Shealyn Barnes

The committee discussed recurring technology needs, including Chromebook and staff laptop replacement plans, as well as deferred maintenance projects covering HVAC, roofing, paving, and athletic field upgrades. Large-scale construction and renovation plans for elementary schools and the District Office were reviewed, with total cost estimates reaching $150 million. The committee explored funding options, specifically focusing on a proposed $150 million bond referendum for the November 2026 election, designed to be executed without a tax increase.

The board meeting will cover several key discussion topics, including district and board updates, student and staff recognitions, and reports on child nutrition, safety, strategic planning, and finances. The agenda also includes discussions on certified personnel matters, property negotiations, and a contract for network upgrade services. Additionally, the board will address school calendar updates and revisions to district policies.

The meeting included the adoption of the January agenda and a Special Board Recognition honoring educator Robin Templeton with a Resolution of Remembrance. District Updates covered the Choice & Magnet application deadline, elementary K4/K5 registration timeline, implementation of the new Raptor emergency alert system, the launch of the D50 Ambassador Program, celebration of the mid-year graduation of 62 students, collection details for the Annual Food Drive, and inclement weather preparation. The Board recognized School Board Appreciation Month, and honored Assistant Superintendent for Business, Mr. Rodney Smith, upon his retirement while introducing his successor, Mr. Andrew Mackey. The Greenwood 50 Recognition Program honored five individuals/groups for outstanding service. The Board reaffirmed its commitment to the SCSBA Ethical Principles. Board members provided updates on community events, including support following a tragic loss and ongoing volunteer service initiatives. A Special Education Update detailed service provisions for over 1,000 IEP students, noting growth in Autism Spectrum Disorders and presenting positive trends in SC READY assessment data from 2023 to 2025. Finally, a Safety Update introduced the implementation of the Raptor system and the pilot rollout of SmartPass, a digital hall pass program, in middle and high schools.

The meeting included district updates such as the Superintendent's participation in the Learner-Centered Leadership Lab, a new partnership with Meg's House to support students and families affected by domestic violence, and the launch of a video/audio podcast called "Leading, Listening, Learning in D50". The Athletic Code of Conduct was reviewed and revised to emphasize mentoring opportunities for student-athletes. The Superintendent attended the Oakland Elementary Memorial Garden event and the Lakelands STEAM Festival. The "Greenwood 50" Award recipients were recognized.

The meeting included district updates such as the introduction of the new Employee Communication Guide, designed to complement the previously released Parent Communication Guide. There was also a celebration of significant improvements on the SC Ready test in ELA, Math, and Science for the second consecutive year. The district rose two spots in the South Carolina school district rankings.