After icy weather forced a delay, Copperas Cove ISD trustees reconvened this week and took major steps toward modernizing campuses across the district.

During Tuesday evening’s regular meeting—rescheduled from January—the Board of Trustees approved the sale of just over $79.5 million in bonds. This marks the first installment of the $154.5 million bond package overwhelmingly approved by voters in November. The bonds were sold at a true interest cost of approximately 4.12%, a rate that district leaders say will save taxpayers money over the life of the bond.

“Now that we’ve sold the first series of bonds, our district can begin the design phase of ensuring a modern learning environment for every student,” said Superintendent Dr. Brent Hawkins. “This lower interest rate on the first series will help us continue to serve as a good steward of our community’s taxpayer dollars, which we promised to do throughout this process and will continue to do moving forward.”

In addition to bond‑related actions, trustees approved several facility improvements outside of Bond 2025. These include:

A single‑ply roof system for Clements/Parsons Elementary School

Resurfacing and repairs to the track at Bulldawg Stadium

A contract with Schneider Electric to conduct an investment‑grade audit of the district’s energy usage

“The agreement with Schneider Electric will allow us to explore ways to reduce electrical costs in our district,” Dr. Hawkins said. “Energy usage typically accounts for the second‑highest expense in the district’s budget. By looking to make our facilities more energy‑efficient, it will allow us to stretch every dollar of revenue to provide the greatest opportunities for our students.”

Trustees also unanimously approved an early childhood education agreement that will allow CCISD to partner with nearby daycare centers. The goal is to enrich early learning and expand opportunities for future Bulldawgs. More details will be shared with the community as the partnership develops.

The meeting also included a financial update. Representatives from Singleton, Clark & Co. presented their audit of the district’s finances for Fiscal Year 2024–2025, delivering a clean audit that the board later approved.

The Board of Trustees will next meet for its regular February workshop on Feb. 9, followed by its regular meeting on Feb. 24. Both sessions will take place in the Board Room at the District Service & Training Center on South Main Street.

Agendas for all board meetings are posted outside the Service & Training Center three business days in advance and are available online at www.CCISD.com/SchoolBoard.