Documenters: Everman ISD celebrates milestones, appointments and academic wins at board meeting

Everman ISD celebrates milestones, appointments and academic wins at May 2025 board meeting

Fort Worth Report Documenters

By Nicole Bomar

The Everman ISD school board meeting May 19 was packed with celebration, change and several significant updates shaping the district’s future.

Board President Gary Balch was recognized for 25 years of service to Everman ISD, while trustee Woodman Dawson was honored for five years.

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In the classroom spotlight, Yesenia Elizondo, of Dan Powell Early Learning Academy, was named Everman ISD elementary teacher of the year for 2024-2025. Dr. Nilliah Chadwick, from Baxter Junior High School, was named secondary teacher of the year. Both were recognized for dedication, leadership and impact on student achievement.

Leadership transitions are also on the horizon. Dr. Keana Daughtry, with the district for five years, was named chief academic officer. Several new principals were celebrated and announced for the 2025-2026 school year:

• Londa Cormier at Dan Powell Early Learning Academy

• Alexis Young at E. Ray Elementary School

• Charmeka Mills at Townley Elementary School

The district also celebrated the achievements of Mireya Frias, who was named valedictorian of the class of 2025. Additionally, Kalvin Johnson received a certificate of excellence for maintaining A/B honor roll from first through 12th grade — while being continuously enrolled in Everman ISD. The top 10 students in the senior class were also recognized and honored for their accomplishments.

Board business and bond moves

The board approved 11 consent agenda items.

The board approved an order authorizing the issuance of unlimited tax school building and refunding bonds, appointed a pricing officer, and approved the parameters for the sale and support of the bonds, including an annual tax levy for repayment.

The board also approved a contract with CMJ Engineering for construction materials testing services for bond-funded projects at Hommel Elementary School, Souder Elementary School, and the Indoor Multipurpose Facility. Several outdated or unneeded items from the child nutrition department were approved for auction, recycling or disposal.

The district renewed its contract with National Security & Protective Services Inc. to provide Texas Level II unarmed guards and Level III security officers on campuses.

Bond project updates and financial planning

Updates were presented on bond-funded renovations at Bishop Elementary School and E. Ray Elementary School, part of the bond program being managed by Sedalco Construction Services and designed by Huckabee architects. Plans include making 26 classrooms fully ADA accessible. E. Ray Elementary’s construction is projected to wrap up by January 2027, while Bishop Elementary’s more extensive updates are scheduled for completion by fall 2027.

However, the projects are currently $165,000 over budget, with original estimates totaling $12 million.

A financial adviser delivered a report on the district’s bond performance and long-term debt strategy. The presentation slides were so small they were unreadable to attendees. While board members had printed copies to review, the public in attendance could not clearly follow along.

Curriculum and college credit highlights

Dr. Kentrel Phillips delivered a presentation offering insights on proposed curriculum updates. His overview included the Amplify English Language Arts program, new elementary and secondary math proposals, and the Savvas social studies curriculum. He explained the benefits, challenges and compromises involved, showing a deep understanding and passion for academic excellence.

The staff also shared news about the district’s dual credit program. This year, 40 students will graduate with their associate degrees at the same time they earn their high school diplomas. Through a new partnership with Texas Wesleyan University, students will now have the opportunity to graduate with up to 12 college course credits — a leap forward in college and career readiness. The updated partnership even removes certain standardized testing requirements, increasing accessibility and opportunity for more students.

Student performance continues to rise so quickly that the district has now increased its official student outcome goals to keep up with growth and success.

Campus safety and student support

Jason Miller, chief of operations and student services, gave a comprehensive report on safety initiatives throughout the district. His presentation showed measurable progress in reducing incidents on campus, thanks to creative and proactive strategies. One such initiative included bringing in local judges to speak with students about truancy, helping bridge awareness and prevention with real-world accountability. His commitment to student well-being and districtwide safety was evident.

Key upcoming events

Superintendent updates included several important dates:

Back-to-School Bash will be held on July 24, 2025, at the Joe C. Bean High School.

Convocation is scheduled for Aug. 7, 2025, at 8:30 a.m. in the high school auditorium.

If you believe anything in these notes is inaccurate, please email us at [email protected] with “Correction Request” in the subject line.

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