2020 News Articles, Pictures

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Dec. 16, 2020

Another FISD student confirmed

infected with COVID-19 Dec. 16

Frankston ISD officials have reported on Wednesday, Dec. 16 that another student was lab-confirmed to have been infected with the COVID-19 virus.

The student was present on a school campus Tuesday, Dec. 15, according to the report.

The new case was reported in addition to a student and a staff member reported to have been confirmed to have the virus on Tuesday, Dec. 15.

Supt. Nicci Cook said the school has responded as usual by sending a notification to all student families and staff members concerning the confirmation.

The instance of the new case for Dec. 16 additionally was entered on the COVID-19 dashboard on the school website, according to a recent notification change.

As is customary, the local health department has begun a case investigation and will contact any individuals determined to be in close contact with the infected individuals, including direct notification of local students and staff. Those in close contact will remain off campus for 14 days to ensure they are virus free and there will be no further spread, the notification stated.

Supt. Cook also reported the case to the proper state agencies, as required.

The latest cases are in addition to ones reported on Monday, Dec. 15 and before, the superintendent said. She said the new case brings the total since August to 40, of which 26 are students and 14 staff members.

Students and staff will be observing the Christmas-New Year holidays break starting Thursday, Dec. 17, and the school campuses will be closed until early January.

Cases so far have been both from community spread and in-school exposure, school officials believe.

As reported earlier, FISD will not release the names of the infected individuals or details that may identify them, due to privacy requirements.

The notifications, as before, further cautioned that if anyone does begin experiencing any of the symptoms, widely listed, in a way that is not typical, they are encouraged to contact their physician.

Those notified were also asked that anyone who is lab-confirmed for COVID-19 to notify the school office at (903) 876-2556.

Dec. 15, 2020

FISD reports another student, staff

member COVID-19 cases on Dec. 15

Frankston ISD officials have reported on Tuesday, Dec. 15 that another staff member and another student were lab-confirmed to have been infected with the COVID-19 virus.

The staff member was present on a school campus on Tuesday, Dec. 15 and the student was present on Monday, Dec. 14, according to the report.

Supt. Nicci Cook said the school has responded as usual by sending a notification to all student families and staff members concerning the confirmation.

The instance of the new cases for Dec. 15 additionally was entered on the COVID-19 dashboard on the school website, according to a recent notification change.

Supt. Cook also reported the case to the proper state agencies, as required.

The latest cases are in addition to ones reported on Monday, Dec. 8 and before, the superintendent said. She said the new cases bring the total since August to 39, of which 25 are students and 14 staff members.

Cases so far have been both from community spread and in-school exposure, school officials believe.

As reported earlier, FISD will not release the names of the infected individuals or details that may identify them, due to privacy requirements.

Those notified were also asked that anyone who is lab-confirmed for COVID-19 to notify the school office at (903) 876-2556.

Dec. 14, 2020

FISD trustees approve 2019-20 audit,

discuss proposed athletic upgrades

Frankston ISD trustees Monday night, Dec. 14 approved the 2019-2020 audit of school finances, heard campus reports and discussed proposed athletic renovations under consideration for possible future action by the board.

Campus principals reported their enrollment and other activities and Supt. Nicci Cook reported on such school honors as the All-District selections for both volleyball and football.

Elementary School Principal Melanie Blackwell said enrollment on her campus was 336. She also announced Third Grade Outstanding Indians Landry Harbuck, Leighton Loveless and Braelyn Scarborough.

Middle School Principal Cindy Owens announced that enrollment on her campus was 192 with 68 sixth graders, 67 seventh graders and 57 eighth graders. She also announced “Warriors of the Week” Bethany Priestly and Jhayro Armas.

High School Principal Edgar Rodriguez reported enrollment on his campus of 212. He said there were 57 ninth graders, 67 10th graders, 47 11th graders and 41 12th graders.

In her report, Supt. Cook said total enrollment for all campuses was 740 students, down by 29 students from Nov. 2, including those students who had been on virtual learning and chose alternative educational environments when FISD decided to go to in-person learning completely.

Supt. Cook discussed with the board members the proposals which had been formulated for Athletic Renovations at the baseball and softball fields and at Jeff and Opal Austin Stadium for football and track.

Proposed were options for the installation of artificial turf on all the athletic fields and possible renovations which would provide a 1,200-seat grandstand with press box and a ticket booth with integrated restrooms. Additional work on the parking lot, sidewalk and curbing was also discussed.

The board also discussed possible savings and revenue which might accrue as a result of the renovations. It was estimated that FISD could save $49,265 in maintenance, labor and supplies per year with savings over the life of the project, 15 years, of $738,975.

Additionally it was projected that the school might have possible additional revenues from advertising sales and field rentals over time.

Projections were that the total cost of proposed renovations would be $4 million with $1 million paid from the fund balance and $3 million by financing at a rate of 12.5 percent for a total of $3,375,000 for the project. Under that financing arrangement the payment for 15 years would be $225,000 per year, according to the estimate.

Dec. 14, 2020

Most area cities post sales

tax allocation increases

The Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts reported city sales tax allocations for the December 2020 period showing gains for most area cities over the prior period last year.

Most area cities reported gains for the year-to-date over the prior year.

The City of Frankston received a net payment of $36,157.00 for December compared to a $25,002.25 payment a year ago. That’s a gain of 44.61 percent. The city has received year-to-date payments of $380,067.71 this year compared to last year’s YTD payment of $298,237.99, a gain of 27.43 percent.

The City of Berryville received a net payment of $2,198.79 for December compared to a $1,595.85 payment a year ago. That’s a gain of 37.78 percent. The city has received year-to-date payments of $24,194.68 this year compared to last year’s YTD payment of $18,432.41, a gain of 31.26 percent.

The City of Coffee City received a net payment of $20,158.10 for December compared to a $16,471.75 payment a year ago. That’s a gain of 22.37 percent. The city has received year-to-date payments of $245,046.50 this year compared to last year’s YTD payment of $203,311.87, a gain of 20.52 percent.

The City of Cuney received a net payment of $2,824.43 for December compared to a $3,101.52 payment a year ago. That’s down 8.93 percent. The city has received year-to-date payments of $34,232.34 this year compared to last year’s YTD payment of $27,525.72, a gain of 24.36 percent.

The City of Poynor received a net payment of $1,224.57 for December compared to a $1,166.62 payment a year ago. That’s a gain of 4.96 percent. The city has received year-to-date payments of $14,216.93 this year compared to last year’s YTD payment of $14,909.91, down 4.64 percent.

Dec. 8, 2020

FISD student reported on Dec. 8

confirmed with COVID-19 virus

Frankston ISD officials have reported Tuesday, Dec. 8 that another student has been lab-confirmed to be infected with the COVID-19 virus and was present on a school campus on Friday, Dec. 4.

Supt. Nicci Cook said the school has responded as usual by sending a notification to all student families and staff members concerning the confirmation.

The instance of the new case for Dec. 8 additionally was entered on the COVID-19 dashboard on the school website, according to a recent notification change.

Supt. Cook also reported the case to the proper state agencies, as required.

The latest case is in addition to ones reported on Monday, Dec. 7 and before, the superintendent said. She said the new case brings the total since August to 37, of which 24 are students and 13 staff members.

Cases so far have been both from community spread and in-school exposure, school officials believe.

As reported earlier, FISD will not release the names of the infected individuals or details that may identify them, due to privacy requirements.

Those notified were also asked that anyone who is lab-confirmed for COVID-19 to notify the school office at (903) 876-2556.

Dec. 7, 2020

Another FISD staff member reported

as confirmed Dec. 7 with COVID-19

Frankston ISD officials have reported Monday, Dec. 7 that another staff member has been lab-confirmed to be infected with the COVID-19 virus and was present on a school campus on Thursday, Dec. 3.

Supt. Nicci Cook said the school has responded as usual by sending a notification to all student families and staff members concerning the confirmation.

The instance of the new case for Dec. 7 additionally was entered on the COVID-19 dashboard on the school website, according to a recent notification change.

Supt. Cook also reported the case to the proper state agencies, as required.

The latest case is in addition to ones reported on Friday, Dec. 4 and before, the superintendent said. She said the new case brings the total since August to 36, of which 23 are students and 13 staff members.

Cases so far have been both from community spread and in-school exposure, school officials believe.

As reported earlier, FISD will not release the names of the infected individuals or details that may identify them, due to privacy requirements.

Those notified were also asked that anyone who is lab-confirmed for COVID-19 to notify the school office at (903) 876-2556.

Dec. 3, 2020

FISD staff, student COVID-19

cases confirmed in Dec. 3 notice

Parents and staff members of Frankston ISD were sent notifications Thursday, Dec. 3 that a staff member and a student lab-confirmed to have COVID-19 were present at the school on Friday, Nov. 20 and Tuesday, Dec. 1, respectively, Supt. Nicci Cook reported.

The instance of new cases for Dec. 3 additionally was entered on the COVID-19 dashboard on the school website, according to a recent notification change.

Supt. Cook also reported the cases to the proper state agencies, as required.

The two cases are in addition to ones reported on Wednesday, Dec. 2 and before, the superintendent said. She said the new cases bring the total since August to 35, of which 23 are students and 12 staff members.

Cases so far have been both from community spread and in-school exposure, school officials believe.

As reported earlier, FISD will not release the names of the infected individuals or details that may identify them, due to privacy requirements.

Those notified were also asked that anyone who is lab-confirmed for COVID-19 to notify the school office at (903) 876-2556.

Dec. 1, 2020

FISD changes notification method

for confirmed COVID-19 cases

Frankston ISD is changing its way of notifying parents and staff of confirmed COVID-19 cases on the school campuses, beginning Dec. 1, according to Supt. Nicci Cook.

“We will no longer be sending out phone calls for each notification,” she said.

Instead, the school website will provide the dates of the confirmed cases per campus, she said. The site also has a link to a sample of the letter which notifies parents and staff members of the confirmed cases.

Supt. Cook said email notifications are still being sent to all parents and staff members informing them that either staff members or students have been confirmed to have the virus.

The website can be reached at www.frankstonisd.net .

The information is also available through the Texas Public Schools COVID-19 Data website: https://dshs.texas.gov./coronavirus/schools/texas-education-agency/ .

In making this announcement, Supt. Cook reported that FISD has had three new lab-confirmed COVID-19 cases at the school on Wednesday, Dec. 2. One was a staff member on campus on Tuesday, Dec. 1 and the other two were students last on campus Nov. 20.

Nov. 30, 2020

LISD re-opens in-person instruction

after temporary transition to virtual

LaPoynor Schools were open for in-person instruction on Monday, Nov. 30 following the Thanksgiving break and a temporary transition to virtual learning during the week before that, according to Dr. James Young, superintendent.

LISD had transitioned to virtual learning Nov. 17-20, in an effort to ensure that community exposure to COVID-19 is diminished, according to Supt. Young, in a letter posted on the school website. The action was taken due to two positive COVID-19 tests within the LISD staff over the previous weekend, the superintendent wrote in the letter.

At the time of the letter, Dr. Young wrote that the district anticipated a return to in-person instruction on Nov. 30, if possible. With the latest announcement, the superintendent decided that a return to in-person instruction was possible.

The letter stated, at that time, that, during the aforementioned time and the following week, Nov. 23-27, Thanksgiving break, “all campuses will remain closed and no extra-curricular events will occur on district property.” He emphasized that virtual learning would continue Nov. 17-20 despite the fact that there will be no in-person instruction during the period.

The letter further stated that students involved in events held outside the district “may participate in those events if they have no exposure to or symptoms of COVID-19”. Extra-curricular students could meet at the district for transportation and preparation for off-campus events, but coaches must screen all participants upon arrival, the letter had stated.

LISD has posted on its website a graphic showing incidence of COVID-19 cases among staff and students and recoveries as of Dec. 1, 2020.

Nov. 30, 2020

Four FISD staff, two students confirmed

with COVID-19 in Thanksgiving week

While many students and staff at Frankston Schools were enjoying their Thanksgiving break, four staff members and two students were confirmed during the week to be infected with the COVID-19 virus, according to a report Monday, Nov. 30 by Supt. Nicci Cook.

Supt. Cook said all six individuals were last on campus on Friday, Nov. 20, the last school day before the start of the Thanksgiving holiday break.

The superintendent reported the cases to the Texas Education Agency when she returned Monday, after the break.

The six new cases confirmed bring the case total to 28 since August, 18 students and 10 staff members.

Supt. Cook said the customary emails were sent to parents and staff members and reported to the local health department for contact tracing. A number of student and staff members have been or presently are under quarantine to mitigate the spread of the virus, she said.

In a report on Nov. 20, Supt. Cook had said that three cases of COVID-19 infection were confirmed, two staff memIbers and another a student who tested positive. One staff member was last on campus on Friday, Nov. 13, the other on Wednesday, Nov. 18 and the student was last on campus on Thursday, Nov. 12, she said.

On Monday, Nov. 16, three staff members and two students who tested positive for COVID-19, were confirmed, prior to those in the later Nov. 20 report, she said. Those staff members were all on campus on Friday, Nov. 13, and one of the students was on campus Wednesday, Nov. 11 and the other on Thursday, Nov. 12, according to an earlier report.

Prior to the Nov. 16 report, six students, lab-confirmed Nov. 12 and 13, had been reported to have the COVID-19 virus and determined to have been on campus on Nov. 11 and Nov. 12, according to the superintendent.

In separate cases earlier, six students and one staff member had been confirmed to be infected with the virus, one student as early as September.

Cases so far have been both from community spread and in-school exposure, school officials believe.

As reported earlier, FISD will not release the names of the infected individuals or details that may identify them, due to privacy requirements.

Those notified were also asked that anyone who is lab-confirmed for COVID-19 to notify the school office at (903) 876-2556.

Nov. 20, 2020

Three more COVID-19 cases reported

last week at FISD; total rises to 22

Three more cases of COVID-19 infection were confirmed last week, two staff members and another a student who tested positive, Supt. Nicci Cook reported Friday, Nov. 20.

One staff member was last on campus on Friday, Nov. 13, the other on Wednesday, Nov. 18 and the student was last on campus on Thursday, Nov. 12, she said.

That brings the total since August to 22, including 16 students and six staff members, the superintendent said.

FISD is observing the Thanksgiving break Nov. 23-27.

Supt. Cook said the customary emails were sent to parents and staff members and reported to the local health department for contact tracing and to the appropriate state agencies. A number of student and staff members have been quarantined to mitigate the spread of the virus, she said.

Three staff members and two students who tested positive for COVID-19, were confirmed on Monday, Nov. 16, in addition to those reported late last week, she said. Those staff members were all on campus on Friday, Nov. 13, and one of the students was on campus Wednesday, Nov. 11 and the other on Thursday, Nov. 12, according to an earlier report.

Six students, lab-confirmed Nov. 12 and 13, were reported earlier last week to have the COVID-19 virus and determined to have been on campus on Nov. 11 and Nov. 12, according to the superintendent.

Cases so far have been both from community spread and in-school exposure, school officials believe.

As reported earlier, FISD will not release the names of the infected individuals or details that may identify them, due to privacy requirements.

Those notified were also asked that anyone who is lab-confirmed for COVID-19 to notify the school office at (903) 876-2556.

Nov. 16, 2020

LISD goes to virtual learning Nov. 17-20

after two positive staff COVID-19 tests

LaPoynor Independent School District will be transitioning to virtual learning for the remainder of this school week, Nov. 17-20, in an effort to ensure that community exposure to COVID-19 is diminished, according to Supt. James Young, in a letter posted on the school website.

The action was taken due to two positive COVID-19 tests within the LISD staff over the weekend, Dr. Young writes.

The letter stated that, during the aforementioned time and the following week, Nov. 23-27, Thanksgiving break, “all campuses will remain closed and no extra-curricular events will occur on district property.” He emphasized that virtual learning will be conducted from Nov. 17-20 despite the fact that there will be no in-person instruction during the period.

The letter further states that students involved in events held outside the district may participate in those events if they have no exposure to or symptoms of COVID-19. Extra-curricular students may meet at the district for transportation and preparation for off-campus events, but coaches must screen all participants upon arrival, according to the letter.

Dr. Young writes that the district anticipates a return to in-person instruction on Nov. 30, but if this is not possible, other guidance and information will be provided, as necessary.

“Thank you for your patience and understanding during this time; we all realize that each family is experiencing their own difficulties because of the pandemic,” the superintendent writes, “Our thoughts and prayers are with each of you.”

The letter urges that the district may be contacted if there is a need of service.

The elementary school may be reached at (903) 804-8626, and the secondary school at (903) 804-8660 or may be reached by email through the website.

Nov. 16, 2020

Three FISD staff, two more students

COVID-19 positive early this week

Frankston ISD has had three staff members and two more students to test positive for COVID-19, confirmed on Monday, Nov. 16, in addition to those reported late last week, according to Supt. Nicci Cook.

The superintendent said the staff members were all on campus on Friday, Nov. 13, and one of the students was on campus Wednesday, Nov. 11 and the other on Thursday, Nov. 12.

Supt. Cook said she has reported a total of 19 cases to the state, including 15 students and four staff members, since August.

The latest positive tests are in addition to six students last week, lab-confirmed Nov. 12 and 13, to have the COVID-19 virus and determined to have been on campus on Nov. 11 and Nov. 12, according to the superintendent.

Latest cases have been both from community spread and in-school exposure, school officials believe.

The superintendent said that, in keeping with Frankston ISD practices to respond to COVID-19, emails were sent to all student families and staff members on the affected campuses, notifying them that the students were lab-confirmed to have COVID-19.

Supt. Cook said the notifications stated that the local health department has been advised of the cases and is in the process of conducting prescribed contact tracing. The superintendent said the same procedure, involving quarantine for 14 days, of those coming in close contact with the infected individuals, is being followed. A number of students and staff members had to be quarantined, she said.

The notification contained the same warnings, assurances and information about symptoms stated in previous reports concerning the other cases confirmed, the superintendent said.

As reported earlier, FISD will not release the names of the infected individuals or details that may identify them, due to privacy requirements.

Those notified were also asked that anyone who is lab-confirmed for COVID-19 to notify the school office at (903) 876-2556.

Nov. 16, 2020

Frankston School trustees approve

routine items, hear reports Nov. 16

The Frankston ISD Board of Trustees Monday night, Nov. 16 approved three routine items under consideration and heard reports from the superintendent and principals on various activities.

The board also held a public hearing on the First Report for the Financial Integrity System of Texas (FIR$T). In that report, Frankston ISD received a superior rating and received 98 of a possible 100 points, determined by 15 indicators. The district also was in compliance with the payment terms of all debt agreements and made timely payments to the TRS, TWC, IRS and other government agencies in the Financial Management Performance Report.

In action items, the Board approved on respective votes of 6-0:

— A resolution regarding the Anderson County School District Legislative Platform for the 87th Legislative Session.

— District Improvement Plan for the 2020-2021 School Year.

— Early Childhood (EC) Literacy and Math and College, Career, Military Readiness (CCMR) Goals as required under House Bill 3 of the Legislature.

In regard to the goals in the latter action, the goal set for EC was to increase the percent of third grade students whose score meets grade level or above on STAAR Reading from 43% to 53% by August 2025 and increase the percent of third grade students whose score meets grade level or above on STAAR Math from 49% to 59% by August 2025. The goal for CCMR was set to increase the percent of graduates who meet the criteria for CCMR from 71% to 81% by August 2025.

Reports by administrators included the following:

Elementary School Principal Melanie Blackwell reported current enrollment of 337. Among other things, she introduced Fourth Grade Outstanding Indians Ariana Hurtado, Destiny Lazo, Skyla Pessink and Lyla Sewalt.

Middle School Principal Cindy Owens reported enrollment totaling 192 with 68 sixth graders, 67 seventh graders and 57 eighth graders. She introduced Warriors of the Week Chloe Dollarhide, Eli Perry, Mary Motes and Emily Barrett.

The Seventh Grade A volleyball team was recognized as being undefeated and District champions. The seventh grade football team had a 5-0 record and the eighth grade football team was 5-2-1 for the season. Also the Greenhand FFA Quiz Team finished third in district competition.

High School Principal Edgar Rodriguez reported enrollment of 214 with 58 in the ninth grade, 68 in the 10th grade, 46 in the 11th grade and 42 in the 12th grade.

Supt. Nicci Cook reported total district enrollment of 743 currently. She also recognized the Indian football varsity which played in the AA bi-district playoff game and Regional Cross Country qualifiers Kaylee Davis, Abigail Fletcher, Logan Ratliff and Govani Martinez. Davis, Fletcher and Martinez finished in the top 25 at Regional. A discussion of future band activities also was included in the report.

Nov. 13, 2020

Six FISD students during week

confirmed COVID-19 positive

Three more students at Frankston Schools were lab-confirmed Nov. 12 and 13 to have the COVID-19 virus and were determined to have been on campus on Nov. 11 and Nov. 12 respectively, according to Supt. Nicci Cook.

She said the three new student cases were the fourth, fifth and sixth cases confirmed since the week began on Nov. 9 and the 13th among students confirmed since August. Only one staff member has been reported as confirmed to have the virus.

The superintendent said that the sixth case confirmed on Nov. 13 and on campus Nov. 12, is related to two other cases confirmed late in the week, and, along with at least one other case, is likely, but not definitely, due to contact at school, the superintendent believes.

While FISD staff is diligently enforcing health protection guidelines of social distancing and wearing of face coverings to mitigate COVID-19 spread at school, Supt. Cook continued to urge community members to intensify their efforts to wear masks and observe prescribed social distancing to avoid further community spread to students or staff as well as others at risk.

The superintendent said that, in keeping with Frankston ISD practices to respond to COVID-19, emails were sent to all student families and staff members on the affected campus, notifying them that the students were lab-confirmed to have COVID-19.

Supt. Cook said the notifications stated that the local health department has been advised of the cases and is in the process of conducting prescribed contact tracing. The superintendent said the same procedure, involving quarantine for 14 days of those coming in close contact with the infected individuals, is being followed. A number of students had to be quarantined, she said.

The notification contained the same warnings, assurances and information about symptoms stated in previous reports concerning the other cases confirmed, the superintendent said.

Supt. Cook said she is reporting, as required, the cases to the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) and the Texas Education Agency (TEA).

As reported earlier, FISD will not release the names of the infected individuals or details that may identify them, due to privacy requirements.

Those notified were also asked that anyone who is lab-confirmed for COVID-19 to notify the school office at (903) 876-2556.

Nov. 12, 2020

Coffee City Council confirms

vote results of Nov. 3 election

The Coffee City Council Thursday, Nov. 12 canvassed and confirmed the results of the City Election held on Tuesday, Nov. 3.

The unanimous decision of the Council came after the results were examined and read for Council members during the meeting.

Mayor Pro Tem Phillip Rutledge read the results, which were as follows:

In the Mayor’s election, Frank Serrato received 130 votes and Edward McDaniel 106. Rutledge said there were 28 under votes, he explained as being where a voter chooses not to cast a vote in that category.

In the Alderman Place One election, Chuck Jones received 144 votes and GeoJan Wright had 68 votes with 52 under votes.

For Alderman Place Three, Kevin Swanson had 118 votes and Don Weaver 103 with 43 under votes.

In the Alderman Place Five election, Ray Ver Hey ran unopposed and had 184 votes with 80 under votes.

The mayor pro tem had said at the Nov. 9 regular Council meeting that he had learned that there probably would be changes in the final count since there were several provisional ballots to be counted at that time. Some slight changes were apparent in the vote totals submitted for canvassing.

Mayor Pro Tem Rutledge informed the Council at the beginning of the meeting that paperwork for a recount for the Mayor’s position had been filed, and the administrative officer for the recount would be Denise Hernandez with the Henderson County Elections office. Rutledge said that the Council will take action and confirm the results.

The Mayor Pro Tem said that a total of 264 people voted in the city election.

After the voting results were read, Rutledge said he was present when the election was underway and that Henderson County provided a trooper for security. He stated that the election personnel “did an excellent job”.

Nov. 11, 2020

Two more FISD students confirmed

to be positive with COVID-19 virus

Two more students at Frankston Schools were lab-confirmed Nov. 11 to have the COVID-19 virus and were determined to have been on campus on Friday, Nov. 6, according to Supt. Nicci Cook.

The superintendent said that the cases were unrelated and still believed to be the result of community spread.

She said the latest infections mean that 10 students and one staff member have been confirmed as infected since August.

She emphasized that, as far as is known, no students, so far, have been determined to have been infected while at school.

Supt. Cook said the notifications stated that the local health department has been advised of the cases and is in the process of conducting prescribed contact tracing. The same procedure involving quarantine of those coming in close contact with the infected individual is being followed and a number of students had to be quarantined, she said.

The notification contained the same warnings, assurances and information about symptoms stated in previous reports concerning the other cases confirmed, the superintendent said.

Supt. Cook said she is reporting, as required, the cases to the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) and the Texas Education Agency (TEA).

As reported earlier, FISD will not release the names of the infected individuals or details that may identify them, due to privacy requirements.

Those notified were also asked that anyone who is lab-confirmed for COVID-19 to notify the school office at (903) 876-2556.

Nov. 10, 2020

Most area cities post sales

tax allocation increases

The Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts reported city sales tax allocations for the November 2020 period showing gains for most area cities over the prior period last year.

Most area cities reported gains for the year-to-date over the prior year.

The City of Frankston received a net payment of $36,912.44 for November compared to a $29,130.56 payment a year ago. That’s a gain of 26.71 percent. The city has received year-to-date payments of $343,910.71 this year compared to last year’s YTD payment of $273,235.74, a gain of 25.86 percent.

The City of Berryville received a net payment of $2,018.10 for November compared to a $1,210.95 payment a year ago. That’s a gain of 66.65 percent. The city has received year-to-date payments of $21,995.89 this year compared to last year’s YTD payment of $16,836.56, a gain of 30.64 percent.

The City of Coffee City received a net payment of $19,200.51 for November compared to a $13,985.92 payment a year ago. That’s a gain of 37.28 percent. The city has received year-to-date payments of $224,888.40 this year compared to last year’s YTD payment of $186,840.12, a gain of 20.36 percent.

The City of Cuney received a net payment of $2,585.00 for November compared to a $1,972.52 payment a year ago. That’s a gain of 31.05 percent. The city has received year-to-date payments of $31,407.91 this year compared to last year’s YTD payment of $24,424.20, a gain of 28.59 percent.

The City of Poynor received a net payment of $1,458.16 for November compared to a $1,479.29 payment a year ago. That’s down 1.42 percent. The city has received year-to-date payments of $12,992.36 this year compared to last year’s YTD payment of $13,743.29, down 5.46 percent.

Nov. 9, 2020

Coffee City Council extends service

of current auditor for 2020-21 year

The Coffee City Council on Monday, Nov. 9 approved DKG CPA as the city’s auditor and extended his services for the 2020-21 fiscal year.

The action was taken by unanimous vote and followed an earlier report on the 2019 city audit by David Godwin of the firm.

Godwin said the audit went well and he singled out the Municipal Court for having the best audit of any municipal court he has audited.

The remainder of the meeting consisted mostly of reports by the Mayor Pro Tem, Economic Develop Corp. president, municipal court judge, police and fire departments.

Mayor Pro Tem Phillip Rutledge called the Council’s attention to the Nov. 12 special meeting set to canvass the votes in the Nov. 3 City Election. He said he had learned that there probably would be changes in the final count since there were several provisional ballots to be counted.

Rutledge noted that this was his last regular council meeting and he thanked the staff and everyone who has been on the council for his eight years, saying he would still be around to help in any way.

In his EDC report, President Jim Beggerly, after a status request from Rutledge, reported that the Lake Palestine Business Center had been sold; the buyer is currently making repairs and has a business plan for its use.

The EDC president thanked the auditor for his assistance and the EDC sees areas where they could improve.

“We see a couple of areas where we have to change a little and a couple of areas where we have to make ourselves more transparent in what we are doing,” Beggerly said.

Municipal Judge Shellena Bivens said there were 193 new cases in October. Of those, 24 were dismissed after completion of driver’s safety; 13 were satisfied by deferred disposition, one after proof of insurance, three miscellaneous dismissals, one satisfied after community service, two by community service, one by jail credit, and four by indigency. She said total fines collected for October was $26,658.

Police Chief Brian Myers said that the new “Citizen Self Reporting” module is now live. (There is a link on the city website). He outlined the various incidents which citizens can report, using the feature.

For the fire department, Lt. Walter Kern reported that in October, the department responded to four building fires, five grass fires, 13 medical calls, two rubbish fires, three boat calls, one illegal burn, one MVA and one police assist.

Nov. 9, 2020

Eighth FISD student confirmed

with COVID-19 virus infection

An eighth Frankston School student has been confirmed to have been infected with the COVID-19 virus over the weekend, according to Supt. Nicci Cook.

The student was last on campus on Nov. 6, the. superintendent said.

She said the latest infection means that eight students and one staff member have been confirmed as infected since August.

She emphasized that, as far as is known, no students, so far, have been determined to have been infected while at school, a credit to the teachers and staff who have worked hard to enforce rules to mitigate spread of the virus.

While FISD staff is diligently enforcing health protection guidelines of social distancing and wearing of face coverings to mitigate COVID-19 spread at school, Supt. Cook urged community members to increase their efforts to wear masks and observe prescribed social distancing to avoid further community spread to students or staff as well as others at risk.

The superintendent said that, in keeping with Frankston ISD practices to respond to COVID-19, an email was sent to all student families and staff members on the affected campus, notifying them that a student was lab-confirmed to have COVID-19.

Supt. Cook said the notification stated that the local health department has been advised of the case and is in the process of conducting prescribed contact tracing. The same procedure involving quarantine of those coming in close contact with the infected individual is being followed, she said.

The notification contained the same warnings, assurances and information about symptoms stated in previous reports concerning the other cases confirmed, including the one confirmed in early September, the superintendent said.

Supt. Cook said she is reporting, as required, the cases to the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) and the Texas Education Agency (TEA).

As reported earlier, FISD will not release the names of the infected individuals or details that may identify them, due to privacy requirements.

The notification, as before, further cautioned that if anyone does begin experiencing any of the symptoms, widely listed, in a way that is not typical, they are encouraged to contact their physician.

Those notified were also asked that anyone who is lab-confirmed for COVID-19 to notify the school office at (903) 876-2556.

Nov. 7, 2020

Biden, Harris declared as U.S. winners

while area voters favor Trump, Pence

The Democratic Party candidates Joe Biden and Kamala Harris have been declared as winners of President-elect and Vice President-elect of the United States Saturday, Nov. 7 in the General Election on Tuesday, Nov. 3, based on latest results.

Nevertheless, voters in the Frankston and Anderson and Henderson County areas favored President Donald Trump and Vice President Michael Pence to return for a second term. The Republican ticket also was favored in Texas unofficial results.

The Biden/Harris ticket was declared as winner after voting results in Pennsylvania allowed a declaration that the Democratic candidates had won the state’s 20 electoral votes, giving them 273 Electoral College votes, 270 needed to win. Nevada later declared with six more electoral votes, total of 279. On Nov. 12, the Biden/Harris ticket was projected as winning Arizona and its 11 electoral votes to raise the total to 290. On Nov. 13, the Democratic candidates have been projected as apparent winners in Georgia, pending any recount results. That would raise the electoral vote to 306, if sustained.

Meanwhile, in the local area unofficial results in the Presidential race, the Trump/Pence ticket outpolled the Biden/Harris ticket 15,062 to 3,934 in Anderson County and 28,816 to 7,048 in Henderson County.

Incumbent U. S. Sen. John Cornyn led challenger M.J. Hegar 14,897 to 3,773 in Anderson County and 28,625 to 6,660 in Henderson County.

Latest results nationally were giving the Democratic ticket of Joe Biden and Kamala Harris the lead in the national popular vote as counting of votes continued in several states.

In the race for U.S. Senate control, so far, Democrats in Colorado and Arizona have been declared winners over their Republican opponents. The Democrats required a gain of four to equal the number of Senate Republicans. Two Senate races in Georgia had results which appear to require runoff elections in early January, which possibly could provide the two additional Democratic seats in the Senate, analysts observe. Georgia is one of the states in which the Biden/Harris ticket narrowly leads. If the Senate elections ended split 50-50, a tie could be broken with a vote by the vice-president, who presides over the Senate.

Locally, unofficial results in district, county and state races are reported below. Included in those results are those of the city election in Coffee City and results in LaPoynor, Neches and Brownsboro school trustee voting in the area.

Nov. 5, 2020

Some 70% of home learners choose

return to FISD classroom learning

At the October meeting, Frankston ISD trustees okayed suspending remote learning and invited the remote learners to return to in-person learning on campus, as of Nov. 2, if they do not choose alternative learning environments.

On Thursday, Nov. 5, Supt. Nicci Cook reported that, out of 75 students doing home learning, 53 have returned for on-campus learning at Frankston Schools, or 70.7 per cent. She said 22 students withdrew from FISD to seek learning at other school districts or through home schooling.

After the board action, Supt. Cook wrote, in part, in a letter to Frankston ISD families:

“We are moving in a direction that we feel is best for all Frankston ISD students and staff.”

In the letter, the superintendent noted that the board discussed “the impact that remote/online instruction has made on its students and teachers.”

She said the discussions “revealed the concept of remote/online instruction has not been successful for the majority of our home learning students, and the added burden of a full-scale dual instructional system on our teachers is unsustainable.

“We believe it is time for all FISD students to return for in-person, on-campus instruction for the success of all students,” Supt. Cook wrote in the letter.

She noted that “the district’s health and safety measures are working. . .None of the (COVID-19) cases are confirmed to have originated within the district.” So far, that has been sustained, reports indicate.

Nov. 5, 2020

Seventh student confirmed with COVID-19

infection, believed by community spread

Another student at Frankston Schools has been confirmed as being infected with the COVID-19 virus, believed to be infected by community spread, according to a Thursday, Nov. 5 report by Supt. Nicci Cook.

The superintendent said the student was last on campus on Monday, Nov. 2.

She said that brings the total number of students infected to seven. Also, earlier this week a staff member was confirmed to be infected by the virus, Supt. Cook said.

She emphasized that, as far as is known, no students, so far, have been determined to have been infected while at school.

The notification contained the same warnings, assurances and information about symptoms stated in previous reports concerning the other cases confirmed as well as the one confirmed in early September, the superintendent said.

Supt. Cook said she is reporting, as required, the cases to the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) and the Texas Education Agency (TEA).

As reported earlier, FISD will not release the names of the infected individuals or details that may identify them, due to privacy requirements.

Those families and staff members receiving the notification received the following assurance:

“While we do not have reason to believe that those who were not in close contact with the infected individual have reason to be concerned, we ask that you, as always, to watch for symptoms of COVID-19.” Symptoms were then listed, as in earlier emails, which might “indicate a possible COVID-19 infection.”

The notification, as before, further cautioned that if anyone does begin experiencing any of the symptoms in a way that is not typical, they are encouraged to contact their physician.

Those notified were also asked that anyone who is lab-confirmed for COVID-19 to notify the school office at (903) 876-2556.

Nov. 3, 2020

First FISD staff member confirmed COVID-19

infection; no student contact, officials believe

Frankston Schools Tuesday, Nov. 3 has had the first staff member to be tested positive for COVID-19 who was on campus Monday, Nov. 2 but had no contact with students, according to Supt. Nicci Cook.

Supt. Cook emphasized that, as far as is known, no students, so far, have been determined to have been infected while at school. The new staff case brings the total since school opening to six students and one staff member, she said.

Supt. Cook said she is reporting, as required, the cases to the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) and the Texas Education Agency (TEA).

As reported earlier, FISD will not release the names of the infected individuals or details that may identify them, due to privacy requirements.

Those families and staff members receiving the notification received the following assurance:

“While we do not have reason to believe that those who were not in close contact with the infected individual have reason to be concerned, we ask that you, as always, to watch for symptoms of COVID-19.” Symptoms were then listed which might “indicate a possible COVID-19 infection.”

— Temperature of 100.0 degrees Fahrenheit or higher when taken by mouth;

— Sore throat

— New uncontrolled cough that causes difficulty breathing (or, for students with a chronic allergic/asthmatic cough, a change in their cough from baseline)

— Diarrhea, vomiting, or abdominal pain or . . ..

— New onset of severe headache, especially with a fever.”

The notifications further cautioned that if anyone does begin experiencing any of these symptoms in a way that is not typical, they are encouraged to contact their physician.

Those notified were also asked that anyone who is lab-confirmed for COVID-19 to notify the school office at (903) 876-2556.

While FISD staff is diligently enforcing health protection guidelines of social distancing and wearing of face coverings to mitigate COVID-19 spread at school, Supt. Cook urged community members to be as cautious to avoid community spread to students or staff as well as others at risk.

Oct. 19, 2020

FISD board votes to suspend

home learning, starting Nov. 2

Frankston ISD Board of Trustees present Monday night, Oct. 19 voted 5-0 to suspend home learning, beginning Nov. 2, the start of the third six weeks grading period, according to a report by Supt. Nicci Cook.

Supt. Cook said, in part, in a letter to Frankston ISD families:

“We are moving in a direction that we feel is best for all Frankston ISD students and staff.”

She said in the letter, “. . . the District’s health and safety measures are working. Since the beginning of school, FISD has had six confirmed cases, 6 students and 0 staff members, which is a rate of about 0.6%. None of the cases are confirmed to have originated within the district.”

In the letter, the superintendent further noted that the board discussed “the impact that remote/online instruction has made on its students and teachers.”

“We believe it is time for all FISD students to return for in-person, on-campus instruction for the success of all students,” Supt. Cook wrote in the letter.

“All FISD students are to return to school as soon as possible, or at the latest by Monday, Nov. 2, 2020. . . This grace period has been established to allow parents of students affected by this decision time to evaluate educational options and determine what is best for their students,” the superintendent wrote. A partial list of options was suggested.

“Should you choose to pursue alternative means of education for your child, we wish you success beyond measure,” Supt. Cook said to parents of remote learners in the letter.

According to the current enrollment report, the vast majority of FISD students have been choosing in-person, on-campus instruction with only nine percent choosing remote learning.

“For students who have a medical attestation, test positive for COVID-19, or have to quarantine because of the virus, a remote learning option will be available (at FISD) during that specified timeframe,” the letter informs. The parents are urged to contact their students’ campus principal for more details.

The suspension was one of the items considered during the board’s regular meeting for October. Action on other items will be reported in the following article.

FISD trustees support Joe Reed

For HC Appraisal Board place

Frankston School Trustees Monday night, Oct. 19 gave their support to FISD trustee Joe Reed for Place 5 on the Henderson County Appraisal District Board of Directors in a 5-0 vote, according to a report from Supt. Nicci Cook.

Five members of the Board were present and two not present at the regular October meeting. Present were Bob Whitehurst, Junior Mascorro, Dustin Holladay, Ryan Bizzell and Brian Merritt. Not present were Tim Brumley and Joe Reed.

The trustees also approved 5-0 the Texas Education Agency Innovative Courses for Students in Grades 7-12 and the Courses for 7th and 8th Graders for High School Credit, both for the 2020-2021 School Year.

The TEA Innovative Courses featured Career and Technical Education which includes: General Employability Skills such as Career Development; and Principles of Exercise Science and Wellness such as Health Science. Other electives included Sports Medicine I under Health/Physical Education.

The high school credit courses for seventh and eighth graders include: Principles of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources; Principles of Art, Audio/Visual Technology and Communications; Principles of Construction; Band 1; Art 1; Theater Arts 1; Spanish 1; Algebra 1; Career Investigations (General Employability Skills); Professional Communications; and Touch Data Entry (Tech Applications).

In other agenda items, Principals gave enrollment reports.

High School Principal Edgar Rodriguez reported total enrollment of 226, with 63 in the ninth grade, 70 in the 10th, 49 in the 11th and 44 in the 12th grade. He reported a total of 27 online learners with seven in the ninth grade, eight in the 10th, four in the 11th and eight in the 12th grade.

Middle School Principal Cindy Owens reported total enrollment of 201 with 72 in the sixth grade, 66 in the seventh and 63 in the eighth grade. She said a total of 12 were in Asynchronous Learning, four in the sixth grade, one in the seventh and seven in the eighth grade.

Elementary School Principal Melanie Blackwell reported total enrollment of 344 with 314 in-school and 30 virtual learners.

Oct. 19, 2020

Fifth, sixth student COVID-19 cases

at FISD due to ‘community spread’

Two more student cases of lab-confirmed COVID-19 infection have been detected at Frankston Schools and determined to have been contracted due to community spread, Supt. Nicci Cook reported in an update Monday, Oct. 19.

She said one of the cases was discovered late Friday afternoon, Oct. 16 in a student who was last on campus Wednesday, Oct. 14. The other infection was discovered over the weekend and was a student last on campus on Thursday, Oct. 15, the superintendent said. She described the two students as siblings.

Earlier a student case was confirmed on Thursday, Oct. 8 after two students were confirmed on Tuesday, Oct. 6 to be infected with the virus and the last days they were on campus were Oct. 2 and Oct. 5, respectively, the superintendent said. Another student lab-confirmed to be infected with COVID-19 was last present on campus on Oct. 7, she said. In an earlier report, a case was also confirmed in early September.

Supt. Cook emphasized that, as far as is known, no students, so far, have been determined to have been infected while at school. The two new cases bring the total since school opening to six, she said.

The superintendent said that, in keeping with Frankston ISD practices to respond to COVID-19, separate emails were sent to all student families and staff members on the affected campuses, notifying them that students lab-confirmed to have COVID-19 were present on the aforementioned dates.

Supt. Cook said the notifications stated that the local health department has been advised of the cases and is in the process of conducting prescribed contact tracing. The same procedure involving quarantine of those coming in contact with the infected individuals is being followed, she said.

The notifications contained the same warnings, assurances and information about symptoms stated in previous reports concerning the other cases confirmed as well as the one confirmed in early September, the superintendent said.

Supt. Cook said she is reporting, as required, the cases to the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) and the Texas Education Agency (TEA).

As reported earlier, FISD will not release the names of the infected individuals or details that may identify them, due to privacy requirements.

Those families and staff members receiving the notifications received the following assurance:

“While we do not have reason to believe that those who were not in close contact with the infected individual(s) have reason to be concerned, we ask that you, as always, to watch for symptoms of COVID-19.” Symptoms were then listed which might “indicate a possible COVID-19 infection.”

— Temperature of 100.0 degrees Fahrenheit or higher when taken by mouth;

— Sore throat

— New uncontrolled cough that causes difficulty breathing (or, for students with a chronic allergic/asthmatic cough, a change in their cough from baseline)

— Diarrhea, vomiting, or abdominal pain or . . ..

— New onset of severe headache, especially with a fever.”

The notifications further cautioned that if anyone does begin experiencing any of these symptoms in a way that is not typical, they are encouraged to contact their physician.

Those notified were also asked that anyone who is lab-confirmed for COVID-19 to notify the school office at (903) 876-2556.

While FISD staff is diligently enforcing health protection guidelines of social distancing and wearing of face coverings to mitigate COVID-19 spread at school, Supt. Cook urged community members to be as cautious to avoid community spread to students as well as others at risk.

Oct. 13, 2020

Coffee City Council hears of police

chief resignation, LPBC sale status

Coffee City Council members Tuesday, Oct. 13 learned that the recently employed police chief had submitted his resignation and that the Lake Palestine Business Center was currently under contract to be sold, according to a report from City Secretary Doug Davis.

Mayor Pro Tem Phillip Rutledge announced that Police Chief Bryan Miers had submitted his resignation because he had an offer he could not turn down. Rutledge said the city is back in the position of looking for a new police chief. He said that Chief Miers had suggested a candidate for the position and that he and Councilman Riley Standifer had spoken with that candidate. The Mayor Pro Tem said he would be calling a special Council meeting after the election to canvass the vote but he did not know for sure when that would be.

In regard to the sale of the LPBC, Ray Ver Hey, vice president of the Economic Development Council, said the EDC has discussed the LPBC at their meeting on Oct. 5 and said the center is currently under contract to be sold. The closing of the sale, planned for Oct. 9 had been expected on Oct. 16. He said that, after discussion, there were no changes to the EDC basic rules. Also discussed in open forum was the property on SH 155 and FM 3506 and that the property was back under contract again. Mayor Pro Tem Rutledge asked Ver Hey to inform the Council when the properties closed.

In the matter of the police chief resignation, Chief Miers commented prior to presenting the police report.

He thanked the Council and citizenry of Coffee City for giving him the opportunity to work at Coffee City and he apologized for leaving. He said the opportunity presented to him was something he had to take advantage of and that leaving after such a short time was not in his nature.

Mayor Pro Tem Rutledge said that Chief Miers had offered and received approval from his future boss to be given time to spend with the new police chief who will take over his duties in Coffee City.

In his earlier report, Rutledge had reported that the new police software called CopSync, approved for purchase at the last Council meeting, was running within two days of purchase. He said the city is currently waiting for reimbursement from the state. Both the police chief and City Judge Shellena Bivens reported on the uses of the software in facilitating their duties.

The Council also heard a report from Fire Chief Chris Moore and detailed reports from the police chief and city judge on their activities during September.

Oct. 1, 2020

Most area cities post sales

tax allocation increases

The Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts reported city sales tax allocations for the October 2020 period showing gains for most area cities over the prior period last year.

Most area cities reported gains for the year-to-date over the prior year.

The City of Frankston received a net payment of $30,715.82 for October compared to a $24,005.45 payment a year ago. That’s a gain of 27.95 percent. The city has received year-to-date payments of $306,998.27 this year compared to last year’s YTD payment of $244,105.18, a gain of 25.76 percent.

The City of Berryville received a net payment of $1,956.52 for October compared to a $1,374.29 payment a year ago. That’s a gain of 42.36 percent. The city has received year-to-date payments of $19,977.79 this year compared to last year’s YTD payment of $15,625.61, a gain of 27.85 percent.

The City of Coffee City received a net payment of $20,030.47 for October compared to a $16,502.72 payment a year ago. That’s a gain of 21.37 percent. The city has received year-to-date payments of $205,687.89 this year compared to last year’s YTD payment of $172,854.20, a gain of 18.99 percent.

The City of Cuney received a net payment of $2,719.54 for October compared to a $2,307.67 payment a year ago. That’s a gain of 17.84 percent. The city has received year-to-date payments of $28,822.91 this year compared to last year’s YTD payment of $22,451.68, a gain of 28.37 percent.

The City of Poynor received a net payment of $1,014.04 for October compared to a $1,325.46 payment a year ago. That’s down 23.49 percent. The city has received year-to-date payments of $11,534.20 this year compared to last year’s YTD payment of $12,264.00, down 5.95 percent.

Sept. 28, 2020

LaPoynor ISD adopts 2020-21 budget

of $5,309,864, okays property tax rate

LaPoynor Independent School District trustees have approved a 2020-21 budget of $5,309,864 with an increase of 0.44 percent in Maintenance and Operation, a decrease of 2.72 percent in Debt Service and a 0.28 percent decrease in total expenditures, according to documents submitted by school officials.

The trustees approved a M&O tax rate of $0.966400 per $100 valuation and an Interest and Sinking Fund (debt service) rate of $0.275000 per $100 valuation, and a total rate of $1.241400.

The Interest and Sinking Fund tax revenue is used to pay for bonded indebtedness on construction, equipment or both. The bonds and the tax rate necessary to pay those bonds were approved by the district.

The tax will be assessed on a total property value of $214,073,242.

The LISD is expecting $2,082,864 in revenue from Local and Intermediate Sources, $3,182,000 in State Program Revenues and $45,000 in Federal Revenue.

The budget allocates $3,029,917 for Instruction, $88,477 for Instructional Resources and Media Services, $116,187 for Curriculum and Instructional Staff Development, $205,856 for School Leadership, $145,825 for Guidance, Counseling and Evaluation Services, $80,470 for Health Services, $182,332 for Student Transportation, and $194,125 for Curricular/Extracurricular Activities.

Also the budget expects expenditures of $290,730.48 for General Administration, $534,415 for Plant Maintenance and Operation, $65,000 for Security and Monitoring Services, and $283,960 for Data Processing Services, as well as other expenses of lesser amounts.

They expect to spend $10,100 on Facilities Acquisition and Construction.

The LISD reports total outstanding and unpaid bonded indebtedness of $6,310,000.

Maintenance and Operation Fund balance is listed as $3,583,164 and an Interest and Sinking Fund balance of $164,877.

(See the complete budget for 2020-2021 HERE )

Sept. 21, 2020

FISD trustees appoint auditors, nominate

Henderson County Appraisal director

Frankston School trustees Monday night, Sept. 21 appointed auditors and nominated a director to serve on the Henderson County Appraisal District board in their regular meeting.

The trustees voted, with no opposition, to employ Pattillo, Brown, and Hill, LLP as auditors for the year ending Aug. 31, 2020.

They also voted, with no opposition, to nominate Joe Reed as Place 5 director on the board of the Henderson County Appraisal District.

In reports to the board Supt. Nicci Cook and principals of elementary, middle and high schools reported their enrollments as of the meeting, among other matters.

Elementary School Principal Melanie Blackwell reported total elementary school enrollment of 343, with 313 in-person and 30 virtual learners.

Middle School Principal Cindy Owens reported a total enrollment of 197, 61 in the sixth grade, 66 in the seventh grade and 70 in the eighth grade. Of that total, 19 are virtual learners.

High School Principal Edgar Rodriguez reported total enrollment of 226 with 59 in the ninth grade, 72 in the 10th grade, 51 in the 11th grade and 44 in the 12th grade. He reported that, of the total, 28 are virtual learners.

In her report, Supt. Cook said total enrollment for all campuses is 766 with 689 in-person learners and 77 virtual learners.

Sept. 18, 2020

2020 Homecoming royalty crowned

at FHS in ceremony on Sept. 18

Seniors Melany Pizano and Brink Bizzell were crowned as 2020 Frankston High School Homecoming Queen and King in ceremonies Friday night, Sept. 18 prior to the football game between Frankston and Paris Chisum.

The Frankston Indians football team put on an exciting offensive show but lost to a talented Paris Chisum team 75-60. The two teams were tied at 14-14 after a quarter of play, but Chisum forged ahead to a 35-27 lead at halftime. A complete report of the game can be seen at Frankston Football 2020.

The traditional Homecoming ceremony, normally held on the field prior to the game, was changed to 6:45 p.m. in the Frankston High School gymnasium this year.

A format similar to other years was followed. However, this year, attendance was restricted to ticket holders, family and friends, to assure following social distancing and capacity guidelines consistent with COVID-19 mandates. Those attending were required to wear face coverings and temperatures were taken at the door.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

AT RIGHT, are 2020 FHS Homecoming Queen and King Melany Pizano and Brink Bizzell. — Citizen Photo

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The Homecoming Court presented was as follows:

Freshmen —Bandy Bizzell, Jasmine Fisher, Tripp Hallmark and Ryan Harper.

Sophomores — Lynsie Bizzell, Jaycee Nabors, Seth Gaskin and Henry Suggs.

Juniors — Haidyn Hokit, Grace Roark, Cullen Jones and Cael Bruno.

Seniors — Emily Bizzell, Kelsey Loebig, Melany Pizano, Callie Selman, Brink Bizzell, Jaden Evans, Tyler Fridinger and Kevin Tinsley.

The annual Parade and Square Fair, normally held on the Saturday following the Homecoming game, has been postponed, until further notice, due to risks involved relating to the COVID-19 pandemic, according to local sponsors

Sept. 15, 2020

Frankston Schools’ enrollment totals 757

with 662 in-person, 95 remote learners

Frankston Schools total enrollment was 757 as of Tuesday, Sept. 15, with 662 enrolled in in-person learning and 95 in remote learning, Supt. Nicci Cook has reported.

Supt. Cook said that there were 336 enrolled in elementary school, 197 in middle school and 224 in high school. She said there were 294 in-person learners and 42 remote learners in elementary school, 178 in-person and 19 remote in middle school and 190 in-person and 34 remote in high school.

The total enrollment reported on Sept. 8 was 772. That included 350 in elementary school, 197 in middle school and 225 in high school. At that time the number of home learners was not definite, the superintendent said.

Supt. Cook said there had not been any additional cases of COVID-19 after one case was confirmed by lab test during the week ending Sept. 4.

The local health department did a case investigation and contact tracing and those determined to have had contact with the infected individual were quarantined for the necessary 14 days and then returned to school, she said.

Sept. 14, 2020

Frankston EDC board okays funds

toward new fire department truck

The Frankston. Economic Development Corp. board voted unanimously in their September meeting to donate $22,000 to the Frankston Volunteer Fire Department to be applied to the city share of funds for purchase of a new fire truck, according to a report from City Secretary Kelli Landreth-Smith.

The 2020-21 budget of the City of Frankston had included a contingent $8,000 as part of the city’s share in the event the FVFD is successful in obtaining a grant to help purchase the truck.

In other action the EDC board discussed providing “sails” (shading)) for the Town Square City Park playground. The board decided to receive bids on the proposed project.

The board members discussed projects for the coming year and the budget, which is being prepared for consideration at the October meeting.

Sept. 14, 2020

Coffee City Council okays EDC sale

of Lake Palestine Business Center

The Coffee City Council Monday night, Sept. 14 voted unanimously to act on approving the Economic Development Corporation’s proposed sale of the Lake Palestine Business Center as discussed in a closed session and already approved by the EDC.

Councilman Don Weaver made the motion, seconded by Councilman Edward McDaniel.

The EDC has been in negotiations with a prospective buyer for the LPBC and a contract of sale is pending, according to Jim Beggerly, EDC president, in a later explanation after the meeting. He said it is hoped the transaction can be finalized soon.

The EDC acquired the property located on SH 155 near the motel some five years ago, Beggerly said. The aim was to lease the spaces in the center to private businesses with hopes of creating jobs and additional city sales tax revenue, he said. At their Sept. 2 regular meeting, the EDC board decided to recommend to the City Council the sale of the property, according to an EDC meeting report.

Earlier newly named Police Chief Bryan Miers was introduced to the Council and took the oath of office administered by notary Sandy Atteberry.

The new Chief later briefed the Council on a proposal to enter into a contract with CopSync (Kologik) to provide technology services to the police department. He told the Council that he had used the CopSync before, and it was a very good program. He also stated that several agencies around the area are also using the program and have no issues.

After some discussion, Councilman Weaver made a motion and Councilman McDaniel seconded to go with the CopSync program and it was passed unanimously.

In other matters, the Council acted on approving two new members to the EDC board, appointed by the EDC. The appointees are Micah Wolfe and Greg Malkoch. The Council voted unanimously to approve the appointments.

Mayor Pro Tem Phillip Rutledge announced that the National Night Out had been canceled. He also announced that the Fall Cleanup would be held in October.

The Council also heard reports by EDC President Jim Beggerly, Municipal Court Judge Shellena Bivens for the month of August, Police Chief Miers and the Fire Department report by Deputy Chief Bill Johnston.

For discussion and other details of the Council meeting, a video of the meeting is made available by the city .

Sept. 11, 2020

Most area cities post sales

tax allocation increases

The Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts reported city sales tax allocations for the September 2020 period showing gains for most area cities over the prior period last year.

Most area cities reported gains for the year-to-date over the prior year.

The City of Frankston received a net payment of $33,199.59 for September compared to a $25,443.37 payment a year ago. That’s a gain of 30.48 percent. The city has received year-to-date payments of $276,282.45 this year compared to last year’s YTD payment of $220,099.73, a gain of 25.52 percent.

The City of Berryville received a net payment of $2,285.75 for September compared to a $1,336.34 payment a year ago. That’s a gain of 71.04 percent. The city has received year-to-date payments of $18,021.27 this year compared to last year’s YTD payment of $14,251.32, a gain of 26.45 percent.

The City of Coffee City received a net payment of $22.475.03 for September compared to a $16,020,23 payment a year ago. That’s a gain of 40.29 percent. The city has received year-to-date payments of $185,657.42 this year compared to last year’s YTD payment of $156,351.48, a gain of 18.74 percent.

The City of Cuney received a net payment of $3,055.91 for September compared to a $2,195.10 payment a year ago. That’s a gain of 39.21 percent. The city has received year-to-date payments of $26,103.37 this year compared to last year’s YTD payment of $20,144.01, a gain of 29.58 percent.

The City of Poynor received a net payment of $1,084.62 for September compared to a $1,154.53 payment a year ago. That’s down 6.05 percent. The city has received year-to-date payments of $10,520.16 this year compared to last year’s YTD payment of $10,938.54, down 3.82 percent.

Sept. 8, 2020

Frankston adopts 2020-21 General Fund,

Water and Sewer budgets, city tax rate

The City of Frankston has adopted a General Fund budget and Water and Sewer budget for 2020-21 and set a property tax rate in action by the City Council Tuesday, Sept. 8, 2020, according to City Secretary Kelli Landreth-Smith.

The General Fund budget allocates a total of $932,735.86 and a Water and Sewer Fund budget of $558,277.56. The local property tax rate adopted is $0.384489 per $100 valuation, for maintenance and operation.

In the General Fund budget, $165,010.41 was allocated to City Hall, including $71,510.41 for payroll and $93,500 for expenses. The Police Department was allocated $529,651.41 with $390,186.85 projected for payroll and $139,464.56 for expenses. The Municipal Court allocation was projected to be $109,079.24 with $84,529.24 projected for payroll and $24,550 for expenses.

Additionally, $42,000 was allocated to the Fire Department, $16,000 to the Frankston Depot Library, $4,400 to the Kathleen Cook Fitzgerald Museum, $5,000 to city parks and a total of $61,594.80 to Streets. The latter allocates $29,194.80 for payroll and. $32,400 for expenses.

Allocations were increased for City Hall, Municipal Court, the library and Streets and decreased to the Police Department, the latter largely due to the purchase of a vehicle in the last fiscal year.

Part of the increase in City Hall was due to purchase of a copier, to be shared with the water department, and all departments shared in the cost of an IT service, according to the city secretary. The library received an additional $2,250 and proceeds of the sale of land, formerly designated as a street but never used, were added to the funds available for Streets, she said.

The allocation for the fire department, carried over from last year, is an amount which would be the city’s share if the FVFD receives a grant to purchase a new vehicle.

The Water and Sewer Fund budget projects a payroll of $305,277.56 and other expenses of $253,000.

According to a comparison with the year before, the General Fund budget increased by a net of $4,089.36 over 2019-2020. The Water and Sewer Fund budget allocation netted a decrease of $21,726.62 over 2019-2020, largely due to the purchase of a vehicle in the last fiscal year.

Sept. 8, 2020

Berryville Council hears reports;

August meeting actions reviewed

The Berryville City Council heard reports on Water and Field Operations and the Volunteer Fire Department in an abbreviated meeting on Tuesday, Sept. 8 at the City Hall, according to the agenda.

Financial reports for the past two months were also considered.

Details of any possible further major actions will be reported later.

The Council reviewed and approved the minutes of the Aug. 17 noon meeting which included a proposed zoning change and a replacement concrete foundation for the new Firehouse No. 1.

The regular meeting scheduled for earlier in August had been rescheduled.

The proposal for the zoning change pertained to a 7.01-acre tract in the Martin Pruitt A-643 Survey which Mayor Ron Hewlett said had been discussed in prior meetings, negotiated with the property owner and a public hearing held on July 15, 2020. He said a vote on the change was in order. Following a brief discussion, Councilman Lee Danner made a motion and Council member Gayla Leary seconded to leave the property as is. All Council members present voted in favor.

In the matter of the replacement concrete foundation for the new firehouse, Mayor Hewlett said the new foundation would cost $6,500. In answer to a question from Councilman Danner, the Mayor said the $6,500 would be paid from the Volunteer Fire Department account. Danner made a motion to proceed with the new slab and piers and Council member Leary seconded. All present voted in favor.

In the Water Field Operations report, Water Operator Ruben Servin told the Council, answering a question by Councilman Terry Stubbins, that the bearings went out on the dump trailer and he had to replace the axle.

At the August meeting Mayor Hewlett, Council members Leary, Danner and Terry Stubbins were present. Mayor Pro Tem Sue Morgan and Council member Bobbie Evans were absent, according to the minutes.

Sept. 2, 2020

Coffee City EDC nominates new board

members, recommends sale of LPBC

The Coffee City Economic Development Corporation considered appointment of two board members, support for a fishing tournament at the Lake Palestine Resort, and the proposed sale of the Lake Palestine Business Center (LPBC) at their regular meeting on Wednesday, Sept. 2, according to a report by Jim Beggerly, President.

The board also discussed the EDC’s new website, coffeecityedc.com and the new frankstoncitizen.com website.

The board nominated Micah Wolfe and Greg Malkoch as new board members to be recommended to the City Council for approval. They put on hold the fishing tournament support, pending further developments, and they voted to recommend to the Council the sale of the LPBC.

All five of the current members were present: President Beggerly, Vice President Ray Ver Hey, Treasurer Sandy Atteberry, and Directors Cynthia Swanson and Don Weaver. Also present were the EDC Secretary Jan Daughtry, City Council Mayor Pro Tem Phil Rutledge, GeoJan Wright and Ed McDaniel and EDC board candidates, as well as a potential buyer for the Lake Palestine Business Center (LPBC).

Coffee City EDC meetings are normally scheduled for the first Monday of the month at 6 p.m. at the Community Center. Next scheduled meeting is for Monday, Oct. 5. The public is invited.

Aug. 27, 2020

Coffee City Drawing for Nov. 3

ballot spots held on Aug. 27

The City of Coffee City held a drawing on Thursday, Aug. 27 for placement of names on the Nov. 3 General Election Ballot for candidates for mayor and three aldermen up for election, according to City Secretary Douglas Davis.

In the Mayor’s race, Frank Serrato will be first on the ballot and Edward McDaniel second.

Chuck Jones will be first and GeoJan Wright second in the race for Alderman Place 1.

For Alderman Place 3, Kevin Swanson will be first on the ballot and Don Weaver second.

Since Ray Ver Hey is unopposed, his name will be the only one for Alderman Place 5.

The candidates filed for ballot spots by the Aug. 17 deadline for candidate filing in the Nov. 3 election.

Aug. 24, 2020

FISD trustees approve 2020-21

budget, tax rate after hearing

Frankston School trustees Monday night, Aug. 24 approved a 2020-2021 budget of $9,274,378 and a combined maintenance and operation and interest and sinking fund tax rate of $1.3405 per $100 valuation, down from a rate of $1.4199 assessed last year.

The action came after a public hearing on the proposed budget and tax rate.

To fund the budget, trustees are expecting local revenues of $2,958,863 and state funds totaling $6,315,515. The decreased tax rate is partially made possible by increased taxable values totaling $9,836,621. Taxable value in 2020 rose to $285,142,483 compared to $275,305,862 in 2019.

The lower tax rate included a M&O rate of $1.0547 per $100 valuation compared to $1.0683 currently. The I&S rate approved is $0.2848 compared to $0.3516 currently.

The FISD annual bond payment is $918,520 and the adopted rate is projected to raise $757,202, with the balance coming from an existing debt allotment of $161,318.

Expenses in the budget include $7,058,614 for salaries, compared to $6,842,137 in 2019-2020. Instructional expenses budgeted are $5,312,983 compared to $5,120,446 the year before.

Extracurricular budget projected was $667,239 compared to $634,027 the prior year. Facilities expense is projected to be $1,327,726 compared to $1,427,720 in 2019-20.

Electricity Ideal Impact expense is projected to be $136,206 compared to $154,221 for the year before. SB22: Statutorily Required Public Notices are projected to be $4,000 and HB 1495: Advocacy Spending is expected to be $2,100.

Although questions were invited from those in the public attending the hearing, school officials have indicated they will be glad to answer any specific questions about the budget or tax rates.

Aug. 21, 2020

Races for Mayor, two Council

Places in Coffee City filings

Races for Mayor and two of three places on the Coffee City Council developed at the close of filings on Aug. 17 for places on the Nov. 3 General Election ballot, according to Douglas Davis, city secretary.

Meanwhile, a vacancy was created in the office of Mayor when GeoJan Wright resigned on Tuesday, Aug. 11, Davis reported. He said Mayor Pro Tem Phillip Rutledge will assume the day to day operations of the city until a new Mayor is selected in the Nov. 3 election.

Ms Wright had been serving as Mayor after being appointed by the Council upon the resignation of Pam Drost in April 2019. Ms Wright had been serving as Place 1 Council member and had been appointed Mayor Pro Tem the month before, according to a report in the April 11, 2019 issue of The Frankston Citizen.

Filing for Mayor were Edward McDaniel and Frank Serrato. Seeking Council Place 1 will be Chuck Jones and GeoJan Wright, the former mayor. Seeking Place 3 will be Don Weaver and Kevin Swanson. Ray Ver Hey is unopposed on the ballot for the Place 5 spot.

Davis also announced that Bryan Miers was approved as Chief of the Coffee City Police Department. Miers was approved on Friday, Aug. 14 in a special meeting called to discuss the position of Police Chief. The Council approved Miers by a vote of four to one after returning from a closed session.

Davis said Chief Miers has extensive experience in law enforcement in and around the Henderson County area. He expressed welcome to Chief Miers to the department and to the City of Coffee City.

Aug. 14, 2020

FISD outlines programs

to aid student learning

Frankston ISD is off to a strong start for the 2020-2021 school year, according to school officials.

This year will be unique and challenging for FISD staff, students, and parents as they navigate this unprecedented educational journey, the officials state on their website. In an effort to accommodate on-campus students, home learners, and all the possibilities the year may bring, FISD has implemented several new technology programs. School officials describe them as follows:

ClassLink is the new online portal where students will access digital resources. Microsoft Teams is one of those resources and also the platform where teachers will communicate with students. Teams is where teachers will deliver instruction, class notes, recorded lessons, assignments, and meet with students remotely.

FISD has added a link to its website homepage called, Online Learning, where the most up-to-date information on the online programs will be provided for students to use. Helpful information is provided to assist students in using these new technology tools, school officials say. (See Online Learning link HERE .)

Aug. 13, 2020

LaPoynor ISD to follow executive order

by governor on COVID-19 protocol

In accordance with an executive order by Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, LaPoynor School officials have decided to make a serious effort to comply with all precautions necessary to assure the health and safety of students, teachers and staff upon the opening of “in-person” learning at school on Monday, Aug. 17.

The school board affirmed, in a special meeting of school trustees Monday, Aug. 10, that LISD will follow the governor’s mandate.

The governor’s order in July mandates face coverings for children 10 and older. Supt. James Young recommended that each person obtain a copy of the governor’s executive order and follow it. The board’s decision modifies earlier school opening information which caused staff and parents to ask whether masks would be optional.

The executive order states that “every person in Texas shall wear a face covering over the nose and mouth when inside a commercial entity or other building or space open to the public, or when in an outdoor public space, whenever it is not feasible to maintain six feet of social distancing from another person not in the same household.”

It was noted that the Texas Education Agency requires schools to follow the governor’s mandate.

In addition to use of masks and other health and safety measures, the superintendent said that temperatures will be screened.

Supt. Young said the district is committed to providing a learning and teaching environment which mitigates the risks of infection by the COVID-19 virus in the interests of students, parents and other school district patrons.

The superintendent said he would be happy to address any concerns parents have about the ever changing guidelines and procedures related to COVID-19 health and safety measures.

Aug. 13, 2020

Frankston Council okays U.S. 175

Project loan, water, sewer rate hikes

The Frankston City Council. Tuesday night, Aug. 11 approved obtaining a loan of $138,000 for their part of the upcoming project on U.S. 175 east and okayed a $1.00 water rate increase and an additional $1.00 sewer rate hike, effective Oct. 1, according to a report from City Secretary Kelli Landreth-Smth.

Both actions were approved unanimously by the Council. Present for the vote were Council members Roger McDonald, Alfonso Lang, Sharyn Harrison and Greg Main. Mayor Gerald Hall, presided.

In announcements during the meeting, it was reported that a Bulk Item pick-up has been scheduled for Sept. 22 and 23. Also announced was postponement of the annual Square Fair, until further notice, due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Council reviewed loan and payment options for the U.S. 175 project and agreed to take out a loan at Austin Bank with a term of 120 months. Estimated payment was $1,305 per month with a fixed rate of 2.5 percent for the first five years and an adjusted rate of Prime-.35 percent annually thereafter.

A proposal to raise the water and sewer rates, effective Oct. 1 was introduced and approved by the Council.

Michael Hatton updated the Council on recent repairs on Garrison Street which involved replacing a collapsed culvert at the intersection of Garrison and Garner streets. In another street repair report, it was revealed that oil sand had been ordered to start filling in potholes and work had already begun.

Councilmen Lang and Main expressed interest in considering an ordinance providing weight limits on side streets in hopes of preserving the streets. Councilman Lang also expressed concern about grass clippings in the street after citizens mow.

Among consent items approved were scheduled budget workshops on Aug. 18 and Aug. 25 by teleconference to determine allocations for various budget items.

Aug. 11, 2020

Action on proposed ordinances

eyed by Coffee City Council

The City Council of Coffee City Monday night, Aug. 10 voted to act upon an ordinance for weight limits/permits on city roads, but a motion to act on an ordinance for reduced speed limits on designated residential roads died for lack of a second.

The Council also tabled consideration of an Economic Development Corp. appointment of a new board member sending the appointment back to the EDC for further consideration.

The Council’s action came after some lengthy discussion of the advisability of the proposals led by Mayor GeoJan Wright with Aldermen Don Weaver, Riley Standifer, Marquis Castleberry and Edward McDaniel present.

Also considered by the Council were proposed personnel policy changes presented at the July 2020 Council meeting. The Council approved changes in the Compensatory time policy, Vacation/Sick time change to Personal Time Off, and the Holiday schedule for calendar year 2021.

Mayor Wright and City Secretary Douglas Davis reminded the Council that the last day to file for a place on the Nov. 3 General Election ballot is Monday, Aug. 17.

Up for election are Mayor, now held by Ms Wright; Place 1, now held by Edward McDaniel; Place 3, now held by Don Weaver, and Place 5, now held by Phil Rutledge. Weaver has filed for re-election and McDaniel has filed for Mayor.

For detailed discussion of these and other matters before the Council, a video of the meeting, posted by the Council, is available HERE .

Aug. 8, 2020

Area cities post gains

in sales tax allocations

The Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts reported city sales tax allocations for the July 2020 period showing gains for area cities over the prior period last year.

Most area cities reported gains for the year-to-date over the prior year.

The City of Frankston received a net payment of $34,192.09 for July compared to a $23,233.41 payment a year ago. That’s a gain of 47.16 percent. The city has received year-to-date payments of $205,604.21 this year compared to last year’s YTD payment of $168,031.19, a gain of 22.36 percent.

The City of Berryville received a net payment of $2,636.85 for July compared to a $2,076.41 payment a year ago. That’s a gain of 26.99 percent. The city has received year-to-date payments of $13,391.29 this year compared to last year’s YTD payment of $11,263.99, a gain of 18.88 percent.

The City of Coffee City received a net payment of $24,838.71 for July compared to a $17,447.39 payment a year ago. That’s a gain of 42.36 percent. The city has received year-to-date payments of $141,063.47 this year compared to last year’s YTD payment of $123,361.09, a gain of 14.35 percent.

The City of Cuney received a net payment of $3,577.17 for July compared to a $2,334.01 payment a year ago. That’s a gain of 53.26 percent. The city has received year-to-date payments of $20,014.84 this year compared to last year’s YTD payment of $15,684.95, a gain of 27.60 percent.

The City of Poynor received a net payment of $967.62 for July compared to a $961.62 payment a year ago. That’s a gain of 0.62 percent. The city has received year-to-date payments of $8,227.26 this year compared to last year’s YTD payment of $8,367.99, a slight loss of 1.68 percent.

Aug. 7, 2020

FISD lunch schedule emphasizes small groups

Frankston Independent School District, in order to comply with COVID-19 requirements, will be using a staggered lunchtime schedule to minimize the size of groups and risk to students.

Elementary school students will be eating their lunch in their classrooms according to a staggered schedule.

Middle school and high school students will be eating in small groups throughout the campus. Some will eat in classrooms, the library, the cafeteria or the gymnasium, but all will go through the cafeteria line to get their food, according to the plan.

The plan is designed to keep down the size of the groups eating at one time and facilitate social distancing.

Also related to health and safety, teachers and staff will be provided with masks and face shields for use throughout the day for protection from transmission of the virus, and students will be provided masks. If desired, acceptable protective gear may be supplied by staff, teachers or students for their personal use.

In addition, FISD will purchase school supplies for every student to start the school year, according to school officials.

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