Mary Lambert

The primary topic of the work session was the discussion regarding the addition of a soccer team. Discussion covered logistical aspects, including field requirements (standard size of 120 by 60, preference for the more durable middle school field over the high school field due to existing field issues and fencing constraints), and scheduling considerations, noting that soccer seasons are split (women's in the fall, men's in the spring), which is rare compared to other sports. Concerns were raised regarding administrative requirements comparable to football games, such as the need for referees, potential costs, and administrative oversight for safety (ambulance presence). Advice was given to emphasize starting with a middle school team before or concurrently with a high school team to build the program from the ground up. Community members expressed strong support, highlighting long-standing parental interest and the positive development of the existing recreational league. Financial information from the recreational league was shared, indicating low operational costs and success in securing sponsorships.

The meeting commenced with a roll call and moved directly to recognizing student and employee achievements. A junior cross country runner, Alexis German, was recognized for her extensive accomplishments, including multiple top-ten finishes and three qualifications for the state championship meet. Two teachers, Stephanie Sham and Madison Wolf, were honored for their dedication, performance levels, and community involvement. The student board member report noted the successful start of the second semester, the positive transition following the integration of new metal detectors, and a significant food drive donation by the FBA club. The agenda included the approval of corrections and additions, such as a choir field trip and surplus sales, followed by the approval of previous minutes from November 6th. Consent agenda items and surplus sales were approved. The board discussed and approved 141 budget amendments related to grant reimbursements for the Evolve system and CTE programs under the Innovative Schools Model Grant. Furthermore, 142 budget amendments were approved to adjust federal allocations for Title One, Title Two, and Title Four (robotics competitions) funding, as well as adjustments for insurance premiums. Board members dedicated substantial time to discussing a presentation from a conference regarding career partnerships (including trades like mechanics, plumbing, CNA, and mortician paths) for students not immediately pursuing college, emphasizing the positive impact on work ethic and future planning.

The board meeting included discussions and approvals on various topics, such as adding the ERS contract to the agenda, field trips, metal detector contracts, surplus sales, budget amendments, and the school calendar for 2026-2027. They also discussed and approved the USCA membership, LEA compliance report, Tissa accountability report for 2025-2026, and the 5-year strategic plan. Additionally, the board addressed the coach's pay scale, voting for a 50% increase, and discussed and voted to approve a wrestling program to begin the following year.

The board discussed the five-year strategic plan, covering academic excellence, technology, facilities, partnerships, and human capital. Key points included maintaining a high graduation rate, ensuring one-to-one technology access for students, assessing facility needs, and fostering community and parent involvement. They also reviewed the implementation of a new GPS bus routing system, aimed at improving communication with parents and optimizing transportation efficiency.

The meeting included discussions on ongoing projects, such as the placement of new air conditioning heating units on top of the gym at the middle school to retire the geothermal system. Updates were provided on the golf and concession stand facility at the high school, with bids to be let on Monday. A bid will be put out for the roof project at Dover as soon as the county commission approves the amendment in October. There was also a discussion on improving communication, with plans to send out update emails every two weeks or weekly.