Janet Dale

The board discussed and approved several operational items, including a bid for a Distribution Firewall project, a contract extension with Chartwells Dining Services, and a Memorandum of Understanding between the University of Southern Mississippi and the district. Summer school for 2026 was authorized, and land management matters were addressed, specifically the award of agricultural leases and a rental adjustment. The superintendent provided updates on construction projects, academic testing, leadership camps, and initiatives for student clubs. Finally, revisions and updates to the district employee handbook were considered.

The board meeting agenda focused on the discussion of the 2016-2017 budget and the formal approval of the general agenda.

The board discussed and approved several items, including the settlement of JUUL litigation contingent upon the settlement proceeds falling within a specified range, the advertisement for bids regarding janitorial services and a new scoreboard for OGHS, and the acceptance of an RFP for a rapid response security system from Centegix, subject to an addendum and a four-year contract.

The board meeting primarily focused on the discussion of the fiscal year 2022 budget.

This Dropout Prevention Plan outlines strategies to achieve four overarching goals: decreasing the dropout rate, increasing attendance and reducing truancy, reducing discipline referrals and suspensions, and providing high-quality academic classes across all schools. Key initiatives include reducing K-2 retention rates, targeting at-risk subgroups for graduation support, fostering a safe and nurturing school culture through Professional Learning Communities, standards-aligned teaching, and Social Emotional Learning, and developing comprehensive dropout recovery plans for students aged 17-21, as well as clear transition protocols for students returning from juvenile detention centers.