Tara Cooper

This strategic framework, referred to as 'The Five Pillars of HR - Leading with HeaRt,' for Burke County Public Schools, outlines a comprehensive human resources strategy. The plan focuses on attracting talented individuals, actively recruiting diverse and qualified candidates, developing staff through professional growth opportunities, retaining top talent by fostering a positive and supportive work environment, and providing extensive employee support including benefits and wellness programs. The overarching goal is to build and maintain a world-class organization by investing in its employees.

This document outlines the "Five Pillars" of human resources for Burke County Public Schools: Attract, Recruit, Develop, Retain, and Support. The plan focuses on attracting diverse, qualified talent, committing to employee professional growth and development, fostering a positive and supportive workplace culture, and providing comprehensive support to ensure employees feel valued and empowered to excel in their roles.

This document outlines the human resources strategy for Burke County Public Schools, structured around five key pillars: Retain, Develop, Attract, Support, and Recruit. The plan aims to foster a positive workplace culture, promote professional growth, attract committed individuals, provide comprehensive employee support, and recruit diverse, qualified candidates to build a vibrant and innovative learning environment.

This plan outlines key initiatives centered on employee retention, recruitment, and appreciation for the 2026-2027 period. It includes an annual retention incentive of $2,000 for long-term full-time employees, an extension of the administrative and support salary schedule, and a $1,000 new hire incentive. Additionally, the plan introduces the $270,000 TEACH4BURKE Program for tuition and GACE reimbursement for aspiring teachers, and incorporates employee appreciation and recognition events for various support staff.

The board meeting included an invocation and pledge, roll call, adoption of the agenda, and approval of minutes from previous meetings. The financial report for August 2025 was presented and accepted. Old business was discussed, focusing on the proposed roundabout project, with board members sharing concerns and recommendations for further research. The Early Head Start August report was presented and accepted. School resource officers were introduced, and updates were given. The annual approval for various CTAE grants for FY26 was discussed and approved, along with the Perkins 5 local plan and the 21st Century 5-year grant.