Durham Public Schools

The monthly meeting commenced with introductions, including a welcome to a student representative from the superintendent student advisory council, Alise Tran, and subsequent recognition of another student, Jessica Rivas, as a student of the month. The meeting proceeded with a moment of silence followed by celebrations, which included recognizing several students for community service awards (Mayor's Award) and academic achievements, such as Jessica Rivas and Michaela Wyn, who received recognition for excellence and certifications like CNA and pharmacy technician credentials. Additionally, educators were recognized for achieving and maintaining National Board Certification, and a nationally certified school social worker, Coffee Hill, was highlighted. The superintendent provided updates, noting the celebration of National School Counseling Week and Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month, emphasizing the commitment to expanding high-quality, hands-on learning opportunities.

The meeting was a budget hearing focused primarily on reviewing Phase One of the superintendent's recommended budget and preparing for Phase Two. Key discussion points included cost projections due to uncertainty regarding state funding, anticipating a 5% increase for certified and classified employees, and planning for increases in benefits rates, utilities (specifically Duke Energy rates), and insurance premiums. The CFO also detailed budgetary considerations for expansion components, such as discussions around minimum wage increases following Duke University's announcement and feedback concerning occupational and physical therapists' salary schedules. The capital outlay section touched upon phasing in technology devices (612 vs. K5). Additionally, the planned reorganization of the human resources operation was noted, with a decision to utilize existing central office resources for critical FTEs instead of requesting new local funding. Public comments heavily focused on compensation issues, excessive workloads for custodians, and problems with inaccurate or insufficient payroll disbursements for hours worked, leading some staff to resign.

The document captures proceedings related to the DPS Arts Middle and High School All-County Band event. Key discussions included extending thanks to the arts faculty and principal of Northern High School for hosting the event after a last-minute location pivot. Recognition was given to school leaders who value arts education, including principals and supervisors. A moment of silence was held to dedicate performances to the memory of Mr. Harry Stokes, a beloved band director from Southern High School who recently passed away. The middle school clinician, Miss Robin Borum, discussed the music selections, noting the difficulty and growth achieved with pieces like 'Two British Folk Songs.' The high school clinician, Professor U. Chmer from Fayetteville State University, also introduced musical pieces, shared biographical details, and offered a $5,000 band scholarship to all attending seniors from Fayetteville State University. Several musical selections were performed, including 'Albany Fanfare,' 'Spitfire March,' and 'Hope Rising.'

The meeting commenced with introductions, including the Superintendent Student Advisory Representative, Lasagna Artetta. A moment of silence was observed in recognition of Black History Month. The agenda was amended to include a Policy Committee update for information before the CTE Month proclamation. Key discussions involved public comments concerning the poor condition of school facilities, specifically mold and peeling laminate in classrooms, and low temperatures in certain areas, alongside concerns about accountability and timely reporting related to an incident at Eno Valley Elementary School. The Board unanimously approved the consent agenda, received the Policy Committee update, and approved the proclamation declaring February 2026 as Career and Technical Education Month. The session concluded with an informational update on the Summer Programs 2026 plan, emphasizing academic excellence, support for the whole child, community partnerships, and operational efficiency, anticipating an impact on over a thousand students.

The meeting began with opening remarks and a moment of silence that honored individuals who have been lost, especially members of the community affected by immigration enforcement actions, and acknowledged the increased fear in communities following the presidential election. The agenda proceeded with a segment dedicated to celebrations, recognizing students, teachers, and employees of the month for December and January. Student of the Month recognitions included Benjamin Allen from Durham School of Technology and Jules Tropman from Hillside High School. Teacher of the Month awards for December (Rory McElroy) and January (Noah Winberry), and Employee of the Month awards for December (Jim Keaton) and January (Tamanique Plats) were presented, focusing on themes of inclusivity and perseverance, respectively. Several community partners provided gifts and donations to the recognized students.