What to watch: The Midland ISD School Board will meet on May 20 at 5:30 p.m.

Why it matters: Trustees will weigh major policy revisions, including updates to board governance and student performance goals, restrictions on instructional content, and facility policies based on biological sex. The board will also vote on new school names, curriculum , and new hires.

Key points:

  • Budget revisions: April financials reflect a nearly $72 million increase in the revised budget due to bond issuance costs and fees.

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  • Policy changes: The board will vote on policy changes that:

    • Shift the board’s role from delegating authority to holding the superintendent directly accountable

    • Set new goals: all students on grade level, all campuses rated B or higher, and 100% of graduates college-, career-, or military-ready

    • Require improvement strategies and reports for underperforming campuses

    • Mandate a balanced budget or a deficit of no more than 4%

    • Tie at least 50% of the superintendent’s evaluation to board goal progress and TEA performance metrics

    • Limits on instructional materials, library books, and literature promoting critical race theory, gender fluidity, pornographic content, or social-emotional learning that conflicts with board goals

    • A new library approval process requiring board approval for all new materials

    • Facility and accommodation rules based on biological sex, affecting bathrooms, travel, sports, and casting in fine arts

  • Pre-K progress: Trustees will receive an update showing students are exceeding phonological awareness and early math development goals.

  • Budget outlook: Staff will present a financial forecast for the 2025–26 school year in advance of next month’s tax rate and budget vote.

  • Curriculum adoption: The board will consider adopting new math materials for grades 6–8. Accelerate Learning Inc. received the highest score in the review process.

  • New school names: Two middle school names are up for approval based on committee and community input:

    • Midland Middle School

    • John “Randy” Storie Middle School

  • Leadership hires: The board will vote on key leadership positions, including:

    • Principals for Bunche, Greathouse, and Rusk Elementary

    • Executive Directors of School Leadership

    • MISD Chief of Police