Lufkin ISD Board Approves New JROTC Program for Students

The Lufkin Independent School District (LISD) board of trustees voted unanimously to establish a Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (JROTC) program at Lufkin High School during its meeting on September 14, 2023. This decision follows the recommendation of a committee that has worked to develop the program, which aims to promote character building, physical fitness, and civic responsibility among students.

Assistant Superintendent Daniel Spikes presented the committee, which included members such as Guessippina Bonner, Joe Deason, the Rev. Lynn Hargrow, and Maj. Gen. Mike Taylor. Bonner emphasized the historical significance of this initiative, recalling how the idea was first introduced over 30 years ago by former LISD trustee Dr. Dallas Pierre. “Thanks to the support of Dr. James Hockenberry, our current superintendent, we are able to bring this vision to fruition,” she stated.

The introduction of the JROTC program is expected to positively impact student outcomes. According to Bonner, programs like these are linked to higher graduation rates and improved academic performance, while also fostering confidence and a sense of community among students.

Local veterans’ organizations, along with various community members, have expressed their support for the initiative. Bonner noted that the program’s funding would come from grants and contributions from the Department of Defense, with an application set to be submitted to the Department of the Army.

In response to the initiative, Board President Kristi Gay commended Bonner’s determination. “If you Google the word ‘persistent,’ Dr. Bonner’s picture is there,” she remarked. Trustee Matt Knight highlighted the financial implications of establishing the program. He noted that legislative changes now allow districts to fund JROTC initiatives through their Career and Technical Education (CTE) budgets.

Trustee Joe Ceasar, a graduate of the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, shared his personal experience with similar programs. “Going into the Army and becoming an officer changed my family tree,” he stated, underscoring the transformative potential of the JROTC program.

The board’s decision to create the JROTC program marks a significant step forward for LISD. Gay officially called the meeting to order at 17:15, with Ceasar providing the invocation. During the session, Gay also mentioned new state legislation that now prohibits the board from conducting meetings during business hours, affecting their previous schedule of 11:30 a.m. work sessions.

In addition to the JROTC discussion, the meeting included presentations from the principals of each LISD campus. Each principal shared data on academic achievements and growth, illustrating the district’s commitment to educational excellence. After these presentations, the board took a brief recess.

Upon reconvening, Superintendent Hockenberry discussed LISD’s recent inclusion in the System of Great Schools Network, a program established by the Texas Education Agency that mandates member districts to create a new position dedicated to innovation. Matthew Parisean, currently serving in a similar role at Spring Independent School District, was introduced as the new chief innovation officer for LISD. Hockenberry remarked on the positive impact Parisean’s appointment will have on the district.

Chief Financial Officer Heath Wethington informed the board that the district would begin collecting property tax for the new fiscal year in the coming month. He also mentioned ongoing considerations for roofing options at Brookhollow Elementary and the arrival of two new school buses before Christmas. Additionally, the district is seeking quotes for paving a bus driveway at Lufkin Middle School.

Assistant Superintendent Spikes announced that the East Texas Food Show is scheduled for October 14, 2023. Hockenberry proposed hiring edVANTAGE Strategy Group, a firm known for its high success rate in marketing bond elections, for potential marketing services. The board approved this proposal along with the entire consent agenda, which included previous meeting minutes and August expenditures.

Finally, the board unanimously accepted an amendment to the district’s compensation plan, acknowledging that adjustments may be necessary in the upcoming months. They also approved a consultant service agreement with the Region 7 Education Services Center, facilitating the continuation of training for school transportation by Randy Burton.

This meeting reflects LISD’s ongoing commitment to enhancing educational opportunities and community engagement for its students.