APISD athletics, SHAC, special education and technology reports highlight student supports and infrastructure needs

Coach Davis, APISD’s athletic director, told the board on May 11 that academic supports tied to athletics have produced measurable results: the district’s weekly academic 'at‑risk' list for athletes dropped from roughly 25–30 students at the start of the year to about 8–10 after implementing a mentor‑coach program. "Our goal is a 0% fail rate in athletics; we didn’t get there this year, but we made great strides," he said.

Tracy Morales delivered the School Health Advisory Council report, noting four quarterly meetings that addressed mental health training, the presence of the Hope Squad in middle and high schools, sentinel response training, and the fact that Narcan is available on every campus. Morales said recruiting more parents and students to SHAC remains a priority.

Administration presented an update on special education: district enrollment declined overall while special‑education identification rose, partly because dyslexia is now included under special‑education classifications. Staff said a consolidated July data submission will streamline reporting and that a new special‑education director will be in place to support campus transitions.

Director of Technology Jason Brute summarized the department’s work: four technology staff support about 303 employees and 1,525 students, ~660 tickets processed, ~415 Chromebook repairs in‑house, migration to Skyward Finance underway, and a planned wireless‑infrastructure replacement after security reviews. Brute also described improved interoperability between safety systems such as Raptor and the intercom/alert systems.

Superintendent Mr. Bennett reported a district enrollment of 1,527 for the April 13–May 8 reporting window and an attendance rate of about 91.74% (goal 93%). He reviewed a crowded events calendar for May that includes senior awards, inclusive track meet, senior walk, grade‑level celebrations, and graduation.

Trustees thanked staff for presentations and noted the reports will inform summer budget planning and facility priorities. Administrators said they will return with more granular data and recommendations as part of the district’s summer workshops.