Kathlene Daniels

The board meeting included the recognition of Lake Sumpter State College education graduates and future teachers, the student advisory committee recognition, the presentation of the Cynthia Shoemaker Scholarship to six outstanding seniors, and a report on the superintendent's reading challenge. During the public input session, representatives discussed educator concerns regarding the student progression plan, the importance of collaboration, referendum training, and requested meaningful movement on the education budget to address salary increases. Additionally, a brief agricultural tip about summer crops was provided.

This document outlines the establishment and objectives of the Lake County Schools Algebra Task Force, an initiative designed to significantly improve student proficiency in Algebra 1, with the goal of ensuring all students achieve at least a level three on the state assessment. The task force, supported by Impact Florida, is developing a five-year action plan focused on strengthening mathematics instruction and algebraic reasoning across grades K-12. Key strategies include developing instructional planning structures, clarifying essential skills for each grade level, enhancing transitions and communication between grades and schools, providing comprehensive training to teachers on effective real-world algebraic reasoning strategies, and fostering a positive mathematics classroom culture to increase overall mathematics achievement for all learners.

This Mid Term Report by Superintendent Diane Kornegay highlights the significant achievements of Lake County Schools over the past four years (2017-2021) and outlines key future initiatives. Major accomplishments include improved student achievement, increased graduation rates, enhanced financial stability, and the establishment of a common instructional vision and framework. The district has made strides in addressing achievement and equity gaps through targeted interventions, professional development, and community collaboration, alongside significant investment in mental health support and school safety resources. Future plans include opening new K-8 schools, refining instructional vision, expanding intervention and equity efforts, increasing data-driven progress monitoring, diversifying alternative school options, launching innovative early learning programs, and enhancing CTE and advanced course offerings. The report also emphasizes improving communication, securing workforce housing for employees, and strengthening the district's financial position and funding equity.

The bargaining session focused on the potential impact of new legislative topics on existing contract articles, specifically regarding representation, investigations, and payroll deduction slots. Participants discussed the distribution of organizational information and the need to streamline data sharing for employees. Additionally, the parties reviewed fiscal aspects, including the house method of FEFP funding, budget planning for the upcoming year, and potential expenditures. The meeting also addressed the verification of job titles and positions for the recognition article to ensure all roles are appropriately captured under the teacher umbrella.

The bargaining meeting between the Lake County Education Association and Lake County Schools focused on compensation and educator working conditions. Key discussions included the importance of educator involvement in district decision-making, specifically regarding the Student Progression Plan. The district presented a proposal to increase the minimum teacher salary to $47,500, detailing the financial impact and the allocation of funds for both grandfathered and performance-based salary increases for teachers.