Architect chosen as district eyes future facilities plan
By David H. Waller
The Albany ISD Board of Trustees met Monday, April 21, where they unanimously voted to move forward with HPA, an architectural firm out of Wichita Falls, for a potential bond project that could include a new high school.
Discussion centered on selecting a firm that would prioritize Albany’s project and provide direct involvement throughout the process. Superintendent Daryl Stuard and board members expressed concern about getting lost in the shuffle if they chose a firm managing multiple large-scale projects elsewhere.
Trustees considered four firms, with HPA ultimately standing out for its track record with similar-sized school districts and its hands-on approach. JD Coffee of Teinert Construction, who was asked to join the meeting in an advisory role, shared insights based on his experience working with all four firms. He emphasized that all were solid choices and made no recommendation to the board on which firm to select. The board ultimately chose HPA based on its cost efficiency, local experience, and the belief that Albany would be a priority for the firm.The decision sets the stage for forming a bond committee, which Stuard said should include a diverse group of community members.
Clear Fork Bank sign
installed
The new Clear Fork Bank neon sign was successfully installed last week at Robert Nail Stadium. Built by local artist Michael Christopher and installed by API, the sign replaces the previous First National Bank signage. The update reflects the bank’s name change, which went into effect last year.
Lighting project
discussed
Michael Leveridge presented a proposal from Musco Lighting for upgrading the football field to LED lighting, which would cost approximately $219,000. While praised for long-term savings and quality, the project was tabled due to more pressing facility needs. Concerns about drainage on the football field were noted as a greater priority.
Personnel contracts
approved
The board approved probationary, term, and support staff contracts as presented, including the addition of a new high school science teacher through an emergency certification program. A few positions remain open, including junior high English.
Maintenance and
transportation updates
Two new buses have arrived, with final payments pending due to a billing error. Leveridge also shared plans to send all district vehicles for diagnostics over the summer. Updates to the transportation section of the district website and the development of a rider handbook are also underway.
Upcoming challenges and legislation
Stuard reported that the district has been selected for a vulnerability audit next school year and discussed ongoing challenges with implementing the free lunch program. The board also heard about the Teacher Incentive Allotment (TIA) and House Bill 2, which, if passed, could provide a financial boost to staff salaries.
