Nichelle Blakley Bulger-Johnson

The meeting commenced with roll call and the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by a prayer. Key agenda items included the recognition of two teacher assistants, Teresa Mans and Haley Logan, who achieved certification as nationally certified literary braille transcribers after completing a manuscript conversion for the Library of Congress. The board also reviewed the January 2026 financial report, noting revenues exceeding expenditures in the general fund and an 8.22 months reserve. Personnel actions were addressed, including retirements, new hires, and supplements for various clubs. The consent agenda covered items such as transportation maintenance, districtwide access control, professional development, and quotes for demolition work on two houses. The board also approved the purchase of property in Isabella and awarded bids for several construction projects, including the Chilton County High School football concession project, the Verbena Annex classroom kitchen activity building edition project, and the high school competitive gym project, which also includes ancillary facilities and was approved as being under budget.

The meeting involved the presentation and approval of the November and December 2025 financial reports, which detailed revenues, expenditures, accounts payable, and gross payroll, resulting in specific ending fund balances and reserves. Key personnel actions included approvals for retirements, new hires, and supplements. The consent agenda covered items such as Troy University disposals, LCTC travel requests, transportation updates, disposal of outdated parts, and approval for a Thorsby High School volunteer. An out-of-state conference for professional development for LCT was also addressed. Superintendent reports included seeking bids for restrooms and concession construction at Chilton County High School using general funds, approval for fieldwork at Rabbena High School football field funded by maintenance, and the purchase of stadium lighting materials for multiple high schools using state bid lists, which includes a 25-year warranty. Additionally, a discussion was planned for the work session regarding naming the road leading to the career technical center, with input sought from the family of Mr. Le.

The meeting began with the call to order, roll call confirming full attendance, and approval of the agenda. A presentation followed, recognizing the Maplesville football team for an undefeated season and winning the state championship, including comments from the coach regarding their performance mindset. The financial report for October 2025 was reviewed, indicating revenues slightly below budget projections but an adequate fund balance. Key agenda items approved included personnel actions (A through I), the consent agenda (A through J), a fire protection quote for Jimson High School, a bid for Maplesville Field Lighting, and Jimson High School football improvements. The Superintendent reported on positive progress with Jeff State regarding the career tech center partnership and thanked the board for the employee Christmas supplement. Board member comments included updates on the pre-qualification packages for the Thorsby new school addition and plans to expedite the grading package for the career tech center by January. The meeting concluded with discussions on upcoming whole board training.

The meeting included discussions on various construction and renovation projects within the school system. Projects discussed included renovations at Verbena Elementary, including a four-classroom addition, a new lunchroom and kitchen, and an elementary gym. Plans for a new high school gymnasium were also presented, along with renovations to the football stadium, including a new press box, bathrooms, and concession stands. Additionally, renovations to the lobby of the auditorium at Chilton County High School were highlighted, along with improvements to the softball and baseball fields. The board also discussed potential improvements to school entrances and signage, with a focus on modernizing and updating the appearance of school facilities.

The board meeting included the nomination and election of the board president and vice president. The board approved the board meeting calendar for 2026, the financial report, and personnel matters A through F. The superintendent gave a report, and board members shared comments, including commendations for the cell phone policy's effectiveness. The board discussed pursuing an appraisal for adjacent property related to a highway project. Additionally, there was a discussion regarding a Zoom call for district elections and a hearing to consider the proposed expulsion of a student.