Dantrail Brown

The meeting commenced with an invocation and the pledge of allegiance, followed by the approval of the agenda and the consent agenda. Key discussions centered on new business, including the approval of a recommended school calendar option for the upcoming year, which maintains existing break schedules. The board also approved the establishment of a pilot program for an alternate learning center for K-5 students facing severe disruptive behavior or emotional disorders. Furthermore, the director presented the first reading of three amended board policies concerning district records (removing fax references), emergency preparedness plans (fire drill frequency), and physical assault leave (extending coverage to all employees). The quarterly report on law enforcement incidents noted two non-credible threats during the second quarter. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to a legislative update highlighting several TSBA legislative agenda items, such as local control, criminalization of drone use near schools, clarification of student search policies, and notification requirements for credible threats. The board also agreed to schedule a special called meeting on Friday, January 23rd, to discuss the upcoming legislative session with state representatives. Finally, discussions touched upon funding for special education preschool students and a proposed state-funded bill to implement silent/panic alarm security systems across all public schools.

The meeting included discussions and updates on various topics. The agenda was adopted, followed by approval of the consent agenda, which included minutes and financial matters. Updates were provided on the strategic plan review, facility projects, and infrastructure needs, with a focus on completed and ongoing work orders. Legislative updates were presented, covering topics such as TWSAA legislation, oversight of Shelby County schools, undocumented students, voucher legislation, and school board election recall bills. The director of schools provided updates and comments, and the principal of Scottsdale Elementary School shared updates and expressed appreciation for staff support and the upcoming security enclosure project.

The Annual Plan for Beaver Elementary School focuses on improving PK-8 literacy, PK-8 mathematics, and PK-5 foundational skills by spring 2026. The plan emphasizes increasing expectations for all students, including those with disabilities, through the effective use of high-quality instructional materials, data-driven acceleration, and intervention opportunities. It also prioritizes enhanced communication and collaboration with parents, and differentiated support for underserved populations to improve instructional practice, student work, and overall student outcomes.

The meeting included discussions and approvals related to the 2025-2026 community service projects, the LEA compliance report, and the 2024-25 TISSA accountability report, detailing the use of funds to target strategic goals in ELA and math. An update was provided on the Scotts Hill Elementary enclosure project, including design considerations and a phased approach to construction. Additionally, a quarterly report on law enforcement reported incidents was presented, and updates were shared on facilities, including floor maintenance at elementary schools and air unit work at Lexington High School.

The meeting included the adoption of the agenda, approval of the consent agenda (minutes, financial reports, and field trips), and the election of officers (chairman, vice chairman, and TLN representative). The board also discussed and approved the first reading of the amended board policy 4.210 regarding credit recovery, which adjusts the score eligibility. The director of schools provided updates, including recognition of teachers receiving tenure and a report on TBOS accountability scores, highlighting the district's level four achievement and areas of focus for improvement in English language arts. There were also brief comments on facility improvements and a strategic planning process.