Pamela Batchelor

The board discussed several contracts, including notification and approval for cabling projects, audit services, HVAC replacements, network switch replacements, bleacher installations, and general contracting services. The board also granted permission for a classroom renovation at Lucama Elementary School, initiated an RFP process for roof repairs at Rock Ridge Elementary School, and initiated the selection process for a design-build firm for the new Wells Hearn Elementary School.

The meeting included special presentations from the Principal of the Year and Teacher of the Year, who highlighted district accomplishments such as record state rankings, strong school growth, and significant scholarship funds for graduates. Good News recognized the newly formed Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) Club at the Wilson Academy of Applied Technology for its success at a regional competition, with 12 students qualifying for the state competition. The Board approved the agenda and acknowledged the start of the second semester. Key action items involved the approval of contracts exceeding $90,000, including one for dishwashers and a temporary bus garage lease. The Board also approved releasing a Request for Qualifications for the design/build of Wells-Hearne Elementary School and directed administration to obtain quotes for the reconstruction or renovation of the Bus Garage following a structure fire. Several budget amendments for the 2025-2026 Federal Expense Budget were adopted. Additionally, the Instructional Services Committee presented first readings for revisions to numerous policies, including grievance procedures, technology use, and dual enrollment. Action was taken to approve revisions for the 2025-2026 Traditional, Restart, and Early College Calendars, and to approve the proposed 2026-2027 Traditional and Restart Calendars. The Board also convened in Closed Session to discuss confidential personnel and student matters before approving related personnel recommendations.

The meeting commenced with the approval of the agenda and the pledge of allegiance. Key discussion segments included recognitions for educators who earned or renewed their national board certification, as well as recognition for two students who earned honorable mention in the Scholastic Art Competition. The Chairman's report touched upon returning to school after winter weather events, celebrating Black History Month, expressing condolences to the Begood family, acknowledging book donations from the Wilson County Farm Bureau Federation, and announcing the upcoming spelling bee. A resolution honoring Governor James B. Hunt Jr., a native of Wilson County, was adopted by the board. The Superintendent's report thanked stakeholders for supporting the use of remote learning days due to inclement weather and provided information about the upcoming kindergarten registration night. During the public input portion, a representative from Lifewise Academy presented arguments for partnering to offer time-release religious studies, supported by student testimony. Another resident voiced concerns about a new vape/tobacco shop opening near local schools.

The meeting included the approval of the agenda for January 12, 2026. A special presentation was given by the Principal of Vic Elementary and the District Teacher of the Year to express gratitude to the Board for their service during Board of Education Appreciation Month. Key accomplishments highlighted included substantial scholarship awards, achieving the district's highest state rating (34th out of 115), 21 schools meeting growth targets, the completion of the Springfield Middle reconstruction following a tornado, securing a $42 million school construction grant for a new elementary school, and the groundbreaking for Frederick Douglas Elementary School. Achievements at Frederick Douglas Elementary, including being named a top Title I school, were noted. Board member recognition awards were also presented. Following this, good news presentations covered the success of the new Health Occupation Students of America (HOSA) club at Wilson Academy of Applied Technology, which had 12 out of 16 competitors qualify for the state competition. The Chairman reported on the Frederick Douglas Elementary groundbreaking, announced the WEP annual spelling bee date (March 19th), thanked Whites Tire for bus maintenance assistance during the bus garage repair, and noted the upcoming Martin Luther King Day observance. Dr. Mills echoed thanks to the board and offered condolences on the passing of former Governor Jim Hunt, noting his significant impact on public education. During public input, representatives from Lifewise Academy presented data on program effectiveness, noting improvements in student attendance and a decline in in-school suspensions related to the provision of optional Bible education during the school day.

The meeting included the election and qualification of officers, resulting in the selection of Blake Boykin as Board Chair and Rhyan Breen as Board Vice-Chair for the coming year. Good News Presentations recognized several individuals and groups, including the Regional Teacher of the Year, Christmas Card Contest Winners, North Carolina Elementary Honors Chorus Participants, the Champion of Education Award winner (Board Member Debora Powell), and recipients of the Innovation and Excellence in Public Education Award for Summer Program Partnerships. The Superintendent's Report highlighted the award of a $42 million Needs-Based School Construction Grant for a new elementary school serving Wells and Hearne Elementary students, announced the availability of the 2025-2026 Parent Survey, noted features of resilience-focused classroom work, and congratulated the Hunt High Varsity football team on their regional championship. A committee report provided an update on the November 30, 2025, Wilson County Schools Bus Garage fire, including emergency restoration efforts and next steps for structural assessment and recovery planning. Action items included the approval of the Superintendent entering emergency contracts with Builder Services, Inc., for the bus garage cleanup, approval of a Guaranteed Maximum Price Amendment for the Frederick Douglass Elementary School Construction Contract with Barnhill Building Group, approval of the 2025-2026 budget resolution, and approval to reauthorize Barnes Elementary and Hearne Elementary under the Restart Reform Model for another five-year cycle. The Board also adopted the proposed Superintendent Search Process timeline and general plans following Dr. Mills' announced retirement.