Ashley Ankrom

The Work Session Meeting focused on several key discussions. The first involved Strategic Planning, where the Superintendent announced the recommendation for Operational Millage Referendum ballot language to be presented on March 10th, related to teacher salaries, security enhancements, and funding essential operations. The discussion also covered budget timelines, projected enrollment adjustments due to scholarship programs, and a plan to avoid layoffs while prioritizing employee compensation. The second major item addressed Health Insurance Cost Control Initiatives. The Board received an overview of current fully insured plans and explored the potential transition to a self-insured model, including the exploration of partnering with the Florida Educator Health Trust (FLEHT) to achieve cost stabilization and potential savings, with any savings potentially benefiting employee compensation starting in the 2027-2028 fiscal year. The final topic involved Florida Choice Scholarships, detailing the proposal for St. Lucie Public Schools to operate as a contracted provider for homeschool students accessing à la carte courses, with specific fee structures and operational logistics outlined.

This document provides an overview of Hibiscus Children's Center's current operations and strategic initiatives. The organization aims to serve abused, abandoned, and neglected children by fostering hope and providing opportunities for their future. Key strategic focus areas include implementing a 'social innovation strategy' by integrating private sector, non-profit, academic, and governmental strengths; launching a graphic design Impact Center to equip teenagers with job-ready technical skills and real-world experience through a five-module program and partnerships; expanding prevention programs like 'Supporting Families in Crisis' in St. Lucie County; and undertaking a major renovation of its Jensen Beach emergency shelter to create a therapeutic and home-like environment for children.

The meeting began with the Pledge of Allegiance and the Treasure Hunter Pledge, followed by a reminder regarding mandatory mask usage in the auditorium. A public hearing was held regarding the proposed adoption of job descriptions as rules, which was subsequently approved by the Board. Discussions during special orders of business included an update from the United Way of St. Lucie County on its partnership with St. Lucie Public Schools, focusing on initiatives like the 'Tools for School St. Lucie' teacher resource center and the new 'Community School Initiative' piloting at White City Elementary. The United Way also reported on the distribution of 10,000 books from the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation. Recognition was given to Publix for a substantial donation of gift cards. Furthermore, information was shared regarding Disability History and Awareness Weeks, highlighting the high graduation rate (91.6%) and positive post-school outcomes for students with disabilities. Several Star Awards were presented to staff members for outstanding service, including a team managing a COVID-related hotline, an ESE Data Specialist, and an economics teacher recognized for extensive volunteer service. Finally, recognition and appreciation were extended to John Gillette for 32 years of service as the head of the Facilities and Maintenance Department upon his retirement.

The meeting included a public hearing regarding the proposed adoption of final mill rates and the final budget for the 2025-2026 fiscal year. Key discussions covered the required local effort millage, discretionary operating millage, and capital improvement millage rates, noting an expected increase in annual taxes for homeowners. The board voted to approve these millage rates. Additionally, the board voted to adopt the final budget and several related resolutions. Later in the session, there was a public hearing to consider amendments to various school board policies, including those concerning employment of support staff, wireless communication devices, purchasing and contracting, procurement of federal grant funds, and school internal funds. All policy amendments were subsequently approved.

The board meeting commenced with the Pledge of Allegiance and the Kids at Hope pledge. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to presenting excellent news regarding graduation rates, noting that St. Lucy Public Schools are ranked 12th in the state for graduation in 2025, with an overall unrounded rate of 94.5%, a 0.2% increase from the previous year. Specific high schools achieved rates near or at 100%. The presentation detailed positive performance improvements across various student categories, including economically disadvantaged, students with disabilities, and English language learners, and highlighted that the gap between racial groups has closed over the last three years. The meeting also involved the presentation of the African-American History Month Proclamation for February 2026, recognizing a century of contributions. Furthermore, the board accepted a $5,000 donation from Surfers for Autism, in collaboration with St. Lucy Firefighters Benevolent and Lieutenant Adam Zakaro, designated for supplemental materials for teachers serving students with autism. Recognition was given to three students for receiving the monthly Lucy Leader Award for bus safety, and several staff members were honored as Star Recipients for their exemplary work, including recognizing excellence in planning the ESOL conference.