Community rallies to honor dedicated athletic leader Don Clayton

During a recent government meeting, community members voiced their concerns and commendations regarding local educational and athletic programs.

Don Clayton, a long-serving athletic director and head football coach at Katy Cinco Ranch, was praised for his dedication to student athletes. A parent representative highlighted Clayton's commitment to creating a competitive environment across all sports, ensuring equal opportunities for students. His leadership reportedly led many athletes to pursue collegiate sports and coaching careers. The speaker urged the board to honor Clayton for his over 20 years of service, emphasizing the positive impact he had on the community and the program's integrity.

In contrast, Lisa Lister Brown, a concerned parent and taxpayer, addressed the board regarding the district's July budget. She expressed worries about the financial health of the district, noting that stagnant funding has affected staff salaries and resources. Brown criticized the reliance on parents to provide classroom supplies and highlighted the need for better compensation for teachers, who are reportedly taking on additional jobs to make ends meet. She urged the board to advocate for more funding from state authorities to ensure a quality education for all students.

Brown also raised concerns about proposed changes to board operating procedures, emphasizing the importance of transparency and community input in decision-making processes.

The meeting underscored the community's commitment to both celebrating achievements in local athletics and addressing pressing financial challenges within the educational system.