Mary Lee Merritt-Boyd

The board meeting involved several key actions and discussions. Recognition was given to Jane Ebey for her service. The board reviewed a proposal from the Mayor of Altamont regarding potential land use for a new Central Office. Financial approvals included accepting a bid for the GCHS gym painting project and approving surplus vehicle bids. The board decided to engage with the County Commissioners regarding the potential use of the Health Department building for a central office. Furthermore, the board voted to transfer the Coalmont School to the City of Coalmont and elected to table the discussion regarding upcoming town hall meetings.

The meeting included recognition and awards honoring the memory of four former district employees. Key business involved the election of Phyllis Lusk as Board Chair and Nelda Stiefel as Vice Chair. Budget amendments were approved for the Public School Safety Grant, LEAPS, and the VPK Grant. A discussion was held regarding child safety, Child Find, future plans for Coalmont School, and potential middle school options, although no formal motion was made on these topics. A football coaching stipend for Nick Bryant, provided by the booster club, was also approved.

The Foundational Literacy Skills Plan for Grundy County Schools, approved by the Tennessee Department of Education, focuses on enhancing literacy skills in grades K-5. It includes daily foundational literacy skills instruction using Amplify's Core Knowledge Language Arts curriculum, with emphasis on phonics, phonological awareness, and vocabulary. The plan outlines additional supports such as the AALN K-8 Grant, monthly walkthroughs, and experienced teacher placements. It also details intervention structures using SRA Reading Mastery and Sonday Phonics/Essentials, universal reading screeners, parent notification plans, and professional development for teachers.