KINGWOOD — The U.S. Army will be conducting a Civilian Infrastructure Assessment at Preston High School during the 2023-24 school year.
MSG Clint Bolyard, team logistical analyst and Gregory Holloway, Battalion commander LTC, proposed their team would complete the assessment. The service would be at no cost to the school district and would result in a written report that could assist in identifying safety, security, communications technology, utility and other infrastructure concerns at the school.
According to information provided, the assessment will arrive in civilian attire and conduct informal interviews with key personnel. No date was set for the assessment.
Also speaking to board members was Beth Currence, program director for Liebra. Currence is seeking a MOU and service agreement between the board and Liebra.
Currence said Liebra provides three services to empower girls. She said the listening groups listen with empathy and without judgment. She said the groups typically run eight to 10 weeks and can be in person or virtual.
“According to the CDC girls feel less confident and fitting in life than boys, with 47% having feelings of rejection or abandonment. We help them figure out their strengths,” she said.
Currence said the group also provides LovePacks for foster kids. The free LovePacks are drawstring backpacks filled with age-appropriate mental health books and resources, along with prevention materials and videos for kids at risk.
She said in collaboration with SHIELD Task Force, student body safety is presented to K-12. At the end of the assembly a counselor answers student questions. SHIELD Task Force focuses on child abuse and prevention efforts.
Preston Board of Education member Cross Kisner made a motion asking that a decision to provide a MOU and service agreement be tabled until the next meeting. He said he would like to have time to further look at the material provided. The motion passed 3-1, with only Lucas Tatham voting against it.
A discussion about pre-school enrollment was tabled until the next meeting. A request was made during the May 24 meeting for a pre-K position to be added at Kingwood Elementary School. It was indicated an additional program would provide program options for students due to transportation being available to the Kingwood Elementary from around the county.
