The Morris Public Schools Board of Education met Monday evening, with Dana Mims presiding in the absence of President Mark Mabrey. She was joined by members Kendall Warren and James Allred. Robert Frost was not in attendance. The meeting brought forward a full agenda that included financial reports, facility maintenance updates, staffing items and significant progress on the district’s ongoing bond initiative.

Superintendent Becky Alexander presented an in-depth report on district finances, enrollment, upcoming events and the much-discussed bond issue designed to revitalize aging facilities and create safer, modern learning environments for students.

The board approved the consent agenda, which included minutes from the Sept. 8 regular meeting and Sept. 23 special session, where members had met with contractors along with the public to review project logistics related to bond improvements.

Alexander noted several key expenditures during the financial report. Among them were security upgrades at the elementary breezeway and a drainage improvement project on the new elementary playground funded through grant money obtained by Coach Whitney Tucker.

Child Nutrition funds were also reviewed, showing recent equipment upgrades such as new convection ovens and ventless dryers for cafeteria efficiency. The cafeteria manager has been proactive in reinvesting their allowable carryover funds into needed equipment, Alexander stated.

Much of the evening’s discussion centered on the school bond proposal, which went before voters on Tuesday. Superintendent Alexander expressed optimism and deep gratitude for the community’s engagement and understanding, emphasizing the district’s stewardship of resources.

“The buildings our kids walk into every day are showing their age,” she said during the meeting, referencing the now-unused elementary building and ongoing water damage issues in some areas. “This bond isn’t just about fixing buildings – it’s about investing in students and creating classrooms that match the dreams they’re chasing.”

Alexander clarified misinformation circulating online about tax impacts from previous settlements and the current proposal.

Board members commended Alexander for her leadership through multiple crises over recent years – including a tornado, fire and insurance settlement.

Alexander also addressed the district’s continued commitment to transparency and stewardship. “We’re going to take care of our facilities,” she assured. “If we don’t, that’s on us – and I want our community to know we’re holding ourselves accountable.”

Enrollment for the district stands near 896 students, with a slight increase at the elementary level balancing small losses at the high school. Alexander said her goal remains to surpass 900 students.”

The superintendent also noted calendar items, including the final middle school home football game on Oct. 20 and the rescheduled high school game against Valliant, moved to Oct. 23 instead of Oct. 24, due to a statewide shortage of football officials.

The board acted on several business items Monday night:

• FY26 Budgets Approved: The board unanimously approved both the General Fund and Building Fund budgets for the new fiscal year.

• Personnel Updates: The board accepted resignations from Whitney Tucker (Athletic Trainer only), Deanna Hewitt and Jamie Salinas, and approved five new substitute teachers pending background check approval – Elizabeth Enblom, Debbie Hunter, Rachel Nelson, Kristin Nuckolls and Nichelle Norris.

• Donated Sick Leave: Approval was granted for an employee sick leave donation to Sarah Stoffels.

• Adjunct Certification: Leah Lesley was approved as an adjunct instructor for mid-level math.

• Land Lease Agreement: The board accepted a three-year land lease bid from Daniel Miller. Alexander said the bid was chosen for including “normal agricultural practices such as planting, tilling and spraying.”

• OSUIT Partnership: A Memorandum of Understanding with OSU Institute of Technology was approved, allowing education students to observe Morris teachers as part of their field experience requirements.

• Hall of Fame Program: The board approved continuing the Hall of Fame Recognition Night for Jan. 27, 2026, expanding categories to include FFA members alongside student-athletes, coaches and scholars. “It was such a memorable night last year,” Alexander said. “We’re forming a committee this year, and I want to make sure FFA is included – they deserve recognition too.”

• Baseball Field Naming: The board unanimously approved naming the district’s baseball facility the Ed Yock Baseball Field, honoring longtime coach and community supporter Ed Yock. Alexander said Yock “felt he owed it all to Morris kids” and plans to assist with a fundraising effort for field improvements.

• Election Resolution: The board adopted a resolution calling for a Board of Education General Election for Seat 5 on April 7, 2026, with a Primary Election on Feb. 10, 2026, if required.

• Executive Session and Staffing: Following an executive session, members approved new hires for a middle/high school library aide, a custodial position and an elementary paraprofessional.