Kelley Bourgeois

The meeting commenced with the pledge of allegiance and an invocation. The agenda included a motion to amend the agenda, moving an action item regarding policy to a discussion item under the superintendent report. The board recognized outstanding student-athletes and the football coach for significant achievements, including state and upper state player/coach of the year honors, and the furthest playoff run in 30 years. A bus driver was recognized as the bus driver of the month for dedication and professionalism. The board then heard a presentation from the auditors regarding the annual financial audit, which resulted in unmodified/clean opinions across financial statements, internal controls, and compliance testing for a specified federal program. Discussions followed regarding internal control areas, procurement policy, and activity funds, especially concerning cash transactions and online platforms. Updates were provided regarding Instructional Technology (AIT), focusing on safety enhancements such as purchasing radios for every building individual, implementing the Smart Cast system for restroom monitoring, and adopting the Strategics system for emergency response and lockdown procedures. They also upgraded the Raptor visitor management system. Instructional priorities included focusing on attendance, credentials for students (noting the requirement for 9th and 10th graders to meet system requirements for CCR), professional development, and industry-recognized certifications. The board is also monitoring the implementation of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and awaiting guidance from the state on proposed AI pathways.

The meeting included an invocation and the approval of the agenda, with an addition for an executive session regarding a personnel matter. Recognition was given to the Crescent High School marching band and color guard for their performance at the state championship, achieving the highest ever rating. Three middle school students were recognized as South Carolina Junior Scholars based on their PSAT scores, and the November Bus Driver of the Month, Karen Pitzer Hunagger, was recognized for her positive attitude and dedication. Financial discussions covered the general fund ending November with expenditures exceeding revenues by $1,850,379, a situation expected due to tax collection timing, and the receipt of the November sales tax allocation, which was the 10th largest to date. It was noted that the financial statements and audit received a clean opinion, though final publication is delayed due to state and federal administrative issues. Additionally, the board approved policy GLC concerning professional staff assignments and transfers, and policy GLE regarding unencumbered time, both on their second and final reading. The meeting concluded with entering and exiting an executive session for personnel matters.

The meeting included the Pledge of Allegiance and a prayer. The board acknowledged the loss of a Crescent High School student. The meeting recognized outstanding teachers for student growth, bus drivers of the month, and schools with excellent report cards. There was a presentation about the proposed middle school, and the election of board officers. The financial report for the month was reviewed, and the superintendent provided a report.

The meeting discussed federal programs, with a focus on Title One, which provides funding to support students in high poverty districts. The importance of parent involvement was emphasized, with a review of community events and programs aimed at increasing parent engagement. The McKenna Vento program, which supports homeless students, was also discussed, including the challenges faced by these students and the resources available to them. The success of the EHCY grant-funded afterschool program at Crescent High School and Star Iva Middle School was highlighted, with data showing academic growth among participating students.

The meeting included recognition of the Crescent FFA as the 2025 three-star premier chapter and students with perfect SC Ready scores in math and ELA. A bus driver was recognized as the bus driver of the month. Two board members were recognized for completing certain training levels. The general fund performance was reviewed, and sales tax allocations were discussed. There was a presentation by the designated mental health counselor about the district's proactive approach to mental health and wellness.