Don Hall

The Board of Education meeting covered several key administrative and recognition topics. Key items included a return from closed session and the approval of an HR report, the adoption of the agenda with modifications regarding training sessions, and the leading of the pledge of allegiance. Recognitions were presented for the North Carolina Beginning Teacher of the Year runner-up, success in the Battle of the Books competition for elementary and middle school teams, the implementation of the Choose Love movement and mental health initiatives at the high school level, and the success of the Pender County Special Olympics spring games. The superintendent provided updates on upcoming end-of-year assessments and congratulated district-wide staff award winners.

The Committee of the Whole meeting addressed financial planning, including gifts, budget reports, and fuel, electric, and attorney expenses. Strategic planning discussions covered several first-read policies regarding technology, integrity, and private therapy providers. Student services topics included an awareness celebration, a policy update, and an ITRE growth presentation. Operations matters focused on athletic field lighting and status updates for the K-8 school construction project. Additionally, the committee considered an action item regarding a bus driver incentive proposal.

The board meeting agenda focused on the review and decision-making regarding several school board policies, specifically Policy 4353 and Policy 4125. Financial and project management items for the J.H. Lea project were reviewed, including pay application #12 and a change order log. Additionally, the agenda covered discussions on personnel matters, RFP presentations, the selection of a project manager for the J.H. Lea project, and maintenance considerations for Pender High School.

The board meeting could not proceed due to a lack of a quorum and was subsequently rescheduled for a future date.

The meeting focused on the action agenda item regarding the implementation of a three-tier bus schedule.