Mara Bland

The Midland College Board of Trustees convened to discuss multiple topics, including applied technology facility planning, core values, and the strategic plan. Action items included the potential purchase of ultrasound equipment and nominations for the Midland Central Appraisal District Board of Directors. The board also considered a new faculty contract and discussed the ACCT Voting Delegate. Updates from the President included the monthly donation report, employment of non-contractual full-time employees, resignations, enrollment figures, SB 2972, the annual Title IX CEO report, and the ACCT Leadership Congress. An executive session regarding real property was also scheduled.

The meeting included a review of the August minutes, a financial report, and updates on COVID protocols. Discussions covered budget expenditures, including office supplies and background checks, as well as the utilization of substitute teachers and related costs. The board also addressed positive COVID cases, adherence to state guidelines, and the decision not to close centers following positive cases, while maintaining other safety measures. Additional topics included conflict of interest disclosures, the potential replacement of a board member, professional development opportunities, and the allocation of ESSER funds for behavior support. Upcoming events such as parent meetings, Red Ribbon Week, and parent-teacher conferences were also discussed.

The meeting included discussion of the dean's report, monthly financial status, and reopening plans for childcare services. The board discussed the calendar, social distancing measures, and potential increase in head start numbers due to COVID-19. They reviewed a climate survey and identified areas for improvement, such as communicating the school's mission and vision more clearly. The board also acknowledged receiving a grant from the Midland Education Foundation to purchase books for students.

The meeting included discussions about budget management, adjustments to teacher assistant roles due to increased student numbers, and the use of COVID-19 relief funds for supplies. Updates were provided on enrollment figures, the status of head start qualifications, and staffing vacancies. Security enhancements such as camera installations, buzzer systems, and the Raptor system were reviewed. Upcoming events, including a virtual SPCAA parent meeting, a virtual make and take for parents, and reading sessions with the mayor and firemen, were also discussed.

The meeting discussed the budget, instructional supplies, and Title I funds, including the purchase of cleaning supplies and individual school supplies for each child. A new line item for COVID-related expenses was introduced. The board discussed grant writing efforts, including a successful grant for conscious discipline training and a daycare management system. The head start renewal grant was signed, and the possibility of reducing the frequency of board meetings was raised. Conscious discipline was discussed as a brain-based program to improve relationships with students.