Asheboro City Schools Board Meeting 06.11.2026

001that extra bang. Are we ready? All right. Welcome to the June 11th Ashboro City Board of Education meeting. A motion is needed to begin. Well, I'm sorry. I'm ahead of myself. See, you throw me off. We're gonna It's going to take all night. We'll start our meeting with a moment of silence. Thank you very much. I'll recognize our early childhood development center, our our youngest of our students to lead us in the pledge of allegiance. >> And I just I I mean you school's out. Yes. Some serious stuff >> to get these kids back here. If you want to come back here and take a picture. >> Is this on? Can y'all hear that or can y'all just hear me? >> I can just hear you. >> You can hear me. Okay. Um this is

002Wayan Smith and this is Ali Lackey. And can you tell them how old you are? >> I'm five. >> How old are you, Wayan? >> Four. they um just finished up their school year at ECDC. I's going to Lily Park dual language. Wayan's coming back next year to ECDC >> and they're going to start lead us in the pledge. >> That's awesome. So, we're all going to stand up right over here. >> Okay. Can you start it, guys? I pledge alce 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. >> I think that was the best job. >> We do have the best kids. Good job, guys. >> 6 o' and they still have energy. >>

003All right. Now, it's time for approval of our agenda. >> I'll make the motion. >> Thank you. Is there a second? Any discussion? Motion was made and seconded. All those in favor? >> Anyone opposed? >> All right. Thank you very much. I'll recognize first Miss Michelle Parker, our director of director of support services to share some athletic highlights of the year. >> Good evening, Chairman K, Dr. Woody, and members of the board. This school year, Ashar City Schools athletes demonstrated exceptional talent, determination, and school spirit across a wide range of sports. Through outstanding leadership, unwavering dedication, and remarkable teamwork, our student athletes achieve tremendous success while representing our district with pride and excellence. We'll begin at South Ashboro Middle School. One of the highlights of the South Ashboro Middle School athletics program was the football

004team being crowned county tournament champions. Although the season opened with a loss to Randleman, the team demonstrated remarkable resilience and determination by responding with seven consecutive victories. Their hard work and perseverance culminated in a memorable championship performance where they earned redemption by defeating Randomin in the county tournament championship game. The wrestling program also had an outstanding season at the county tournament. Kylie Jo uh I'm sorry, Kyrie Jones and Malachi Bush earned first place finishes in their respective weight classes. Sawyer Hughes earned a second place finish while Brian Hernandez and Maxton Martinez each placed third in their respective weight classes. Students in all athletic areas demonstrated their ability to push through hard things to accomplish great feats. These accomplishments reflect the hard work, perseverance, and commitment demonstrated by our student athletes throughout the season. Now, moving

005to North Ashboro Middle School. North Ashbor Middle School athletics had an incredible year filled with growth, hard work, and success both on and off the field. One of the biggest additions this year was the new way room, which provides expanded opportunities for athletes to train during the season and throughout the offseason. Another uh conference championship is coming home to NAMS. They're so proud of their boys soccer team for the conference championship win over Swarms. Students, coaches, and staff take great pride in all that was accomplished this year and are excited to continue building and growing in the years ahead. The future of NAM's athletics is bright. Special Olympics. Across the district, our amazing Special Olympics athletes demonstrated tremendous determination, sportsmanship, and school pride through their participation in Special Olympics events. This year, competing in basketball,

006track and field, bowling, and swimming, our student athletes showcase not only their athletic abilities, but also their perseverance, teamwork, and positive spirit. From exciting performances on the basketball court and outstanding efforts on the track to impressive achievements in the pool, at the bowling lanes, and at the bowling lanes, each athlete represented Ashboro City Schools with excellence and heart. We proudly celebrate their hard work, dedication, and courage. as they continue to inspire our schools and community through their accomplishments and unwavering commitment to giving their very their very best. They not only showcase their abilities but also embody the true spirit of being a Blue Comet. Now moving to Ashboro High School. The Ashra High School football team battled through a strong season finishing 74 overall. The Blue Comets open the year 5-0, their best start since

0072006, highlighted by a key victory over Eastern Randolph High School, the program's first win over over Eastern Randolph since 2017. Additional highlights included a late season victory over Southern Guilford High, and a return to the state playoffs. The men's soccer team finished with an impressive 1773 overall record, earned a second place conference finish, and scored 115 goals during the season. Key highlights include victories over Randleman and Leadford High School as well as a strong strong run into the state playoffs. Moving to volleyball, the volleyball team completed an outstanding 188 season and finished third in conference standings. Highlights include victories over Ashbrook and Northeastern Guilford along with an appearance on in the NCHSAA state playoffs. Coach Kelly Smith was also named coach of the year. The women's teams team placed third in conference play and was

008led by standout performances from Charlotte Smith, Maline Adams, and Delaney Naw. The girls golf team experienced an encouraging transition season after graduating its two most experienced players the previous year. Senior Emma Adams helped lead the program by recruiting several classmates to try golf for the first time, including a Norwegian foreign exchange student. Freshman Paige Cutlowski and Addison G made tremendous strides throughout the season and finished just outside the regional qualifying cut line. Both student athletes are excited to return next year and continue growing the program. Men's basketball team returned to the state playoffs for the 29th time in 30 years, finishing the season 179 overall and third in conference standings. The Blue Comets captured the Sports Tone Christmas Classic Basketball Tournament Championship. I'm not saying that three times really fast. With Joel Barrett Rigggins earning

009tournament MVP honors, the women's basketball team finished the season 1313 overall, placing in the middle to upper tier of conference standings and finishing second in the Sports Christmas Classic Basketball Tournament. The team also returned to the state playoffs and coach Wes Luther was named coach of the year. The wrestling team had a remarkable 2526 season highlighted by strong team and individual performances. The team secured a spot in the NCHSAA 6A dual team state playoffs once again. While Oscar Za and Elena Shearer, both all state athletes, each finished second in the 6A individual state championship. The swim team started strong and finished even stronger. The team earned 32 first place meet wins and 11 second place finishes throughout the season, ultimately placing third at the conference championship meet. Coach Charles Neighbors was voted coach of the

010year. The Ashboro Blue Comets women's soccer team proved that success is measured far by far more than wins and losses. The team finished with a 1452 overall record and a 721 conference record, earning a second place conference finish. Throughout the season, the team faced adversity, injuries, tough competition, and high expectations, yet consistently responded with resilience, accountability, and heart. The 2526 season will be remembered for not only goals scored and games won, but for the character and leadership displayed by the young women who represented the program and community with pride. Moving to baseball, the Ashra High School baseball team put together a competitive and memorable season, finishing 1313 overall and 73 in conference play, earning a second place conference finish and a birth in the NCHSAA 6A state playoffs. The Blue Comets earned key victories over

011Southeast Guilford, Northern Guilford, and Trinity before closing the season with a playoff appearance against Scotland. Ashbar reached the state playoffs for the first time since 2023, recorded its highest win total since 2022, and surpassed the 2025 team in nearly every statistical category. Coach James May was also named coach of the year. In men's golf, the boys golf team enjoyed one of its most competitive and successful season in recent years, recording six wins, all against county opponents. The team also produced an individual medalist in three matches. The Blue Comets finished second second by just one shot behind Uwari Charter in the inaugural 18hole sports tone shootout county championship at Colonial Country Club. Seniors Charlie Kn and Will Tucker along with juniors Braden Davis and Ronnie Hooker qualified for regionals. Ronnie Hooker also advanced to the state

012championship after winning a sudden death playoff. In track and field, this program had a stellar indoor and outdoor season, highlighted by 12 school records being broken. The men's indoor team finished as 6A state runnerups, narrowly behind Mount Taber. The team also finished runner up in the 6A Central Region Championships, hosted at Ashra High School in what was considered a tremendous success before finishing six at the outdoor state championship. The women's team captured the conference championship, earning its third conference title in the past five years. The APRA High School softball team showed tremendous growth and improvement this season. The team returned to the playoffs for the first time since 2019 and recorded more wins than in several previous seasons. Two players were also selected as Triad Area Athletic Conference allconerence honores. Men's volleyball is what we're

013talking about. The 2026 season marked the inaugural men of men's basketball, the inaugural year of men's volleyball. I'm going to try that again. At Ashboro High School and the program made an immediate and impressive impact. Led by head coach Nicholas Neighbors and assistant coach Shawn Murphy, the Blue Comets finished their first season with a 106 overall record. Ashboro competed successfully against several established programs and faced some of the top competition in North Carolina, including Reagan High School, the 7A state runnerup, and Northern Guilford, the 5A 6A state runnerup. The Blue Comets finished the season ranked among the top eight teams in the state for 5A 6A and earned an elite eight appearance in the state quarterfinals. A major accomplishment for a firstear program and a strong indication of the bright future ahead for men's volleyball

014at Ashboro High School. Across all grade levels and schools, the athletic year has been defined by growth, achievement, perseverance, and unwavering comic pride. From conference and state accomplishments to Special Olympics participation in inaugural programs, Ashboro City Schools student athletes have represented their schools and community with honor, resilience, and heart. As we celebrate these accomplishments and look ahead to the future, we remain grateful for the coaches who lead with passion, the families and fans who support our athletes every step of the way, and the entire Ashro City Schools community for making this such a memorable year. Thank you for your continued support, and as always, go Blue Comets. That was great celebrating our student athletes. They quite accomplished group of students. So, thank you for all of that information. It was a good year to be

015a comet. Um, next up, Mr. Woodyard and Miss Brady will continue sharing how athletic all our students are. >> Good morning or good good evening. I guess we're early today. >> Uh good evening, uh chair, board kid, Dr. Woody, members of the board. Uh tonight, I come before you to proudly recognize our Ashboro High School drone soccer team for their outstanding accomplishments and exemplary representation of Ashboro City Schools on both the regional and national stage. Uh, drone soccer is a rapid rapidly growing esport that combines aviation technology, teamwork, strategy, problem solving, and piloting skills in a fast-paced competitive environment. This year, our students demonstrated exceptional talent and dedication throughout the season. At the US Strong Soccer District 4 Championship hosted by us and held at Elon University on April 11th, teams from across North Carolina

016and Virginia competed for the opportunity to advance to the national championship. Our Ashboro High School teams rose to the challenge, earning both first and second place finishes in the regional competition. An incredible achievement that qualified both teams for the US Drum Soccer National Championship in Daytona Beach, Florida. Competing against some of the best drone soccer programs in the nation, our teams continue to excel, finishing 14th and 18th nationally. These results are a testament to the countless hours of practice, teamwork, perseverance, and innovation demonstrated by our students throughout the year. I especially want to lift up that while we celebrate their competitive success, what truly sets these students apart is their character. Throughout both the regional and national championships, our team members were consistently recognized for their willingness to assist and support other teams. Whether helping

017troubleshoot equipment, sharing knowledge, or encouraging their fellow competitors, they exemplified sportsmanship, leadership, and professionalism. They've become respected ambassadors for the sport and role models within the growing Jones soccer community. And it really does make me emotional to say that because to see them collaborating with those other teams was truly amazing. These students represent the very best of Ashro City Schools by combining academic learning, technical expertise, teamwork, and leadership. Their success highlights the innovative opportunities available through our district and demonstrates how students can develop future ready skills while competing at the highest level. Please join us in congratulating our drone soccer teams on an outstanding season and thanking them for representing Ashboro City Schools with excellence, integrity, and pride. Give you a little update on our Blue Comet esports, our Rocket League team, and our Mario

018Mario Kart team here at the GSC. students. Um, AHS students have the opportunity to play Rocket League or Mario Kart competitively. If you don't know, just a little brief review, Mario Kart is a racing game where players select characters and vehicles and then compete to cross the finish line. Four-person teams played against others within the Eastern time zone um to dis to disrupt opponents and navigate different environments and of course win the race. Uh, Rocket League is also a team game and we played in a threeperson uh in three-person teams. The best way to describe Rocket League, if you don't know, is to imagine the child of a racing game and a soccer match and what that game would look like. Um, players work at a very fast pace and uh to move the ball

019down the field with their cars to score goals. So have just a few pictures here. Um we had three Rocket League teams. There were 128 teams in the league that we participated in across the you know up and down the east eastern basically east coast. Um Blue Comet Drift finished at number 10, Blue Comet Gaming number 15, and Blue Rocket Comets number 34 within those 128 teams. I think that's pretty outstanding for a first year getting it together. Um, and I I think it's fantastic. Um, I think that's the top 27% we can say that all three of our teams were in. And then our Mario Kart teams, the Blue Comet Kart finished at number 56 and Blue Shell Comets number 67 of the regular season out of 135 teams. Again, not too shabby um

020for the top half. So, I love that our students felt successful this year, but without a doubt, my favorite part was the mix of students that were a part of these teams. 24 students, 9th through 12th graders, from varsity soccer and volleyball players to band students to DECA members to students who have struggled academically to students that have been academically successful their entire school career to newcomers. Uh the team was it was amazing to watch the students come together and collaborate and communicate with one another, confidence build and just a sense of belonging and acceptance among the group. Um Chris Tuttero, Jessica Tenon and I uh were the coaches. Um, please know, big please no here that students were the ones that really took ownership of this. Each team had a captain and helped lead

021each other, lead their teams at practice and lead their teams on game day play. the league that we play in, there is specific captain roles where they can communicate uh with with coaches throughout the league and or the coach of the team they're playing against and other students. Uh and all of our students, just to echo again what Mr. Woodary said, played with incredible class and just good sportsmanship and just it was amazing to see. >> Any questions? So, Mr. Wooder do have to ask, how did the officiating go? >> Yes, some of you know that I was recruited as a game official at the national championship. So, I will say it was a lot of pressure. Uh I did uh I did have to officiate one of the matches for our Blackhawks team. uh

022and uh they gave me the side eye a couple of times called uh but I tried to be very unbiased in the process but but thank you for asking. >> Awesome. It's exciting as well, you know, our our kids. We prepare them athletically for future whatever their endeavors are. the esports I know at the university level they're they are waiting for these students to get to the university level and those students are making money they're not it's not just gaming it's there's they're making an income with this stuff on that same note uh they did award so the the drone soccer national championship was held at Ambry Brittle Aeronautical University in Daytona so they awarded one drone soccer player uh a full ride scholarship to Embry Riddle. Uh and he was recognized at the um

023at the uh championship awards. Uh but they offered every drum soccer participant this year a $5,000 scholarship to Embry for any student that wanted to attend Embry Riddle University. So just any student that was at the championship. >> Wow. >> Uh a $5,000 um scholarship. So that just speaks to the potential that exists in um in in participating in in these different activities. >> That's awesome. Thank you for sharing that with us. >> All right, moving along. It is time for our superintendence report. Dr. Woody, what do you have to share with us? >> All right. Thank you, um Chairman Kidd, members of the board, just briefly tonight. You'll notice in your packet, uh, we have a, it's now our third annual, uh, kind of end of year wrap-up brochure for Ashboro City Schools. And

024I just want to make a few comments as you're, uh, leaping through that, flipping through that. Um, so many things to celebrate and lift up from our school year. We've already heard some tremendous presentations tonight. I want to give, uh, shout out to, um, Chandra Manning for putting this together and putting so many things together these last number of days. We've had a lot of I was looking back to my calendar day. I mean, every single day there have been events probably for the last five or six weeks. Such rewarding events. Uh you will remember our evening of excellence that was tremendous with um our staff that we were lifting up for different awards and celebrating our teacher of the year, beginning teacher of the year winners. Um just a great evening uh together. We've

025had um various award um various awards ceremonies over the last two weeks, primarily last week at all of our elementary schools, our middle schools, and our high school. I want to say thank you to my team. We had to divide and conquer. I'll tell you, we had so many parents and so many events. It was impossible to make every single thing. Um so we divided and conquered and gave out different awards from the central office, from from my office, but also to lift up students. you had I would say to you in my 10 years in Asher I never saw um I've never seen the level of parent attendance at these events. So I think that speaks to again that engagement piece. Uh we had a great graduation last Friday night. Um graduated 345 students

026uh just a little over an hour. We try to be really efficient and effective. Turned out to be beautiful weather. Boy, hats off to Jody, to his team, to Anthony and his team, to so many. I mean, our the entire district support staff were there to help with traffic and water and and movement and and helping guide people and just to keep again, Jody and I were talking this afternoon. We were estimating about 3,500 people. I I never counted. There's no way to do that, but it was a large crowd. Um, and we were able to again keep that compact and timely and just to lift up our students. The field looked great. So many things look great. Kids look great. Um, Monday morning we had or excuse me, Monday afternoon we had our typical

027retirement celebration, but I want to give I don't I don't want to pick on too many folks here because I don't want to miss anybody, but specifically Gail Higgs, her team, Chandra Manning, so many again folks at the central office to make that such a meaningful experience. We shifted some things a little bit. We called it honoring the journey, your ACS legacy. Um, it's not all about time, but it was about a 45minute experience. I think teachers and staff and leaders felt um energized. They felt appreciated. I hope that was our intention. Uh, and such a great celebration. We uh I gave our budget our annual budget presentation on May 28th. Uh, Miss Kidd and Miss Callaway were there uh with me along with um Mr. Woodyard. Again, we had a lot of events going

028on that night. Um I was able to present I think about 10 minutes uh just requesting um our budget request and so would like to invite you board members if you want to be a part of that Monday night this Monday night June 15th at 6 o'clock we will hear the presentation back to us all of our folks in our county about what that budget adoption will look like. So those are just a couple highlights. I want to just again direct your attention uh to to the bulletin here. You know, it's really hard and and I don't have any agenda tonight. It's really hard to capture a school year the kind of success that we've had. First off, it's really hard and it's really impossible and it's really inappropriate to capture our entire school year

029with an EOG score or an EOC score. When you look at these pictures, you look this is just this is just a sampling of some of the things that we have been able to accomplish that young people have been able to accomplish with the support of adults in this school district. It has been a very successful year. You heard um Michelle Harvard talk about athletics tonight. You you just heard Mr. Woodyard and Miss Brady talk about drone soccer and esports. I I I made a little note. Um you know, we know from research. It's it's it's out there. It's easy to find. Your best dropout prevention is helping young people be part of the team. Doesn't have to be an athletic team. It doesn't have to be a traditional athletic team. You heard things about

030golf and swimming and tennis and and boys volleyball. Um but also kind of our staple athletics. You you've heard uh about again uh drone soccer and esports and we haven't even talked about theater and some of the extracurriculars and some of the clubs and opportunities that we offer young people opportunities also with community and schools and the Boys and Girls Club and our faith community. One of our driving forces, you know, and I'll talk about later tonight with our strategic plan is that sense of belonging. And we want young people to find that sense of belonging. We're not perfect. I believe we're getting better every day. It's something I'm so proud of as we leap through again pictures here of of what we strive to be about as a school district. Just don't make any

031mistakes in anybody who's a cynic or a critic out there. We are doing the right work in Asher City Schools. I guess I'm supposed to say that as your superintendent, but I'm saying that uh with complete passion and honesty and authenticity that we are doing tremendous things for young people and we want to continue to do that. On the back of this brochure, you're going to see a few senior highlights again um looking at our overall graduates and this is just a sampling. I mean, there are so many stories of our young people finding success, and we're continuing to hear those stories even after graduation, hearing about students who've accepted a new scholarship or a new opportunity with the military or an apprentice or a job opportunity. Um, I'm going to veer off course just

032for a minute. I have been here long enough to be able to reap some of the benefits of seeing our graduates and seeing them out in the community and seeing them across the state. And you know this this week uh where we had a graduation for our daughter Khloe who was in some of those pictures and I appreciate it some samples tonight. Um we had an orientation to NC State uh Tuesday morning at 8:30 and then a little bit of the day yesterday. But they do a rally they do a rally had about a thousand folks in in an auditorium parents and students. Then they ultimately divide us up. Well, they had a big rally, you know, we saw a video uh from Jimmy V and we saw all kinds of things about NC State

033and and the cheerleaders were there and the mascots and then they had 10 student counselors, student ambassadors who were going to work with young people for for that for that day and that event. out of 10 across the state at NC State, two of them, uh, Malikica Khan and Gustav Diaz Organista, uh, when they when they they had to announce their name and where they're from. And both of them when they said, "Ash, I said, "Go Blue Comet." Um, and everybody was me was embarrassed by, but they both smiled. The two of them that they both smiled and I was like, "That's right, Blue Comet Pride." Um, man, what a joy, right, to see our young people who are continue to go on and to find leadership opportunities. And so um again very thrilled with

034with our graduation with our school year and with with all of our graduates prek you saw those young people tonight all through elementary school. I don't want to talk about a lot of data tonight because we we don't have it solidified but we will be talking about that in the next number of weeks but we see a tremendous um tremendous climb in some proficiency and growth and some cohort data. We'll have some updates on our dropout data on our graduation rate on a lot of different things. But there's so much to be proud of. Um, just want to say I guess in closing, uh, a lot of things continuing to happen this summer. There's a lot that's happening, uh, throughout, of course, tonight, tomorrow, and all week next week. We will be meeting back together

035in July. We're looking forward to a tremendous retreat. We're looking forward to a time of reflection. I want to encourage you. Well, let me just say this. I I mentioned this book at our celebration Monday with the staff by Jim Collins, what to make of a life. And I know many of us in this room have read the book, Good to Great. It's about 25 years old now. This is transitional book in leadership. But he's written a new book and titled what to make of a life. And I alluded to a little bit. He really talks about the difference between success and significance. And for those of us in this room and who hear my voice, whether you're a parent, whether you're a principal, and my goodness, we're so proud of our principles, um, a

036leader in the district, a board member, what you do has incredible significance. And he talks about finding ways to let your light shine through contribution, through service, through sacrifice, through building things, through creating things, through innovating, through collaborating, by by working with others, by executing and finding meaning through those relationships and through those experiences. And so my encouraging word to you as I wrap up, uh you don't need me to preach to you, but board members, you are you are just as much a part of this. You are you are tremendous teammates and we need you. And we need to continue to work together to make 2026 27 e us to approach even higher heights. And I would encourage you, I would encourage all of us. We haven't had the chance to do it yet.

037Even through some celebrations of our graduates, there's going to come a point in the next week or two or three. I certainly hope for all of us uh Fourth of July or sometime around there to take a few minutes and celebrate. Celebrate you, celebrate our district, celebrate the accomplishments. Yes, we we've had areas where we've come up short. There are certainly obstacles that are always in the way. And I'm reminded all the time, leadership and success and achievement, those are not necessarily destinations. Those are journeys. And so, um, please take time, please take time to reflect, uh, on how you're significant and how 345 graduates walked across our stage Friday night and into a into a world. um and we believe we have done a great job um equipping them for what's coming their way

038and we certainly believe in them and we believe in all of our students and our staff and our leaders. So um really again on behalf of my team tonight just thank you for a really good strong um 202526 school year and there is coming a moment and we're doing it now but there will be moments of critical reflection and areas where we have to showcase and highlight areas we need to improve. But it's also okay. It's okay to take a knee and get some Gatorade and say, "Man, we really achieved this school year and let's let's continue to figure out how to take that to the next level in this next year." So, um, thank you, Miss Kid. That's my update for this evening. and hopefully with some passion, enthusiasm and a spirit of gratefulness

039and thankfulness for what um what I believe all of us have been working towards and that's seeing our students be successful and also find significance in their life. Thank you. >> Hang on. If only you could have a little more enthusiasm. >> We appreciate you and everything that you do and the excitement that you have and it has been a great year. Um there is There has been no one that signed up for our public comments. So, we will move past that to our consent agenda, which is rather large. You've had plenty of time to look through that on your packet that you received last week. So, even at the bottom of the thing with my agenda, it says pay dates. I thought for a minute it said play dates and I was like, what

040are we talking about? At any rate, the consent agenda that you've had time to review, a motion is needed to approve. >> The motion was made. >> Motion is is there a second? >> If not, are there any questions of any of the consent agenda items? Any discussion? Motion was made, seconded. No discussion. All in favor? >> Anyone opposed? Consent agenda carries. play dates at all. Caught up with the preschoolers that came around dates. >> Playdates usually are >> That's right. >> That's a good point. >> That's right. That's right. Information, reports, and recommendations. Always exciting policies for review. Miss Arer, good evening again, Chairman Kidd, Dr. Woody and members of the board. This evening I have four policies for your monthly review. 13104002 parental involvement adds a reference in B1 to the requirements described

041in policy 3510 religious based exemptions from school programs and updates the cross references. 4318 use of wireless communication adds language in section C regulating student recordings. 6220, Operation of School Nutrition Services, changes the language in section B regarding actions to be taken when a student has unpaid meal charges, and includes minor editorial changes. And 7325, video and audio recordings by employees, creates a new policy to address video and/or audio recordings made by school employees at school. These policies are for your monthly review. Are you do you have any questions? >> Not at this moment. Anybody else have any questions? >> All right, great. Perfect. All right. Expecting good things, Miss Higgs. >> We is reporting on our teacher working conditions. >> Yes. Good evening, Chairman Kidd, Dr. Woody, and members of the board. Tonight, I

042will share highlights from the 2026 teacher working conditions survey. This survey provides valuable insight from our staff regarding school culture, leadership, student support, professional learning, and working conditions. Overall, the results reflect significant growth across many areas and provide us a roadmap for continued improvement. Before we review the results, I want to highlight the strong participation in this year's survey. A total of 341 certified staff members participated in the teacher working conditions survey. This was all schools but ECDC. They do not participate. Uh this survey was open from March 2nd through March 31st and our district goal was 100% heard, 100% counted, 100% ACS, emphasizing the importance of assuring that every educator has the opportunity to share their voice. Because the survey is administered only once every two years, it provides valuable insight into the experiences

043and perspectives of our staff and helps guide our continuous improvement efforts across the district. The overall results of the 2026 teacher working conditions survey are very encouraging. 95% of staff agree that their school is a good place to work and learn, up from 82% in 2022. And just as a side note, 2022 is the furthest it goes back. It goes back four years each time the survey is taken. So the um most previous we'll talk about is 2022. We have some 2024 data and then the 2026. So you'll hear me reference all three of those survey year dates. 90% would recommend that their would recommend their school to parents. Nearly 89% feel loyal to their school and 90% are proud to work there. Together, these results reflect a strong district culture and suggest that our

044employees feel connected to their schools, supported to their work, and committed to the success of our students. The survey data shows significant growth in school culture since 2022. Trust and mutual respect increased from 68% to 83% while comfort uh or comfort raising concerns increased from 64% to 78%. Nearly 88% of staff report looking forward to coming to work each day and 75% say they would not want to work in another school. These findings reflect a culture where employees feel valued, supported, and committed to our district. Staff confidence in school leadership continues to grow. Since 2024, more employees report that leaders communicate a clear vision, foster a culture of trust, support faculty well-being, make student centered decisions, and make decisions that are reasonable and justified. These gains reflect increasing confidence in school leadership and the positive

045direction of our schools. Teacher leadership and collaboration remain significant strengths across the district. More than 90% of staff agree that teachers empower students, create safe, orderly learning environments, effectively use data to guide instruction, and have opportunities to analyze student performance. Additionally, teacher mentoring continues to grow, reflecting a strong culture of collaboration, professional support, and shared responsibility for student success. Safety, student support, and community engagement continue to be areas of strength for our district. More than 90% of staff believe safety concerns are addressed quickly and and awareness of emergency procedures has increased significantly since 2022. Staff also report increased confidence in the district's ability to support students social, emotional, and mental health needs, as well as improvements in meeting students basic needs. In addition, family and community partnerships continue to strengthen with nearly all staff reporting

046that schools encourage parent involvement and growing confidence in both parent and community support of our schools and teachers. Student conduct continues to be an area of focus. However, the data show does show meaningful progress since 2022. The percentage of staff who believe that students follow school rules increased from 50% to 76% while confidence and leadership support for discipline increased from 66 to 83%. Staff also report greater consistency in the enforcement of conduct expectations. While these gains are encouraging, opportunities remain to address student disrespect towards teachers, improve attendance and punctuality, and reduce behavioral concerns in common areas such as hallways, cafeterias, and other unstructured settings. Professional learning continues to be a district strength and an area that has shown significant growth over the past several years. Since 2022, the percentage of staff who believe sufficient time

047is provided for professional development has increased from 75% to 92%. Staff also report that professional learning provides opportunities for meaningful collaboration, supports the implementation of new instructional practices, and strengthens their ability to meet the diverse needs of our students. These results reflect the district's continued commitment to investing in the growth and development of our educators. Time remains an area where staff see opportunities for continued improvement. Encouragingly, perceptions of sufficient planning time increase from 57 to 66% and more staff report being protected from non-instructional duties that interfere with teaching. However, only about twothirds of respondents feel they have enough instructional time to meet the needs of all students and perceptions regarding efforts to reduce paperwork declined slightly. These findings suggest that while progress has been made, time continues to be one of the most valuable resources

048for our educators, which we commonly acknowledge. So, as we conclude talking through the 2026 teacher working conditions survey and the highlights, it does show that many accomplishments are worth celebrating. Staff continue to demonstrate strong pride and loyalty to their schools, positive perceptions of school culture, confidence and leadership, strong community support, and a commitment to providing safe learning environments. Perhaps most importantly, the data reflects significant gains across many key indicators over the past four years, not just an isolated area. At the same time, the survey provides a clear roadmap for our continued improvement and focus forward. Moving forward, we will focus on strengthening student behavior and attendance, increasing teacher voice and decision making, differentiating professional learning opportunities, protecting instructional and planning time, and expanding support for all students. This work has already begun as we took

049time in our May administrative leadership team meeting uh to spend time school by school looking into these results and critically thinking through multiple aspects as we close out this school year and move into the next. Principles and leadership teams will continue to use this data and the results to drive their continuous improvement plans as we start the 2627 school year. So overall, these results reflect our district is moving in the right direction and remains committed to continuous improvement in support of both students and staff. Although tonight I did not go over every item on the survey, which would take much longer than probably you all would like to have me up here. I did provide a link on this closing slide that is in your slide deck and packet that you can go to to

050view the comprehensive results of the district and each individual school. Of course, results that I shared tonight were our district percentages. And of course, you can drill down into each school if you would like to see any particulars. So, at this time, I am happy to answer any questions you may have. >> You said 341 participated. >> That that is correct. 341 out of 346 eligible. >> So, only five out of our district that were eligible, which is all certified staff at a school level. central office is not involved and of course ECDC is not involved as well. So K12 five educators chose not to be involved in the survey at 341. And so we had over a 95% success rate which really shows um the valuable data our educators want to be heard but

051also shows the validity of the results as it was uh almost all of our certified staff responding. >> That's incredible. Did we bribe them or they were >> We did not. I um I I I will party. >> Yeah. Unfortunately no pizza. Um but we did um say it was a requirement. Um Miss Manning's wonderful communication. Um those were some of the things that she made on that first slide that I saw and our administrators really talking to our staff about the importance of even though it's an anonymous survey um that your voice can be heard and we want to hear it. no matter where it falls in the percentages, it is worth hearing and it's valued. And I think we saw here that our educators do believe that their time is worth having their

052voice heard in the results that we got. >> That's that's amazing and wonderful and thank you for your work on that of getting them encouraging them to do that. So that speaks volume. >> Absolutely. >> Do we have the ability to compare our results to other districts? There is um there are the the portal doesn't have like let's pull up district A and district B and just compare, but there are several ways to view the data. So there are different um charts and an analysis graphs. So you could pull up one side by side and they go in order so you could easily see it. There's also color coding where you can easily see um a dark blue to a red just to see kind of where where the scale is. It would be very

053easy to see that, but it doesn't do it for you. >> All the increases over the last four years are amazing. What do you think most of that is attributed to? >> I think it could possibly be broken down into which area it is. You know, when you talk about um safety, we had a a little bit of a restructuring of our support services department um even with myself and Miss Harper over the past four years. that would is like a a contributing factor to like a safety element. We've had an increased focus from our curriculum and instruction side on professional development and you've seen that and having someone tasked at our district level of being a director of professional development has really seen gains in that movement because our teacher voice showed us we

054need professional development and we need it in areas that impact our critical work every day. So, and I could go on and on. I don't want to miss anyone of saying that just two quick examples but I think every area we could contribute um leadership having the right people in the right seats um giving a culture of um where trust is built and where voices are heard and collaboration and a district that's valued um I could contribute it to leadership to the board I think it goes down the board but if you really start to look at section by section I think what and that's part of the work we were doing even school by school is okay where where are your strengths? What do you think that contributed to? Let's think through that. Okay,

055where are your challenges? What hasn't changed in the past four years if they're stagnant that could change to to help that area? So, it's really drilling down into that which is really nice and it it's a long survey. I mean there's a lot of questions and some of the language you heard tonight might not be normal language I say from um this microphone but it's the language of the survey and when that language when you are able to see 2022 what did we do in 24 and now in 26 it really starts putting a picture together of okay wait a minute we did this and look at the gains so now what if we try this in an area that we didn't get as much gains in >> it does seem like it's good cultural

056movement district. I was really, and I'm sure this is nothing new, but maybe this is the first time I noticed it, graduation, you had administrators from other schools, elementary schools, middle schools out helping direct traffic, direct crowds, and they all had smiling faces, you know, and I'm sure that wasn't exactly optional, but they did it with a cheerful attitude. And I think that goes it's just a nice that's a classy touch and I promise you that that doesn't happen at some of the other schools around in our area because I've been to some of the graduations and u so that was just a really nice you know when you go like a luxury type place and they do those little things that nobody was expecting that was kind of one of those it's like a

057luxury touch >> you know a lot of those parents that are coming to see their kids graduated know those administrators because their kids getting through the building. So, I appreciate all those people being here on a hot Friday afternoon when they've really been home with their families, I'm sure. And um just I think that speaks to the everybody kind of believes in the mission here or it appears and everybody believes in the mission here when they're showing up with a cheerful attitude and and helping push the rock, so to speak. >> Absolutely. It's a level of excellence that Asher City Schools is known for. >> Yeah. More articul. the co- mover for the board was particularly amazing. >> No, but that's a good point. It's true. It is. It's the little things that matter. Well,

058and even just on Monday, anytime someone walked across that stage, the cheers that were coming from behind us, like that, that doesn't just happen because someone says, "Hey, we got to act like we care about people get in here." you know, like it just speaks volumes that everyone's just wrapped around everyone and that's pretty amazing. >> I I just want to make a comment in that. Thank you. I'm sure thank you for all everybody. Uh you know, one of the reasons we wanted to present this presentation and and I know board members you asked for this too is that we wanted to be able to talk to you about the significance of this survey and really more than that like what we plan to do with it. Um, but I want to just pause again

059and say thank you, Mr. Early. You know, I hope it's a true hope and hope is not a strategy. We talked about that as a team, but I truly hope um that really members of our school district, employees and staff and teachers and leaders that they we do seem to we believe we're seeing it, but we do see a sense of camaraderie and a sense of care and a sense of joy of working together and being the blue comet through and through. And I think those are some of the hard things we push and we do talk about. We've tried to structuralize that all of us are more than just ourselves. We can't be about ourselves. We've got to be about the team. We've got to be about Blue Common Pride. We've got to be

060about moving the district forward. I know that I am continuing and we will do this together to look at this survey as well as other surveys to talk about my own performance. And one of the things about survey data is it's it's a silly comment, but surveys often they provide that bad breath factor. It's what everybody knows about you, but you won't know about yourself. And I want to give props to Gail, to Miss Higs, to Dr. Rich, to our our multiple teammates. At our last ALT, administrative leadership team meeting, we we did a little exercise with our principles, not because they needed their handheld, but because we wanted to provide a space and we gave them a kind of a worksheet of basically like what's an aha that came out was good or bad.

061What's something that you're going to celebrate? What's an area that was a blind spot? And then what are you going to do with this? And we actually had them work through that. And that's just one little stage. But the the idea here is again I'm with you, Mr. Ro, but it's everybody, Dr. Tom. We don't want to just leave this. We want to dig into this. And you can dig in on an individual school level. You can look at departments and things to find out, okay, maybe we didn't come up short or you know, I looked at this tonight, Miss Hig, I'll just tell you publicly, I'm thinking, who's the 10% that doesn't want to be in our not proud of being at their school, you know, like that. But, you know, it that's okay.

062We we need to find out why. What is it that we can do better as a district to further engage our teachers, our staff, and this trickles into our all our parents and our students. So, again, thank you for the positive comment. Um, that's one of the points of pride with our graduation is that we have all hands on deck. And to be quite frank, I didn't hear any grumbling. Now, they probably I was on stage, so I don't know what they were doing, but uh, our team did. They smiled. They had their they had their shirts, their blue shirts. They were hitting water. They were directing. And it just makes that evening certainly it makes it it's a facilitation of moving people, but more than that, it's also engaging. Hey, we're we're blue comets

063and we're a little better and we're willing to go a little further. So, so there's a lot of words, but I just want to say we we do plan to continue to extrapolate data from this and and to utilize it to help us become even better. That's really the purpose here. Good to John. >> Very good. Thank you. Lots of great information that yes, um, we will use. You can tell there's been a a change in the climate over the years in a positive manner. So, good job. Exciting. Next are our action items. And I'll recognize Miss Sarah Beth Cox, our director of career and technical education, to share with us the career and technical education local application plan. >> Okay, >> excuse me. >> L A C T E L A That's what we

064call it is L. Good evening, Chairman Kidd, Dr. Woody, and members of the board. I'm here tonight to share our CT updates and seeking your approval at the end for our 2026 through 2028 local application plan. Since we have some new board members, I thought I would just briefly go over a little bit about current technical education funding and our legislation and how that works. So, we are currently in version five, Perkins 5 of CTE funding. Um, it is the strengthening career and technical education for the 21st century act. Um this version was signed into law in 2018 and took effect in July of July 1st of 2020. It is a 1.3 billion national annual um funding for both secondary and post-secondary CTE pathways. So it is called the Carl D. Perkins act. It's it

065was very first authorized in 1984 and the last previous update was 2006. But based on the Perkins 5 legislation, every district must submit a local application plan to receive funding. It is submitted by annually. Budgets are submitted annually, but both do require board approval. CTE is monitored based on eight different performance indicators. So we have 1 S1 which is a four-year graduation rate. 2S1 which is academic proficiency in reading and language arts. 2S2 is acade academic proficiency in mathematics. 2S3 academic proficiency in science. 3S1 is post-secary placement. 4S1 is non-traditional program enrollment. 5S1 is our our largest program quality. It's called it's based on industry recognized credentials. And 5S4 is program quality other. So that would be our performance-based measurements as well as our CTE state assessments which is a traditional 100 question exam. But

066not all of our courses have an exam at the end because some of them do. Our proof of learning will be a credential or a PBN or performance-based measurement. Part of the local application plan is every two years we do conduct a comprehensive local needs assessment. So we gather and analyze stakeholder feedback in the following categories. labor market alignment, um, size quality, career pathways implementation, recruitment, retention, and training, and equal access for all students. We do complete a program evaluation, develop strategies based on that feedback. Data from our CLNA should be reflected throughout our LAP and should drive our decision- making. So, if you attended our state of a career connect event at RCC, that was one of our events. If you're on business advisory council, that's where we get some of our data. We

067do some surveys. We do some student focus f focus groups um from our administrators, our EC teachers, our ML teachers, our um counselors, parents and students as well as CT teachers as well. Another piece to the LAP is we have six written responses. These questions are provided by the local federal government, not local government. Include strategies regarding how ACSCTTE will answer these questions through our CTE programming. they should be reflected and should reflect our data from our CLNA. So they talk about we are asked questions about career exploration and guidance how we how we provide those to our students and our our families special populations recruitment recruitment and equity within our schools. Um work-based learning and alignment programs of study implementation like how do we determine what pathways are best for Ashra High School, Ashra

068City Schools. um stakeholder collaboration, how we collaborate with our community, our business community, um as well as our families. And then budget support services, detailed narratives explaining how we spend our funding because there's legislation around all of that. So we just recently, normally we get our data from the year before in February or March, but there were some issues this year at the state level. So we just got those in May, which is why we didn't present this in May. But we do have some celebrations we'd like to talk just a little bit about. One is one is our graduation rate and we don't have the state when they per first put out our data um if it's anything that's greater or than 95%. We don't we get unmasked data which means we they don't

069want anybody to be able to identify individual students because it's such a small margin. So our benchmark was 98.66% and we know that we surpassed that. So we don't have that unmasked data yet, but we do know we've s surpassed our graduation rate for CTE concentrators was over 98.66% last year. 2S1 for ELA for proficiency, we've surpassed our benchmark by 8.89%. Um our last um performance indicator data from 23 24 we actually did not meet our benchmark. So this is a celebration. We have passed it. Um so we've gone past that. And those are based on students that are concentrators by the end of their sophomore year based on their um English 10 EOC. Um the same with proficiency in science. We've surpassed our benchmark by 5.19%. Um and this is also a celebration. We

070did not meet that benchmark at 2324. So we're excited about that as well. And that is based on the biology EOC and when students are concentrators by the end of that sophomore year. 3S1 post-secondary placement. Um, every year we are asked to contact seniors that graduated last year and find out what they're doing. Are they in school? Are they in the military? Are they working? What are they doing if they were a CTE concentrator? So, that's usually about 150 to 200 students depending on the year. Again, we don't have um the unmasked data yet, but we do know that we exceeded our benchmark of 96.93% um of student placement means positive student placement that of CT concentrators, more than 96.93% of them are doing something positive with their lives a year after graduation. Um 5S1

071industry recognized credentials. We have surpassed our benchmark by 13.64%. We think that's a great we still want to always make more strides in credentials. Um but we we are excited that we continue to excel in that area. 5S4 or other proofs of learning this also is a celebration because we did not meet that benchmark in 23 24. Um so we have surpassed that by 5.5%. So we're excited at our celebrations. We think we have a lot to celebrate in CTE. There are a lot of other data pieces within our performance indicators and specific um students and groups of students and things like that that are reflected in some of our strategies as well. We do have two areas that are greatest opportunities for improvement. Our 2S2 math proficiency, we missed our benchmark by negative4.91%. That

072is up a little bit from the year before, but we still are not quite there. So, um, we want we, if you read our local application plan, there are se several strategies in there to, um, try to work on that. We we've talked about putting in a, um, a task force for math, um, and then continuing some collaborations with, um, nonCTE teachers that that do teach math. Our other one is for 4S1 non-traditional placement. So that's CTE concentrators that graduate in a pathway that is what the state deems non-traditional. So if we have male students that graduate as a health science CTE concentrator or female students that graduate as an advanced manufacturing concentrator. So we missed our benchmark by um 6.34% which is um disappointing that and that kind of those pathways kind of change

073every year how they decide what that's going to look like. Um, we want students to go in the pathways that they want to go into, but we also want to encourage them to consider pathways that they might not otherwise consider um based on their interests. So, we um have some strategies in place for that as well. I think we want to start younger um with making sure that and I think you've probably heard me say before, stereotypes really are about careers, especially gender is are usually established by third grade, second or third grade. Um, so we want to start younger with that. Um, and we've got some ideas for that as well. So those are those were reflected quite a bit in our our goals. So thinking about our goals for the next two years,

074um, our career development focus, we want to hire consider hiring middle school and fifth grade CDC um to help with some of those those goals of getting that um, working more with some of our younger students. Um, increase our pre-apprentice opportunities. We have a lot of apprentichip programs. We would like to to increase some of our our individual pre-apprentice opportunities. Um after a student does an internship, they can also be a pre-apprentice. We've been researching some of that in the last year or two. Um increase our fifth grade and career development opportunities, increase workbased learning opportunities across Randolph County, but specifically with the North Carolina Zoo. Um and our district initiative on career preparedness and employability skills alignment. Making sure that those things are in place. academic incre instructional focus increase our 2S2 math proficiency

075by 10% over the next two years increase our 4S1 non-traditional participation by 10% over the next two years um the district has been talking about a focus on vocabulary we want to like support that and be a part of that and really technical vocabulary if you look at each of our program areas they kind of have their own vocabulary so it's just so important in our CTE classrooms and then also increasing our focus on professional skills in the CTE classrooms as well. Communications and logistics focuses. Um, develop a new CTE employee resource guide. We house a lot of our resources on Canvas that's going away at the high school. Um, so we want to develop a guide that will be linked to our district employee resource guide with everything our CTE teachers needs need in

076there. Create a newsletter to keep all stakeholders informed of CTE happenings. Um, so our business advisor, counselor, our board, our parents um as as well as our community stakeholders, increase our social media presence. We've gotten better at that, but that's something that we're not always great about is really um advertising what we do. Things happen, wonderful things happen in all of our classrooms every single day. And we would like to focus a little more on that. Update our CTE web page on the district website. That's something we've been wanting to do and haven't gotten to. And establish an annual safety inspection process. We have a semi one, but we want to establish that maybe had looked at this year just to get on the calendar because we couldn't find a date with a company that

077will come in and do an overall inspection to kind of start that process and make sure that we have some consistent practices across our our classrooms and lab spaces across the district. And that's all I have. If you have any questions for me >> for the local assessment. Um, it's probably not realistic to do that annually, but with how rapidly the labor market changes, do we feel like every two years we're keeping up with? >> So, that's actually something we've talked about with the because we the career connect that we have, we've done every two years with Community College and Randolph County Schools because we all have to do the same needs assessment. Um and we've talked about doing that every year and we do it's pretty it is an ongoing thing with our conversations

078with different apprentichip programs and our our um committees we're we're on with like NC works and the chamber and and economic development. So we do try to stay because it definitely changes all the time. So we do have to keep a pulse on that. So, um, and really with the comprehensive local needs assessment to do all of that in one year, you you pretty much have to kind of make parts of it, especially like local market. That's a good question. >> Is there any penalty for not meeting your benchmarks? >> Not really. I mean there if you don't meet your benchmark within 90% two years in a row, you have to submit some extra strategies and action plan for that. Um but it's not >> there's not a point that they're going to pull funding

079because you're not even >> the >> thank thank goodness. that um than that. >> Yeah, I mean the the 4S1 just kind of deters me a little bit because uh anyway, >> yeah, we struggle with that one a little bit. Um just philosophically, I guess maybe. But >> yeah, >> I understand that. >> But it is important. I mean, it's still something that we're going to really focus on the next four years. It's interesting you brought up the non-traditional role thing that we didn't do. I was actually sitting in a allied health advisory meeting at the RCC this earlier this week and one of the the big issues there is there's a huge demand for to have men within the nursing and medical assistant world and stuff and healthcare, but that's not a traditional role

080for men to go into. And so it's very interesting. we're varying everybody's struggling with these same sort of demands because they really are demands in the workspace out there. So that's obviously we didn't need it but neither are those community colleges >> right it it's um it's always hard because and you want I think the biggest thing is you want students to consider careers maybe that they hadn't considered I mean we our female students do really well in programming classes in advanced manufacturing classes but they don't always trend to that you know and some of those are some education with parents and education with our counselors and making sure everybody body understands and is on the same page with that. So, those are part of some of those strategies to to try to address that.

081I guess where I'm coming from it this seems a little bit um not student focused to try to encourage non-traditional students that maybe is I don't have a problem with a non-traditional I don't have but if that's the student's desire you know but if we're trying to hit a number for the Perkins program it's a little concerning to me that we perhaps encourage somebody to participate in the program it's not some of these are just natural god-given attribut that you know and flesh them out. >> Yeah. In our lives. >> I think that's the challenge. I mean, I really do. It's um how do you how do you balance helping students see options and possibilities with their interests and desires and so it's helping them see what they can do if they choose to with

082what they really want to do. So that it's it's an ongoing challenge for sure. And I understand So, as Miss um Cox stated when she approached the podium is that um she presented in hopes of us passing this tonight. So, a motion is needed to approve the plan that she has presented. Is there a motion? >> So, motion was made and seconded. Are there any other questions for Miss Cox? All right. Having none, all those in favor, please say I. I. >> Anyone opposed? There you go. >> Thank you so much. >> Thank you. Next up is our district strategic plan and our very own Dr. Wood. >> Thank you, Chairman Kidd, members of the board. I will attempt to make this short and sweet, but certainly entertain your questions. I also um on behalf

083of our district team am seeking your approval for our new strategic plan. This is our proposed final draft. We've had it out essentially for a month for continued feedback. Our team has worked very hard all across our district. Primarily our central office staff, you as board members, you know, we've talked about this at at retreats and different meetings and lifted up. We've had it out a couple different times to gather input and and suggestions and dialogue and so forth and we've tried to heed some of those perspectives um and also share with you that. So again very very quickly uh we have framed our strategic plan. You can see our mission and vision are not different from what we've had the last couple years but we have framed our strategic plan in that researchbased orientation

084of belonging consistency and coherence. And you can see the various objectives. And so upon your approval, we will go to work and uh we'll start putting again uh some of our our benchmark data pieces components um looking at again our strategic action steps and and those outcomes and deliverables uh that we seek to attain as a school district. So I will certainly entertain uh questions, concerns, thoughts. Uh but again, chairman K candidly just seeking seeking approval tonight to move forward. >> I just have one question. Um and you may have mentioned it last month. I was not here, but u I think I remember you were presenting it maybe to the Rotary group. I'm just curious their comments and thoughts or what kind of questions that they >> Yeah. Yes, Miss Kelly. Yeah. So even

085even in the last month, I've uh delivered some of this kind of info certainly about our strategic plan, but also different highlights of our district to a faith-based brief at Journey Church. Um that was a Saturday before Memorial Day, and I've met with two different Rotary groups. The most recent uh was Mr. Egleston's last last Wednesday. It's uh 6:30 in the morning. And really no no critical feedback to lift up to you. just a sense of enthusiasm from the group seeking to again support the work that we're doing. Try to be innovative, try to communicate um spaces for young people and pathways for young people and uh make a quick little joke and this kid was picking on me earlier tonight, but I did have a gentleman significantly older than me come up afterwards and

086say, "I just have one piece of critique. You need some more enthusiasm." Um he was joking of course but um we uh again I think there's a lot of momentum behind what we're trying to do and and what this framework offers again um supporting our students and different all all different perspectives of what we offer as a school district. So and again I just you know maybe to answer your question Callaway moving forward this is a living breathing document. So even approving this tonight doesn't mean that it's just shut down and we're going to set it off on the shelf. We want to be able to consistently take feedback um every month and certainly every week and and again as Miss Higs even lift it up with our teacher working condition survey, we're hoping that

087this kind of direction and work uh supports the efforts of all students and their families and again also our staff. So striving to be excellent um in everything we do. So I hope that kind of answers what wasn't a whole lot of critical feedback, just support from what we're trying to do. Well, I heard from a few people at the um 6:30, but really seven. >> Yeah, I got there a little early. Shocking. >> And I mean they everyone I heard was like Dr. Woody is a phenomenal speaker. It was such a great presentation. I mean it I heard just wonderful, wonderful things and I'm sure they're seeking me out because I'm a board member, but they made a point to say this was a phenomenal presentation. So I can't add that to the discussion.

088Did you want to add anything? >> I mean, I could go. No, I'm just kidding. That Thank you. >> We have to save some for the evaluation. >> No, thank you again, behalf of the district. I mean, we feel really strong uh and encouraged and enthusiastic about this plan. Not a lot different from what we've been striving to do the last couple years, but but certainly tweaks and certainly open. We're very open to feedback and critical reflection on how we can continue to get better. Um, I'm trying to kind of get off stage here, but again, just a reminder, we are a district that is committed to continuous improvement, all of us. And we're a district that's committed to being allin and we want people to be here who want to be allin and we

089want uh families and students to feel that every day that we are here for them. >> So, a motion is needed to approve the strategic plan that has been presented by Dr. on behalf of his team in the district. So moved. >> Motion was made. Is there a second? >> Motion was seconded by Michaela. Oh, are is there any other comments or questions? And I'll just make the note that it's it's the trend not to have a fiveyear strategic plan or a sevenyear strategic plan anymore. That it is rolling that um hopefully we are improving quicker than we can keep up with this strategic plan. So that's my goal. Absolutely. >> So, having said that, motion was made and second it. Are there any other comments or questions? All those in favor, please say I.

090>> Anyone opposed? >> We have a strategic plan. >> Rolling strategic plan. >> Thank you. >> All right. Tag teaming Miss Higs and Miss Spy Agres. Look at y'all up there already. Good evening, Chairman Kidd, Dr. Woody, members of the board. We're here tonight with a recommendation regarding our substitute staffing. Um, for the past five years, we have been contracting the management of our substitute teacher staffing along with several permanent instructional assistant positions. And with the end of our current contract coming soon, June 30th, 2026, um we decided to go out to bid this year uh for staffing services to ensure that we're just getting the best and most cost effective services for our district. So on April 27th, we submitted a request for proposal and asked that those responses be turned back in by

091May 15th. And we did have eight vendors to respond. Uh we selected the top four vendors and we interviewed each of those uh on May 22nd with an evaluation committee consisting of myself and Miss Higgs and Kristen Wright, the assistant finance officer, and Holly White, our um early childhood development center coordinator. and the committee unanimously decided to move forward with the recommendation of edgy staff and edgy staff has been in the staffing business for 16 plus years with more than 600 school districts across the nation. Um we were especially impressed with their training programs. Uh the cost proposed by EDG staff is lower than our current rate. Um that's always a bonus and uh um just several factors that we're intrigued by with edgy staff. I mean absence management systems uh our current employees will

092be eligible to be hired by edgy staff. There were just many things that um felt attractive and that is the reason behind of our recommendation tonight. So we are recommending that we would move forward with a contract with edgy staff um and that would be renewable up to five years. So we're happy to entertain any questions about the process. >> I have a question. >> Sure. Um, so is it a standard or something that they can say to you like we can supply this many subs on any one given day? >> Give percentages or any type of numbers like that. >> Miss Hicks can probably speak very I would say but with all that we interviewed I mean they all are giving um confidently that they will try to strive towards 100% fill rates. You

093know in the high 90s is what we're looking for. I mean and and I feel like most everyone is trying to assure us that they can meet that rate. Um we have been pleased I think with our fill rate with our current provider. Um much at that of course it is always striving for 100% fill rate for our substitutes of course but all um and all four staffing management that we interviewed with um as Miss Favier said they've 100% but they also will work with the district to match the fill rate that we feel comfortable with because we also have resources within all of our schools that can handle a certain amount of fill internally, right? But then we need to ensure that we have a fill rate that truly maximizes the capacity of that

094school where we have sufficient and adequate coverage every day for our students and for our buildings. Um so the goal for any staffing management, they would say 100% and then they work alongside with us um to ensure that it's matching the fill rate that we feel comfortable with. >> Our budget can't always support 100% fill rate. So, we usually um are happy with less than 100% again as long as we're meeting the needs of our students in our schools. >> Great question. >> So, a motion is needed to approve the recommendation to use edgy staff. Is this would you say a one-year contract? >> We will enter into a one-year contract renewable up to four additional years. >> Okay. to the that's that's what the motion would be a one-year contract with four additional years

095using edgy staff. Is there a motion? >> Motion was made. Motion was seconded. Don't need to change your initials here. Are there any further um questions or comments? I know that it's always um trying to try someone new in the interview process and the and the out for bills and everything, but thank you for looking out for what's best for our district and for our budget and for our students. So, we appreciate that. The motion was made. Motion was seconded. All those in favor, please say I. >> Anyone opposed? Congratulations. As you play, welcome to the family. >> Thank you. Thank you. >> Ed play. Ed, >> you have play dates on your way. Friday. >> That's right. >> Thank you very much. >> Thank you. >> Miss, would you like to stay up? >>

096I will. Thank you. >> All right. Now, you know, in the sports athletic field, I've been thinking about this for some time and and and I, you know, don't want anybody's feelings to be hurt. You know, they put those big chains around the person that did the best play or I don't know how that works, right? You can help me. You know, the MVP. >> Yeah, the MVP person to me. >> Oh, >> yeah. That big chain. They wear the big chain. They're like, "Yeah, I'm not the athletic person at all, but I think Miss Higs gets the big chain based on this." I was super excited about this report. I hope that that y'all are equally um excited about the information that she's getting ready to share with us in detail. >> You've always

097been very good at sharing calendar stuff. So, >> yes. Yes. Well, thank you. Um good evening again, Chairman McK, Dr. Woody, and and members of the board. Tonight, I do bring you a revised 2026 2027 calendar for your review. As you are aware, Ashport City Schools has always been committed to ensuring our calendar meets the needs of our students, our staff, and also follows the North Carolina calendar law. This revised calendar continues that commitment. It still meets all calendar law and optimizes meeting the needs of our district. The state allows school districts to calculate um required hours that are noted in the calendar law by minutes of instructional time. We have traditionally operated off of straight hours, but this calendar operates off of instructional minutes. So, as you will see and in your um folder,

098you also have a larger view of that draft calendar. As you'll see on the calendar, total hours are calculated by minutes and continue to meet the needed 1,025 hours with 215 staff days per the calendar law. You'll also notice um by making this shift, we are able to complete semester 1 before the long winter break and complete semester 2 before Memorial Day. This shift would allow for testing to be completed without the learning loss of a long break. We continue to have 26.67 banked hours for weather related closings and that and an increase of student days in second semester when those closings are typical per the calendar. For reference, the original approved 2627 calendar had 288 banked hours. So this calendar is only 1.33 hours difference of the revised draft. The state is still allowing

099five remote days to be utilized by districts and there is currently a proposed house bill which is House Bill 1026 that could provide three additional remote days and that is being worked through the legislature as we speak. You might also notice a few early release days have been removed from this revised draft calendar for staff PD. We know the importance of professional development and we also want to thank the board for improving these days the early release days over the last several years. They have been integral into the work that we have provided and are doing with our staff. So in in order to ensure high quality professional development will continue, you can see that we have built in November 3rd and February 15th as district required work days for this professional development work which

100is um along with the September 23rd early release release day is actually an increase of professional development time due to the full days. I'd like to go over a few differences of the original approved calendar and then this revised draft. The start date for staff does move up by one day, which is August 12th. And you'll notice we do have two optional days at the very beginning of the calendar. That is due to the 13th already um originally being an optional day. So to support our staff in a late uh revision, we wanted to ensure that we didn't have any concerns there. So we are starting with two optional work days and then of course you'll see the required days following in after that. You'll see a work day was on election day which is

101November 3rd. Our first semester ends December 18th. Second semester begins on January 6th. Second semester ends and last day of school on May 28th. and the staff last day does move to June 8th instead of the 9th which was on the original direct calendar. So at this time I do welcome any questions. I'm also willing to go into any other details that you might have and then of course also as an action item and lifting this up for potential approval from the board. I mean, I love this. Um, but when will when would EOGS be? >> So, they would be um at the last five days before the end of the semester. So, if you look at December, you would be looking at the four 14th through the 18th. And then if you're looking in

102May, you'd be looking at the 24th through the 28th. Uh we did run this through our um department of accountability uh to ensure there wouldn't be any major concerns for testing and they assured us that it would fit in within the time frame of this calendar >> which I think is great. I mean I know this year you guys were really excited to have that remediation time. You know was it week and a half, two weeks and so I'm anxious to hear how that those numbers look. But also I as much as that's needed, I also feel like those two weeks was such a long drawn out process for those that weren't take retaking. It was just so I feel like that might kind of help, you know, but but then it's also like when

103will those kids get to retake, you know, if it's I mean I guess they have such a quick turnaround time. >> Yeah. And it may I call up Dr. just because I believe I know what she's going to say, but she'll say it much better than I do for accountability. >> No problem. Um, so the the EOGs actually do have a mandated 10day window. So it will fall in um from May 17th through the 28th. Um but we um of course so it it is two weeks so we will have plenty of time to fit everything in. Um but it does it certainly as Miss Hicks said does eliminate the um after a holiday you know some of the things that we always face and of course we are excited about the EOC windows which

104are the five days um occurring before Christmas break and and students being out for an extended period of time. So yeah we've got we've got plenty of days to um fit it in and we'll certainly come back to you guys with the the actual test um schedule what that looks as soon as we've got all of that drafted out. >> Thank you. Thank you. >> Yeah, it's exciting. I cannot wait to see the spring AP scores because those kids are gaining so much in not having to have that first two weeks of the first semester and they're actually going to be that a month further in their education time. Like that's going to be amazing for those kids. Well, after pitching a little fit last month, Memorial Day weekend, breaking up the testing window, uh

105I'm very pleased with the county. Thank you for your hard work and this is going to be like the least exciting thing you do over the course of the year, but and I'm jumping the gun, miss, but I'd like to move with this calendar. >> Can can I make a suggestion first? >> Yes, ma'am. >> But you've already made a motion which sort of changes thing. We had discussed having graduation on the 27th and not the 28th. Is that possibility? >> The 28th would still be the last student day which is the last we we would be unable to move that up and keep the hours that we are graduation day is not factored into the calendar. That is a um district decision that we would make within um just like any awards ceremony or

106whatnot. So that would be not that would not be notated on this calendar. Um so that discussion could still be had of is it the the 27th the 28th. Um but that could be ancillary to this that we would then um publish at the beginning of next school year. So but the actual graduation date would not change the last day of school. >> I just want to make sure. So you could still do you could potentially do graduation Thursday night but you would still have the last day of school to 20th. >> Yes. Potentially you could school be a solo. >> But I think that's what >> I mean, how many people know the last >> as a parent, I appreciate holding back on a Friday night and having my kid take an exam before

107Christmas, you know? It's like, >> sure, >> that's good. That's >> way more important to do a calendar that makes sense and hang back for that Friday. >> But that wouldn't that wouldn't change anything, right? Is that what you're saying? >> No, it wouldn't change it to move it to Thursday or Friday. >> Yeah, >> it's just Friday. It's just a holiday. >> It's just a holiday weekend. >> It's a matter of do we want our families in the schools on Friday or do we not want our families in the schools? >> So, we don't have to make that decision. Your your your motion is to adopt the calendar as presented. >> Yes, ma'am. >> Okay. The motion has been made by Adam. Is there a second? >> Every everybody So you choose it doesn't

108matter. Um so here is where we have discussion. Is there any other questions or discussions or concerns with our calendar that we understand that the calendar for next school year beginning this August will begin when it was planned to begin. But first semester will end before Christmas break. Second semester will begin as soon as we return from Christmas break and we will finish school regardless of the day Thursday or Friday before the Memorial Day weekend. >> Amazing. >> Yeah, >> that's correct. >> Who do >> details in the minutes? >> So, are there any other discussions, questions, concerns? The only thing I have to say is that if we hadn't done this, I was going to be discussing this going road when we did our strategic planning in July because this schedule I mean the

109whole schedule was completely political politically motivated and never had the students best interest that hardly the families. So kudos to all the work you have done. This is great. >> I just had a comment but this is a huge win for you as board members. board. Thank you. It's a huge win for our district. It's a huge win for our community. And so, again, I'm thankful, Miss Hig, certainly you, but to our whole team. We've covered a lot of territory tonight in a in a brief meeting, but we've I mean, there's a lot here that will give us true direction starting tomorrow uh in our district. And this this has been a really meaningful meeting and this is a culmination of a lot of work for many many months. So, so board, thank you. is

110again one of those opportunities to celebrate you uh for giving us an opportunity to do something creative and different. That's that's ultimately Dr. Tom's special. >> So the motion's on the floor and seconded. Any other comments or questions? All those in favor? >> We have a new semester. >> It's pretty exciting. Thank you. >> Miss K, if I may, um additionally, communication will go out now that this has been approved. um in we had both ways planned, but now that it is approved, we will have communication going out tomorrow morning to all of our staff explaining this difference, letting them know and then also our families shortly after um so we can give them as much time as notice as can. So we do have that planned and prepped and that will go out tomorrow

111morning um so our community will be aware. >> If it's like any other news that happens in this school, I'm sure everybody else already knows. And Miss Kid, if I may, um, may I introduce one person in the room just that from before, we have Miss Vicky Baker here from Edgy Staff, and I would be remiss if I did not recognize her after the approval. Miss Vicki, if you would like to, please come up and say hello. I just want to say I I can't, you see, I talk a lot. Um, we are so excited about partnering with you and we are just looking so forward to this opportunity. >> Well, welcome to the family. >> Okay. You see, I'm excited. My whole company is excited. So, thank you all for that opportunity. We are

112looking so forward again to partnering. >> Yes. Very excited to work with them. >> July 1. >> July one. That is correct. >> That's right here. >> Yes. Yes, it is. Thank you all so much. >> Thank you. That's an exciting exciting uh meeting. And Beth, to your point, when I saw the calendar, it's like all these dates are white. Like there's no interruption. I can't imagine what kind of learning is gonna happen. >> It's going to be amazing. >> That's exciting. Just exciting. I was floored. And and I know that you get the big necklace and everything, but I know that it's a team effort. I don't want to leave everybody out. Anybody else? All right, moving along. I can slow things down a little bit now. Just kind of talk for a while.

113Um, calendar of events. If you looked in your folder, um it's a short blue piece of paper this this time. So, um I don't want you to to think that um it is a long time between this meeting and the next time that we see people each other in person, but in between there at the end of the month, we have a phone tentative, but I I'm guessing that that's going to be please plan on that. Don't don't just ignore the red writing of tentative. There will be a phone meeting. It will be brief, but 5:30 anticipate that on June 23rd, I mean 25th. And then there's some other things that we can do and and um we are aware of that education is continuing through the summer for our students. our next meeting July

11423rd because we are taking so much time off between now and June July. We're going to like really spend a lot of time together July 23rd with our work session or retreat will be at 11:00. It will be in the I don't know what you call it. This room or the boardroom? >> Here. >> This room. Okay. It's a big room. but it'll be here and that'll be a fun morning. That was um when we talked to principles last year, we'll talk to principles this year one-on-one. That's going to be fun. That's always a pleasure and um some time together. And then we will have our regular board meeting at 6:30. We'll move, you know, immediately into that. Um guess we'll have dinner in between there, a little bit of a break, and we will

115have close session at that meeting. So, it is a very long day to come prepared. um be prepared for that. I just want to say thank you to all of you and all of our students and families for an amazing 2526 school year and um being part of our our team and I think our family, we take that seriously. And um just real quick, Beth, what are the most proud, surprised, happy, what's your big celebration for the school year? For the school year. For the school year. It's the end of the school year. Because after tonight, then we start it all again tomorrow. >> Yeah. Good call. I mean, I don't even know where to start with that. I What am I not proud of? >> Right. How's that for an answer? I mean, >>

116it's amazing even just all the way up to that the awards assembly and I will even just say Balaria was amazing. >> It's so lovely to see that back. >> It was amazing to see that our students were the big part of it. I mean, that was just so cool. So I do I think that I am just proud of we do things a little bit different here and we do it every year and every year we make even that better and that's pretty amazing. >> Ryan, >> the back page of the superlatives is this says it all. I mean I've been bragging on this class for a long time and you know it's just fun to watch watch them grow and walk watch those kids walk across that stage last Friday. a tree celebration.

117>> Uh for me, probably the teach program. I mean, that's just one that stands out and knowing that we're going to have educators coming back to the district and creating a homegrown program and seeing how it's growing at 100% for next year. So, that's super exciting. >> And I think to your point, education was the same way of looking for male teachers and and we're growing. We're seeing a lot more men in classroom, elementary classrooms than we've seen in the past. So, you know, the health field will get there. >> What you I know you've not been with us, but you know, briefly, >> I mean, >> was the best from the last school year >> and what you've seen tonight, I mean, we're quite amazing. I think when I saw all the improvements percentage

118improvements were the 2022 school year 24 >> I think so too that would be my the teacher working conditions um because when we hired Dr. Woody we said we needed to improve the environment >> and and it's >> no pressure there Dr. What's your celebration? >> Well, I have a couple. I want to just I've been sitting reflecting and thinking about our entire community. I I'm grateful part for partnerships with Dr. Ardolan, RCC, for Steve Gang, Steven Gang, uh RCC. I'm uh thankful for each of you. I I think probably what I could say about our team and I mean our principles and our staff and our kids, we talk a good game about grit and we talk about growth mindset and there have been ample moments throughout this year. You know, we lost a

119student at the beginning of the year, right? Um tragically, we we've had challenges. Families have had challenges. And I I don't want to overextend this statement, but what we do is really important. We are an anchor for our entire community and and it's really exciting to see particularly young people overcome challenges. It's exciting to see staff overcome challenges. It's exciting to see us as a district, as a board come together. And sometimes that means putting some personal things to the side and saying we're going to be about the mission, the vision young people. So this has been extremely rewarding where we you're um chairman kid because seeing people come together and do it again the next morning and then do it again the next morning and just stay at it. And I think that's where

120these some of these really great results we're seeing are are are because we're just not we're just not willing to quit. We're willing to keep trying and do some different things. >> Good job Miss Callaway. Um, I think that I get really, well, first of all, I want to say that I feel wholeheartedly that this school is full of amazing students. When you go to the graduation and you see so many of them at one time, they're just they're just great. Or anytime that they speak to us or they're at the ribbon cutting or anytime they just represent so well and and they just really work hard. So they're great students and so I'm proud of that and I love to tell people just about the opportunities with the global innov innovation center and the

121opportunities for the internships with Toyota and the other industries and how these students can be equipped to go to work with high paying jobs and I really get excited and when I tell people about these things they're like really I didn't know that. >> So that excites me. So, so mine's a little bit more global, I think, and and part of it was spurred from a conversation that Dr. and I have uh today is that um it is I think what is really uh that we really should be very proud of and I'm talking about from from central office to staff to students is that we really have this kind of can do think out of the box attitude and and we've seen that over and over again whether it's esports or whether it's changing

122our calendar or whether it's you know letting our students have more engage engagement and involvement in things. Um, and the list just goes on. I mean, I I could be here all night listing things about all through it. And you don't see that other places. You don't hear that when you talk to people at other school districts. Uh, and so and even some of our neighborhoods. And so it it not throwing them, but I think that makes us so different. And that's one thing I think we can really be proud of is that we're not we're not stagnant. We're always moving. We're always thinking, how do we change it? How can we be better for our students, our parents, our community? And I think our community hears that. I mean, and it doesn't matter whether

123it's the faith comm community, the business community. Uh, you know, I was, like I said, I was in a meeting at RCC and they were already talking about how do we partner with Asher City Schools. I mean, it it's just I think it it just radiates out and and I think that's just something we all should be very proud of. Thank you. Thank you. >> I kind of go along with Kayla with the teach program. I just remember everybody loves Katie, but I remember >> one of the first meetings where we had students back. We were at NAM's and Katie came and I don't think there was a dry eye, you know? I mean, she was I mean, I don't even remember how old she was, but she was young. And to hear her and

124then this year, you know, her dreams literally, you know, as she walked across that stage came alive. So, I mean, I think that's just the the program that we've been able to put, you know, in the hands of our students. It's really really cool. And then also the I was just telling somebody like the it's silly, but the sunset the sunrise. So, the sunrise and sunset with the seniors, like that's just the little things that our school district does to, you know, traditions and um the legacy and things like that. Just it's special, you know. I mean, sure, there's some other schools that have caught on, but I feel like there's things that we've kind of put in place. It's like it's really neat to just know that those traditions continue to live. >> Thank

125you. >> I've kind of already shared mine. I would just sum it up in a word culture. Uh we've got, as we saw tonight, we've got an improving culture among our staff and teachers. I think we've got an improving culture among our students, too. And I'm seeing that over and over again like the balorian you know and and students will participate in that and um you know and graduation seems to be becoming a week and not a an hour and so that's exciting too. Um so just an overall improved culture and and atmosphere around the district as it and obviously the opportunities and like Mr. Chief used to always say, "We're just a little bit better." And and we're showing that and and maybe that's a conceited thing to say, but we've got some receipts.

126We can show you if you don't believe us. >> We only and and I just like to share one thing. You mentioned some some student, some graduates, and some of their successes. We have a young man who graduated here a couple years ago that's been invited to the MLB College workouts. He's had a good season at Liberty this year, and so that's exciting. you know, potentially um embarking on a professional baseball career. So, I just wanted to to brag on him a little bit. >> Absolutely. >> I just asked this kid if I could say one more thing. I I just I could Dr. We all we we could go around here. I think we'd actually probably love it except Jody's like, I want to go watch the Hurricanes game. Um I don't know. I

127I do. But I I I would love to see her just talk talk talk about the things, but there are emotional moments and there are reminders. So last Thursday morning and it was at 6:30. I think it was seven. Dr. Thomas um Mr. Early is correct. Let me >> 7:30. So I had it all >> together. Great. You had already been up. >> I'd already been up. Yeah. >> But I think around 27 28 um faith leaders in our community came together on their own. I mean they they they asked if they could come do it, but they met at Lee Jstone Stadium. um all different churches across our whole community. Um so many of these people I didn't know. Um and I guess I just want to say publicly they they prayed for our

128kids. They walked all over the field individually and prayed. They prayed over graduation. They prayed over our graduates. They prayed over our staff. They prayed over our principles. They prayed over me. Um, and I I know we've always got to walk a line, but I I I dare say that probably doesn't happen in many school districts. Um, our business community, we talked about Rotary folks coming along and saying, "How can we help?" And what can we do? Uh, Sandra and I met this week or Yeah. this week in the midst of a lot of busyness, a couple folks who were saying, I mean, these are just folks in Ashboro who are like, I'd like to just give money. And by the way, I have some friends who have some money and we just don't know

129how to do it. And we're getting more there's just what levels of engagement with people in our community who they care about our kids and they don't they maybe don't even have young people in our school district. And so that that's something different. That's something I'm thankful for. I don't think that has anything to do with me. I think it has to do with the culture of what we're trying to do together. And again, kids that walked across the stage Friday night had no concept that there were 27 people praying for them, you know, and for their life. And and that does that that means something. So, I just we are different and we're special and I I'm thankful to be a part of this and um and I play a small part when you

130start looking at our team and our employees and the folks who are who are doing the great work and you as board members. It's going to take it's going to continue take all of us to make improvements and to continue to get better and but I am grateful. So, thank you. >> Thank you for those words all of you. I appreciate that. I was remiss and stayed in the back of your folder and you received it in an email today. the superintendent evaluation schedule so that there's hopefully you're clear on the understanding of what's next. Um so seriously it is a little bit of a vacation time of there's nothing going on right now but you know like for us as far as the board but I know that there there are plenty good things

131for the school year. We've got a lot of work coming up as board members and if you have any comments or questions or or need me for anything on a phone call or a text away, please don't hesitate. And that's the end of our meeting. If there's a motion, >> the motion was made. Is there a second? Motion was seconded. All those Well, is there any discussion? >> All those in favor, please say I.