Laurie Florence

The board conducted a budget workshop and reviewed the preliminary special education budget for the upcoming year. Action items included undeclaring a vehicle as surplus property, approving property and casualty insurance proposals through TASB, and entering into a risk management interlocal agreement. The board also approved Education Service Center contracts, staff evaluation calendars, updated district policies, the student code of conduct, and the student dress code. Additionally, the board discussed updates to extracurricular, student, and employee handbooks, set meal prices for the 2022-2023 school year, and approved local teacher certifications under the District of Innovation plan.

The board discussed and addressed several key items, including a public forum regarding ambulance funding and reports from the elementary, middle, and high school campus principals. Significant actions included authorizing the submission of a school safety prevention grant, calling for bids on school safety projects, and approving budget amendments to support safety initiatives. The board also authorized the purchase of new vehicles and the disposal of older equipment, as well as the implementation of a breakfast program for the school year. Additionally, the board approved updated expectations for students, parents, and employees.

The meeting included campus reports for the elementary, middle, and high schools, an ESL program report, and a technology update. Action items involved tabling the Clean School Bus Grant, approving electrical work for the ag shop, and allocating votes for the Jones County Appraisal District Board of Directors. Furthermore, the board selected a firm for architectural services, approved a construction resolution, and finalized the long-range facility plan and educational specifications for the elementary library.

The Board of Education meeting included a CTE showcase event and a program update. The board approved the removal of local high school credit requirements for specific subjects, reviewed campus reports and enrollment numbers, and received a legislative update. Actions taken included approving the district's application for the Community Eligibility Provision, authorizing a professional services contract for sewer line engineering, and approving a property purchase. Additionally, the board held a closed session to discuss personnel and real property matters.

The board discussed several key topics including Student and Employee Handbooks, the Extracurricular Handbook, and the 2023-2024 transfer list. Actions taken included approving the Student Code of Conduct, Teacher Certifications under the District of Innovation plan, and the addition of a board member to the building committee with delegated authority regarding a gym bleacher bid. The board held a closed session to discuss personnel and property acquisition, and tabled a discussion regarding a sewer line contract. Additionally, the board conducted a budget workshop.