The Crowley Independent School District (CISD) held a called board meeting on November 14, 2024, focusing on significant community partnerships and student engagement initiatives. A highlight of the meeting was the introduction of the \"Ready to Learn Market,\" a collaboration between CISD, the Big Good Foundation, and the Tarrant Area Food Bank. This initiative aims to combat food insecurity among students by providing access to fresh produce and non-perishable items.

During the meeting, board members expressed gratitude to key contributors, including Gary Patterson and Grammy Award-winning artist Leon Bridal, for their roles in making the market a reality. The market is designed to support the 78% of students in Crowley ISD who rely on school meals, ensuring they have access to healthy food options. Students can visit the market daily and take food home for the weekends, with the operation supported by Tarrant Area Food Bank.

Trustee Davis raised a question about the distribution of food, confirming that students are involved in the market's daily operations, which also provides them with valuable work experience. The initiative was praised as a transformative opportunity for students, emphasizing the importance of community collaboration in addressing food insecurity.

In addition to the market, the meeting featured updates from student trustees, including new member Dylan Dill from North Crowley High School. Dill shared his excitement about serving in this role and highlighted recent school events, such as playoff games and a festival for special needs students. The meeting underscored the district's commitment to fostering student leadership and community involvement.

Overall, the meeting showcased CISD's proactive approach to enhancing student well-being and engagement through community partnerships and student-led initiatives. The board's discussions reflect a strong commitment to addressing the needs of students and ensuring they have the resources necessary for success.