The Whitney Independent School District Board of Trustees met in regular session Monday, September 8, and heard a presentation from Gallagher Construction Management on the firm’s recent assessment of Whitney ISD facilities.
The company evaluated the elementary and intermediate schools, the district technology building, athletic facilities and the hangar gym.
The middle and high schools and agricultural facilities were not assessed.
Gallagher representatives reported that WISD facilities are well maintained overall, but they made several recommendations, including the installation of urinal dividers where necessary, updating fencing to comply with current Texas Education Agency safety standards, and repairing deteriorating finishes on walls and flooring.
Playground bases at the elementary and intermediate were also found to not meet current standards, and it was recommended that the district install at least 12”-deep loose material or approved rubber mats, 6’ of material extending beyond playground equipment, and at least 9’ of material extending beyond playground equipment that is 30” tall or more.
The company also recommended the replacement of artificial turf at the district’s football, baseball and softball fields, in addition to resurfacing the track and tennis courts.
The board authorized the Whitney Future Farmers of America to travel to the 2025 National FFA Convention, set for October 27 through November 1 in Indianapolis, Indiana. Four property bids were also approved, as well as local policy updates.
Several surplus items were designated by the board for sale or removal, including four buses, a box truck and the visitor side bleachers at Baker Field.
Enrollment stands at 1,434. The next regular board meeting is scheduled for Monday, October 13, at 6 p.m. in the WISD Administration Board Room, located at 305 South San Jacinto Street in Whitney.
