The Independent School District 279 School Board approved a new contract for educational support professionals and officially named the district's new elementary school Aspen Ridge Elementary during its Sept. 23 meeting.

The board unanimously approved a two-year contract with Educational Support Professionals Local 7325, covering 776 employees across various positions from classrooms to transportation. The agreement includes starting wages of $20 per hour for Class 1 positions and $21 per hour for Class 2 positions, representing increases of 5% to 9% across the pay grid. The total financial investment amounts to $3.4 million over the two-year term.

Aspen Ridge Elementary School received its name following extensive community input through a thought exchange process that drew 1,298 participants who shared 483 suggestions and provided nearly 25,000 ratings. The name reflects the indigenous meaning of aspen as unity and protection, while "Ridge" acknowledges the school's location on elevated land and its distinction as the district's first two-story elementary building. The school, part of the Building a Better Future bond referendum projects, is expected to be fully enclosed by December and remains on schedule and budget.

The board also received positive fiscal year 2025 financial results from Director of Business Services Kelly Bonusa, showing the district finished with a combined revenue and expenditure variance of 1.45%, well within the 2% planning benchmark. General fund balance increased by $9.6 million, and the positive results reduced projected budget reductions from $14 million to $5 million through fiscal year 2030.

During public comment, parents and teachers raised concerns about overcrowded classrooms and declining test scores, with some elementary schools reporting 30 or more students per class. The board also approved a preliminary property tax levy at maximum authorization, with final certification scheduled for December 16 following a truth-in-taxation hearing.