Jennifer Free

The board meeting primarily focused on personnel matters and the approval of school supplements for the 2022-2023 school year. Key agenda items included the approval of certified and non-certified personnel actions, such as resignations, employment recommendations, and changes in payroll status. Additionally, the board reviewed and approved salary supplements for various extracurricular positions, including coaching, band, and other athletic and academic roles across district facilities.

The board meeting included a donation presentation for the STEM bus, recognitions of student achievements, and celebrations for various schools, including Walter Jackson Elementary's National Blue Ribbon award. Financial statements for the prior fiscal year were presented and approved. The board handled personnel agenda items, including resignations, retirements, and new employment contracts. Additionally, the board approved graduation honor cords and stoles, reviewed school improvement plans (ACIPs), and passed a resolution to support the Morgan County Simplified Sellers Use Tax constitutional amendment. They also approved an MOU regarding a playground project, reviewed policy revisions, and appointed members to the AASB Delegate Assembly.

Key discussions included the annual election of a Board President and Vice President, with Michele King elected President and Peggy Baggett elected Vice President. The Morgan County Local Emergency Planning Committee presented new weather radios. The Board recognized achievements for various high school sports teams (Flag Football and Cross Country) and student success at the Trumbauer festival and One-Act Play festival. Professional staff recognitions included an A+ College Ready Award and selection to speak at a New Librarian Institute. An elementary art educator also received an award. The Board approved financial statements and bank reconciliations as of September 30, 2025, with the general fund showing expenditures exceeding revenues for the month. Certified and non-certified personnel actions, including retirements and employment changes, were presented. A new job description and salary schedule for a Certified Nursing Assistant position in the Special Education Department was approved to better assist students with daily tasks. A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Decatur Youth Symphony was approved to formalize ongoing collaboration and facility usage. A Placement Agreement with Western Governors University to host student interns, aimed at addressing teacher shortages, was approved. A renewal of the Dual Enrollment Agreement with UAB was noted. An update on construction projects included the completion of the Austin Jr. High M-Building 2025 renovation, status updates on Austin Tennis courts (60% complete), and preparation for the Austin High Visitor Side Bleacher Addition.

The key discussion topics included the recitation of the mission statement. The Board reviewed and approved the financial statements and bank reconciliations for May 31, 2025, noting the general fund's expenditure excess over revenues. The bid for the Child Nutrition Program (CNP) was reviewed, with the low bid from O.K. Produce approved. The certified and non-certified personnel agenda was approved, including recognition of two retirements and the introduction of new coaching staff. A Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for the "Teach in Bama" recruitment and retention program was approved. An update on construction projects across the district was provided, covering the Pre-K Center, Austin Tennis site work, AJHS Cafeteria Renovation (near completion), DMS Auditorium Renovation, AJHS M-Building Renovation, and lighting projects at DHS/AHS football and baseball/softball venues.

The primary purpose of this emergency meeting was to accept the immediate resignation of a teacher, following the required one-hour public notice period as mandated by the open meetings act. The Superintendent also recommended approval of certified personnel actions.