BISD BOARD NAMES FIRM TO OVERSEE ENERGY SAVINGS PROJECTS

  

Brenham school district trustees named a design-build firm to help with energy costs at last (Monday) night’s meeting at Brenham High School.

Brenham ISD entered into a project development agreement with TASB/E3, to design and build energy savings projects throughout the district.  Brenham ISD has previously worked with TASB/E3 for lighting projects.  TASB/E3 has worked with over 100 school districts in Texas, including Caldwell and Snook.  E3 will begin work for Brenham upon securing pre-payment.

Brenham ISD also entered into a contract with Durham School Services to provide student transportation.  The eight activity buses offered will come with air conditioning, and they will be equipped with security cameras.

Assistant Superintendent Paul Aschenbeck said there has been “amazing progress” in the Krause Elementary School and ECLC renovations.  He reported that all demolition work was done, and all of the plumbing has been checked by the city.  He says crews are scheduled to complete their work at ECLC by the end of the week.

The Board also received STAAR scores for the district.  Board members expressed frustration with the current scoring system, saying it muddies results and information for parents and students.  Superintendent Dr. Walter Jackson called the process convoluted, saying the state has consistently moved the target for what qualifies as a successful district or student.  He said testing models are flawed, and only serve to demoralize students and teachers, as well as add to the “blame game.”

The Board also approved revised grading guidelines for six-week grading periods.  These guidelines will weigh major grades more heavily, notably in advanced high school classes.

Also at the meeting last night, Brenham National Bank donated $1,500 to the district.  Budget updates were also given at last night’s meeting.