Charlie Batchelor

The committee discussed and recommended bringing several resolutions to the full board for consideration, including support for local control of school calendars, urging the North Carolina General Assembly to pass a 2026 Appropriations Act, and a joint resolution with the Board of Commissioners regarding the funding of enhancement teachers. Additionally, the committee reviewed plans for the upcoming Legislators in Our Schools Week and received an update on advocacy publicity efforts.

This strategic plan outlines seven key goals focused on improving academic performance and school accountability. The primary objectives include increasing the number of schools meeting or exceeding growth, enhancing overall and subject-specific Grade Level Proficiency in reading and math, and elevating the district's state ranking for composite proficiency. Additionally, the plan aims to reduce the number of low-performing schools to ensure equitable educational outcomes across the district.

The committee conducted a closed session to consult with the Board of Education's attorney regarding attorney-client privilege and other statutory matters. Following the closed session, the committee discussed the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Sheriff's office, agreeing that the Sheriff's office and MCS staff will review associated data points over the next three months. A recommendation was made to remove the term "Temporary" from the Safety Committee name, and the committee will meet as needed going forward. Clarification was sought regarding the re-hiring of a retired officer for part-time duty, which the Attorney will investigate based on general statutes.

The committee discussed major capital projects, voting to recommend the replacement of the IT/PAR building to the full board, endorsing the use of lottery funds for this project. Regarding potential projects for the General Obligation Bond, the committee voted to recommend utilizing community engagement processes in March to inform the full board's decision in April concerning the inclusion of a proposed new high school. Furthermore, the committee recommended approval of Option 2 for the installation of artificial turf at Union Pines High School, allocating $663,100 from Fund 8 Restricted Revenue to cover the expense. An update was also provided on the Aberdeen Elementary Site concerning the assessment of impacts from pesticide dumps.

The meeting commenced with welcome remarks and acknowledgment of the success of the recent Career Expo. Key discussions focused on the Work-based Learning (WBL) pipeline, detailing the Career and Technical Education learning continuum and its opportunities for students, including a discussion on the future impact of Artificial Intelligence on workforce needs. Sandhills Community College presented on Apprenticeships NC and their role in facilitating apprenticeships for local businesses and students. An Employer Spotlight featured First Health, detailing their various initiatives to create pipeline opportunities such as the First Grade/Teddy Bear Fair, Eighth Grade Career Health Fair, job shadowing, and established apprenticeships. The meeting concluded with the presentation of the 1st CTE Business Advisory Council Partnership Spotlight Award to First Health for their investments in the future workforce.