The Killeen Independent School District Purchasing Department has received a 2026 Award of Merit for Purchasing Operations from the Texas Association of School Business Officials (TASBO).
The award recognizes Texas school districts, open-enrollment charter schools and education service centers that demonstrate a commitment to professional standards in the acquisition of goods and services. TASBO established the award in 2009 to promote best practices in public purchasing.
“This award is a reflection of the work our team puts in every day to do things the right way,” said George Ybarra, Killeen ISD director of purchasing. “We take our responsibility to the community seriously, and we work hard to make sure every dollar is spent wisely and every process is handled with integrity.”
Killeen ISD Chief Financial Officer Kallen Vaden said the recognition highlights the district’s focus on strong systems and public trust.
“Our purchasing team keeps the district moving by making sure processes are consistent, compliant and transparent,” Vaden said. “They do important behind-the-scenes work that supports every campus and department, and this recognition is well deserved.”
Killeen ISD will be honored at an awards reception in February during the TASBO Annual Conference.