Cindy Bruner

The Lenoir County Board of Education held a regular meeting where they received a presentation from Metcon construction team regarding the E.B. Frink Middle School construction project. They also received an overview of Lenoir County Public Schools' workforce development program, and reviewed the AIG Plan for 2025-2028. Additionally, the board discussed child nutrition vendor information for the 2025-2026 school year and the financial report for May 2025. Approvals were granted for the CTE Local Application for Funding, 2025-2026 Exceptional Children's Contracts, and the Application for Federal Funding for the 2025-2026 school year. The board also approved the E.B. Frink Middle School contract, subject to a final review. They entered a closed session to discuss confidential personnel files, consult with the board's attorney, and consider matters relating to initial employment of an individual employee. Finally, the board approved the personnel report and addendum.

Lenoir County Public Schools aims to educate students for success in a changing world through partnerships with families and the community. The focus is on preparing graduates for careers or higher education, providing a safe and healthy learning environment, and offering opportunities for students to complete college work in high school. Educators will use data to inform instruction and provide quality, standards-aligned instruction with digital integration. Specific goals include reading proficiency by the end of second grade, kindergarten readiness, and smooth transitions between grade levels.

The special board meeting of the Lenoir County Board of Education was convened to receive a personnel audit presentation. The presentation covered staffing and funding ratios compared to other districts, and challenges for the upcoming fiscal years as defined by the House budget proposal and other funding factors. Recommendations were made to cut positions from At-Risk funds and non-instructional support, and not to replace resignations or retirements after school starts. Additional challenges discussed included decreases in funding for More at Four and Drivers Education.

The meeting included the election of officers, with Jon Sargeant elected as chair and Bruce Hill as vice chair. Discussions covered the consideration of moving to K-8 schools, including presentations on the rationale, theme-based schools, transportation costs, and potential scenarios. The board also discussed a new proposed mission, vision, and set of goals for the school district. Additionally, the board approved the use of additional local funds to increase the teacher supplement by $100 and the non-certified supplement by $50.

The meeting included announcements regarding the recognition of teachers who received Bright Ideas instructional mini-grants, the partnership between the University of North Carolina and elementary schools to encourage academic achievement, and the recognition of Lenoir County Early College High School for its graduation rate. The board reviewed the financial report and approved options selected by the Lenoir County Learning Academy staff. They also declared audio visual equipment and gym scoreboards as surplus for disposal. Additionally, the board discussed and approved policies related to automated external defibrillators and concussion and head injuries. Out-of-state school trips for Kinston High School seniors and Woodington Middle School sixth graders were also approved.