Reporting By Gary Norman | Mineral Wells Area Notes
The Mineral Wells ISD Board of Trustees recognized student-athletes, approved new career-focused courses, accepted an $8,000 donation for the district’s drone program, and authorized the sale of the former Mineral Wells High School property during its July 13 meeting.
The meeting opened with a prayer led by Trustee Donna Henderson, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance and the district’s mission statement, read by Trustee Brandon Hans. No one spoke during the public comment period.
Student-Athletes Honored
The board recognized members of the Lady Rams softball and Rams baseball programs for their accomplishments during the 2026 season.
For softball, Rylan Tarver was recognized for being named to the Texas Girls Coaches Association All-State Team, while Kynlee Harkins earned honors from the Texas Sports Writers Association.
Baseball honors included Braxton May, who was selected First Team All-District in District 6-4A, and Brogan Sims, who was named Utility Player of the Year. Kord Henry was also recognized for earning multiple academic and athletic honors.
The board also recognized the coaching staff for its achievements. Head Baseball Coach Jacob Clay was named the 2026 Texas High School Coaches Association Region II Baseball Coach of the Year, while Assistant Coach Chasen Starnes earned Region II Softball Assistant Coach of the Year honors.
Student Support Program Reviewed
Director of Counseling and Assessment Amber Moore presented an update on the district’s Pregnancy Related Services/Compensatory Education Home Instruction Program.
The program provides educational support to pregnant and parenting students to help them remain on track for graduation. Moore reported that six students participated during the past school year and said the district plans to improve student identification and resource allocation moving forward.
Drone Program Receives $8,000 Donation
Trustees approved an approximately $8,000 donation from Moog Avionics to support the district’s drone program.
Career and Technical Education Director Deeann Hampton said the donation will replace funding previously provided through an expired grant, allowing students to continue competing in drone competitions. The funds will cover transportation costs and equipment needed to assemble drones at competitions.
Innovative Courses Approved
The board approved several innovative courses for the 2026-27 school year.
Executive Director of Accountability Natalie Griffin explained that the Texas Education Agency allows districts to offer innovative elective courses in emerging career fields that are not part of the standard Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills curriculum.
New courses will include:
- Kinesiology I
- Kinesiology II
- Principles of Exercise Science and Wellness
- Sports and Entertainment Marketing
Former High School Property to Be Listed for Sale
Trustees unanimously approved listing the former Mineral Wells High School property for sale.
Superintendent Dr. David Tarver told the board a local entrepreneur has expressed interest in redeveloping the fire-damaged property into a facility serving senior citizens while preserving the building’s remaining historic architecture.
“I am requesting that you all have me put this out for bid in the hopes that this idea has the opportunity to move forward,” Tarver said. “The planning that’s already gone into it and the investments that have already been made are highly encouraging, and I would love to see somebody do something with this property that would benefit the entire community.”
Board members expressed support for the proposal before unanimously approving the action.
Sunny Lee Recognized for Decade of Service
The meeting also marked the final board meeting for Trustee Sunny Lee after 10 years of service.
Tarver praised Lee’s long-standing commitment to the district.
“She’s irreplaceable,” Tarver said. “There’s not words to describe the job that she’s done for the district—from being a student here, to a teacher here, to raising children through the district, and serving as a board member. Her commitment to this community has been extraordinary.”
Other Business
The board also unanimously approved the 2026-27 student and employee handbooks and considered several summer calendar items before adjourning.