Carol Birkner

The meeting commenced with prayer and the pledge of allegiance. Key discussions focused on the superintendent's annual evaluation, leading to the approval of the evaluation results with high marks noted across several metrics. A motion was passed to increase the superintendent's salary by $5,000, effective January 1, 2026, separate from the performance bonus discussion. The board debated the criteria for the performance bonus, specifically regarding the superintendent meeting established objectives in areas like literacy, math, graduation rates, and CTE certifications, ultimately approving the full $10,000 bonus amount despite some objectives not being fully met according to the established metrics. Further discussion involved recognition for achieving the Platinum designation in the Healthy Schools Challenge, which involved district-wide participation. The meeting concluded with the approval of the agenda and previous meeting minutes, followed by announcements regarding upcoming legislative meetings and the end-of-semester schedule.

The meeting of the Washington County Board of Education included discussions on maintaining a positive school climate, supporting teachers, and addressing issues such as the lack of supplies and planning time. The board also discussed strengths and weaknesses within the system, the importance of effective communication, and championing public schools. Additionally, the board addressed problems related to bus routes and school start times, making adjustments to improve the situation for students and teachers.

The discussion centered on an agreement with TCI for the Jonesboro property, exploring various aspects such as commission structures, marketing strategies, and potential restrictions. Key points included the negotiation of broker commissions, the exclusion of the town of Jonesboro from the agreement, and considerations for future land use, such as potential restrictions against another school. The board also addressed the possibility of alcohol sales in restaurants on the property, the need for curb cuts, and the implications of a proposed rideway from Forest, including who would bear the cost.

The meeting addressed several key topics, including policy updates based on legislative action, paving of the bus garage parking lot, and engineering a structural study of the underlayment of the floor joist at Rescue Elementary School. Also discussed was the repair and replacement of electrical equipment and wiring for the football lights in both football fields.

The board discussed the consideration of a tenant supervisor job description, focusing on attendance and placement of students. The board also discussed and approved COVID-19 guidelines for the upcoming school year, addressing mask policies, sanitation measures, and protocols for symptomatic individuals. The discussion included the availability of a virtual option for grades 6-12 and the process for students to transition to virtual learning.