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5 Critical Updates Shaping Santa Fe ISD Texas In 2025: Achievement, Safety, And Leadership

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Santa Fe Independent School District (SFISD) in Texas is currently undergoing a period of significant positive change, with fresh updates for the 2025-2026 school year pointing toward stronger academic performance and enhanced campus safety. As of late 2025, the district, which serves the Santa Fe community in Galveston County, has solidified its position as a "B" rated district under the Texas Education Agency's (TEA) updated accountability system, a major achievement that reflects a dedicated focus on student success.

The district’s leadership and Board of Trustees have been proactive in implementing new policies and programs, from approving a critical new academic calendar to adopting state-of-the-art student safety protocols. This deep dive explores the most current and essential developments that are defining the educational landscape for SFISD's approximately 4,400 students across its five campuses.

Dr. Kevin M. Bott: Superintendent Biography and Leadership Profile

The strategic direction of Santa Fe ISD is guided by the Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Kevin M. Bott, Ed.D. His leadership has been instrumental in navigating the district’s recent challenges and successes, focusing on building community trust and fostering a positive learning culture. His professional background provides a foundation for the district's current emphasis on both academic achievement and comprehensive safety.

  • Current Role: Superintendent of Schools for Santa Fe Independent School District (SFISD).
  • Education: Holds an Ed.D. (Doctor of Education).
  • Previous Experience: Prior to joining SFISD, Dr. Bott served as the Assistant Superintendent for Lampasas ISD (LISD).
  • Early Career Recognition: Was recognized as a Teacher of the Year Nominee at Midway ISD in 2004.
  • Core Philosophy: Focused on building trust within the community and ensuring a safe, positive learning environment for all students and staff.

The 5 Most Critical Updates Defining SFISD in 2025–2026

The SFISD Board of Trustees has made several pivotal decisions throughout 2025 that directly impact the district's operations, finances, and educational programs. These updates showcase a commitment to modernizing policies and enhancing accountability across the board.

1. TEA "B" Rating and Academic Accountability Success

One of the most significant recent achievements is the district’s success in the Texas Education Agency (TEA) accountability ratings. Santa Fe ISD has proudly earned a “B” rating for both the 2024 and 2025 reporting years. This rating is a testament to the district’s improved performance under the TEA’s updated and often scrutinized system, highlighting significant academic improvements across its campuses.

2. Adoption of the 2025–2026 Academic Calendar

The official 2025–2026 Academic Calendar was approved during a December school board meeting. This calendar sets the schedule for all schools, including the start and end dates, holidays, and student/staff development days. The timely approval provides students, parents, and staff with clarity and allows for comprehensive planning for the upcoming school year.

3. Implementing New Concussion Management Protocols ("Natasha's Law")

In a major move to enhance student safety in athletics and physical education, the SFISD Trustees approved the district’s 2025–2026 concussion management protocol. This update is directly tied to new state requirements, often referred to as "Natasha's Law." The protocol emphasizes stringent guidelines for identifying, managing, and ensuring a safe return-to-play process for students who sustain a concussion.

4. Financial and Operational Streamlining

The Board has been focused on operational efficiency. In a measure aimed at streamlining the central office, the Board of Trustees voted unanimously to approve a resolution declaring a program change and the elimination of eight central-office positions. This financial and structural adjustment reflects a commitment to directing resources more effectively toward the classroom. Furthermore, the district received the prestigious ASBO Award for Excellence in Budget Presentation (Meritorious Budget Award) for the 2022-2023 fiscal year, underscoring its commitment to transparent and responsible financial management.

5. Revised Limited Open Enrollment Policy

In April 2025, the Board approved a revised policy concerning Limited Open Enrollment. This policy change enables the Superintendent to take additional steps regarding the enrollment of non-resident students, which can impact student population and resource allocation. This action is part of the district's ongoing effort to manage growth and maintain a quality educational environment.

Enhanced Safety and Security Initiatives for the 2025–2026 School Year

Safety remains a paramount concern and a top priority in the SFISD Board Goals for the 2025–2026 school year. The district has a multi-faceted approach to school security, constantly updating its strategies to ensure a secure and positive learning environment.

Comprehensive Safety Protocols

SFISD has adopted the Standard Response Protocol (SRP) from the I Love U Guys Foundation. This protocol provides a consistent, clear, and easy-to-understand method for students and staff to respond to various emergency situations, enhancing preparedness across all campuses.

Parents on Patrol (POPS) Program

To further reinforce campus security, the district actively utilizes the Parents on Patrol (POPS) program. This initiative involves dedicated volunteers who help reinforce and augment the existing campus safety and security measures. Training sessions for this program, held at the Cowan Education Center, are scheduled into early 2025, demonstrating the ongoing commitment to community involvement in school security.

Ongoing Memorial and Historical Context

While the focus is on current achievements and future goals, the district respectfully navigates its history. The process for establishing a permanent memorial in honor of the 2018 Santa Fe High School shooting victims is an ongoing discussion, with the Board having previously requested an outside review of safety policies and procedures to ensure the highest standards of security are maintained moving forward.

SFISD Campus Overview and Educational Entities

Santa Fe ISD operates as a 5-A district, serving a diverse student body across five main campuses. These schools are the core educational entities of the district, offering comprehensive programs from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade.

  • Santa Fe High School: Serves students in Grades 9–12.
  • Santa Fe Junior High: Serves students in Grades 6–8.
  • William F. Barnett Elementary School: Serves students in Pre-K–5.
  • Roy J. Wollam Elementary School: Serves students in Pre-K–5.
  • Dan J. Kubacak Elementary School: Serves students in Pre-K–5.

The current updates for Santa Fe ISD Texas reflect a district that is focused on academic excellence, fiscal responsibility, and, above all, the safety and well-being of its students. With new board goals and a "B" rating from the TEA, the 2025–2026 school year is set to be a period of continued growth and stability for the Galveston County community.

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