Hendry County School District

The board meeting featured presentations on workforce data and updates on the new LaBelle High School project. Key action items included the adoption of middle school ELA and science textbooks, the approval of policy revisions, the creation of an assistant director position for workforce development, and approval for a research program on adolescent mental health. Additionally, the board awarded bids for food service management and an environmental project, and processed various personnel recommendations and financial contracts, including agreements with Florida Gulf Coast University and the Hendry County Sheriff’s Office. Board members also appointed representatives to the Florida School Board Association.

The meeting included presentations on the Fees Structures Proposal for 2026-2027, which will be voted on later. The Consent Agenda was approved, though one item (MetLife HIPAA Agreement) was pulled for individual review, and another (Pilot for Mental Health Program Clayful) was moved to action items. Personnel matters involved numerous actions including enrollments in the DROP Program, retirements, terminations, resignations, appointments, changes in designation, location transfers, and various leaves of absence. Significant discussion involved additional hours and funding allocations for general and internal funds across various departments, particularly Transportation and After School/Planning activities across multiple schools (COES, LES, UES, WES, CMS, LMS, LHS, ESE). Action items included a hearing and approval for Proposed Rule Development -- Sp. Up. EDGAR Sept 2024, permission to advertise a new policy on Artificial Intelligence (AI) Tools and Applications Use, and approval with amendment for the Pilot for Mental Health Program Clayful. Updates were provided on the New LHS building project and the WANRACK system. Attorney updates covered the rejection of all bids and the issuance of a Final Order of Dismissal related to the Procurement of Food Service.

The 2025-2026 Schoolwide Improvement Plan for Country Oaks Elementary School focuses on improving student achievement and maintaining subgroup performance. Key areas of focus include targeted interventions for Students With Disabilities (SWD) and English Language Learners (ELL), enhancing ELA and Math proficiency through small group instruction and standards-based planning, and fostering a positive learning environment by improving teacher retention and recruitment. The plan emphasizes data-driven decision-making, ongoing monitoring, and stakeholder involvement to ensure continuous improvement and address the needs of all students.

The Hendry County School District's strategic plan is focused on enhancing student achievement and ensuring every student is prepared for the future. Key areas of focus include school safety and security, academic achievement, school culture and climate, teacher recruitment and retention, family and community engagement, and fiscal stewardship. The plan emphasizes standards-driven instruction, professional learning communities, and strong leadership to accelerate student learning. It also aims to cultivate an inclusive learning community, maintain a strong district-wide culture, and build proactive partnerships with families and the community.

The meeting included presentations on Family Engagement Day, the LaBelle High School Band's national competition win, and Special Olympics cornhole winners. Updates were given on the FSAT and the 2025-2028 Strategic Plan. Citizen comments addressed school discipline. Personnel matters included retirements, resignations, appointments, and leave of absences. Financial reports were reviewed, along with purchases, and the school food service management operations RFP. Discussions also covered new personnel allocation requests, the new high school building project, and the 2025-2026 school calendar.