GISD – By the Numbers

By Will Johnson

Messenger Reporter

GRAPELAND – The Grapeland Independent School District Board of Trustees meeting held on Monday, Sept. 16 was highlighted by a series of reports provided by the various department heads and directors.

One of the more interesting reports was provided by Athletic Director Terry Ward who reported participation in the various fall sports had shown an increased turnout so far in 2019.

He reported there were 20 volleyball players in junior high and 31 volleyball players in high school.

There are 33 junior high football players which allows Grapeland Junior High to field both seventh and eighth grade teams.

At the high school level, Ward indicated 43 players had come out for football, with 24 players on junior varsity. 

Concerning cross country, Ward indicated there were 10 runners in junior high and 10 at the high school level.

Band Director Moises Santos reported the high school was currently in a rebuilding mode due to graduation but added the junior high numbers “… look really good.”

Moving to the Early Learning Center, Director Christie Hill reported the ELC now has 48 children are being served and “… on Sept. 2, we passed our state inspection with a 100 % score.”

As the meeting continued, Superintendent Don Jackson indicated, “Last year we ended the year with 173 students at the high school. We have 190 high school students this year. We have 116 junior high students, up from 114 last year. At the elementary, we are up to 307 students. That’s a total of 613.”  

Along these same lines, Jackson reported the district was anticipating a “settle-up” from the state in excess of $600,000 because of the district’s enrollment. 

“The actual enrollment last year was higher than our estimate so the state – they have a fall settle-up – and we’re expecting at least $600,000 because of our enrollment. They under paid us by that much,” he said.     

The next GISD board meeting will be on Oct.28.

In other matters brought before the GISD board:

  • Jeanna Wardell was recognized for her 22 years of service to the district

Will Johnson may be contacted via e-mail at [email protected].

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