Jill Smith

The board meeting addressed several key issues including approval of resolution procedure changes for 2019-2020 due to COVID-19, which included waiving end-of-course assessments for the graduation class of 2020, adjusting the grading scale for middle and high school students, and addressing credit for half-credit courses at the high school. They also discussed graduation plans, agreements for postage services and equipment, interim procedure changes for 16th section land rental payments, personnel matters including retirements and transfers, personnel recommendations based on the proven pay scale, and extra-curricular activity recommendations for coaches, sponsors, and paraprofessionals.

The meeting included discussions and potential actions regarding updated terms for data information agreements with technology providers, amendments to the spent department budget, and a $13,000 grant for welding equipment. There was also discussion regarding summer feeding programs, a grant for a cooler for the food department, and a bank integration agreement for the technology department. Policy revisions recommended by the Mississippi School Board Association were reviewed, including a new policy regarding vaping. Personnel matters were addressed, including retirements, resignations, and new hires. The board financial report for February 2020 was also on the agenda, as well as a discussion about a meeting for April 23 to discuss school closures.

The meeting included discussions and approvals for various contracts and services, such as metrics services, psychological services, physical therapy, and occupational therapy for the upcoming school year. The board also approved the extended school year applications for special education and discussed updates to instructional policies, including revisions related to service animal policies and promotion/retention standards. Additional topics included the implementation of a teacher academy, the purchase of school buses, and a request for an easement on 16th section land. The board also discussed financial matters, personnel recommendations, and updates related to COVID-19, including graduation plans and senior celebrations.

The Poplarville School District's Dropout Prevention Plan is designed to increase graduation rates, reduce dropout rates, and improve student attendance. It is structured around five key initiatives: 'Present' (encouraging attendance), 'Excellence' (promoting academic success), 'Engagement' (ensuring highly qualified staff), 'Respect' (providing a safe and healthy school climate), and 'Home' (motivating parent and community support). The plan outlines strategies including reducing retention rates in early grades, providing targeted support for at-risk subgroups, implementing dropout recovery programs for students aged 17-21, and ensuring smooth transitions for students returning from juvenile detention centers.