Morgan Smothers Blankenship

The board approved financial statements and expenditures for the previous month. Key business included contract approvals for the Meek Elementary School Re-Roofing Project and a professional development academy. The board authorized the sale of a district vehicle and surplus CNP equipment. Personnel actions were taken, including approval of a leave of absence, two retirements, and the hiring of a girls' track coach. Additionally, various overnight field trips and conferences for multiple schools and academies were sanctioned.

The strategic plan for Winston County Schools aims to engage all learners in meaningful educational experiences, uphold high educational and ethical standards, and foster a collaborative learning community through strategic partnerships. Key focus areas include enhancing the impact of instruction, ensuring effective resource management for facilities and technology, and cultivating a healthy school culture by strengthening behavioral and social-emotional education, promoting collaboration, and boosting parental involvement.

The agenda was approved, and the meeting proceeded to several actionable items. Key discussions included consideration and approval of the 2026-2027 and 2027-2028 school calendars. The Board approved the December 2025 financial statements and expenditures totaling $2,905,447.24. Approval was granted for the sale of kitchen equipment to a resident and the purchase of a Floor Playground Interactive Mobile Unit for Meek Elementary School. Furthermore, the Winston County High School track resurfacing project was approved. Personnel actions included approving a leave of absence, accepting two resignations (one coaching position and one staff position), and approving the employment and subsequent coaching assignment for one individual. Finally, approval was granted for numerous overnight trips for various schools for upcoming conferences and field trips.

The meeting included discussions and actions on several financial items, such as approving the September and October financial statements and expenditures. The board also considered and approved a float for the Winston County Career Academy, the purchase of vehicles, and the disposal and sale of lunchroom tables. Additionally, they reviewed and approved bids for a child nutrition program security system and Addison lunchroom upgrades, as well as a contract for trash removal. Personnel matters included approving retirements, resignations, and leaves of absence, along with changes in coaching positions. The board also approved overnight trips for the Addison High School cheerleading team and the Lynn High School football team. Achievements were recognized, including a student's perfect ACT score and Make Elementary School being named a national ESA distinguished school.

The Board conducted business which included the approval of the 2026-2027 and 2027-2028 school calendars. Financial matters approved were the January 2026 financial statements and January 2026 expenditures totaling $3,918,939.31, which covered Accounts Payable ($1,466,465.83) and Payroll ($2,452,473.48). The Board approved the sale of three Chevrolet Suburbans to Fikes Chevrolet and authorized the state text book list. Several personnel actions were taken, including the approval of leaves of absence for four employees and the acceptance of three resignations. Additionally, the employment of a new paraprofessional and a lunchroom worker was approved. The Board also approved two overnight trips for Beta Club State Conventions in Birmingham, AL.