Board approves Wells Fargo for depository services contract through 2027

In the heart of Burleson, Texas, the Burleson Independent School District (BISD) board convened on July 14, 2025, to discuss crucial financial updates and innovative educational offerings for the upcoming school year. The atmosphere was a blend of anticipation and professionalism as board members prepared to navigate the complexities of the district's financial landscape.

Miss Green Demise, the district's financial officer, presented the March financials, revealing a robust revenue of $91.6 million, marking a $4 million increase from the previous year. With expenditures at $81.9 million, the district is on track, having earned 70% of its projected revenues. The food service program also showed positive growth, with revenues reaching $5.6 million, up by $295,000 from last year, reflecting the success of local and federal programs.

A highlight of the financial report was the anticipated bond defeasement, set to take place on May 15, which is expected to yield $15.5 million in interest earnings—$2.3 million more than initially projected. This unexpected windfall is a testament to the district's careful financial planning and conservative estimates.

The board also reviewed the progress of capital projects, including the construction of the Mound Gym and the Texas Health Resource Building, both of which are on schedule for completion. The quarterly investment report indicated a slight decline in interest rates, now holding steady at around 4.4%, a trend that the district is monitoring closely.

Following the financial discussions, the board moved to approve a request for proposal (RFP) for depository services, awarding the contract to Wells Fargo for the 2025-2027 biennium. This decision came after a thorough evaluation of four competing banks, ensuring that the district continues to maintain strong financial partnerships.

In a forward-looking move, Dr. Stacia Pierce introduced 19 innovative courses for the 2025-2026 school year, aimed at enhancing the educational offerings beyond the standard curriculum. Currently, 409 students are enrolled in these courses, which focus on skills and competencies not covered by state standards. The board's approval of these courses reflects a commitment to providing diverse learning opportunities for students.

As the meeting concluded, the board members left with a sense of accomplishment, having addressed significant financial matters and taken steps to enrich the educational landscape for the students of Burleson ISD. The decisions made during this meeting will undoubtedly shape the district's future, ensuring that it remains a beacon of educational excellence in Texas.