CCPS School Board Meeting May 12th, 2025

001Good evening, school board members, CCPS families, students, staff, and the Caroline community. I, Calvin Taylor, chairman of the board, would like to call the May school board meeting to order. It is my privilege to welcome all those who are attending in person, middle school at Caroline Middle School, as well as those viewing on the CCPS YouTube channel. Each provides an avenue for you to receive information. heightened education, awareness, and involvement. The school board is grateful for your attendance as we continue to move our school division in a forward direction as hashtag number one Caroline. Again, welcome to the school board meeting. And now I would like to ask the clerk of the board to call the role. Miss Ava Milligan, student schoolboard representative. Dr. Dr. Michael Hubard representing the Bowling Green District. Mr. Lido Fortune

002me representing the Madapana district. Mr. Calvin Taylor representing the Port Royal District. Dr. Sarah Calverick, superintendent of schools. Dr. Joanda Rollins Fels representing the Rei Church District. Mrs. Allenson Sears representing the Western Caroline District. Mr. Shaun Kelly representing the Madison District. And I am Lisa Stevens, clerk of the board. Mr. Chairman, we have a quorum. Thank you. We will now have words of inspiration from Mr. Fortune followed by the pledge of allegiance. Uh, good evening. Thank you for being present tonight. Before we we begin our meeting, I would like to offer words of inspiration. As quoted by Edward Hail, together is one of the most inspiring words in the English language. Coming together is a beginning. Keeping together is progress. And working together is success. Together, families are stronger. Together, sports teams are victorious. Together,

003friendships are strengthened. Together is better when unity is a priority. Okay. And we have Caroline Middle School students leading the pledge. Algiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands. One nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. Thank you very much. We will now entertain a motion to approve the agenda as presented. So moved. Is there a second? Second. Would you call for the vote? Mrs. Sears. I Mr. Fortune. Hi, Dr. Mr. Hubard. I Mr. Kelly. Hi, Dr. Rollins. Spells. Hi, Mr. Taylor. Thank you. The agenda stands approved. That takes us to the achieve spotlight mental health. Thank you. Good evening, Chair Taylor, Vice Chair Fortune, members of the board, and Dr. Caleric. I'm Rachel Wheeler, the coordinator of student support services for

004the division. The month of May is designated um nationally and in Caroline as mental health awareness month in each of our schools. We are going green to advocate and educate about mental health for all. It t it links in with our achieve 2027 objective 3.1 for wellness where we are we are promoting fostering healthy habits to include mental well-being. Our focus for mental health happenings is awareness, education, and advocacy. Our mission is that mental health is just as important as our physical health. By creating an environment where students feel safe, supported, and informed, we can help them thrive academically and personally. So throughout this month and even prior to the month, we have been doing things to c promote awareness, educate, and advocate. As of April 30th, 297 10th grade students have become certified in

005teen mental health first aid, which is like CPR first aid that they do in 9th grade. Um, and starting next year, we will move to 9th grade and teach 9th and 10th graders um for the 25 26th school year. This certification can be added to resumeumés, college applications, um, job applications just as you would list your CPR qualifications. Then we kicked off mental health month with our mental health and wellness fair on April 29th. We had about 30 vendors present to do different um, activities with students. Um there are lots of make and take activities um that were also wellness activities whether it was a um a calming jar or planting just giving people different strategies and ideas um for their mental health and wellness. Lastly, we continue with mental mental awareness with our wellness

006Wednesdays where we um promote everyone in our division to wear green um to stand out and recognize that they want to advocate for others mental health. Um this week is also a spirit week across our division. So, make sure you wear your jerseys tomorrow for team up Tuesday. and we had the privilege of being on the Caval podcast to talk about mental health throughout our division as well. This really helps spur our efforts of more access to mental health resources and to seek more counseling support in general from our school counselors. This is also a great response to um some of the conversations that have been happening in our principal advisory committee at Caroline High School. Thank you. Thank you. Does the board members have questions or comments? I would just say thank you. Thank

007you. Okay. Um I have I overlooked one item, the the statement of norms and uh Mr. Fortune, would you do that at this time? Sure. Carolina County Public Schools governance norms. As a governance team, we agree to employ the following norms in all our interactions. We put the welfare, safety, and achievement of all students at the forefront of our decisions. We align our all decisions to the strategic plan. We hear each opinion, consider options as a group, but ultimately act as one board. The chair or designate speaks as the official voice of the board. A single board member will not represent the board without the consent of the board. We are mindful of the different roles and responsibilities throughout the school system and maintain a focus on policy governance and not interfere with the day-to-day

008operations of the school system. Concerns with operational matters will be directed to the superintendent or designate. We are aware of the different roles of we play as individuals such as board members, citizens and parents. We maintain open communication with each other, the administration, and the community at large. Information shared with one board member will be shared with all members. We begin meetings on time and prepared. Thank you, Mr. Chair. Thank you. That takes us to the recognition part portion of our meeting. We are about to enter the recognition portion of the agenda. We enjoy having an opportunity to recognize our staff, students, and community members. We ask that you remain seated until all recognitions are complete and then the board will pause for a quick break for anyone that would like to dismiss. Dr. Calberry.

009Good evening, Chair Taylor, Vice Chair, Mr. Fortune, and members of the board. Exposure to art is critical to the development of every child. Art not only teaches students how to express themselves in creative and individual ways, but students who participate in regular art related activities perform better academically, develop greater confidence, and sharpen their fine motor skills. Beyond these benefits, our education promotes problem solving, critical thinking, perseverance, growth mindset, collaboration, focus, and accountability. All power skills CCPS graduates need to be 3E ready, enrolled, enlisted, and/or employed. In cooperation with the CCPS art teachers, I have the great fortune to recognize one student each month with a certificate of honor for their individual artwork. The students art will be on display at the schoolboard office the remainder of the month. Our amazing art teacher from Caroline Middle

010School will now introduce the May recipient of the superintendent student art honor. Please come forward to the podium at this time. Mr. Jess, would you like to please come forward at this time? You wear many hats. Tonight it is art teacher. All right. So, I didn't know I was presenting, but here we go. And uh we are excited to present one of our students uh for their piece of art here, and I hope they're here today. Andy Hernandez. So, congratulations for being selected and we have your uh the crab that you put together for us in our class of papermâché. We have it here today. If he's not here today, we'll make sure it is on display. [Applause] How appropriate for you to be awarding this as a biology chemistry teacher? So, I was chemistry.

011I was in biology, but I my daughter's a bio major, so I can count that without a doubt. Thank you. That takes us to the Virginia School Board Association Business Honor, Miss Kim Young. Good evening, Cherrick Taylor, Vice Chair Fortune, Dr. Calvaric, and members of the school board. Each year, we take a moment to honor partners in education with a Virginia school board business honor role award. We are deeply thankful for the exceptional support that our partners in education provide to CCPS and these awards are an opportunity for us to recognize those who have gone above and beyond in their dedication and contributions to CCPS this school year. As in past years, we invited CCPS staff to nominate businesses, individuals, and organizations that have made a meaningful impact throughout the school year. We were honored

012to receive 19 nominations, each showcasing outstanding contributions to our schools and community. Our staff thoughtfully reviewed each submission and selected the the top three honores. We had the pleasure of surprising these winners at our annual partners in education appreciation event in April and we are proud to recognize them once again tonight. So, first, please help me congratulate Cindy's Closet, and I invite Renee Wulmarmac and Gloria Abrams up to the podium. The nomination we received stated that Cindy's closet filled teacher wish lists with more than $3,000, provided clothes for students in need, provided costumes and props for the drama department at CHS, and worked with special needs class for work trainings training and projects. Congratulations. Our second winner is actually a group of three organizations. Handover Caroline Soil and Water Conservation, Friends of the Rapahhanic, and

013Alliance of the Bay. Please welcome Anna Maro and Robin Diddake. These three organizations secured a grant and played a pivotal role in developing Caroline County's environmental literacy plan. Over the course of a year, they collaborated closely with stakeholders to draft, implement, and support the integration of this plan into our county's educational framework. Their dedication was evident in the countless hours they spent crafting a comprehensive plan that includes grade specific lessons and enriching field experiences for our students. Caroline County is one of the few districts to have in Virginia to have an environmental literacy plan embedded within its instructional framework. Thank you. [Applause] Our third and final winner is Madapani Springs and I welcome Jim Orliff to the podium. The Barnes at Madapani Springs have generously supported CCPS through reduced cost catering and event services. Their

014partnership has made it possible to hold memorable events such as our annual employee recognition dinner, our partners in education breakfast, the CCPS transportation department's opening training, and the VSBA Eastern region dinner. They've gone above and beyond by incorporating our JOTC and culinary students into these events, allowing them to present the colors and assist with service, providing invaluable realworld experience. They also graciously hosted the finale of our dancing classrooms program with Madison Elementary students. Their support extends even further as the golf club at Matapana Springs is the proud home of the CHS golf team with all home matches played at Matapana golf course in collaboration with our health and physical education department and the YMCA. They're also working to launch youth golf c classes. We're thrilled to share that their event coordinator, Tammy Anderson, has joined

015the Caroline Education Foundation and they hosted their first ever golf tournament in April on the 25th as a fundraiser. So, their commitment to our students is truly inspiring and again, we thank all of our winners. [Applause] Congratulations. Thank you very much. especially to all of the businesses for all that you do for the county, the school system. And Miss Abrams, I knew you were in my class in school, but you look so young when you came up here. I wanted to make sure you were the right person. So, don't tell people what you know about me. That takes us to our next agenda item, uh, the teacher appreciation week. Nope, I'm sorry. the recognition of ACCE and SEAC, Miss Pollet her. Thank you. Good evening, Chair Taylor, Vice Chair Fortune, members of the board, and

016Dr. Calveric. The Office of Exceptional Education has been working collaboratively with our Caroline County Public Schools Advisory Council for Exceptional Education, ACE, to provide support to our CCPS students, families, and teachers. We are excited to recognize the nominee that has gone above and beyond in helping our students for the SEAK ACE award for their diligent effort in supporting our students with disabilities. At this time, would Lisa Richardson come to the podium? She has no idea. Miss Richardson was nominated by the ACE board and school representatives for her years of dedication. She has provided a voice of advocacy for disability awareness in Caroline County. Thank you, Miss Richardson, for your dedication to all our students. Our next honore will be for teachers appreciation week, Mr. Mud. Good evening, Chair Taylor, Vice Chair Fortune, members of the

017board, and Dr. Calvaric. I'm pleased to share with you a recap of National Teacher Appreciation Week last week. And as we say here in Caroline, it was great. Carrying on with our cooking theme for the year, we made sure that our teachers knew that they are the secret ingredient to our success. The week-long celebration and recognition of all school staff and the contributions they make to education and society is a welldeserved moment in a school year where the greater school community can pause to say thank you. We appreciate your hard work, dedication, and long hours. Expressions of appreciation from central office, PTAs, PTOs, community organizations, churches, and businesses that took place throughout the school division included deliveries of generous baskets of goodies, special lunches served, flower deliveries, breakfast and donuts delivered to staff, raffles and

018snack carts rolling up and down school hallways. Not to mention the many tokens of appreciation shared by students and parents directly with staff to name only a few. Caroline County is so lucky to be so generously supported by our community who came out last week with gusto and showered our well-deserved school staffs with these tokens of appreciation. During this special week, we also recognized on May 2nd, School Lunch Hero Day and May 7th, National School Nurse Day, CCPS teachers, school lunch heroes, nurses, and school staff. We appreciate you. [Applause] Good evening, Chair Taylor, Vice Chair Fortune, members of the board, Dr. Calvaric. The Next Generation Generation Leadership Academy or NGLA, hosted by the Center for Leadership and Education at the University of Richmond, has a long history of designing extensive and meaningful professional development for

019educational leaders throughout the Richmond area. Today we recognize and celebrate our CCPS participants for their successful completion of the NGLA leadership next gener generation leadership academy. Please come forward Jamie Harnen, April Paige, and Steven Salvado who will be joined by directors of elementary education and secondary education Dr. Neighbors and Miss Haley. Some of our APS weren't positive they'd be here because they had some uh um duties this afternoon, weather depending. So, we weren't sure if we'd be here for short. That's right. I believe tennis too. We celebrate these assistant principles as they were part of a regional collaboration of aspiring leaders representing Richmond, Amelia, Chesterfield, Gland, Hanover, Henriiko, Powatan, and Richmond City. Many thanks to each of these participants for representing CCPS. Congratulations to [Applause] you. On March 12th, the University of Richmond held its

020final NGLA session for the year where they recognized the engagement and hard work of its participants. The day was filled with learning followed by lunch and a recognition ceremony. CCPS's behavioral specialist Vincent Inman was one of our participants this year. The University of Richmond was unable to properly recognize him due to his untimely passing just a few days before this event. Tonight we welcome Dr. Dr. Kate Casada, associate dean of academic prefairs of of affairs and program chair for educational leadership and policy studies with the University of Richmond, who is here to recognize Mr. Enman for his accomplishments in completing the NGLA program. At this time, we also welcome to the front Miss Ellanie McNeel Enman, Vince's wife, to receive his certificates from CCPS and University of Richmond. Dr. Casada Thank you all for welcoming

021me here this evening. Um, one of the beautiful elements of Next Generation Leadership Academy is learning with and from your colleagues both in your home division and across the entire region. It allows people to get new and fresh ideas and perspectives and meet outstanding colleagues from around central Virginia. When we talked about Vincent uh recently, the words that came to mind were thoughtful, collaborative, reflective, kind, and of course what resonated most was working with a real heart for children. that became clear throughout the entire year. Our experience runs the entire academic year. So, we wanted to be sure to take the time to recognize him, you and uh just the beauty of having him be a part of our group. He was an important member of our group and he mattered in our group and

022he continues to matter today. So, in this uh bag we have a couple of things for you, but one is uh Mrs. is his participation certificate that he would have received on the 12th of March and we want you to have it. Thank you. Thank you for sharing him with us. [Applause] Thank you. That takes us to the MW clinical facility, Miss Paige Tucker. Good evening, Chair Taylor, Vice Chair Fortune, members of the board, and Dr. Calvaric. This evening, I have the pleasure of recognizing seven esteemed educators for completing the Pathways to Excellence at the University of Mary Washington to gain the title College of Education Clinical Faculty. These CCPS lead educators completed professional learning to further their mentoring skills to support and guide the next generation of teachers in Caroline. While they were also

023recognized by the University of Mary Washington on April 24th, CCPS wanted to also recognize and congratulate them on their accomplishments. We applaud the following clinical faculty. Moren Ballard Tiffany Branch. Sorry, Sarah, Janelle Brooks, Barbie Miller, Brittany Morris, who is not here tonight, Jamie Puit, and Heather Wright. [Applause] The next recognition It's Earth Day poster contest winners, Miss Terry Haley. Great evening, Chair Taylor, Vice Chair Fortune, Dr. Calverick, and members of the board. Goal one, teaching and learning, speaks to how CCPS fosters the engagement of all learners with relevant and innovative learning experiences. Tonight, Miss Sheber and I are excited to share the inspiring ways our students engaged in celebrating Earth Day this year. As advocates for environmental stewardship, our students not only embraced the spirit of the day, but also took meaningful action to promote

024sustainability within our school and the wider community. Thank you. Across Caroline County, we celebrated Earth Day with a variety of action projects focused really on civil engagement and environmental stewardship that align with our environmental literacy plan. Our sixth graders collected more than two dozen bags of litter from around the middle school campus, demonstrating their commitment to keeping our community clean. At the high school level, our AP environmental students participated in a field trip to the zoo where they explored real world applications of topics like population ecology, biodiversity, natural selection, while our ninth graders also participated in a meaningful watershed experience with our partners at Fort Walker. They are now completing a storm dre at the school. In our elementary schools, things were animal wild this week. Students engaged in authentic learning experience, hatching chicks and

025butterflies, supporting our local farmers and contributing to our pollinator gardens that are at the schools. Our fifth grade students completed an action project focused on writing to policy makers, Dr. Hover, to inform them of environmental initiatives at the school level that they need support for. Additionally, students took part in garden-based lessons that provided valuable outdoor learning opportunities, connecting them to the environment in meaningful ways. One of the things, and this is our third year, CCPS um will support a or that we sponsor a poster contest to make every day an Earth Day for all K12 students. We had over 50 submissions and the winners were announced last week and are here with us tonight. There are enlarged posters are in the front um doc next to Dr. Calvaric and our partners of Gizmo and school

026specialty have donated some nice robotic prizes for our winners and some swag bags. Their poster will then hang in their um school for the rest of the school year and then they will be able to take them home. So, I would like them to come forward as I call their names. Lily May Heflin from Miss Carol's class, her fifth grade class. Come on up, Lily May. Kayn Collins from Miss Circle's sixth grade class. And Jiara Baraka from Miss Swatton's environmental ninth grade class. [Applause] Our next recognition, the CERN Novice Academy. Good evening, Chairman Taylor, Vice Chair Fortune, members of the board, and Superintendent Dr. Calic. I'm honored to be here tonight to celebrate our teachers who dedicated themselves to further their learning with the CERN Novice Teacher Academy. These teachers were selected by their principles

027and the new teacher support coaches Jamie Puit and Britney Morris. The goal of the novice teacher academy is to establish supportive relation relationships that foster growth and learning to create a space a safe space for learning and sharing to empower novice teachers to adopt a positive optimistic view of teaching and learning that address the just in time needs of a novice teacher. They model effective teaching strategies. They promote the retention of novice teachers and provide leadership opportunities for these teachers to become master teachers. When I call your name, please come forward to be recognized. From Caroline Middle School, Brandon Bailey from Bowling Green Elementary School. Brooke Brown and from Madison Elementary School, Monica Lopez. We will also send a certificate to Kate Bear from Caroline High School, who also was a participant with CERN, who

028could not be here tonight. [Applause] winner student athletes. I remain honored to be here tonight to celebrate some of our amazing high school students. um and in alignment of achieve 2027. These are accomplishments that demonstrate goal one teaching and learning objective access and opportunity through a variety of opportunities that are offered through our school and programs. I would like to invite principal Tom, Dr. Tom Connley to the podium who will be representing our athletic director, activities director, excuse me, Josh Grind who is on the field and supporting the athletic events that are happening right now. He will help to recognize these winner student athletes. He will share the student athletes and recognize also the coaches to support our amazing Cavaliers. And thank you Josh Grind who's I know working really hard right now um for

029all you do for Caroline. Thank you and good evening. It's uh my honor to recognize some of our of our amazing student athletes tonight. We're going to start off um in our winter sports with wrestling and I'd like to invite Coach Swanton um up to the podium as well to help recognize our wrestlers. Our first recognition tonight is Reagan Forehand. Reagan finished fifth in the state tournament, third in the regional tournament, and finished up with a 31 and 13 record overall. Our second wrestler is David McCarthy, who qualified for the state tournament, finished fourth at regionals with 19 wins this season. [Applause] Okay, next we'll move on to boys basketball. who was coached by coach David Wear this season. I do not believe I saw coach wear. Coach Wear, why don't you come on up?

030So, the boys basketball team had a great season. Thank you to coach Wear for all the work you put in. Um, we had two first team all district performers, Tavari Terrell and Wesley Taylor. And also one honorable mention all district performer Hamza Sorggo. [Applause] Okay, moving on to our girls basketball team coached by Coach Celita Richardson and Travis Richardson. They're here. Invite them up. I know they were running around with their their ch children this afternoon. We had two all district performers. First, Desiree Davis, first team all district. And Kayla Vinie, second team all district. [Applause] Okay. And our our last winter sports recognition is winter track. And I'd like to invite coach Larry Lewis up the front. Um, also coached by Coach Harvey. And I appreciate Coach Lewis being here this evening. We had

031several outstanding performances in winter track this year. First, uh, Vladimir Joasan, who placed 17th in the state in the shotput. Also, Charles Lumpin, who placed 23rd in the state in the shot [Applause] put, Micaia H. Ernen, who took second in the state in the high jump and eighth in the triple jump. And finally, Leland Hartley, who took 10th in the state in the high jump. [Applause] Thank you. We'd next like to recognize the F FCLA um accomplishments. Unfortunately, during this busy time of year, our students were not able to join us tonight, but we just want to give a round of applause for our students who competed and here they are on the screen um in down in Virginia Beach over spring break and the number of awards they won. We thank Chef Jazz for

032the support of these students and our assistant principal um of um CTE, Miss Melissa Fry, for all the supports um for these accomplishments. If you all can join me in thanking [Applause] them, thank you. You know, as I sit here and I I watch students being recognized and I see coaches and other people, when I look on this DAZ and I see three people sitting here who are students of Caroline County, we went to school here and we finished and we went to school and then I look back and I see David Wear who I couldn't even imagine being a coach. It was just yesterday when he was a student. Uh, but it it's a good thing for our students to see that good things come from Carolina and I appreciate again all that our

033coaches do and our staff. Thank you. That takes us to the Pierce group supplemental uh group benefits. Paige Tucker. All right. Good evening, Chair Taylor, Vice Chair Fortune, members of the board, and Dr. Calvaric. I'm here tonight with Mr. Grace Spivey and Mr. Gray Hooker, two grays from the Pierce group to provide an update on the selection of a new supplemental benefits provider for our staff. After a comprehensive and thoughtful vetting process, which included a staff survey, the formation of a diverse selection panel, and the development of an evaluation rubric, a new provider has been chosen. During tonight's presentation, I will walk you through the selection process, highlight the key advantages of our new provider, address any common transition questions, and provide a detailed timeline for the roll out. As part of the supplemental benefit

034selection process, a staff survey was distributed in February to gather input on what features are most important to our employees. We received a total of 52 responses. From the feedback collected, several key priorities emerged. Staff shared that the affordability of premium costs was one of the most important considerations. In addition, they emphasize the importance of a strong provider network and ease of accessibility as well as a simple and user-friendly enrollment process. Another top priority was efficient claims processing and the speed of payouts. In terms of enhancements, many staff expressed interest in having access to legal and financial assistance as well as identity theft protection, benefits that go beyond traditional offerings, but can provide me meaningful support and peace of mind. This valuable input helped guide our selection panel as they reviewed provider options and identified

035the best fit for our staff's needs. A detailed evaluation rubric informed by employee feedback gathered through the survey was used to guide the comparison and selection process to ensure our employees have access to comprehensive competitive and highquality selection of benefits. We convened the supplemental benefits panel. This panel was brought to brought together a thoughtfully selected group of stakeholders including teachers, a principal, a schoolboard member and repres representatives from both the finance and human resources departments. As part of the evaluation process, the panel invited presentations from our current provider along with two additional providers. The rubric informed by employee feedback was used to guide the comparison and selection process. This collaborative and transparent approach underscores our commitment to making decisions that prioritize employee well-being and reflect the voices of those we serve. And Pierce Group was

036selected as the panel's top choice. The panel was particularly impressed by the wide range of offerings Pierce provides. Pierce also emphasized a strong commitment to exceptional customer service and easy user-friendly access to their benefits platform. PICE also has comp comprehensive and forwardthinking benefit offerings designed to support the diverse needs of our stakeholders. Highlights of these offerings include legal benefits, identity theft protection, and student loan assistance. In addition to its robust benefit offerings, PICE also delivers valuable financial features, including market-based cost comparisons, comprehensive pricing analysis across multiple markets markets to ensure cost competitiveness and value. Program cost parity designed to align closely with the cost of our current program, offering a seamless financial transition as well as billing concierge services, dedicated support to assist with invoice reconciliation and streamline the billing process. After conducting a thorough

037comparison, we'd like to share some key insights we discovered. One notable advantage offered by Pierce Group is the portability of their benefits. This means that employees retain their coverage at the same cost even if they leave the organization providing continu continuity and added value. In terms of pricing, the cost associated continuity, sorry guys, and added value. In terms of pricing, the costs associated with Pierce Group's offerings are highly competitive. In many cases, they match or even slightly undercut current rates, all while delivering enhanced protections and broader coverage for our employees. This balance of affordability, increased benefit, quality makes Pierce Group a compelling option as we continue to evaluate the best possible support for our staff. Full-time employees, full-time employees at Pierce offer consistent, dependable service and bring deep product knowledge to every interaction. This expertise

038not only ensures clear, accurate communication with staff, but also makes them a trusted internal resource for answering benefit related questions. Their platform, Ben Select, enhances the enrollment experience by streamlining the entire process from plan selection to confirmation. Employees can easily review and sign off on their benefit choices, reducing errors and confusion. With minimal staff turnover, appears employees are consistently supported by familiar, experienced representatives who understand their needs. This results in a smoother, more personalized and efficient benefits experience for everyone involved. As we transition from current provider, we want to assure our stakeholders that employee protection and peace of mind remain our top priorities. Key safeguards include guarantee issue. No health questions are required. All eligible employees can enroll without medical underwriting. Guaranteed renewability. Once enrolled, coverage cannot be cancelled by the insurance provider. Only the

039employee can choose to discontinue. Credit for time insured. Employees with existing policies will experience no lapse in coverage. Their time insured will be recognized as they transition to Pierce. Portability. Most benefits are fully portable. Whether an employee retires, changes do jobs jobs, or leaves the district, their coverage can go with them at the same cost as if they were still employed. And employee choice and protection. Employees are not required to switch. If someone is undergoing treatment or holds a life insurance policy that is in their that is in their best interest to keep they incur they are encouraged to maintain their current coverage. And next steps is our transition for the roll out. So we will update the benefit section on our website by midmay to reflect the new provider and available resources. Beginning in

040May, we'll have weekly updates shared in the insider to keep staff informed about the upcoming change. Miss Py and I plan to attend faculty meetings across all schools in May, as well as hold targeted sessions for maintenance, transportation, and the schoolboard office. We will also host informational sessions at the schoolboard office in May, June, and July to answer questions and support employees through the transition. An open enrollment for supplemental benefits will take place from August 4th to August 15th. And during this peri during this period, Miss Py and the Pierce team will be available at all school and department sites to provide on-site support. Right. Both Grace and I are here to answer any questions you may have. Did board members have questions? Okay. The only question I your open enrollment is with was August

0414th through since our staff uh are not here during that time. How does that infect does that affect them as far as the open enrollment as far as them knowing is it left to them to well how will they get the information? Right. Right. So that's why we're going out in May to make sure that they have that information as well as sending out updates in the insider as well. Okay. And to clarify, that timeline does overlap with our staff being fully returned for the 2526 school year. August 4th is actually a Monday, I believe, and that is the day that all staff return. Novice teachers will be in the week prior to that. So we will be able to have full access to all employee base. Okay. But we want to make sure they

042know about it before they come back. That's important. Thank you very much. Okay. Thank you. All right. Uh I want to deviate just a minute. Our art student is here and we would like to um go back and just make that presentation. Since that art person is now here with us, we want to recognize that person at this time. I would like to invite our art student recipient to come forward and stand with Mr. just um for a photo opportunity and I will um go ahead and read the announcement for the benefit of our student and his family. Good evening, Chair Mr. Taylor, Vice Chair Mr. Fortune, and members of the board. Exposure to art is critical to the development of every child. Art not only teaches students how to express themselves in creative and

043individual ways, but students who participate in regular art related activities, perform better academically, develop greater confidence, and sharpen their fine motor skills. Beyond these benefits, art education promotes problem solving, critical thinking, perseverance, growth mindset, collaboration, focus, and accountability. All power skills graduates need to be 3 ready, enrolled, employed, and/or enlisted. I am thrilled this evening to honor Mr. Anthony Hernandez from Caroline Middle School. Your artwork will be on display at the school board for the remainder of this month and we will return it to your family safely after we have had the opportunity to enjoy it. Congratulations. [Applause] Thank you. Uh that takes us to the uh monthly revenues, expenditures and ADM update. [Applause] Good evening, Chair Taylor, Vice Chair Fortune, members of the board, and Dr. Calverick. I'll be presenting the April FY25 financials

044this evening. Operating revenues for April were 8.1 million with year-to- date revenues of 53.5 million or 84.41%. Special fund revenues for April were $77,000 with year-to- date revenues of 6.6 million or 65.5%. Total revenues for all funds for April were 8.8 million with year-to- date totals of 60 million or 81.81%. Under expenditures, operating expenditures for April were 6.3 million with year-to- date expenditures at 46 million or 72.79%. Special funds expenditures for April were $561,000 with 6.2 million year to date or 61.90%. Total expenditures for all funds for April were 6.8 6.8 million with year-to- date totals of 52.4 million or 71.29%. 29%. Be happy to take any questions from the board on the April fiscal year 25 financial report. Does board members have questions? If not, uh, thank you, sir. Thank you. That takes us

045to our consent agenda. Oh, I'm sorry. ADM. No problem. Thank you. Good evening again, Chair Taylor, Vice Chair Fortune, members of the board, Dr. Calber. I'll be presenting the average daily membership update for April 2025. Average daily membership is determined by dividing the total aggregate daily membership by the number of days school is in session during the school year. The March year-to- date principal's ADM report was 4,330.624. The state of Virginia determines funding for FY25 based on the March 31st student records collection report. The state 331 ADM report was 4,277.77. This is a difference of 52.584 students. This is a result of having 28.18 students who are in the SISNA exceptional education regional program and 34.9% students who are served through CSA the child services act. SISNA stands for the students with intensive support needs

046application submitted annually by school divisions to VDOE. It's used to request reimbursement for the high cost of providing services to students with intensive needs, determine the actual cost of those services and ensuring an equitable distribution of funds. The Children's Services Act, CSA, is a Virginia law enacted in 1993 that provides a state funded pool of money to purchase services for atrisisk youth and their families. These funds combined with local community funds are imagined by local inter agency teams who plan and oversee services to help troubled and at risk youth and their families. Based on the spring SRC, the school division will will receive $278,157 less funding for ADM for FY25. The schoolboard team is annually reported on this number of children who are in the system program. These numbers have adjusted the March 31st ADM

047funding figure for the past several years. What's new this year is the discovery that CSA students were counted in the monthly the monthly principles report that the board has received on a monthly basis. To remedy these projections, we'll begin reporting CSA and CISna regional students in future monthly reports for ADM. Further, we'll also make adjustments to our FY26 budget projections. Lastly, we are analyzing all of our revenue sources to determine where we may find cost savings to address the ADM loss of revenues for FY25. Be happy to take any questions from the board on the ADM report. Does the board have questions about revenues and expenditures? If not, thank you very much. Thank you. That takes us now to the consent agenda. Items A through G. Consent agenda. Approval of school board meeting minutes for

048April 14th, 2025. Approval of special call school board meeting workshop session May 6, 2025. Approval of monthly bills and financial reports. Approval of Head Start financials. Approval of donations. And approval of May home school report. Is there any uh item that any board member would like to pull or have questions about? If not, I will entertain a motion to approve the consent agenda as presented. So moved. Is there a second? Second. It's been moved and properly second that we would approve the consent agenda as presented. Um would you call for the vote? Dr. Rollins spells. I. Mr. Kelly. Hi, Dr. Hubard. I Mr. Fortune. I Mrs. Sears I Mr. Taylor I and the consent agenda stands approved. Uh that takes us to the citizen comment period. Uh the Carolina County School Board welcomes public comments

049during regular meetings and public hearings. Speakers may address an item on the board meeting agenda or an item not on the agenda during this time. All comments should address a matter related to Carlan County Public Schools. Each speaker may speak for up to three minutes. Once you see the red light on the traffic light positioned in front of the clerk, please make your last statement. The school board chair is responsible for recognizing all speakers, for maintaining proper order, and for adhering to the time limit stated above. The chair is authorized to stop and or have removed any speaker who uses language that is obscene, constitutes fighting words, true threats, or solicitation to commit crimes and incites immediate lawless action. Moreover, the chair may stop and or have removed any person who disrupts the orderly functioning

050of this meeting by making loud, boisterous, or threatening comments. Once you come to the lect turn, if you have not signed in with the clerk, please complete the appearance request form. State your name and your district. At this time, the clerk will call those that have signed up prior to the meeting. Okay. hearing none. Are there citizens in the audience that would like to make a citizens comment at this time? Are there citizens in the audience who would like to make a public comment at this time? One more time. Are there citizens in the audience who would like to make comments at this time? Seeing no one there, no additional comments and no comments at this time, the citizen comment period is closed. This takes us to actions. A action February 2025 VSBA policies. Mr.

051Mud. Good evening. Uh, Chair Taylor, Vice Chair Fortune, members of the board, and Dr. Calvaric. The Virginia School Board Association provides updates in February and May of each year that are based on changes in laws and regulations. In addition, a few policies are revised for editorial reasons or to correct technical errors. The policies that are currently being revised and or reviewed by Caroline County Schools have been available for you in board docs. Tonight, we are seeking adoption of the revised policies. Mr. Chairman, oh, sorry. Go ahead, Mr. Next. As previously mentioned, the um the policies have been available to you in board docs. There have been no changes since originally presented, and at this time, we request approval. Are there questions or concerns regarding the policy? Mr. Chairman, I move for approval of the new

052policies as presented. Second. It's been moved and properly seconded that we approve the new policies as presented. Uh, would you call for the question? Dr. Hubard, I. Dr. Ron Spells, I. Mr. Fortune, I. Mrs. Sears, I. Mr. Kelly, I. Mr. Taylor, I. And the motion carries as recommended. Thank you. That takes us to theou between CCPS and CCSO. Mr. Wick. Good evening, chair, Mr. Taylor, vice chair, Mr. Fortune, members of the school board, and Dr. Kel Veric. This is the second read of theou. This was presented last month and uh we renew this every two years and the proposed has no changes. that went through the safe and drug free committee, the safety coordinators as well as the principles and SRO's and representatives from the sheriff's department. So, we have no changes uh for the

053next two-year period. Uh do board members have questions? If not, we can entertain a motion to approve theou between CCPS and CCSO. So move. Second. Okay. Been moved in properly second that we approve theou between CCPS and CCSO. Let's call for the vote. Mr. Kelly, Mrs. Sears, I. Mr. Fortune, I. Dr. Hubard, I. Dr. Rollins spells. Hi. Mr. Taylor, I. And theou stands approved. That takes us to agenda item C, alternative power pro assessment. Miss Tucker. Good evening, Chair Taylor, Vice Chair Fortune, members of the board, Dr. Coaric. Last month, I came before you to present the alternative parapro assessment for your review, and tonight I am seeking approval. At this time, I can answer any questions you may have. Do board members have questions regarding the highly qualified parl professionals? If not, we can

054entertain a motion to approve as presented. So moved. Second. It's been moved and properly second that we approve the alternative parallel professional assessment assessment as presented. Call for the vote. Dr. Hubard I. Dr. Rollins spells I. Mr. Fortune. I. Mr. Kelly. Hi. Mrs. Sears. I. Mr. Taylor. I. And the motion carries. That takes us to agenda item D 2526. Head start grant application budget self assessment community assessment annual report. Miss Ross. Good evening, Chair Taylor, Vice Chair Fortune, members of the board, and Dr. Calverick. This evening, I am presenting the final Head Start grant application and supporting documents. At the April schoolboard meeting, you received copies of the draft Head Start self- assessment, community assessment, annual report, and proposed budget. Since then, the self- assessment, community assessment, and annual report have been finalized, and only

055formatting revisions have occurred. Extensive work has been done to finalize the Head Start budget based on our cost allocations. Myself and finance staff will be working together to determine in the very near future the non-federal share in contribution for the Head Start grant application. At this time, CCPS awaits the county's adopted budget, which will include the transfer of operational funds. Once the funding streams are finalized, CCPS will be able to finalize a budget for fiscal year 26. A finalized budget calculation will allow staff to properly calculate accurate projections of our nonfederal share inind contributions to the Head Start program. We are hoping for our local budget to be passed in the near future in order to solidify our calculations. As a reminder, CCPS will receive1,124,989 for operational and training and technical assistance funds for the

056preschool program. At this time, I'm asking for approval of all of the finan packet which includes the grant application, the budget, self assessment, community assessment, and annual report. And of course, I'm happy to answer any questions before approval. Do board members have questions before we approve? I have a question, Mr. Chairman. Certainly. Um, is there any negative impact of um the county budget timeline and the pending conversations about um facility needs? I'm specifically thinking about that inind portion if we make any shifts and changes. I'm going to turn that one over to Marcia. Okay, thank you. Good evening. We are continuing to um pursue our budget internally because we do need to go out for contracts, etc. We do always have the clause in our contracts about non-appropriation. However, we will be making some adjustments

057and then we'll be listening to the county administrators tomorrow. We do not see that it'll be any impact on us. We have budgeted in items numbers for the head start grant and able to meet our inind at this time. Thank you. Other questions? Dr. Rollins says I will add on you mentioned the piece about the facilities. So to the grant no in my next presentation when I mentioned the supplemental that could play into it. So thank you. Okay. Uh if there are no questions, we can entertain a motion to approve the uh Head Start grant application. So move second. It's been moved in and private second that we approve the Head Start grant application as presented. Let's call for the vote. Mr. Fortune. I Mr. Kelly. Hi. Mrs. Sears. Hi. Dr. Rollins spells. Hi. Mr.

058Hubard. I mean Dr. Hubbert. I. Mr. Taylor. I. And the grant application stands approved. This takes us to agenda item E. Um the first read, Head Start supplemental playground application. Uh and I believe we agreed to wave the first read. Okay, Miss Ross. Thank you. Good evening, Chair Taylor, Vice Chair Fortune, members of the board, and Dr. Calic. This evening, I will be sharing information regarding the opportunity to request one-time supplemental Head Start funds for the CCPS preschool program. Oh, I'm sorry. Go ahead. I'm sorry. Okay. Head Start has an open window until June 1st for programs to apply for supplemental funding. These one-time funds are for program improvement health and safety projects and and requested funding can be used for playground installations andor upgrades. The application must be submitted separately from the original grant

059award and awarded to programs based on the priority of the project and of course availability of funding over the course of this school year. for preschool playground walkthroughs and safety audits has have been conducted at each site with the maintenance team, Mrs. Heron, our director of exceptional education, Mrs. Jackson, our preschool operations coordinator, and myself. Prior to CCPS becoming the Head Start grantee, CDI installed equipment to create a preschool playground at each elementary school. The newly installed equipment is in efficient insufficient for our preschool population. The current Fenston preschool playground can only safely accommodate one classroom at a time. In addition, movement is an integral part of the preschool curriculum and day, and the current equipment in the preschool areas do not allow our children to run, climb, or slide. And finally, the preschool playground

060areas are not in compliance with ADA requirements for our students with disabilities. I will now share the two options that will be included in the supplemental application to submit to the Office of Head Start. Please note that the options are just starting points and no decisions have been made for any final designs. The renderings are part of the supplemental package requirements. So option one is to enhance and expand the playground area at each of our elementary schools. The current playgrounds have a fence around the perimeter in one shaded area with station equipment that allows for musical exploration and painting. The slide before you is a rendering of proposed renovations and additions. Supplemental funding would be used to enlarge the areas and replace the fencing and gates. The existing equipment would be moved to the outer

061perimeter of the area. Two new pieces of equipment would be added to surround the existing trike track. The new equipment would be age appropriate structures with slides, monkey bars, climbing walls, and much more. This proposed playground expansion at all three sites will resolve compliance concerns, ensure unfettered access for our children, and enable children with disabilities to generalize movement, strength, and flexibility across the school environment. Appropriate playground equipment and space will also give our children the experience of climbing and sliding to increase strength and endurance and socialize with their peers in the other classrooms. To accomplish option one, the cost to renovate and expand the BGES playground is quoted at $130,4155. The cost the quote for Madison is $148,1684. And the quote for Lewis and Clark would be $127,4652, which is a total funding request of

062$45,99011. Please note that all of the quotes include materials, supplies, and installation costs. Next, I will share option two. Since CCPS is working through the facilities process and plans to address our growing community, this could impact the location of our preschool classrooms. In an effort to be prepared, if the division should move to a center-based preschool program, option two was created. The area would be a new canvas and one large playground area would be built to facilitate multiple classes at a time on a rotating schedule. Just like in our elementary schools, this rendering gives you an idea of the possibilities for option two. The cost of building a brand new playground at one site is quoted at $395,835.7. I have built the supplemental application around option one um the expansion at the three sites only

063because the quote was just slightly higher. So I wanted to go with the higher number of $45,99011. This way funding can be secured for whichever the outcome for the preschool program in our future. At this time, I'm asking the school board approval to submit a supplemental Head Start application for $45,99011 to potentially secure funding for preschool playground renovations and enhancements. And of course, I'm happy to answer any questions at this time. Board members have questions. If I if I may. Um, question one. If um if we get the grant for four and five, how soon do we have to uh do or execute the the construction? Is there some time to or is it immediate? How long do we have to hold? So, that that's a great question. I have reached out to our program

064specialist. Um, as you know, with all the restructuring with Head Start, things have been a little slow to get answers. So, I'm going to be reaching out to her again. Um, based on what I've read so far, though, I believe it's a 12-month period of time. Um, the biggest thing is not wanting to ask for monies that we're not going to be able to spend. Um, the likelihood of getting the 405,000 is not promised. So, that's why I went a little big. So, if they were to come back with a lower number, then we would just do some cutbacks and, you know, trim the fat a little bit, I guess. Jack. And exactly. If I may, second question is uh you've used uh the phrase ADA compliant a couple of times. So if worst case

065scenario, we don't get the funds, then we're going to have to as a division come up with funds to bring these sites within ADA compliance. So yes, at some point, however, we have been very creative um with our students with disabilities and all of our students in accessing the playground and not just using the fenced in area. Um next year, we're going to be even more creative with looking at two outdoor times for some structured play and some outdoor play. So regardless of this playground outcome, whatever we can do, renovations or not, we're going to we're going to work around it. Great. Thank you. Okay. I I did have a question. We did a substantial renovation for Madison's playground. How does that figure into what we're doing now? So, that's a great question. Um, we

066kept that in mind when we were looking at the Madison area. We know that's the smallest of our schools, so we need the least amount of space there. Um, and working with Mr. Griffin and Mr. Caldwell, we knew we could not extend out too much farther, but we can go wider where we could put a new fence and attach to the perimeter fence and then go back to the building to gain a little bit more access there. We only have four classrooms in comparison to six. So, we know we're we're within a certain amount of space. And I should add on to Mrs. Ross's explanation by stating that the addition that was completed at Madison did not include the prek area. that was solely focused on K5 population. Okay. Thank you. Any other questions? I

067have a quick one. So the the playgrounds then um because looking at the the datas for the schools um for Bowling Green, Madison Elementary, are these would these only be used by the Head Start and PreK programs then? Yes, because we have three-year-olds now, and when our three-year-olds come in the door, some of them are twos, and all of the equipment outside of the fenced in area is typically for five and up. And so, preschool can't access that until very late in the year. And then that's only the fours that have turned five. So, that leaves a whole bunch of our students that are not able to use the for like smaller people. So, they couldn't go and try out the playground equipment. Yeah, that's not allowed. I was asking for All right. Thank you.

068Welcome, Mr. Chair. One question. Yes. Uh so for the option one application, there will be a representation that we have preschool within our three elementary schools. Correct. That's correct. If a decision is made to pull prek out of one or more of our schools and it's not a prek center, if you will, what potential impact would we have if we're awarded funds and then a subsequent decision is made to pull prek out of out of the elementary school or schools. So, that's a great question. So when I went back to revise my narrative, I tried to put a lot of that context in there for the folks at um the office of head start to know that we are really looking at all options. So for example, let's say that the classes at Bowling Green

069were to come out um that money that is allotted for the Bowling Green playground would then come to that location wherever that would be. Now I can't say that that cost is going to be the same because now you're looking at probably removing equipment and then moving it off camp. That mean that's a whole lot extra. So, we would probably have to scale back um on the Taj Mahalo playground, so to speak. Yeah. And depending on what work needs to be done, it could be a significant scale back. Correct. Could be. Yeah. Are these Mr. Are these funds um this is a pool of funds that are available each year, correct? Typically, yes. Onetime funds. Okay. Um, I'm I'm having a pause. Um, if I can just process out loud with um approving an application

070for funds without having a solid plan for what we're going to do with prek. Um and I know that um in our special called meeting there was a request and I do believe that was um our vice chair with what is the vision for prek. Um and I think this is just another one of those details where decision making matters. Um because Head Start has rules. Um it's federal funding. Um and there are so many different nuances and I think this is just another one of them. So at an appropriate time I do encourage this board to um we need to provide some vision and some structure around what we want to do with prek. I think there's consensus but I don't know that we have made that as a decision because it impacts timelines

071such as this and funding and budgets and all kinds of things. So, could I could I ask or follow up? We don't know what the future holds for Head Start federally. Um, if we can get that piece of money now and we know that there's money at least still there, wouldn't it be wise for us to at least go and get it because there's no promise that those funds will be available in subsequent years? If I'm understanding your question, I believe that is correct. So June 1st is the submission of the uh next year's fiscal Head Start grant. Just like the supplemental funds, they don't tell us how what amount of funding is available. Um it could be a lot this summer, next year it could be a minimal amount and then again it's prioritized.

072So me submitting this application does not mean we're going to receive any funds whatsoever. That's right. That's right. And while I agree with uh my colleagues on on on the diet here with regards of uh preschool, you know, this is money that's on the table now. Um and I just think it it would be wise to go for it uh now. Um and you have a plan. It's just we may have to call some audles in the event that that things change. And Dr. um Rollinsvilles, thank you for bringing that up. I just so your the board is aware and Dr. and everyone knows here on leadership. I was fully prepared to be standing here last month with this supplemental application but then said we need to pause because at that time I was just

073going to propose the three schools. So that's when I went back to the table to add in that second option just to really try to blanket and and cover all of our bases as much as possible. I was just going to share that information. We were very strategic in the delay so that we could outfit the grant with more flexible language. Um, I do just feel it's important to make sure that the community is very clear and if I'm speaking out of turn, um, Chair Taylor, please interject, but our board is fully committed to the continuation of preschool. It is simply during our enrollment growth and our programmatic growth period. What is going to be their best home in order to come up with a long-term and a short-term facility plan that will meet the

074needs of prek through 12. So, I want to be very clear, we are committed to preschool services. We are simply continuing our due diligence in the facility capacity arena. Okay. Um I just have a a a question. Uh if we applied for the grant and we were successful, is there a time limit on when the monies have to be spent or could we hold it until we had answered that question as far as to, you know, where preschool is going to be or or the board has had an opportunity to uh make a motion to determine that. So again, I'm going to try to reach back out to our specialists to get a firm answer. The I'm fairly confident it's a 12-month period. By the time the application submitted, they actually look at it, review

075it, and we hear something. It could even be a month or two before we even hear back. Um that 12-month period should not begin until the money is awarded. Yeah, if that makes sense. And I say that because I hear both uh perspectives. I certainly hear Dr. uh Rollins Phil's uh perspective as to the because the board has not made a uh a statement. Mr. Chair, I'm sorry to cut you off, but if I may, I apologize. Okay. Based on our conversation here, based on the conversations we've had regarding what to do with preschool in relation to our facilities questions, would it be premature at this time to entertain a motion that it is the board's commitment to keep all preschools in our elementary schools? I [Music] will Is that motion in order? As as

076far as I I know it is. I just want to make sure that I'm I'm in autumn with that. Don't we have a a action on the floor now to conclude and then after that entertain the motion? Well, the the action that's on the board now, there is no motion on the board now to determine whether or not we're going to accept this uh as presented. We haven't made that motion. What I hear Mr. Fortune saying is that he wants to make a motion or the board to or he wants the board to or he wants to make a motion to the board to determine where prek is going to be located or is it going to be located in the same schools? And I guess my question is is that motion in order? Is

077the board ready to make that decision? Is that a motion, Mr. Fortune? It is. I second it. Okay. Okay. So, your motion then is to pre will remain in their current locations for the upcoming school year. All right. And it is second. Um uh let's call for the vote. Question. Question. Okay. So while I actually agree with the motion, um I think we need to be very careful whereas we have been speaking for a considerable amount of time as a board to actually centralize um prek out of their uh what's the appropriate phrase out of their um assigned schools. Uh now there have been options and we've you know been discussing that for the better part of uh what nine months almost a year now we're going back suggesting that you know we keep everyone

078all all the prek and head start in their home schools which is really why I thought we started the process to begin with for you know the great you know the greater good of the students in the long run. So, I I just think we need to be very careful with, you know, the uh perception that, you know, we had this position one time and now uh we're we're flipping sides. It almost looks like we're doing a a a complete 180. And I I just want to make sure that we're not um we're clear as to one why we're, you know, we're saying what we're saying. Um and everyone understands that uh from any certainly any board member can uh comment uh because we are in the question period of the motion. Uh but I

079I think what I'm hearing is that uh at least Mr. Fortune uh feels in and the board that the prek is in the best place now at the schools that they're serving. And what I hear him saying is that if we if we move them from that school, that's going to create some issues. So I hear his motion being that we keep them where they are such that when we get the grant, there's no question or if we get the grant, there's no question about uh where the prek is going to be located. So I welcome any other comments. I agree with that. And just to steal Dr. Hoverbert's phrase, we could always call in Ottawa later if we had to, but I think it's a good faith estimate for us to say how this

080is our vision for the program. This is how we see it going. And I think that by adopting that, that's what we want to do. That's what we're telling the public. That's what we're telling the employees. We want to do what's in the best interest of children. And this is what we believe is in the best interest of children. And if at a later date it's not feasible, we can always look at something else. But in the meantime, we are going to do what is in the best interest of the children of Caroline County. Other questions, comments? I have a a comment. I think um what we must be very careful about in managing demographic and facility studies is to not allart um conversation. And so to the the previous point about different options that

081were proposed, it was proposed in the context of other dynamics. And so I think it's important that we keep that in mind. I don't think that the narrative is correct to say one minute we thought this and the next minute we think that when you pull it out of context. Um, I've been involved with Head Start for 22 years. Um, and have seen that model in a variety of forms. One of the conversations that I do recall when we applied for the grant was having ownership of this and please please correct me if I'm speaking out of turn and please do so publicly because it's important that factual information is put out separate from emotion. The facts were that we were not the holder of that grant. That's correct. The facts were that we made

082a decision to apply for that grant and compete for that grant. That's correct. And in competing for that grant, it put the ownership of student outcomes of programmatic practices, best practices within our reach. That is correct. And at that time we could have continued to operate that program in the same manner that the previous grant holder did. Is that correct? That is correct. And we made as a school division major changes to one look at what do these kids need developmentally. So when you talk about art, music, and PE, just to name three since they're hot topics of conversation, fine motor skills and all of that developmental stuff is key and important. And when you look at the criteria just in that application process, we know that those are some of the most at promise

083students and it puts them at a disservice to say we're going to give you part of what we know you need but not the whole of what we know you need when we can provide it. And if I recall, that was the driver to pulling prek students out of Bowling Green, the old Bowling Green Elementary, which is now in central office, because they did share the space and put them into the home school so that there was a sense of belonging, there was a sense of community, and there was continuity in service. Am I recalling that correctly? Yes, that is correct. It was based on best practice. Yes. And so now when we look at the different options, right size, right fit, I keep talking about the rubric because we didn't make this up. It

084it was a rubric based on research and best practices. We said to add on and make thousand plus student elementary schools is not the right size. And so I think it is contradictory to what's best for students as Mr. Kelly said to then talk about moving at promise students to accommodate what at the expense of what when you pull it out of the context of centralizing it came with the suite of services that they needed. Now we're talking about pulling them out and to the detriment of what we've charted as the vision for our program. So I I think it's important to give that context to say how did we arrive here when we took ownership we said we are going to sign our name on this grant be accountable and build this program for

085what we know fits for our community. So for those reasons, I'm in favor of keeping the programming where it is because it is child first and what's best for students and the rest of these pieces we can move around but not at the expense of what's best for kids. So, I just wanted to give that make sure that I have the right understanding and make that a matter of public record that that is the truth behind why we chose what we chose and why my position is what it is today. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I'd like to publicly state that I really appreciate Joanda's ability to take all my emotion and articulate that. And I would like to call the previous question. Call for the vote, please. Okay. The question has been called. It's been

086it's been moved in property second that we would um vote to keep preschool in the buildings that they're in. Is that the motion? That is the motion in a second. All in favor? Well, let's call for the vote. Mr. Fortune I. Mrs. Sears, I. Mr. Kelly. Hi, Dr. Rollins. Fells, I. Dr. Hubard, I Mr. Taylor, I. And the motion carries. Again, I would like to thank all of the board. Uh, for our due diligence, I'm not as familiar with preschool and those things that are needed there. I've not worked in that uh that level of student, but I appreciate those of you who have and I appreciate you explaining it to the point that we can make an intelligent decision based on factual information. So, I I appreciate that and I appreciate the board coming

087together and doing what's best for those students. Mr. Chair, yes. Can I now make a motion that we approve uh this uh the Head Start supplement of playground application? Thank you. Second. Okay, it's been moved and properly second that we would approve the playground application as presented. All in um let's call for the vote. Are is it in the motion for option one or two? If I could interject, I do think it's important to be clear. We expanded the language for additional flexibility, but we've just made a motion to articulate our vision for prek, which includes remaining in the current school facilities. So option one, okay, would be the option that the board may want to entertain if you would like it aligned with your previous motion. I will modify the motion to say option

088one. Okay. Thank you. Okay. My second still stands. Option one. Let's call for the vote. Dr. Rollins Fells. I. Mr. Kelly. I. Dr. Hubard. I. Mr. Fortune. I. Mrs. Sears. I. Mr. Taylor. I. And the motion carries. That takes us to new business. First read 202526 Title One application. Miss Ross. Good evening, Chair Taylor, Vice Chair Fortune, members of the board, and Dr. Calverick. Tonight, I present to you the first read of the 2025, 2026, Title One, Title 2, and then Title 4 applications. I will start with Title One. The Title One grant supports instructional programs in school divisions and school with high numbers or percentages of lowincome students to asssure that all children meet challenging content and achievement standards. The draft title one budget was based on last year's allocation of 867,715.72. As you

089know, Bowling Green and Madison Elementary Schools are schoolwide title one schools, which mean that both schools receive funding which is to be spent on all grades preK through 5. Approximately 90% of the budget is allocated to personnel salary and benefits for both schools. The application includes several full-time positions such as three reading specialists, one math specialist, one innovation specialist, five of a preschool teacher,.5 of a preschool pair professional, two title one pair professionals, two family engagement coordinators, and one federal program secretary. In addition to the positions, the remaining funds are allocated to literacy, math, steam and behavioral instructional materials, supplemental in intervention, Mckin Vento transportation, and school-based family engagement meeting and events. Please know that all salaries in this draft budget are not reflective of any potential raise as the CCPS budget is not finalized

090at this time. I will update all salaries and make all the necessary changes to the budget by the June schoolboard meeting when I return for approval. Moving on to the first read of the title 2 2025 2026 grant application. The purpose of title 2 funds are to prepare, retain, and recruit highquality teachers and principles. The draft title 2 budget was based on last year's allocation of $155,49.17. Within the title 2 grant, funds are allocated for professional learning such as conference attendance, travel costs, and securing external tra trainers or presenters. To further support professional learning, Sydney, our virtual coaching platform, and Vector, our professional learning database, are funded through the Title 2 grant. Our newest addition to our professional learning offerings is Noonsense Nurturer, a research-based approach focus focused on building strong teacher student relationships, increasing

091student engagement, and promoting consistent high expectation classroom practices. For teacher quality, CCPS reimbures staff for coursework and supports staff on their pathway to lure. One of our newest additions to the grant has been a one-time incentive for pair of professionals who pass the pair pro exam. for leadership. Title 2 funds are allocated for the annual participation in an aspiring leaders leadership cohort NGLA which is next generation of leaders. And at this time I'm hap I'm sorry at this time um the application is not final. I will be revising the budget and then coming back in June for your approval and moving on to the last f first read of the title 4 2526 grant. The Title 4 grant provides funds for programs and activities to improve students academic achievement by increasing the capacity of local

092school divisions to provide all students with a well-rounded education, improve school conditions for learning, and improve the use of technology in order to increase digital literacy of all students. The draft title 4 budget was based on last year's allocation of $72,11847. On this slide, you will see each of the three categories and the corresponding items included in the grant. In the well-rounded category, schools, title four funds support items such as dual enroll dual enrollment and advanced placement exams, the college advisor, schooly for grades three through five, and a small number of hotspots that are available to students without reliable internet access. In the safe and healthy category, funds support the crisis management system, Katy mobile, the stop it bullying app, and educational materials for families, such as attendance brochures and college prep information. You will

093also notice that most of the funds are dedicated to safe, healthy schools and well-rounded education versus technology. There are spending thresholds for each category, and minimal funds should be allocated for devices, equipment, software applications, and or other one-time IT purchases. I will be back in June with this final application and budget and again ask for your approval. But at this time, I'm happy to answer any questions about any of the grants. Does the board members have questions about either uh title one, title two, or title four applications? This is the first read. Yeah. So, I'm assume, Mr. Chair. Yes. I'm assuming that we will see probably some adjustments should we get greater clarity uh from on from the uh federal money. That is correct. And then if something were to happen, when I submit, I

094think it's July 1st. Um I typically submit in June. If something were to happen after the fact, the VOE would have just asked me to do amendments and then make all adjustments from there. I'm really concerned about the you I know this is a first read, but just concerned about uh you know, the English for for our English learners. Um and those who are precost uh who are who have a crystal ball uh out of DC seem to uh suggest that money in that area may be lost and you know and then of course there's the modifications in uh from the state on the amount of time we have. So, um, are we strategizing on, you know, what we can start thinking about? Um, if it doesn't come to pass, wonderful. Uh, but, uh, I'm

095just, you know, you I'm sure if I know you, we've already started to develop some strategies to to compensate any that that does happen. Yeah, we we've been having conversations about priorities of the priorities on the grant and, you know, contingency plans and all of these things. So we have a couple ideas in our in our minds in case. You're welcome. And Dr. Hover, Dr. Neighbors is next on the docket under title three. She will outline some of that information. It is a very minimal amount of funding that we receive. So if we indeed needed to assume responsibility for some of those expenses, I don't believe it would be a hard reach for the schools. Thank you. Okay. Other questions? Thank you. Okay, that takes us to title three application. Dr. Neighbors. Nice segue. Good

096evening, Chairman Taylor, Vice Chairman Fortune, members of the board, and superintendent Dr. Calvaric. Tonight, I would like to present our first read of the Title Three Language Instruction for English learners and immigrant students grant. Our priorities for this grant are in three areas. First, instructional resources to help support our English language learners their language acquisition. Second is to provide professional learning for our LEAP teachers. LEAP standing for language instructional education program that is to align to the state's new language um on how we define our L programming formerly known as ESL general education. Um so this professional learning pro provides support for our LEAP teachers, general education teachers, principles and families on how to support our English language students. And then thirdly that family engagement um support for family engagement and resources for families themselves.

097Here is that small budget um for title 3. This is based on our this year's allocations and so we are monitoring this closely with our state contacts. Um but at this point we were um told to continue to move forward despite the communication that we received last week. So for budget code 1000 it's really earmarked for hourly pay for our elite teachers during the summer or after school to prepare and deliver andor participate in professional learning. They update our district handbook and curate instructional resources for general education teachers to use to support those m multilingual students. For budget code 3000, the monies is dedicated to for registration for conferences and workshops for elite teachers, content area teachers, administrators, and our directors of instruction to include state organizations and supports through the VDOE or researchbased trainings,

098workshops to improve academic language supports in English, writing, math for our L students. The funding also supports web-based programs to support language acquisition and literacy skills as well as on-site training for LEAP staff such as SCOP. So that is our largest amount of those purchase services. Um indirect costs are for our travel. And then we have um finally our title 3 funds are used to purchase supplemental and evidence-based instructional materials specifically to support L um ELA, excuse me, and math for our L students for a grand total of $18,142.16. Again, this is the first read. We'll come back if there's any revisions that needed from if we hear anything from the federal or state government around our funding. And do you have any questions? Any questions from board members? What is what is I'm sorry,

099Mr. Chair. Our what are our numbers? I mean, just based on the demographics, you may not have it right at hand. I do have them in front of me right now, sir. Um our numbers, we have currently 195 that we have um right now in our um in for this year that we reported back in December. Last year we were at 158 and the year before 124. So, we're growing. We are growing. um we have not grown as much as we did from the year before to last year or to this year um where our numbers have kind of stabilized so we don't have the growth we had from 158 from 195 um but we are growing. Do you foresee a need for additional instructors as the numbers continue to the standards of quality that

100were um produced through legislation go live on July 1 and the staffing is actually based on testing results. So our students engage in WEDA access testing and based on their level of proficiency, there is a formula that dictates the number of English language learner providers you must have on staff. So in our FY26 budget, we actually asked for two additional English language learner teachers and that is to ensure compliance with standard of quality. That will lift us from five to seven teachers. M thank you. We'll receive those test scores. Um they will be electronically available hopefully by this week we were told. So that will determine what our requirements though will be for next year um once we have those scores back. Any other questions? Any other questions? Okay. Thank you. Thank you. That takes

101us to approval of math high quality instructional materials. Great evening, Chair Taylor, Vice Chair Fortune, members of the board, and Dr. Calic. CCPS is dedicated to the review and approval of K12 mathematics textbooks, high quality instructional materials that are aligned to the 2023 mathematics standards of learning. This supports goal one, teaching and learning, math literacy of our achieve 2027 strategic plan and our commitment to having resources that support a system of quality education. Tonight, Dr. Neighbors, Mrs. Bernap, and I will provide a first read of the core instructional program, the process, and highquality instructional material selections. The alignment of textbooks and instructional materials with the state's academic standards provides a foundation for students success. The Department of Education along with the assistance of experienced classroom teachers and other educators review textbooks and instructional materials for

102alignment with the standards of learning and makes recommendations to the board of education on state adoptions. Once this process occurs, local divisions may elect to adopt materials. You have a copy of the CCPS process and timeline document in your folder. We will further explain how we navigate from this point on the next slides. On March 27, 2025, the Virginia Board of Education approved a list of mathematics textbooks and instructional materials. The recommendations that were we are bringing to you today are from that approved list. Prior to the publishing of the approved list, a survey was conducted asking for input from teachers and administrators on the priorities for adopting an HQIM highquality instructional material. Through our partnership with plan forward, they analyzed the results of the survey and found three key themes. usability and flexibility, responsive

103design for a diverse range of learners, and instructional relevance and conceptual depth. It is also of note that 86.8% of responses preferred both print and digital platforms. You have a copy of the detailed results in your folder and I'll turn it over to Dr. neighbors to share more. Thank you, Miss Haley. So, moving forward on our timeline, based on stakeholder interest, a curriculum team was formed to look at the programs that best fit the needs of Caroline County Public Schools. The 35 members of the team represented a range of stakeholders including teachers, administrators, gifted specialists, math specialists, exceptional education teachers, LEAP teachers, parents, and central office staff who were either self-nominated or not recommended by their school leaders. Team members were able to review samples of print materials and hear virtual presentations from each vendor

104that highlighted the features of the programs. Digital links to sample accounts were provided to each member of the team to take a deeper dive into one grade level assigned to them for the content of each program. Participants used the CCPS rubric to rank each of the programs. After collaboration at the second meeting, the top two elementary and top two secondary programs were selected based on these rankings which were KDUm and math expression for elementary and EDIA and math space for secondary. In your folder, you have a listing though of all the programs reviewed at those two meetings. You also have a copy of the rubric used throughout the process in your folder. The criteria listed represents CCPS's commitment to support highquality instruction in each and every classroom. And again, this rubric was created in collaboration

105from the results of the survey and the guidance from the VDOE selection process. The curriculum team's top two selections were brought to all stakeholders for final review. Between April 21st and May 2nd, all stakeholders were invited to review both the print materials that were available at each of the schools and the schoolboard office and the digital platforms. Links were provided to staff and made available on the division website under the math community corner section on the p um on our section on public as well as shared through the insider and on our district Facebook page. We also hosted virtual presentations for each of the four finalists on April 29th. Stakeholder completed a stakeholders completed a final survey to select their top program. After the closing of the survey, the selection team used the results to

106make the final recommendation that we're bringing here tonight. Miss Bernap will share more about the two finalists that we're bringing tonight. The kindergarten through fifth grade program they are we that we are proposing to adopt as our highquality instructional material is KDUM. According to the survey, the majority of the stakeholders selected this program. The two main reasons for this selection were the alignment to Virginia standards of learning and that the materials are presented in an organized, logical manner and includes specialized math vocabulary and symbols. The quote on the screen is just one of many positive comments we received from stakeholders. In your folder, you have a copy of the overview brochure that highlights the components of this program. KDUm is approved across K5 mathematics. Kindum Virginia math is a comprehensive custom math core instructional resource

107specifically designed to 100% align with the 2023 Virginia mathematics standards of learning. Kdum takes a human first approach, prioritizing the implementation and onboarding experiences that empower teachers without adding stress, providing the right tools, training, and ongoing support for success. It also contains an AI enabled core curriculum. Kdum's platform features tools like lesson clipper, practice generator, auto feedback, and autoc scoring, helping teachers personalize instruction and meet student needs efficiently. Kdum's problem based philosophy encourages students to leverage what they already know, drawing on their experiences and understanding of the world to develop deep conceptual knowledge of grade level mathematics with scaffolded supports built in to make math accessible for all. These materials are also include a homeschool connection including the cheat sheet podcast which offers parents a quick and friendly overview of each unit. The estimated cost

108on the screen includes consumable workbooks for students, class sets of manipulatives and center kits, digital access for both students and teachers for seven years, as well as ongoing yearly professional learning. You do have a breakdown of that cost in your folder as well. The secondary math program that we are asking for approval for is math space. According to the final survey, the majority of stakeholders selected this program. The two main reasons for this selection were the alignment to Virginia standards of learning and that students use a variety of representations to connect mathematical concepts. The quotes on the screen are some positive comments we receive from stakeholders. You have a flyer in your folder that highlights the features of the program as well. Math space is the only resource 100% aligned to every standard from sixth

109grade through algebra 2 per the VDOE. Professionally professional learning is highly tailored to the needs of each division and math space has highly integrated print and digital materials. It also includes rich standards aligned learning experiences. In addition, parent emails are able to be added to student accounts so that they may receive updates of their child's progress. The projected cost includes class sets of textbooks for students, digital access for both students and teachers for seven years, and also includes the professional learning. This concludes a first reading for the CCPS math K through2 core instructional program overview. We truly appreciate your support in this process. Are there any questions at this time? Board members have questions. Uh, yes, I have several. Um, I'm assuming then, and I don't know off the top of my head, shame on

110me, but what our budget item is. First of all, my first question is going to be because I'm looking at this, it's a seven-year period. Um, so how does that break down for the annual budget that we we we would pay that? We're not paying the $560,000 at once, right? Good evening. We have the textbook fund and the textbook has sufficient carryover funds in it to cover the purchase and we will pay it all at once. Okay. That's what I was going to ask if if that's where the money was going to come from too because that's I knew that we could use it for that. So yeah, then that sounds great. if it's aligning with everything that we're trying to do then. All right. Thank you very much for a great presentation. Then other

111questions. I have a quick question. Um our adoption cycle is how many years? Typically at seven years. I will say that this current year we did not have a high quality instructional material for secondary. Um when the board approved last time for elementary it was seven years, for secondary it was six years. So we're going to stick with a seven from now on. Very good. So this budget will take us until we need to review again so our materials stay fresh. Dr. Rollins spells the only additional driver to consider is as political transitions occur. there can be unexpected or unanticipated standards of learning changes and sometimes that can then initiate a textbook adoption of a new highly qualified instructional material. And so I just want to put that out there that while we have a

112seven-year cycle, we do of course embrace information that's coming out of the VDOE as appropriate. Okay. And my second question, um, with the testing and assessment in the curriculum, does it align with the format of state testing, meaning not all multiplechoice? And yes, both programs have um multiple ways in which that you can ask questions. Um, KDUm also has a variety of ways that students can respond. So they can respond by video or um by typing in long answers. So as we explore the material and as we get training that'll definitely be one of the components that we will be looking at. Thank you. Yes. Um the only question and you might have answered this but this does align with the SOS or does it? Absolutely 100% align for both the K5 and the 612

113according to the state. Okay, Mr. Chair. Yes, you all seem extremely excited about these two uh providers. Um should the board at your second read vote to approve this? How soon would this be in classrooms? Should the board um vote to approve, we will go forward with purchasing and our teachers will have materials before them upon their return. That is our new teachers as well as our returning teachers and time enough to receive the training professional learning. Yes. And we already have that scheduled. Great. Thank you. Could you please expand upon the professional learning timeline that is available? I do believe we have the summer outfitted with options as well. If I'm not mistaken, the summer session will take place during our new teacher work week. Mr. Chairman, I'm sorry. Do you have a question?

114Um, I would just like to say thank you guys for how much effort you guys are putting into choosing these programs. Um, I was looking over them and while I've been talking to students about like classroom engagement, all of the things that they have been telling me that they want are highlighted in these programs. So, I would just like to say thank you for how much like time and effort and consideration you guys put into choosing these. And you guys did an awesome job from what I've seen. Thank you. To piggy back off of Ava's comment, I do want to share that student voice in the superintendent's advisory committee indicated the need for more textbooks in their hands, less online learning and more tangible products. So, I'm grateful that we have workbooks. We also have

115class sets that they can hold and they can use um while doing that mathematical thinking. Thank you, Mr. Chair. Yes, just one one question for both uh programs. There's a asterric uh stating that projected costs may change due to enrollment. Just for the benefit of the community, can you discuss uh the potential cost changes based on a change in enrollment? Sure. So, those original posts were based on current enrollment. Um, as we look at staffing and numbers for next year, I'll be putting together a formalized quote. Um, I don't anticipate those numbers changing greatly, but it may change a little. A follow-up question with Ducktic. Were you surprised with the I'm sorry, Mr. Were you surprised with the uh students wanting uh the books as opposed to the the digital? I was not. This is

116a theme that has really been much more apparent over the last two years. It comes up in the superintendence advisory meetings on a regular basis, but specifically we had four rotations at the fourth quarter meeting and one of them was with Dr. neighbors to really articulate what high quality classroom lessons look like. And they were very well informed about the information related to online learning and how it is um not necessarily yielding the results they're hoping for and we've requested more engaging hands-on interaction interactive activities. Other questions? Well, thank you very much for your time and we appreciate the presentation. Thank you. That takes us to the first read for update to policies generative AI I IA IA-R Google services. Mr. Robinson. Good evening, Chair Taylor, Vice Chair Fortune, members of the board, and Dr.

117Calver this evening I come before you for the first read for additions to policies GAB and I I bea related to generative AI. I am also bringing forward for reference in addition to regulation GAB TAC R and I IA TAC R both of which are directly related to the policies marked for review. At the March board meeting, I gave an overview of how the division began exploring generative AI, what the division is currently doing to prepare staff and students, and a timeline of f future events. Tonight, I am here to address part of that timeline as it relates to adding language within our current acceptable computer use policy. This is not it. Policies GAB and IIBA are VSBA policies that are currently the same language with one falling under personnel and the other under instruction.

118There is nothing being redacted from either policy rather information being added to include generative AI and align with the direction CCPS is headed with generative AI implementation for the 202526 school year. A copy of the current policy with the highlighted additions is located in your packet at as displayed. The following additions are requested. Addition of generative AI outputs in paragraph 2 after tweets. Addition of specific guidelines pertaining to generative AI listing six bulleted conditions for using generative AI which may include but are not limited to educational alignment, ethics, privacy, and training. All of which are also highlighted. Addition of including generative AI tools in paragraph 10 after users of the system and finally addition of through generative AI tools in paragraph 11 after misused. GAB R and IIBA TAC R contain the same language with

119an addition to IIBA TAC R. GAB TAC R falls under personnel and the other under instruction. GAB is the acceptable use agreement signed by all staff upon being hired at CCPS. It is important to reference this document since it is directly related to policy GAB and the addition of generative AI. I IA TAC R serves the same purpose regarding the addition of generative AI but for students and must be signed by both the student and parent or guardian. The addition of consenting to Google services is due to Google setting under 18 age limits without consent. Certain services that fall under this are things such as Google Maps, Google Earth, and other services that Google has that may be beneficial in an educational setting. Currently, those are all for students in order to remain in compliance.

120Moving forward, adding consent to allow Google services will allow those services to be turned back on and used for educational purposes. Should an individual not want their child to have access to Google services, that would be noted so that the instructional setting can take proper steps in an alternative activity without the student using the services under their CCPS educational account. This document is also found highlighted in your packet. Thank you for your time and attention to the first read. All documentation is located in your package with highlighted additions. I look forward to the June meeting to answer any questions and approval. Board members have questions. Just a quick comment because I know of a former CCPS student who attended a college graduation and um the the key speaker talked about the dangers of e AI

121and how we need to move away from it. I kind of thought well that's kind of the opposite of what we're doing in Caroline County. We're really trying to grasp hold of it and use it as the tool I think it was meant for. So, I appreciate the information um and look forward to digesting this over the next month and I'm I'm glad that we're trying to be proactive and forward thinkers as leaders in our community. Certainly. Other questions? The only thing I guess I'm I'm kind of concerned about when I hear Google services, are there any restraints that can keep a student um there's some stuff out there and I don't know well I know that it's things that are not necessarily appropriate and when you when you get into things like Google services

122there are other you know is there any restraints uh to keep uh the the the user from going into certain sites or certainly we use the Google admin console because we're an educational service so we control what services are allowed for students and staff. Okay. Okay. And I figured that but I just wanted to hear it. Um any other questions? Oh yes. Um, are any of the programs you're talking about the ones that we reviewed at the superintendent student advisory meeting? Yes, ma'am. Okay, that Thank you. Other questions? Thank you, Mr. Robinson. Sure. That takes us to um the code of conduct, Mr. Wick. Good evening, Chair Mr. Taylor, vice chair, Mr. Fortune, members of the board, and Dr. Kel Veric. Uh, tonight we're going to review the first reading of the code of conduct.

123And in your board docs, you have two code of conducts in there. Actually, um, the reason is there are very few changes this year. There's only one real change um, for the code of conduct, and that's the increase uh, fee for losing or intentionally breaking a Chromebook. that's going to increase from 250 to 350 um you know just based on costs of the Chromebooks. That's the only change we went through you know the principal round table and principal suggestions and there were no major suggestions this year. The reason I put two copies in board docs is the one copy does not have the cell phone policy in it which we approved last year last summer. The other one does have the cell phone policy in it. So, whichever way the board wants to go on

124that when we vote next month, um, you know, I'll go with that one. Any questions on the first read? Any questions on the first reading for the code of conduct? Mr. Wick, a small technical item on the first attachment that only notes the increased technology fee. The date at the top states 2425. Could we get that updated to reflect 2526 in case that is the option the board elects for the for the second read? Yes, ma'am. I've actually updated that already after I uploaded it in there. I saw that error. So, that is fixed. Thank you so much. Any other questions or comments? Thank you, Mr. Wick. Thank you. Uh that takes us to school board members uh comments uh committee reports and comments. Uh I'll start up this end because I like your voice.

125Thank you. Um so some of the past events that we've had this month were the senior walk at the elementary and middle school that all of the students involved enjoyed from what I've heard. Um, we had the musical Anastasia at the high school, which was also very enjoyable. Um, we also had our final student advisory meeting at the high school where we went over some of the data that we collected from the students. And we had our art show and of course teacher appreciation week. Shout out to all the teachers. Um, some upcoming events we have are graduation, prom, and finishing so finishing up so AP testing, I believe. So, good luck to all the students who have not taken those yet. And I'm sure you did good for all the students who have. Um,

126and one last thing, I am continuing to collect data just to make sure that all the students voices are heard of all the schools that we have in the district. And I will be presenting my presentation at the next meeting. Thank you, Dr. Cobbert. Um, just a few few items. Um, one, uh, policy council meeting. I got to tell you, they remain engaged, uh, energized and and eager for for whatever comes their way. Uh, and they are that's that's a very good a good group. and uh um they actually also feed us too. That's that's that's that's a good thing, too. So, I really appreciate that. Uh we heard a little bit about the environmental literacy uh folks in standby to uh receive some of those uh uh digital ecards uh to help with the

127advocacy of uh environmental literacy. Uh thought that was was very good. Um shout out again to uh Bowling Green. Uh they've got the the food pantry that continues to address uh food insecurity uh uh amongst our our students. Um and coming up I believe on the 15th of May is the uh the Bowling Green Garden Club uh festivities which uh is an open house. Um but it it really uh a lot of folks have put work into that and that's that's just good all the way around. um been invited to the um middle school PTA field day celebration. Uh I guess that's going to take place on the 21st. So we're looking forward to uh uh participating in that. I had the opportunity to attend the um the business recognition, the support that businesses uh

128have provided uh CCPS uh and it is a true testament of the determination, collaboration, determination to uh better uh the educational experiences of our students. Um several of of us went to the um Caroline County Economic Development Dinner. uh yet again uh another opportunity where we can see partnership and the collaborative partnership that's that's very important. So kudos to the team that uh put that together um uh all the way around. Uh Marsha and I actually I believe were at the only ones at the um uh volunteer uh following fire department opening in Sparta. Uh at it was a great uh a great event. um 20 years in the making. But the real you one of the real takeaways from that is there is so much additional space that's out there that can be used

129for uh community engagement opportunities. Um the firehouse and the team there are willing to uh do whatever is necessary. So you know I know we have in the bowling green district we will always go to the um uh the coffee house or somewhere on Main Street. Uh maybe we can go deep into the country uh down uh sparred away to to to go down there. Um did see quite a few of the athletic signing uh ceremonies and I thought that was a testament of our academic scholars and where we have focused on education. Uh but we also have folks who athletes who have risen to the occasion are doing uh great things. Um, and in closing, I would just say continuing. We're we're approaching the the final leg uh of this uh school term. Um,

130you all are doing an extraordinary job. Contrary to what you may hear, uh, on all these social media platforms, uh, websites or what have you, uh, understand this from me. You are valued. You are appreciated. Uh, and we look forward to finishing up the school term strong. Uh, and at the end of the at the end of the day, those test scores will will back that up, I'm sure. So, good job. Have at it. And, uh, let's finish strong. Thank you, Mr. Chair. Thank you. Uh, thank you, Mr. Chair. It's definitely been quite a uh, busy period since our last uh, meeting. Um I was able to u participate and attend the partners in education appreciation breakfast. Uh once again I would like to thank uh our business community and our our nonprofit community um

131for all that you do and also for the learning opportunities uh that you provide to our our students. Um I participated in the Carolina Education Foundation meeting um this p in April. Uh in addition to receiving an overview of the this year's innovation grant recipients, uh the foundation actually agreed uh to donate $6,000 to dancing classrooms program um for our next school year. I'm really excited about that uh as we uh implement those that program in all of our elementary schools. And the foundation also agreed to promote the fourthcoming inaugurable inaugural CCPS Hall of Fame Gayla as a CEF signature event. So I'm super excited about that and more to come uh regarding uh the gayla. Uh, unfortunately I was unable to attend the CEF inaugural golf tournament um at Madapana Springs, but I definitely

132want to give kudos to the CEF board um everyone at Madapumnai Springs and everyone um in our school division that made this event an awesome success. Uh the foundation proudly met uh our goal of raising $25,000 uh to support innovation grants, scholarships, and educational programming uh that will benefit our students here in Caroline. So an awesome awesome awesome job um everyone. Um I also had the uh privilege to attend the employee recognition night um hosted at U Madapuna Barnes um as we celebrated our retirees, our novice teachers of the year, our support staff members of the year and our teachers of the year. Um and in keeping uh with the the night's u movie theme, it was my pleasure to serve as Mr. Taylor's stunt double u as I brought greetings on behalf of our

133board. So that was a great occasion. Uh also uh during the month of May, I was able to participate in the CHS senior awards night program um by presenting Aspire Scholarship Awards to Emily Corson and Grayson Edwards um on behalf of the Carolina Education Foundation. Uh this scholarship is awarded to two Carolina High School graduating seniors who are interested in pursuing pursuing a career in education in Caroline County public schools um upon completion of their chosen program. Uh the award recipients received a $1,000 scholarship to be used at the college and university of their choice. And upon successful completion of the program, recipients will return to Caroline to work as an educator in our school system. And when our aspired awardees signed their initial employment contract within the school division, they also received a $3,000

134signing bonus supplement from the Carolina Education Foundation. And I was happy um to support um this endeavor. And as Dr. Hu Hubbet alluded, um several of our board members were honored to attend the Economic Development Authority business appreciation dinner on May 8th. Um, so with those comments, uh, Mr. Chow, I'll yield the floor. Thank you. Okay. Uh, Mr. um, Kelly, thank you. Um, first of all, congratulations on all the winter athletes and the uh, recognition that they have received. I know that they work incredibly hard in the off season, most of them, just to get to the point where they can be competitive in season. Um so um results are coming in and all I want to say on a personal basis I'm really happy about the way my son has scored this year. It

135has exceeded my expectations which um I think is a credit to him and also the teachers that he has in the school division. Um doing wonderful. That being said since the scores are coming in I'm hoping that um in the next couple of weeks once we get everything under wrap and no not necessarily a Friday update Dr. Calvaric. Um but we will get some news on uh accreditation for the schools. Um I did attend the ATI um Mary Washington board. We didn't have enough members for a quorum. So that was a lot of fun. So we got to go back again uh this Wednesday. Um the gifted advisory committee as always was great. We played this little game. Don't don't smirk at me. We didn't win. My my group came in second. We played this

136lockbox activity for gifted kids. And I learned the hard way. I don't think I'm one of the gifted kids, but it it was very challenging to do all these combinations and everything, but it was a great activity to use. And I I' I've said this publicly. That's my I think it's the best committee that we got that is so it's fun. And you know, learning should be fun. You shouldn't walk into something just being like, "Oh god, I got to do this." Like I really look forward to going in there and hearing about what we're doing. And as a gifted teacher, I liked stealing your ideas and using them as my own. Um, can we got like what, two weeks left of school? Uh, Miss Stevens asked me when I walked in, "Hey, Mr. Kelly,

137how's it going?" I said, "Oh my lord, there's two weeks left of school and it's the middle of May. What do you think I'm doing? How am I doing?" Hang in there. Hang in there, guys. It's It's coming and it's um I don't think I'm gonna I don't think I'm hurting anybody's feelings, but the director of Governor School came to my site and said a couple weeks ago said, "Oh, you guys are starting to wind down?" I was like, "Wine down? There is no winding down in the middle of May. It is a full-on sprint to the end of the school year for everybody." And then you hit the finish line and you're like, "Is that it?" Um Mr. Mud, I wanted to just tell you I think you did a great job u with

138reading those policies and everything. I know that you probably put a lot of late nights into um doing that. Uh those are some big shoes that Dr. Monroe left and I think that you're doing an excellent job with that. Um I would be remiss, I'm sure that everybody knows that in two years we have new so criteria coming. Um and that to me was um I look forward to us unpacking that information and the education that the board's going to get to see how we are going to apply those standards to the classroom. Uh, Head Start. Miss Ross, again, thank you so much. I always feel sorry for employees when they come up to the podium and the board goes off on their tangent and we start doing that thing that we do. So, God

139bless you. You know, you're doing the Lord's work. Our kids benefit from the the knowledge base of information that you have. Um, Jamanda, thank you so much. You just articulate everything. And sometimes I forget from sitting up here for so long and you go to all the meetings and you go to all the developments and we do all the workshops and you get the job done and sometimes I forget that we got a whole bunch of people that didn't sit through that with us and we the educational process is has got to continue. Um and I appreciate I honestly and you know this I appreciate the voice and the rationale that you bring. Liddell, thank you so much for keeping the first thing first up here and saying that that's what we need to do.

140I really appreciate that a lot. Um, and I'm glad that you're up here. Um, and Joey, AI, man, that I just wanted to know, maybe somebody can help me with this. Do we have AI during the pregame and the halftime shows for the soccer games from now on? Is that what's going on? Because you're listening to Caroline radio. That is just absolutely hilarious and it sounds so professionally done. But anyway, it is great. Is it great to be a part of Caroline County Public Schools? So, thank you and God bless everybody as we crunch out these last two weeks. Mr. Chairman, that's my comments. Thank you, Mr. Chair. Um, it has been a super busy month, I think, for all of us. I did get a chance to attend right after our last month's meeting

141the BSBA hot topic conference with some of my colleagues and I find it really important to always take the opportunity to learn and grow not only from others but from our great VSBA president who sits next to me and my colleagues who also attended with me. It's just I find it's just very important to continue to learn. Um, I was also able to celebrate our CCPS employee recognition dinner and congratulations to everyone. It was just such a great event to honor you and and hear all the stories from students and get give you all your recognition. Um the spring musical um Anastasia was a great production and congratulations to all the students who put in so much hard work in making it um an amazing uh weekend of theater. Also in the past couple weekends

142the CHS chorus band and the CMS band have gone to different competitions at both Kings Dominion and Busch Gardens and have received excellent or higher ratings. And so congratulations to them for putting in so much hard work in their um classes for that. Um and then as we just wrap up the school year, I just want to say thank you um to our teachers and staff. As a parent of students in our system, I appreciate you and your hard work so much. Um and as a fellow educator, I also am like, "All right, we can do this. Two weeks, make the big push and we can make it." and then it's a little bit of relaxation time to refresh so that we can come back for next year. And that is all my comments this

143evening. Thank you. I'm sorry. Go ahead. It's her fault she gave me I wanted to be in order. Um so my board um committee updates in terms of where I've been. Um, I have, it's been a busy month. I have been in Ro. I've been in Tidewater, Paige County, um, and Abington um, for my VSBA responsibilities. Had an opportunity to look at different CTE programs and, um, just to see what other schools are doing around the state. Um, and have just really enjoyed that. Um what was most important for me though was to do the BGE tour um along with my colleague and with staff here to make sure that um we're taking care of home. Um in addition to that, I attended the special called meeting. Um attended the Virginia High School League meeting.

144Um had the opportunity to bring uh comments at the Virginia uh state superintendence um conference. And so that was a wonderful time of engaging there as well to hear about different facility projects and demographic studies that are also going on around the Commonwealth. Um and it was just affirming and confirming for me that we are on the right path and we are doing the work. Sometimes it feels like we're on an island and it can be overwhelming but we're right where we need to be with that. Um and also sit on the Blueprint Virginia committee. Um so those were my activities. I do want to say thank you to my board members um for attending um and making sure that we're always have coverage. I know that there have been some key things that I've

145actually missed this year. This was my first time missing senior awards in probably 20 years, but I do want to say congratulations to all of the graduates. Um, and to the recipients of our Caroline's Promise scholarship and our Divas with Promise scholarship, and a special thank you to Miss Baker Latney, who is our executive director for making sure that our kids are seen and our community is engaged. In terms of other comments I'd like to make tonight, again, um, thank you to all of our teachers for teacher appreciation. Um, a special shout out to Bowling Green Elementary and specifically to Miss Rule, who is my kiddo's teacher. Um, thank you for our lunch heroes and our nurses that were acknowledged earlier as well on the awards tonight. FCCLA um had a state conference and our

146culinary students had a whole page of honores, but down at the bottom in the bottom right hand corner, there was a note that there were uh $25,000 in scholarships awarded to our students. And so I just wanted to say that out loud and to acknowledge the work of Chef Jazz and the parents who support the students with that program. Um, thank you again to all staff as we wrap up another school year. Um, one of my favorite quotes is the greatest purpose in life is to live for something that will last longer than you. And so to our teachers and to everyone assembled here on the lefthand side of the auditorium, I want you to know that the fact of the matter is you will never know your real impact. It's just something that we

147won't be able to quantify. Um, and that is because you impact generations. Um, I appreciate the commitment to excellence um to our senior staff and our leaders here. Um, I appreciate your attention to detail as a board member. I was sharing with uh a new board member that it is a learning process for you all to anticipate our questions and to bake it into the presentation. um and how well you have adapted to that and you flow with us. It's not confrontational. You don't take it personal. Um and you have done an amazing job in this heavy lift of making sure we can make informed decisions. Um I've I've not felt railroaded or caught off guard. Um and I appreciate that. Um I also wanted to say thank you for the transparency and communication. Um,

148I think we are doing our due diligence to make sure that we hear our community because I'd rather our community grumble and actually speak than to be silent and say nothing at all. Um, and I know that that comes with late nights and being very intentional about our communication. And I want to say that was one of the best decisions that um came as a recommendation from our superintendent to have a communications um dedicated person. And so thank you for making sure that we look good when it goes out, that it's accurate um and that it is timely. I want to shout out Mr. wick as well because with all the things that have been going on, communication, I don't know, I don't I don't know if the formula is every five minutes or seven

149minutes or or whatever it is, but I can only imagine having to address the immediate need and still have to communicate with all of us and all of the parents and keep the kids safe at the same time. It does not it's not lost on me. um and the intentionality with your choices of words to be factual and not emotional and not incite alarm um on top of what you've already had to deal with. So, I'm belaboring the point to say thank you. We see it as a one pager and it's easy, but it's a lot of stuff that goes on behind the scenes and I appreciate it. I also want to say thank you to all of our directors from special education to HR to finance to our instructional specialist. One of the things

150that I'm very proud about this board is we honor our subject matter experts. Not one of us up here has to be the expert and the know-it-all for everything because if that was the case, we wouldn't need a superintendent and we wouldn't need to hire all these qualified folks. And so, thank you when you come forward. Uh, Miss Bernat, with math programs, I just have a question out of curiosity. At the end of the day, the folks that are teaching it have have reviewed it. I'm good. Um, and so I appreciate that. And then last to our principles. Um, while there's so much going on, um, Miss Hicks, I see you and Mr. Brown and Miss Hexel and conver and Dr. white conversation about what's next and managing fear and managing change. You're in the

151trenches on the front line. And I know that it's easy to sit behind a mic on a stage and make a vote and say your opinion, but then you have to go back in the building and take care of our people on a daily. And so I want to say thank you. If you can just continue to lean forward and tell staff be open, be open. We are committed to be transparent and when there are decisions that need to be made, it won't happen in consent agenda. It will be called out as a decision. Um and our community needs to hear that. And then my last comment, um I appreciate the the kind remarks that were made for me. Um, I want to encourage us in this season to continue to be balanced, continue to

152include all voices, even those that don't agree with an opinion that we may have. Um, to be collaborative, and to be a champion for impact. Thank you so much, and let's wrap up an amazing school year. Um, so those are my comments. I have one more kudo and that's for this lady beside me um who we honor and recognize her as our amazing superintendent. And I'll be honest, when I go around the state I kind of have to be a little bit of a bully. Like don't don't leave her alone. She's she's ours. Um but I do want to say congratulations Dr. Calverick. Um she served as the University of Richmond um School of Professionals and Continuing Studies commencement speaker as an adjunct professor um on Saturday morning. And in the world of commencement speakers,

153you you have to be topnotch um cherry on top of the whipped cream to be chosen to do that. And so I want to honor you and say congratulations on that honor. you continue to serve um this county well and your family and your name that you have built for yourself and so kudos to you and congratulations. Thank you very much uh to all the board members. Um this has to be the best board anywhere and I really mean that. We work together and each of us brings a valuable asset to this board and when we put it all together we are able to keep Caroline County moving forward. Um, I was able to do some things since the last meeting. Uh, you know, as you know, we are in a crunch. We have some

154space issues and we're trying to figure the best way to address them. Um, it's not about laying blame. It's not about who didn't do what or who did what that they shouldn't have done. It's about our children and making sure that we find a way to serve our students in the best way possible. Um, I've had an opportunity to visit and not just me, other board members as well. Um, but we went up to or I went up to Stafford to look at, we call them learning colleges now because they have a better tone. But uh at any rate uh we saw the learning cottages at Stafford and how they are uh fixed and how they can be used. Certainly that's not um that's not a final thing for us. That's not a uh that's

155not a long-term plan, but we must be realistic. We have some issues and we have to find a way to do it. and learning cottages might be what end up happening. And so, but just not only that, we've gone around to to just look at what the options are. We visited our schools. We visited the community center. uh just going around looking at the different facilities that we have that we have access to because we want to do the very best thing that we can and if there is space that's available we want to find a way to make use of it and you do that by visiting the areas that we have so as I said I I I got an opportunity to uh tour the community center. Um, today we got an opportunity

156to go to Louisa to see the learning cottages um, and how they can be situated, how they can be fixed, how we can perhaps use them to meet our student needs for a short period of time. Uh, I heard the superintendent say that after the earthquake in Louisa, the entire high school was in learning colleges, I believe, for four years. It just goes to show you do what you have to do for children and they did that. And we certainly hopefully don't have to do that. But whatever we do, whatever direction that we go in, we're going to choose the best direction to meet the needs of our students. Um, I would like to say thank you to the staff and to ask that you will continue to work together with us, which I know

157you're going to do. Uh, but to work together with us uh so we can come up with uh the best ways to address our issues. And we all have different ideas and so we sit down and we talk about them. But at the end of the day, we all want the same thing, and that's what's best for the students in Caroline County, and we're going to continue to to do that. Um, we're coming to the close of another year. We have a lot to be proud of. We haven't had a school shooting. You know, nobody has gotten hurt traumatically on purpose in any of our schools. I'm not saying we haven't had some issues. We all do. But when you can close a year in this day and time and say that nobody lost their

158lives, you know, nobody was hurt seriously on purpose, that's a good thing and that's a thing that is attributed to the leadership that we have. It's attributed to the people who work in our schools. It's a tribute to the dedication that the people that our staff has. Um, in closing, I would just say congratulations to all of our graduating seniors. We have children entering to colleges and universities. We have students who have graduated from Caroline who are still in various colleges and universities. Uh, I believe Dr. Rollin Fails, is it is it your daughter that finished? Um, who who finished William and Mary? Graduation is this weekend. Okay. William and Mary. You know, that's all right. You just can't get any William and Mary. That's, you know, that's that's something to shout. If my if

159my son had finished William and Murray, I'd be standing up on this table. I tell you, that's that's just a great thing. Mr. Fortune's wife just got her PhD. Is that right? Doctor ministry. Got her doctorate. So, he has to be careful now. Just great things happening. Our superintendent, your son finished up his is it his first year he finished? He graduated yesterday. Oh, shut up. University of Richmond graduate. You know, uh Dr. Hubard is is is with the University of Murray Washington and they had their commencement yesterday. You know, I mean, we we we we doing great things. Mr. Kelly's son is doing well in Spiderham. Uh Alice is children are doing well. She spends all her time in school. When she's not working, she's with her children. So, all I'm saying is this

160is the kind of board that we have. We are dedicated. We are dedicated to educating not just our children, but the children of this county. The staff is dedicated and we very much appreciate what you do and I hope that the year ends well for you and hopefully you'll have a good summer and we'll come back in the fall ready to do what we do best and that's educating the children of Caroline County. Thank you, Dr. Calva. Thank you, Chair Taylor. A few quick items of business. One, there is a survey out called Got Talent. We need you. Businesses, community members, parents, any civic leader, faith groups, we want you to fill this out. It'll take you three minutes or less. We need your talents in our buildings. We are doing something called stacking your

161talent, meaning gathering it, mapping it into our career clusters and then we're going to tap it by reaching out directly to you and inviting you in to work in our CTE programs in our elementary schools. Right now, we have about 25 responses. We need hundreds. We know that there are so many gifts and talents out there. Whether it's gardening or whether it's carpentry, it could be writing, it could be so many things. Please let your talents be known so that we can pull you into our K12 experience. Beyond that, I do want to be a walking talking calendar for the next week and a half. Tomorrow night, we have a board of supervisors meeting that begins at 6 o'clock. The county administrator is expected to provide us with our first look at the FY26 budget.

162On Wednesday night, we have the JOTC banquet at the Barnes. On Thursday night, we have a Title One moving up night. On Friday, we have the senior prom. On Sunday the 18th, we have the senior bach Laura at the high school and the Caroline High School Future Farmers of America banquet. On Monday the 19th, we have Bowling Green Elementary School's fifth grade moving up. We also have senior night for the baseball team. On the 20th, we have graduation at the Henriiko Sports and Event Center for our seniors. On the 21st, we have Lewis and Clark Elementary School's fifth grade moving up night or day, excuse me, that takes place during the daytime hours. On the 22nd, we have Madison Elementary School's fifth grade moving up day. We also on the 23rd have the CMS promotion

163ceremony. This is our last day of school and take note, it was transitioned from a full school day to a half day. So students are in school for a half day. So you can see it is the time of year where we need to clone ourselves as there are events every day and every evening. So grateful that so many of our board members can divide and conquer. The same goes for our senior staff leadership um through weekend activities as well as evening events. And I would be remiss as we are recognizing nurses and food service and our teacher appreciation week to not mention that a new celebration that we put on Facebook is our school communication specialist appreciation. Thank you Kim Young for lifting many of our um messages that go out to our staff

164and to our community. That was Friday, May 9th. And with that, I yield the floor. Thank you. At this time, that will take us to our close session. Uh I will entertain a motion or move to a motion to enter into close session for the purpose of superintendent personnel agenda for the discussion of appointments, stipens, resignations, terminations, corrections, position changes, step changes, inservice depth substitutes, and authorized by section 2.2-3711A1 [Music] 2-3711A1 of the code of Virginia 1950 as amended and to discuss the purchase of real property for school purpose where the discussion of an in an opening meeting would I'm sorry I do not believe that that is accurate so I'll turn to Miss Stevens our clerk of the board for a point of order okay we'll end with before you start with the real

165property. So there's that would not be discussed in close session just up until the code of Virginia 1950 as amended. Okay. The code of Virginia as amended. Thank you. I move that we enter into close session for the purposes stated. Is there a second? Second. Okay. Call for the vote. Mrs. Sears I. Mr. Fortune I. Dr. Hubard. I Mr. Kelly. Hi, Dr. Rollins. Fells. Hi, Mr. Taylor. I motion carries. We are in close session. session. Is there a second? Second. I mean return to open session. I'm sorry. It's been moved and properly second that we return to open session. All in favor, let it be known by saying I. I. All oppose. Motion carries. We're back into open session. All right. Uh, is there a a motion to certify? Is there a second? Second. It's

166been moved and properly second that we uh certify. Oh, okay. Um, Mr. Kelly, do you certify? Mr. Allen, I certify. Uh, ISO certify. Yeah, ISO certify. ISO certified. And ISO certified. Okay. Now, does is there a motion to approve the superintendent's personnel agenda? Second. So, moved and properly second that we will uh approve the superintendent's personnel agenda as presented. All in let all in favor let it be known by saying I. I. I. All oppose. Motion carries. Is there a move for adjournment? So move. Second. Is there a second? Second. Okay. It's been moved and probably second that we adjourn. All in favor, let it be known by saying I. I. All oppose. And we are now adjourned.