Waukesha School Board adjusts 2024-2025 academic calendar for efficient graduation preparation

The Waxahachie Independent School District Board of Trustees convened on May 8, 2025, at 9:00 AM, with six trustees present. The meeting was officially called to order, confirming that it had been properly noticed and posted in accordance with legal requirements.

The first agenda item addressed was the need for a closed session; however, it was determined that there was no requirement for one, leading the board to proceed directly to the open forum. No members of the public had signed up to speak, allowing the board to move on to action items.

The primary focus of the meeting was Action Item A, which involved a proposed modification to the academic calendar for the 2024-2025 school year. Superintendent Mott presented the proposal, explaining that the current calendar included 1,080 surplus minutes, supplemented by an additional 1,200 minutes from a professional development waiver, totaling 2,280 surplus minutes—equivalent to approximately five school days.

Mott noted that two bad weather days had been utilized in January, leaving three surplus days available. The proposed change would adjust the last day of school to May 22, with an early release on that day, and no school on May 23, the day of graduation at Global High School. This adjustment aims to provide teachers with additional time to finalize grades and prepare for graduation, while also facilitating smoother logistics for the graduation ceremonies scheduled for May 23 and 24.

The board discussed the implications of the calendar change, including the need for timely preparations for construction projects set to begin shortly after the school year ends. After confirming that the proposed changes were compliant with state regulations regarding surplus minutes, the board moved to a vote.

Trustee Timmerman made a motion to approve the calendar modification, which was seconded by Trustee Cooper. The motion passed unanimously with a 6-0 vote.

The meeting concluded with a motion to adjourn, which was also approved by a 6-0 vote. The board's decisions reflect a commitment to ensuring a smooth end to the academic year and effective planning for upcoming construction projects within the district.