Eric Childers

The meeting commenced with the approval of the agenda, followed by an executive session to discuss personnel matters and contractual services. Following the return to open session, the Board approved an agreement for Interactive Video Learning and Assessment with EdPuzzle and another for Energy and Infrastructure Optimizations Contracting Services with Schneider Electric Building Americas, Inc., following an overview by a representative from Schneider Electric. The Board also approved the personnel report presented by the Director of Personnel and Student Services. Public comments were heard regarding a policy interpretation and the continuation of the JROTC program. The Superintendent provided updates on safety site assessments, the first Superintendent Student Advisory board meeting, the delayed release of report card information, and an upcoming data review meeting with i-Ready partners. Board members received certificates from the South Carolina School Boards Association Boardmanship Institute. Informational updates were also provided on student mapping, a new map developed with the County E-911 department, and summer facilities projects. The Board approved one overnight field trip request for the Union County High School marching band to visit Disney World. The Director of Finance presented the monthly budget report, and the Board requested clarification on the exact cost associated with the parking lot. The meeting concluded with adjournment.

The board meeting commenced with an invocation and pledge of allegiance, followed by the approval of the agenda. Key discussions included a motion to move into executive session to discuss personnel matters, contractual issues, and career readiness. Upon returning to open session, the board approved the minutes of a prior meeting held in November. The administration requested and the board approved the December 2025 personnel report. A motion was passed to approve superintendent's recommendation for holiday bonuses for all employees. The board also awarded the contract for food service kitchen equipment preventive maintenance and repair to JES Equipment Sales and Service, noting their competitive rate. The superintendent provided updates, highlighting a visit from State Superintendent Ellen Weaver to SS Middle School and praising the leadership skills demonstrated by the Superintendent Student Advisory Board. Additionally, the board accepted the superintendent's recommendation to extend the custodial contract with Bud Group for the 2026-2027 school year. Scheduling updates included dates for upcoming mini sessions on the cradle-to-career movement and reminders about holiday grocery distribution events.

The meeting included discussions and decisions regarding the agenda, board officer elections, and an executive session to address a complaint and personnel matters. Public comments were heard, including support for the Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps (JROTC) program and the need for two certified instructors to maintain its good standing.

The board meeting included discussions on personnel matters, contractual and optimization contracting services, and a presentation regarding interactive video learning and assessment with Edpuzzle. The board also discussed energy and infrastructure optimization contracting services with Schneider Electric Building Americas Incorporated. There was also a discussion regarding the JRTC program at Union County High School. The superintendent provided information on safety site assessments of school facilities and the superintendent's student advisory board meeting.

The Union County Board of School Trustees convened to discuss several key issues. The board approved the transfer of an activity bus to USC-Union for a STEM bus project. They also discussed the annual budget policy, specifically addressing the process for determining tax millage. Additionally, the board recognized students for their achievements on the Spring 2025 End of Course exams and the Spring 2025 Administration of SC READY. They approved the livestreaming of board meetings and policies related to breastfeeding mothers and unencumbered time for employees. The board also received an update on Readiness Grouping and approved overnight field trip requests.