Velna Allen

The meeting commenced with an invocation and the Pledge of Allegiance led by the North Myrtle Beach High School Navy JROTC. Key discussions included the Policy Committee report, which recommended approval of BSR3 and outlined future agenda items regarding BSR4 and BSR5. Board members provided updates from the South Carolina School Board Association Legislative Advocacy Conference, noting discussions on potential legislation, the state's financial forecast (indicating a surplus of approximately $773 million), and the emphasis on the impact of the upcoming gubernatorial election on public education. An enrollment update was presented, showing recent net enrollment changes across elementary, middle, and high schools, and detailing new enrollments and withdrawals since October 24th. The Board reviewed the R2 monitoring report for numeracy, which included Kindergarten Readiness assessment results, formative math assessment growth (noting strong performance in grades 3-5 and 6-8 compared to expected growth), SC Ready Summative assessment proficiency rates (showing steady improvement at the elementary level but noted inconsistency between levels), and significant improvements in Algebra I End of Course Exam pass rates. The report also detailed high proficiency rates on AP Math exams (Calculus AB, BC, and Statistics) compared to national averages, though the goal was stated as increasing participation in these rigorous courses. Board members expressed concern over lower math performance scores at the middle school level.

The committee meeting focused on several key items related to facilities and enrollment. Updates were provided regarding the St. James Elementary replacement school, confirming that both the architect and construction teams have been secured, and a planning visit to Richland Two district is scheduled. The committee also reviewed energy management initiatives, including staff attendance at the Association of South Carolina Energy Managers conference and exploration of energy efficiency grants. Capital projects updates noted progress on Ayner Hine Conway High baseball/softball stadiums, roofing replacement at Aynor High, and ongoing interior renovations, with all projects generally on schedule and within budget. The primary discussion revolved around enrollment data, which showed a district-wide decline of 598 students (1.29%) in K-12 ADM compared to the previous year, attributed partly to new charter schools and an aging population demographic. The committee noted that prior capital planning was cautious regarding overbuilding, which is beneficial given the flat/declining student enrollment trend despite overall county population growth.

The strategic plan outlines Horry County Schools' vision to become a premier, world-class school system, ensuring every student receives an excellent education. The plan emphasizes creating welcoming school environments centered on high-quality teaching and learning.

The board work session included a pledge of allegiance and invocation. The agenda for the 17th and 22nd was approved. The Finance Committee shared the preliminary ending fund balance for the General Fund as of June 30, 2025, and discussed the possibility of funding further rise reading initiatives. A debt service update was provided, noting the current amount of outstanding debt and its projected payoff date. A capital funding update was also shared. The Policy Committee reviewed the draft district unencumbered time policy and approved it to be forwarded to the full board for consideration. The unencumbered time policy incorporates also including school nurses with at least 30 minutes of unencumbered time during the regular workday absent any emergency type situations in the care of students. The OE10 monitoring report, which outlines the expectations for processes and procedures used within the Learning Services Division, was discussed. An update on quarter three OE13 reports was given, highlighting completed and ongoing projects. Recognitions were given to a U.S. Presidential Scholar and to principals during National Principals Month. Kingston Elementary's success was attributed to students, staff, and parents working together, with a focus on being respectful, responsible, and ready.

The Horry County Schools' budget for 2020-21 totals $711,857,642. The budget includes funding to accommodate the instructional needs of new students, as well as to provide services to newly identified special needs, gifted, and non-English speaking students. The budget also addresses increases in group health insurance and other fixed costs. The District expects to serve approximately 841 new students. The budget allows the District to continue the significant progress in academic achievement and addresses the instructional and operational needs of serving a growing student population.