John B Critcher

The meeting began with the board convening in closed session to prevent the disclosure of confidential information and consult with the board attorney. Following the closed session, the meeting resumed in open session with a moment of silence and the pledge of allegiance. Board Chair comments emphasized a mindset of not tolerating what can be changed, referencing positive changes since the Superintendent's arrival, such as the repair of a leaking middle school roof. Announcements included the celebration of high-achieving students and the finalization of year-end accomplishment articles. Professional development plans for staff were also discussed. The board recognized several upcoming events, including family reading night, the regional science fair, and the Apple App Showcase competition. Special recognition was given to the Warren County Middle School football team for their outstanding 5-1 regular season record and playoff appearance. Furthermore, the district science fair winners for elementary grades were presented and recognized. The agenda was approved, followed by the approval of the consent agenda.

The meeting commenced with the board convening into a closed session to discuss confidential information and preserve attorney-client privilege, followed by reconvening into open session with a moment of silence and the pledge of allegiance. Key announcements included congratulating high school seniors on acceptance letters, recognizing Coach Angie Austin for Volleyball Coach of the Year after an undefeated season, and providing updates on the Eagles basketball and football playoff schedules. Board members announced community initiatives, including a partnership for a community meal with Pink with Passion and an International Teachers Multicultural Awareness Night. Superintendent updates covered expressing support for Jamaican and Filipino staff following recent storm devastation, progress on the strategic plan survey, and recognizing a teacher chosen as an AI ambassador. Additionally, updates were given on student projects, including a CTE class working on a sculpture called 'The Reader' and a theater arts class puppet show. Upcoming events highlighted included a holiday bazaar, a battle of the bands, a hunger and homelessness awareness drive, and a career fair. The board then moved to approve the agenda and consent agenda. Discussions on action items included the donation of $560 to support ninth-grade math students' campus tour, and a request for approval of a new occupational therapy services contract with Alta Speech and Language PLLC for $90,000 to provide services, evaluations, and documentation for eligible students, necessitated by the departure of a part-time certified occupational therapy assistant.

The meeting commenced with an executive session for discussion concerning personal qualifications, competencies, performance, character, or fitness, followed by reconvening into open session. Key discussions and recognitions included community partners' support, the success of the football team in reaching the regional playoffs for the first time, updates on basketball scores, and the victory of Warren Early College High School students in the first annual Eastern North Carolina Civics Bowl. The board also recognized Ms. Heather Sharp as the 2025 Exceptional Children Educator of Excellence for her dedication to inclusive education and acknowledged Miss Jennifer of Warren Early College High School for her appointment to Superintendent Green's Student Advisory Council. Additionally, updates were provided regarding student science fair winners and an entrepreneurial food truck project in a nutrition class. The Superintendent provided an update on an early release day for staff and students.

The meeting included board chair comments, addressing public comments from the last meeting, and athletic updates for the county. The superintendent provided updates on the strategic plan, student champion council, and activities in the Spark Lab. A staff flu clinic was announced, and the band's competition results were shared. The transportation department was recognized for their annual school bus inspection results.

The board reviewed governance team norms and protocols, including the core values of trust, integrity, transparency, communication, hard work and respect. There was discussion about the agenda and how to better focus on student achievement and engagement. The roles and responsibilities of the board and superintendent were discussed, specifically the need to minimize time spent on operational issues and maximize time spent on policies to improve student achievement and engagement.