Leslie S. Russell

The meeting included the adoption of the agenda and a closed session to discuss personnel and student matters, specifically candidates for the superintendent position, administrative appointments, and student disciplinary issues. The Board approved the expulsion of a student and several administrative appointments for the upcoming academic year. Additionally, the Board recognized student achievements, including winners of the PTA Reflections Contest and other distinguished student awards. A hearing of citizens was conducted, where community members expressed concerns regarding the potential elimination of a second band director position at Grassfield High School.

The meeting featured a Mayor's Youth Day session where students collaborated with board members to voice opinions and concerns regarding the school system. Participants discussed the responsibilities of leadership, the collaborative nature of decision-making, and the importance of community and school involvement for students. Students shared reflections on how the experience prepared them for future academic and career paths, specifically in education, and highlighted the complexity involved in balancing diverse opinions when making administrative decisions.

The meeting commenced with roll call, followed by the adoption of the agenda, which included a motion to enter a closed session for personnel matters, including administrative appointments. Key discussion points included the recognition and celebration of various winter champions from the Chesapeake Middle School League in speech, debate, wrestling, boys' basketball, and girls' basketball, with the presentation facilitated by the director of student support services. Following the closed session, an administrative appointment was presented for approval. The agenda also included a public comment period with two speakers addressing the board: one regarding Music in Our Schools Month and the benefits of music education, and another expressing gratitude for the board's involvement with students. The board then considered the consent agenda and proceeded to the information agenda, which featured a review of the 2026 pay and benefits calendar, detailing significant changes from the prior bi-monthly schedule to a bi-weekly schedule, and adjustments to benefit premium deductions.

The meeting began with a roll call and the adoption of the agenda, which included a motion to move into closed session to discuss student matters, followed by student disciplinary matters pursuant to the Code of Virginia. Upon returning to open session, the board addressed an appeal under school board policy regarding a superintendent's decision, supporting the superintendent's recommendation. Key discussion points included recognizing numerous student athletes and coaches for winning CMSL City Championships in baseball, football, game day cheerleading, girls soccer, and softball, as well as recognizing VHSL First Team All-State honors in varsity football. The board also acknowledged February as School Board Appreciation Month, presenting certificates and stationery to members, and recognized the School Board Clerk and her assistant. The final portion of the open session involved the hearing of citizens.

The meeting commenced with roll call and the adoption of the agenda, which included moving into a closed session for personnel and legal matters. Key actions taken involved the election of new board officers, with Mrs. Kim Scott elected as Chair and Mr. Mike Lemonia elected as Vice Chair, both serving through December 2026. Administrative appointments were approved for several positions within the Department of Technology and Innovation and the Department of Exceptional Learning. The board also voted to support the superintendent's recommendations regarding an appeal under school board policy 5-12. Following the reorganization, the board heard comments during the Hearing of Citizens concerning difficulties accessing student test results via the Mastery Connect system. Finally, there was an informational segment regarding the governor's budget update and its potential impact on CPS.