La Joya ISD board approves program change and authorizes non‑renewals, terminations after closed session

Following a closed session under cited provisions of the Texas Government Code, the La Joya ISD board returned to open session at 10:09 p.m. and approved several formal actions on April 22.

The board voted to adopt and authorize implementation of a program change affecting multiple campuses (agenda item 11.1). After the closed session motions, members then considered personnel actions. One motion “to propose the non‑renewal of Chapter 21 term contracts as presented in closed session and authorize the superintendent to provide notice to the affected employees of this action,” also authorized the superintendent to retain an attorney to serve as the board’s designee in any hearings. That motion was seconded and the board recorded the motion as carried.

A third vote finalized suspensions and terminations of Chapter 21 probationary contracts, including authorizing notice to affected employees. Meeting minutes, the board said, will include a resolution attached for the record related to the program change.

The motions were taken after board members met in closed session under Texas Government Code sections 551.071, 551.072, 551.074, 551.076, 551.129 and 551.0821, as announced in open session before recessing to closed session. Board members moved, seconded and recorded votes with the phrase “All in favor… Motion carries.” The board did not publicly name employees affected by these personnel actions during the open session; the superintendent and board said they will notify impacted staff according to policy and that affected employees have appeal and hearing rights consistent with state statute and district procedure.

The board also approved the consent agenda earlier in the meeting by voice vote.