Copperas Cove ISD hires Berry & Clay as CMAR for Bond 2025

Copperas Cove ISD trustees unanimously approved hiring Berry & Clay Construction Managers as Construction Manager At Risk to oversee projects funded by Bond 2025, a decision trustees say will stretch voter-approved dollars and deliver safer, modern learning facilities.

The contract was approved during a Special Called Meeting of the CCISD Board of Trustees on January 21, 2026. District leaders cited Berry & Clay’s proposal as providing substantial savings to Copperas Cove taxpayers while ensuring quality work across future construction projects tied to the $154.5 million bond.

“Our goal with the recently-approved bond projects was to stretch these voter-approved dollars as far as possible in order to provide the greatest positive impact to CCISD students possible,” said Superintendent Dr. Brent Hawkins. “The proposal the trustees have approved will help us maximize the $154.5 million in renovations aimed at ensuring a modern learning environment for every Bulldawg, and we look forward to a great partnership with Berry & Clay.”

Trustees also completed the superintendent’s annual evaluation and approved an updated employment contract for Dr. Hawkins, extending his tenure through 2031. In his remarks, Dr. Hawkins framed the extension as a continuation of collaborative work with staff and the community. “It has been an enormous privilege to serve the students and staff in Copperas Cove ISD as their superintendent,” Dr. Hawkins said. “I appreciate the Board of Trustees for their work in aiding our mission and I look forward to continuing to work alongside our community to ensure our community’s schools continue as a beacon of pride.”

For residents, the selection of a Construction Manager At Risk means the district is aligning project oversight with its stated goal of cost efficiency and timely delivery. Bond 2025 funds are designated for renovations across the district intended to update facilities, improve safety, and support classroom environments for Copperas Cove students. The board’s unanimous approval signals institutional consensus, but also sets expectations for measurable savings and clear project timelines as work proceeds.

The Board of Trustees is next scheduled to hold its regular January meeting on Monday at 6 p.m. in the Board Room at the District Service & Training Center. Agendas are posted outside the CCISD Service & Training Center on South Main Street three business days before each meeting and are available online at CCISD.com/SchoolBoard. As the district moves from planning to construction, residents can monitor agendas and board meetings for project schedules, budget updates, and opportunities for public input.