Barnwell County School District

The agenda included a report from the Superintendent regarding district updates and the facility plan. Business items featured the approval of the general fund budget for the upcoming school year, authorization for the FCCLA to attend a national leadership conference, and the first reading of policies regarding the admission of nonresident students. Additionally, the Board held an executive session to discuss personnel matters, student requests, and contractual agreements related to the facility plan.

The work session agenda includes an information sharing session regarding the local United Way, discussions concerning the district facility plan, review of the upcoming budget, and general district updates. The meeting also allows for an executive session to discuss contractual agreements and employee matters as needed.

The meeting included special recognition for retirees, a facility plan update, and an overview of district activities. The board conducted a first reading of the general fund budget for the upcoming school year, covering revenue projections, millage rates, salary increases, and staffing costs. Additionally, the board approved a Future Business Leaders of America student trip, the second reading of a student expulsion policy, and various student applications, while also authorizing the separation of an employee following an executive session.

This Reading Plan for Barnwell Elementary School outlines a comprehensive strategy to enhance reading proficiency for PreK-5th grade students. It details robust reading assessment and instruction aligned with the science of reading, structured literacy, and foundational skills, utilizing data from universal screeners and diagnostic tools for targeted interventions through a Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS). Key components include teacher training, parent engagement, and continuous monitoring of student achievement. The plan establishes SMART goals aimed at reducing the percentage of students not meeting reading proficiency standards and increasing overall grade-level reading, while also focusing on implementing and improving a workshop model for authentic reading and writing, and fostering student goal-setting.

The board discussed several items regarding the consolidation of the school district. Key topics included a review of the consolidation plan involving transition leadership, community input, personnel, financials, assets, facilities, technology, and instructional services. Additionally, the board held discussions on member compensation, reviewed a facility study proposal, and outlined future steps for the consolidation process, including cost estimation and coordination with the State Department of Education.