Montgomery ISD met for their regularly scheduled monthly meeting on Tuesday, May 13, 2025. You can watch the video and read the recap below:
During the May school board meeting, the Montgomery ISD Board of
Trustees voted to authorize a one-time, $500 end-of-year recognition stipend for all
district employees. Eligible MISD team members will receive the additional
compensation in their June 5 paycheck.
The stipend is funded by revenue generated through Proposition A, approved by voters
in the November 2024 election, and reflects the district’s ongoing commitment to
retaining highly qualified teachers and support staff.
“I want to commend our MISD school board for this intentional act to financially support
our staff as we await clarity from the state on school funding and the outcome of the
current legislative session.” Superintendent Dr. Mark Ruffin said. “Just like the stipend
issued in December 2024, the board has continued to challenge our team to evaluate
our fiscal year budget to find a way to support our staff across the district. This stipend
reiterates the impact of Prop A and is a reflection of our deep appreciation for the hard
work and dedication of our employees over the past year. Our hope is that our staff
understands that Montgomery ISD remains firmly committed to investing in the people
who make our district great.”
In addition to providing stipends, Prop A funding has enabled MISD to hire four new
elementary teachers to reduce class sizes and add special education paraprofessionals
across the district to support student needs.
Bond Defeasance and Financial Stewardship
Trustees also approved paying down $2.5 million in outstanding bond principal, a move
to reduce long-term debt.
“Just like paying extra toward a mortgage or car loan, the district can make early
payments, when possible, to reduce our principal balance,” Dr. Ruffin said. “This $2.5
million defeasance is made without raising the I&S tax rate, which has remained steady
at $0.3743 per $100 valuation since 2019. Being good stewards of our finances is a top
priority. By paying down debt early, we’re saving taxpayers money on interest and
maintaining our focus on delivering high-quality education while being responsible
stewards of taxpayer dollars.”
Board Reorganization and New Trustees
During the meeting, Montgomery County Judge Wayne Mack administered the oaths of
office to newly elected Trustee Mark Keelen (Position 6) and re-elected Trustee Nate
Robb (Position 7).
Keelen fills the board seat vacated by Dr. Matt Fuller, who is retiring from board service
after six years, including three years as board president.
“I am incredibly honored for the opportunity to serve the school district as a trustee,”
Keelen said. “I look forward to working with fellow board members and hearing from
teachers, staff, parents, and community members as we work together to move MISD
forward. I’m excited to listen, learn, and contribute to keeping MISD the premier school
district in Texas.”
Robb, now serving his second term, added, "It’s an honor to continue serving this
incredible community. I’m confident our board will remain united in our commitment to
supporting students, empowering teachers and staff, and championing all the work that
goes into delivering the exceptional education our families expect and deserve."
Following the election, the board selected new officers to serve in leadership roles for
the coming year:
• Eddie Winn, Board President
• Laurie Turner, Board Vice President
• Lizzy Ivey, Board Secretary
“It is an honor to be selected by my colleagues as Board President,” Winn said. “I look
forward to working alongside my fellow trustees and Dr. Ruffin as we continue investing
in our people, supporting our students and staff, and building on the foundation that
makes Montgomery ISD both strong and great. Together, we remain committed to
serving our community and ensuring every student has access to the premier education
they deserve.”
New Executive Director of Teaching & Learning
The district also announced the appointment of Kristen Meeks as Executive Director of
Teaching & Learning.
Meeks brings experience from ESC Region 6, ESC Region 4, and Klein ISD, with
expertise in instructional leadership, data-driven practices, and curriculum
implementation.
“With a strong background in instructional leadership and a deep commitment to student
success, Kristen is exceptionally well-positioned to support our educators and campus
leaders, and to help elevate our teaching and learning team to the next level,” Dr. Ruffin
said. “She understands that meaningful instructional change happens through clarity,
collaboration, and a shared belief in the potential of every student. We are excited to
welcome her to the MISD team.”
Celebrating the Service of Dr. Matt Fuller
Dr. Ruffin recognized Dr. Matt Fuller for his dedicated service and leadership.
“Dr. Fuller has been a steady and passionate advocate for Montgomery ISD,” Ruffin
said. “His leadership during pivotal moments, from navigating the challenges of the
pandemic to helping shape our vision through the strategic plan and bond program, has
made a lasting impact on our district. What has always stood out most is Matt’s
unwavering support for our teachers, staff, students, and community. His heart for
people and his commitment to doing what’s best for our district has never wavered. We
are incredibly grateful for his years of dedicated service.”
Under Fuller’s leadership, MISD voters approved a $326.9 million bond in 2022 and
Proposition A in 2024. The district was named a state finalist in the H-E-B Excellence in
Education Awards twice and recognized as one of five Honor Boards by the Texas
Association of School Administrators in 2023.