Steve DeWitt

The meeting was conducted as a workshop, emphasizing a casual nature without taking any votes. Key discussions included the operational status following a system upgrade and procedures for public comments on agenda items versus unlisted items. Agenda items discussed involved the instructional calendar, specifically amending policy 8210 and discussions regarding built-in snow day cushions and adjusting the return-to-school day to a Wednesday. Personnel matters included the ongoing internal handling of dispersed Director of Curriculum duties and plans for advertising the position later, alongside discussions on job descriptions and staffing plans. Financial matters reviewed the December financial update, noting a significant increase in general fund cash, property tax receipts, overall cash investments (with 58% in capital outlay funds), and slightly lower sales tax revenue compared to the previous year. Budget revisions related to school recognition funds were also noted, as were budgeted expenditures. A proposed change to the financial threshold policy, increasing it from $10,000 to $25,000, was mentioned for advertising. Further discussions addressed salary schedule and pay grade revisions, specifically focusing on increasing supplements for coaches to attract and retain quality personnel, given that some coaches are not teachers. Legislative updates regarding potential changes to coach salary negotiation rules were also presented. Facilities and construction discussions involved a question about using contingency funds for West Florida related costs and addressing needed car purchase orders over $10,000, with clarification that these required separate funding as they were outside of existing contracts. Informational items included updates on JASPA ratification and strategic badge implementation.

The board meeting covered several agenda items, including the unanimous approval of the consent agenda. Under other agenda items, a member requested information regarding the total number of overtime days beyond state requirements. The personnel section involved a discussion about the pay grade for paraprofessionals and clarifying the pay grade for those with a Master's degree. Financial matters were discussed following an update provided earlier in the week. Under contracts, resolutions, and agreements, a question regarding stop-loss terms was resolved. The facilities and construction section was passed without comment. The board also reviewed purchase orders over $10,000. In general information, it was noted that a public hearing concerning expulsions is scheduled for Friday. Updates were provided on the JCA contract voting schedule and the improvement in district graduation and acceleration rates, showing an 8-point increase toward the goal of an A rating. Concerns were raised regarding the IT position hiring status due to ongoing phishing emails and the pending departure of a current IT employee. A significant discussion ensued regarding supplements, clarifying that the board has the authority to approve hires for non-teacher supplement positions, contradicting previous guidance. Additionally, the board discussed upcoming legislative items concerning coach compensation and student athlete transfers, and the need to gather extensive stakeholder input on school start times before the June 1st deadline.

The board meeting began with a birthday acknowledgement for Mr. Granberry. The primary discussion revolved around the comparison between the Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA) and the Sunshine State Athletic Association (SSAA). Coaches and administrators presented arguments favoring the SSAA, citing financial benefits such as not losing 25% of playoff revenue before paying officials, and advocating for a fairer playing field regarding recruiting practices, including instances of illegal incentives like gas cards offered by some FHSAA members. Several schools, including Sneads High School, Cottondale High School, and Graceville High School, were noted as having applied for or been approved for SSAA membership, with Mariana High School submitting their application the day of the meeting. Concerns were raised regarding scheduling requirements (playing three SSAA teams to qualify for playoffs) and geographical proximity of SSAA opponents. Business items included the approval of the consent agenda and discussion of other agenda items, concluding with votes on those items.

The workshop included discussions on recording board workshops and meetings for citizens, consent agenda items, and the approval process for school board members attending state-level events. There was also discussion of the impact of AI on education. Other topics included updates to job descriptions, particularly for the data entry operator position, and questions about a resource teacher position being title one funded and specializing in math. The financial status of the district was reviewed, including cash and investments, sales tax revenue, budget amendments, and expenditures. A proposal was made to increase the threshold for purchases and contracts requiring board approval. The meeting also touched on contracts, resolutions, agreements, facilities, construction, and card purchase orders over $10,000, including football helmets for Mariana K8.

This Schoolwide Improvement Plan for Marianna High School serves as a comprehensive roadmap to enhance student outcomes and the overall learning environment. The plan prioritizes improving academic performance in Algebra 1 and ELA for the lowest 25th percentile, sustaining acceleration, and integrating reading comprehension, vocabulary acquisition, and instructional rigor across all subjects. Key focus areas include targeted instructional practices in ELA, Math, Science, and Social Studies, specialized support for Students With Disabilities, and initiatives to advance career and technical education and increase graduation rates. The plan also addresses early warning indicators to provide timely support, ultimately aiming to prepare students for successful post-secondary opportunities and productive citizenship.