and was named National Champions. In 2025, the team returned to Austin yet again, finishing the season with a perfect 37-0 record and securing a third 5-A state championship against Hallsville High School.  Since the program inception in the 2019 season, the team’s record is 228 wins – 22 losses.  

“Being named a Nike Elite Program is a tremendous recognition for our athletes’ hard work and commitment,” Head Coach Candyce Carter said.  “From past players and coaches to present, this was a total team effort. This distinction puts our team among the very best in the country and is both an honor and a motivator to continue raising the standard of excellence. Thank you to Nike for entrusting us to represent their brand at the highest level!”

With Carter at the helm, Lake Creek continues to build on the success of the program. The Lions return 16 players for the season that will begin in March 2026.

The Montgomery ISD Board of Trustees held its regularly scheduled monthly meeting on Tuesday, September 16, and voted to authorize the Montgomery ISD Police Department to establish a pool of reserve officers.

This action is now permitted under House Bill 1458, authored by Rep. Will Metcalf and approved by lawmakers earlier this year. The legislation enhances school safety by allowing school districts to create a pool of reserve police officers to assist with campus security and school-related events when additional support or personnel is needed. These reserve officers must hold a permanent peace officer license and may be appointed by school district police departments to support existing security personnel.

During the 89th Texas Legislative Session, MISD Trustee Shawn Denison, who is a veteran law enforcement officer, testified at the Capitol in support of the bill.

“This new law provides school districts with another important tool to keep our community safe by allowing additional experienced and certified police officers to serve on campuses,” MISD Trustee Shawn Denison said. “I want to thank Rep. Metcalf for his attention to this matter, and I believe every public school in Texas will benefit from this change.”

Long-Range Planning Committee Update

Trustees also heard an update from representatives of the district’s Long-Range Planning Committee (LRPC). MISD parent and City of Montgomery Mayor Sara Countryman, community member Shannan Reid, and MISD parents Sharidan Reid and Courtney Solomon presented an overview of the committee’s work and shared an Executive Summary of its recommendations.

In 2024, MISD refreshed its Pathway to Premier Strategic Plan, sparking the formation of a Long-Range Planning Committee. Established in Spring 2025, the committee includes nearly 50 staff members, parents, and community stakeholders representing every MISD campus.

The group was tasked with developing recommendations to guide the district’s future by analyzing enrollment trends, facility needs, and other priorities critical to implementing the Strategic Plan successfully. Over the course of five meetings, members toured district facilities, studied growth projections, and met with district leaders to discuss possible solutions to address MISD’s facility-related needs over the next decade.

“We were very intentional about assembling a well-rounded committee that truly represents every corner of our district—parents, staff, community members, and leaders who understand our schools and our community,” Superintendent Dr. Mark Ruffin said. “I’m incredibly grateful for the time and thoughtful attention this group devoted to diving deep into the challenges on the horizon for MISD. They asked tough questions, considered a variety of perspectives, and worked collaboratively to identify the best possible paths forward. Their commitment ensures we’re making informed, responsible plans that reflect the values and priorities of the entire Montgomery ISD community.”

The LRPC’s Executive Summary, branded as the “Premier Roadmap,” outlines strategies to manage enrollment growth, ensure school comparability, and maintain flexibility in facility use. You can read the Premier Roadmap here.

Board President Eddie Winn, who attended several committee meetings, expressed his appreciation for the group’s effort and thoughtful discussions. 

“I was fortunate to sit in on a few of the LRPC meetings, and I was incredibly grateful for the honest dialogue and thoughtful conversation that took place,” Winn said. “This is a dedicated group of district stakeholders who care deeply about Montgomery ISD and are committed to ensuring we plan proactively and responsibly for the future.”

Teachers Recognized for Earning LETRS Certification

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, nine teachers 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: Renee Francis, Kelli Kojis, Kerri Fuller, Madeline Stewart, Sarah Yates, Nikki Taylor, Jennifer Marshall, and Dannette Key.

MISD Principals Williams and Whitehead Honored

Trustees also celebrated two MISD leaders recently recognized by Region 6 and the Texas Association of Secondary School Principals (TASSP).

• Tim Williams, Principal of Lake Creek High School, was named Region 6 High School Principal of the Year.
• Gifford Whitehead, Principal of Oak Hills Junior High, was named Region 6 Middle School Principal of the Year.

These distinctions are especially meaningful because TASSP honorees are nominated and selected by their peers for exemplary performance and outstanding leadership. As Region 6 honorees, both principals will advance to compete with nominees from across Texas for the title of TASSP Principal of the Year.

Montgomery ISD students have earned academic honors from the College Board National Recognition Programs.

These National Recognition Program designations can be included on college and scholarship applications to distinguish students to universities across the country, helping them meaningfully connect with colleges and stand out during the admissions process. The awards recognize students of all backgrounds and from schools across the country.

“We are so proud of these outstanding MISD students for earning such prestigious recognitions,” said Montgomery ISD Superintendent Dr. Mark Ruffin. “This honor reflects their dedication to academics and the high-quality, engaging instruction provided by our teachers. Programs like these help students shine in the college admissions process, and we are excited to see the incredible opportunities that will open for them as a result.”

Students can claim an award for up to three designations if they are in the 10th or 11th grade, and demonstrate academic excellence when they:

• Take the PSAT/NMSQT (10th, 11th), PSAT 10 (10th), and/or AP Exams (by the end of 10th).
• Earn a cumulative GPA of B+ or higher (at least 3.3 or 87-89%) by the time of submission.
• Demonstrate academic achievement: Be one of the top 10% of test takers – in their high school, among first-generation college students in their state, and/or among rural and small-town students in their state OR earn a 3+ on 2 or more distinct AP exams in the 8th, 9th and/or 10th grade.

During the submission process, students eligible for the First-Generation Recognition Award are asked to verify their parents’ highest level of education.  Students eligible for the School Recognition or Rural Recognition Awards verify their high school.

Eligible students are invited to apply during their sophomore or junior year and are awarded at the beginning of the following school year. Students receive their awards in time to include them in their college and scholarship applications.

Congratulations to these Montgomery ISD honorees!

Montgomery High School:

Carter Appleby: First-Generation, Rural, School Recognition

Emma Arrowsmith: Rural, School Recognition

Jackson Attebery: Rural, School Recognition

Rylin Bargeron: First-Generation, Rural, School Recognition

Avery Bradford: Rural

Charles Brennan: Rural, School Recognition

Ginger Brown: Rural, School Recognition

Santiago Bustillos: School Recognition

Molly Campbell: First-Generation, Rural, School Recognition

Jackson Carver: School Recognition

Andre Castro: Rural, School Recognition

Luke Chang: School Recognition

Ava Collins: Rural, School Recognition

Kinley Devries: Rural, School Recognition

Logan Dyer: Rural, School Recognition

Noah Ferrone: Rural, School Recognition

Rhys Finch: Rural, School Recognition

Paige Fitzsimmons: Rural, School Recognition

Tyler Graziano: School Recognition

Elizabeth Griffith: Rural, School Recognition

Rachel Griffith: Rural, School Recognition

John Hart: School Recognition

Felice Hereford: Rural, School Recognition

Andrew King: Rural, School Recognition

Samuel Kotinek: Rural, School Recognition

Kathryn Kouloumoundras: First-Generation, Rural, School Recognition

Joseph Maddox: Rural, School Recognition

Marissa Moat: Rural, School Recognition

Anthony Nguyen: First-Generation

Noelle Orseno: First-Generation, Rural, School Recognition

Nicholas Peacock: Rural, School Recognition

Jarod Peschl: School Recognition

Brooke Peterson: School Recognition

Keagan Rogers: First-Generation

Eyan Staels: First-Generation, School Recognition

Austin Stone: First-Generation, Rural, School Recognition

Carsyn Thomas: Rural, School Recognition

Madeleine Thompson: Rural, School Recognition

Richard Trevino: School Recognition

Joshua Tronosco: First-Generation

David Troyer: School Recognition

Luke Vinyard: School Recognition

Aleah Whitehead: Rural, School Recognition

Lake Creek High School:

Stiles Abbe: Rural, School Recognition

Ethan Alaniz: First-Generation

Amer Autrey: Rural, School Recognition

Connor Boris: Rural, School Recognition

Daniel Buchan: Rural, School Recognition

Kayla Clewett: Rural, School Recognition

Ainsley Conn: Rural, School Recognition

Nathan Crowe: Rural, School Recognition

Hailey Dolan: Rural, School Recognition

Heidi Eichenberger: Rural, School Recognition

Matthew Fitzgerald: Rural, School Recognition

Loren Flood: School Recognition

Lucy Franklin: Rural, School Recognition

Maurits Gijsbertsen: Rural, School Recognition

Taylor Hallmark: Rural, School Recognition

Renee Hanson: Rural, School Recognition

Grayson Hardy: Rural, School Recognition

Alexis Harwell: Rural, School Recognition

Landon Hemingway: Rural, School Recognition

Joseph Hullihan: Rural

Bridget Kelly: Rural, School Recognition

Barrett Knowlton: Rural, School Recognition

Julia Louwerens: School Recognition

Kellen McClanahan: First-Generation, Rural, School Recognition

Piper Mohr: Rural

Nolan Novak: Rural, School Recognition

Lilah Puckett: First-Generation

Kody Roach: Rural, School Recognition

Karlie Romano: First-Generation

Beatrice Sanders: Rural, School Recognition

Bryce Sayers: Rural, School Recognition

Ella Shahan: Rural, School Recognition

Gabriel Shimanek: Rural, School Recognition

Emilie Sidle: Rural, School Recognition

Emily Smith: Rural, School Recognition

Adeline Snyder: Rural, School Recognition

Taylor Spier: First-Generation

Jack Stinson: Rural, School Recognition

Jaskson Tassin: Rural, School Recognition

Jonas Teague: Rural, School Recognition

Avery Waida: School Recognition

Kaelyn Wells: Rural, School Recognition

Rylie White: First-Generation, Rural, School Recognition

Braeden Williams: First-Generation, Rural, School Recognition

Denson Williamson: First-Generation, Rural, School Recognition

Olive Williamson: Rural, School Recognition

Jacqueline Wright: Rural, School Recognition

The Montgomery ISD Board of Trustees held its regularly scheduled monthly meeting on Tuesday, August 19, and adopted the district’s tax rate for the 2025–26 school year.

The total tax rate for the school district is made up of two components:

• Maintenance & Operations (M&O): Provides for the day-to-day operations of the district, including teacher salaries, classroom instruction, student programs, fuel and utilities.
  
• Interest & Sinking (I&S): Used to pay down debt for voter-approved facilities that serve Montgomery ISD students.

The new Montgomery ISD tax rates are $0.7169 (M&O) and $0.3743 (I&S) for a total of $1.0912 per $100 property valuation. The rate remains unchanged from the 2024–25 school year.

Each year, the Texas Education Agency calculates a “Maximum Compressed Rate” (MCR) for every school district. School districts then add to the MCR the number of additional cents it has access to through “Tier 2 Funding”. Under the state’s school finance system, Tier 2 tax rate pennies provide school districts and their communities local discretion to generate additional revenue to meet local needs. For this year, Montgomery ISD’s MCR was calculated at $0.6169 per $100 of assessed property value. MISD tier 2 funding provides access to an additional 10 cents, which is added to the MCR to equal the total M&O tax rate of $0.7169 per $100 of assessed property value. 

It’s important to note that the Board of Trustees votes annually to set the district’s tax rate, but it does not determine property values, which are set by the Montgomery Central Appraisal District. Due to recent state legislative changes to tax compression and the way the Maximum Compressed Rate (MCR) is calculated, Montgomery ISD’s overall tax rate is now nearly 28 cents lower than it was in 2019—even with the voter approval of Proposition A in 2024. Looking ahead, Texas voters will consider a constitutional amendment this November that would increase the homestead exemption from $100,000 to $140,000, providing property tax relief to homeowners.

For the 2025–26 school year, Montgomery ISD will continue to operate with a balanced budget. 

 “Thanks to the support of our community in passing Proposition A, we’ve been able to directly invest those funds into maintaining a balanced budget, supporting our people, and strengthening support for students in our classrooms,” Superintendent Dr. Mark Ruffin said. “Keeping the tax rate stable while providing the resources our schools need demonstrates our commitment to both fiscal responsibility and student success.”

Cell Phone Policy

In alignment with the new state law (Texas House Bill 1481), the Montgomery ISD Board of Trustees adopted a district policy outlining how the district will continue restricting the use of personal communication devices—including cell phones, smartwatches, and earbuds—during the school day.

Montgomery ISD first implemented the Away for the Day practice during the 2024–25 school year. Following the rollout, many teachers, students, and families shared that students felt less distracted, resulting in more focused learning environments and more positive, face-to-face interactions between students and staff. The district also saw a decrease in behavioral issues connected to social media or other online activity.

To support a focused and respectful learning environment, students are not allowed to use personal devices during class, breakfast, lunch, or while transitioning between classes. Devices should remain turned off, out of sight, and not in use throughout the school day. If a student uses a device without permission during school hours, it will be confiscated and addressed in accordance with MISD campus discipline guidelines.

“We are proud that Montgomery ISD was ahead of the curve on this issue, putting these guidelines in place before it became state law,” Board President Eddie Winn said. “We have already seen the positive impact of limiting personal devices on our campuses—more meaningful and engaging interactions among students and staff, and classrooms that are more focused on learning. I’m excited to see this continue as we work together to provide the best possible environment for our students to learn and grow.”

Accountability Ratings

The Board also heard an update from the district on the 2023-24 and 2024-25 Texas Education Agency (TEA) accountability ratings. For 2023-24, the district’s overall rating was 86, and for 2024-25, the district’s overall rating was 87. The district’s 87 score is the highest of any Montgomery County School District.

Notably, Montgomery ISD once again outperformed state averages at each achievement level in nearly every content area measured by the Spring 2025 STAAR. This continues a strong trend of academic excellence across our campuses. The district will use STAAR data to identify areas for growth and improvement across campuses, grade levels, and content areas—and develop targeted plans to meet the goals outlined in its strategic plan.

Three Montgomery ISD campuses—Oak Hills Junior High School, Lake Creek High School, and Stewart Creek Elementary School—earned an A rating for the 2024–25 school year. In addition, 6 of the 10 campuses rated in 2023–24 improved their ratings this year.

“Montgomery ISD is committed to preparing every student for success in college, career, and life,” Superintendent Dr. Mark Ruffin said. “While no single rating or test can fully capture our mission, we are encouraged that since the state’s 2022–23 STAAR redesign, our overall district rating has improved each year. We remain focused on using a comprehensive set of data and professional insight to guide instruction, implement targeted strategies, and improve outcomes for all students. Although the state’s A–F accountability system places significant weight on STAAR test performance, we believe no single standardized test should be the primary measure of a student’s, school’s, or district’s success. Our commitment is to provide a well-rounded, high-quality education that fosters academic growth, critical thinking, and prepares students to achieve their goals and dreams after graduation.”

You can see all Montgomery ISD campus ratings here.

Highlights include ongoing teacher pay raises beyond new Teacher Retention Allotment funding, across-the-board ongoing pay increases for all employees, increased healthcare contributions, and a one-time stipend for all employees

The Montgomery ISD Board of Trustees has approved the district’s employee compensation plan as part of a balanced budget for the 2025-26 school year, delivering meaningful salary increases for teachers and all other staff members. The plan builds on the momentum from the successful passage of Proposition A in November 2024 and was finalized following the recent approval of House Bill 2, the state’s major school finance legislation in 2025.

“Throughout the legislative session, we remained focused on advocating for the resources our schools and staff need to continue thriving,” Superintendent Dr. Mark Ruffin said. “We are incredibly grateful to Senator Brandon Creighton and Representative Will Metcalf, along with their dedicated teams, for their partnership and for ensuring House Bill 2 provided meaningful raises for teachers across Texas. Thanks to the support of our community through Proposition A, and the increased funding through House Bill 2, we are able to provide all staff members with meaningful compensation increases and increase teacher pay beyond the state-funded amounts for teacher raises included in the new Teacher Retention Allotment.”

While HB 2 included a new Teacher Retention Allotment to fund raises for teachers with three or more years of experience, Montgomery ISD chose to utilize other available funding to go above and beyond the state’s requirements, investing more than $2.6 million in additional locally funded compensation increases to ensure all staff members benefit.

2025–26 Compensation Plan Highlights

The board was committed to increasing our investment to ensure we accomplished the following through this compensation plan:

• Provide raises for all staff on the teacher pay schedule, regardless if they are funded by the state. 
• Increase teacher pay MORE than what is minimally required in HB 2.
• Provide meaningful compensation increases for all staff members and do so as comparably as possible.
• Provide financial stability for future compensation plans.
• Offset rising healthcare costs

Here is what this means for every employee on the teacher/nurse/librarian hiring schedule:

• 0–2 years of experience: $2,600-$2,895 raise (locally funded)
• 3–4 years of experience: $2,900 raise (includes $2,500 from HB 2 plus local funds)
• 5+ years of experience: $5,250 raise (includes $5,000 from HB 2 plus local funds)

You can see the updated 2025-26 teacher/nurse/librarian hiring schedule here.

Auxiliary, Clerical, Transportation, Administrative, and all other employee groups:

• Employees on Auxiliary/Support, Clerical/Paraprofessional, Safety and Security, Child Nutrition, and Transportation pay schedules will receive a 6% raise, calculated from the midpoint of their respective pay ranges.
• Employees on the Administrative/Professional staff hiring schedule will receive a 4% raise, calculated from the midpoint of their pay grade.

Other Increases:

• Substitute teacher daily rate: Increased by $5 per day.
• One-time $500 retention stipend for all employees in December 2025
• Increases monthly district healthcare contribution from $370 to $400 ($4,800 annually)

“Our amazing teachers and staff are the heartbeat of Montgomery ISD, and this plan reflects our deep appreciation for the work they do each and every day,” said Board President Eddie Winn. “We are especially proud that Montgomery ISD didn’t stop at what the state provided—we went further. With support from Proposition A, we made the decision to invest in every employee, regardless of role or years of experience. It’s a statement of how much we value our team and the essential work they do for our students.”

Proposition A-Funded Investments in Staffing

In addition to compensation increases, the plan includes new campus-based positions made possible by Proposition A, which was approved by voters in 2024. These positions are designed to enhance student support and instructional capacity across the district.

Already Added in 2024–25:

• Four new elementary teaching positions to reduce class sizes
• Five SPED paraprofessionals
• Gifted & Talented Coordinator
• Lead Detective, MISD Police Department

New for 2025–26:

• Four Teacher positions for growth and/or class size reduction
• Increased police officer certification stipends
• Augmented certain pay grades to ensure market value competitiveness
• 3rd Assistant Principal at Oak Hills Junior High (growth need based on student enrollment)
• 4 Campus-Based Instructional Coaches (one at each secondary campus)
• 28 SPED positions districtwide (paraprofessionals, teachers, professional staff)
• Budget for increased staffing in other critical areas like transportation

“We’re proud to continue delivering on our promise to invest directly in people, classrooms, and campuses,” Board Vice President Laurie Turner said. “Thanks to the community’s trust and support, we’re not only enhancing compensation but also expanding the team of professionals supporting our students and teachers every day. With the implementation of this compensation plan and the added campus-based positions, we’ve followed through on every commitment made during the Proposition A informational campaign.”

The full 2025–26 MISD Compensation Plan can be viewed here.

Trustees also take action to reduce bond debt

During the May school board meeting, the Montgomery ISD Board of Trustees voted to authorize a one-time, $500 end-of-year recognition stipend for all district employees. Eligible MISD team members will receive the additional compensation in their June 5 paycheck.

The stipend is funded by revenue generated through Proposition A, approved by voters in the November 2024 election, and reflects the district’s ongoing commitment to retaining highly qualified teachers and support staff.

“I want to commend our MISD school board for this intentional act to financially support our staff as we await clarity from the state on school funding and the outcome of the current legislative session.” Superintendent Dr. Mark Ruffin said. “Just like the stipend issued in December 2024, the board has continued to challenge our team to evaluate our fiscal year budget to find a way to support our staff across the district. This stipend reiterates the impact of Prop A and is a reflection of our deep appreciation for the hard work and dedication of our employees over the past year. Our hope is that our staff understands that Montgomery ISD remains firmly committed to investing in the people who make our district great.”

In addition to providing stipends, Prop A funding has enabled MISD to hire four new elementary teachers to reduce class sizes and add special education paraprofessionals across the district to support student needs.

Bond Defeasance and Financial Stewardship

Trustees also approved paying down $2.5 million in outstanding bond principal, a move to reduce long-term debt.

“Just like paying extra toward a mortgage or car loan, the district can make early payments, when possible, to reduce our principal balance,” Dr. Ruffin said. “This $2.5 million defeasance is made without raising the I&S tax rate, which has remained steady at $0.3743 per $100 valuation since 2019. Being good stewards of our finances is a top priority. By paying down debt early, we’re saving taxpayers money on interest and maintaining our focus on delivering high-quality education while being responsible stewards of taxpayer dollars.”

Board Reorganization and New Trustees

During the meeting, Montgomery County Judge Wayne Mack administered the oaths of office to newly elected Trustee Mark Keelen (Position 6) and re-elected Trustee Nate Robb (Position 7).

Keelen fills the board seat vacated by Dr. Matt Fuller, who is retiring from board service after six years, including three years as board president.

“I am incredibly honored for the opportunity to serve the school district as a trustee,” Keelen said. “I look forward to working with fellow board members and hearing from teachers, staff, parents, and community members as we work together to move MISD forward. I’m excited to listen, learn, and contribute to keeping MISD the premier school district in Texas.”

Robb, now serving his second term, added, “It’s an honor to continue serving this incredible community. I’m confident our board will remain united in our commitment to supporting students, empowering teachers and staff, and championing all the work that goes into delivering the exceptional education our families expect and deserve.”

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

• Eddie Winn, Board President
• Laurie Turner, Board Vice President
• Lizzy Ivey, Board Secretary

“It is an honor to be selected by my colleagues 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 the premier education they deserve.”

New Executive Director of Teaching & Learning Announced

The district also announced the appointment of Kristen Meeks as Executive Director of Teaching & Learning.

Meeks brings experience from ESC Region 6, ESC Region 4, and Klein ISD, with expertise in instructional leadership, data-driven practices, and curriculum implementation.

“With a strong background in instructional leadership and a deep commitment to student success, Kristen is exceptionally well-positioned to support our educators and campus leaders, and to help elevate our teaching and learning team to the next level,” Dr. Ruffin said. “She understands that meaningful instructional change happens through clarity, collaboration, and a shared belief in the potential of every student. We are excited to welcome her to the MISD team.”

Celebrating the Service of Dr. Matt Fuller

Dr. Ruffin recognized Dr. Matt Fuller for his dedicated service and leadership.

“Dr. Fuller has been a steady and passionate advocate for Montgomery ISD,” Ruffin said. “His leadership during pivotal moments, from navigating the challenges of the pandemic to helping shape our vision through the strategic plan and bond program, has made a lasting impact on our district. What has always stood out most is Matt’s unwavering support for our teachers, staff, students, and community. His heart for people and his commitment to doing what’s best for our district has never wavered. We are incredibly grateful for his years of dedicated service.”

Under Fuller’s leadership, MISD voters approved a $326.9 million bond in 2022 and Proposition A in 2024. The district was named a state finalist in the H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards twice and recognized as one of five Honor Boards by the Texas Association of School Administrators in 2023.