Loretta Abbott

The work session agenda was modified to include a presentation by the superintendent recognizing February 2026 as School Board Appreciation Month, referencing the theme "From Strong Roots Come Endless Possibilities," and also recognizing School Board Clerk Appreciation Week. Recognition was given to board members and clerks. Discussion during the meeting covered the School Resource Officer (SRO) year-to-date report, noting 116 incidents, which is slightly lower than the previous year, and highlighted ongoing issues with THC vapes due to recent legislative changes affecting juvenile charges. Updates were provided on upcoming events, including a Junior Deputy Camp and a PALS Open House. The action agenda involved the approval of an expenditure of $50,325 for Virtual Virginia online instruction services for the Spring 2026 semester. The board accepted the Math Innovation Grant from the Virginia Department of Education, totaling $179,3460, intended for middle school math focus, professional development, and instructional materials. Policy reviews and approvals included the third reading of SBMA policies and the third reading of policy BCE (School Board Committees). Additionally, the third reading of policy BCG (School Attorney), which incorporated attorney recommendations, was approved. The session concluded by opening a public hearing concerning the fiscal year 2027 superintendence budget.

Discussions included a report on threat assessments, noting 99 total incidents from August through December and a general decrease compared to the previous school year. The presentation covered performance metrics for substitute filling rates, showing significant improvement to 99% after incorporating building base subs, and a comparison of monthly assignment fills and absences. Action items included the review and approval of the revised Fiscal Year 2026 salary scale format to enhance transparency regarding VRS credible supplements without altering funding or compensation amounts, and the approval to add a part-time substitute social worker position. Additionally, the Board moved to dissolve the Budget Committee, as budget discussions will now occur publicly as a single unit, and began the first reading of updated policies BCE (School Board Committees) and BCG (School Board Attorney), with specific feedback provided on clarifying the description of the Mountain Vista Governor School Policy Review Committee's role.

This budget work session outlines the proposed financial plan for Warren County Public Schools for Fiscal Year 2027. Key priorities include a 4% salary increase plus step advancement for staff, targeted adjustments for specific employee groups, and the transition of substitute management in-house for cost efficiency and control. The plan also addresses strategic staffing needs through new positions in pupil services, behavior support, human resources, technology, and finance, alongside investments in non-labor areas such as technology infrastructure, transportation, and contracted special services. These efforts aim to manage resources prudently amidst declining student enrollment, maintain competitive compensation, and enhance support for student achievement and operational effectiveness.

The school board work session included discussions and actions on several key items. The agenda and consent agenda were approved. The school resource officer presented school reports, detailing offenses categorized by location. The board accepted the FY2025 school activity fund audit report, which highlighted procedural findings and corrective action plans. Additionally, there was a second reading of the 2627 school calendar. The board also had a first reading of updated policies by SBMA and the Warren County School Board Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct.

The joint budget work session between the school board and the Warren County Board of Supervisors covered several key areas. Discussions included legal oversight in the code of Virginia regarding school budget development, the strategic plan, class sizes, and student population trends, including the impact of the power plant construction on student numbers. The session also addressed textbook needs for K-8 math and history, with a focus on consumable textbooks and digital subscriptions, as well as a proposed three-year plan to improve teacher pay scales and remain competitive with neighboring counties.