Midland ISD trustees approve TEE membership, hire outside counsel and authorize multiple property marketing actions

Midland Independent School District trustees voted on a package of governance, legal and property actions at a Feb. 25 board meeting that also included routine approvals for school improvement plans and bond-related construction documents.

The board voted 4–2 to approve membership with Texans for Excellence in Education (TEE), a three‑year‑old nonprofit that offers board training and other services. John Petri, TEE president, told trustees that TEE "does not take advocacy positions. They do not lobby. They stick to the facts." The board then approved a set of next-step service options to begin a policy audit and related services.

Trustees also voted to hire outside counsel for the board’s use. The board approved retaining the law firm Ohanian, Demarest & Castillo (partner attorney identified in meeting materials) in a 5–1 vote; the agreed fee schedule presented to the board lists hourly rates for partners, associates and paralegals and allows termination at any time. The board made clear this retention is for legal representation of the board itself, separate from district counsel.

On facilities and district real property, trustees authorized marketing several properties and approved other bond‑program items: - A small parcel on Carver Street: approved to be marketed for sale (unanimous). - The apartment property at 2910 W. Michigan (currently occupied and housing a program serving students): approved to be marketed for sale (vote 5–1). - Town and Country…