Leigh Shepherd

The Board meeting included a special proclamation honoring Senator Freddy Powell Sims for her dedication to education and service to the state and community. Additionally, representatives from Communities and Schools provided an impact report for the school system, highlighting key metrics such as student support, attendance improvement, and behavioral outcomes. The discussion also focused on the need for increased parental involvement, the role of community volunteers and mentorship, and the expansion of the Champions Council to a regional level to improve student resources.

The board meeting primarily focused on student recognition, honoring high-achieving students in athletics, literary competitions, and academic assessments. The superintendent discussed a partnership with the local recreation and parks department for school-based athletics. Additionally, the board approved an agenda amendment, a personnel agenda, and the revision of the 2025-2026 school calendar. A significant discussion occurred regarding a technological upgrade involving the purchase of new iPads and MacBooks, along with a device surplus declaration to offset leasing costs. The superintendent also reported on various district achievements, including national awards for the Beta Club and top placements in statewide art and social studies competitions.

This document outlines the proposed schedule for the 2025-2026 school year, detailing dates for regular board meetings held on the second Monday of each month and mid-month board meetings held on the fourth or fifth Thursday of each month.

This document outlines the Dougherty County School System's strategy for managing and mitigating the effects of COVID-19 on its students, staff, and operations. The plan focuses on implementing comprehensive COVID-19 protocols, promoting collective responsibility, and conducting contact tracing. It details a multi-layered mitigation strategy with escalating levels of interventions, such as increased cleaning, reduced capacities, mask requirements, and virtual learning options, based on case numbers. The system also employs targeted responses for temporary closures, committing to flexibility and scientific guidance to maintain a safe in-person learning environment.

The meeting included discussions on personnel employment and release recommendations, as well as the approval of the floor replacement project for Raiden Springs Middle School and a lighting system installation project for three high schools. Fundraising requests were reviewed, and a detailed finance report was presented, focusing on the district's reserve fund usage for state-mandated instructional materials and a supplemental pay initiative for employees. Additionally, there was a review of capital projects, including construction at Westover and the financial benefits of bond issuance timing, alongside an update on the ongoing district policy revision process.