Lisa Lewis-Evans

The board conducted a regular meeting which included the approval of consent and regular agendas, along with the adoption of updated board policies concerning drug and alcohol testing and tutoring for pay. The finance director presented various budget amendments to address teacher bonuses, staff funding, grant-related entries, and equipment repair costs. An executive session was held to discuss legal matters, and the Superintendent provided updates on recent school events, such as field days, arts participation, spelling bees, and athletic accomplishments. A parent addressed the board to request additional funding and support for the high school track team.

The strategic plan for Henderson County Schools outlines a comprehensive five-year roadmap to inspire students to dream, equip them to believe, and prepare them to achieve within a safe and caring environment. Key pillars include delivering rigorous instruction and formative assessments to ensure continuous student growth, fostering staff professional development to enhance content knowledge and instructional strategies, and maintaining a safe and supportive learning environment with robust security and counseling services. Additionally, the plan aims to integrate technology through training and device provision, strengthen communication and collaboration with stakeholders, and expand postsecondary opportunities to prepare students for successful college and career paths.

This TISA Accountability Report for Henderson County Public District outlines strategic goals for student achievement as mandated by the Tennessee Investment in Student Achievement (TISA) funding formula. Key objectives include achieving 70% proficiency in 3rd grade English Language Arts by 2030 and 85% proficiency in Algebra I End-of-Course exams by 2028. The report details specific strategies and TISA-funded investments, such as employing academic coaches, reducing teacher-student ratios, and implementing evidence-based interventions, to empower students for postsecondary success and ensure all students succeed.

The board discussed and approved the fiscal year 2027 budget. Key agenda items included salary adjustments for staff and contracted bus drivers, employee benefit contributions for medical insurance, the allocation of $4 million in capital reserves to capital outlays, a retirement bonus for non-certified staff, the addition of a part-time assistant position for the Westover school, a recruitment incentive for new bus drivers, and a stipend for maintenance personnel who perform services during inclement weather.

The board meeting addressed several administrative and fiscal agenda items. Key topics included the amendment of the agenda to include discussions on the fiscal year 2027 budget, a virtual school improvement plan, and a strategic plan progress review. The board approved the Henderson County Hazard Mitigation Plan and reviewed the first reading of updated and amended policies regarding drug and alcohol testing for employees and tutoring for pay. Significant time was dedicated to discussing the fiscal year 2027 budget, which incorporates a 3% salary increase for all staff, adjustments to employer contributions for medical insurance, and a new retirement bonus incentive for non-certified staff with 30 years of service.