School Board Meeting 8-26-25 FULL MEETING

001Heat. [Music] [Applause] [Music] Heat. [Applause] [Music] [Applause] [Music] Good evening. The August 26, 2025 board meeting is now in order. I would like to welcome my fellow board members and the public. I would like to take this opportunity to remind the public that their appropriate place for public participation in the meeting is during your individual public comment opportunity as identified on the agenda. Outside of your individual public comment opportunity, your role in the meeting is as an observer. Paul, roll call, please. >> Mr. Trent, >> here. >> Mr. Susan, >> here. >> Miss Wright, >> here. >> Miss Campbell, >> here. >> Mr. Trent or Mr. Thomas, sorry, >> here. >> At this time, the board would like to hold a moment of silence. I invite the audience to join. Thank you. I would like

002to invite Alec Karpawich to the podium to lead us in the pledge of allegiance. Please rise. I pledge allegiance 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. Tonight, tonight we have Mr. Yo, music director, along with the Stevenson Elementary School Choir, who will perform two songs. >> All right, >> let's give him a round of applause. [Applause] We go. [Music] 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. [Music] With liberty and justice for all. [Music] Oh, beautiful for spacious skies, for amber waves of rain, for purple mountain majesties above the fruit in

003place. America, America. God shed his grace on thee and crown thy good with brotherhood from sea to shining sea. [Music] I pledge the ales to the flag of the United States of America. [Music] America. [Music] [Applause] What do you want to say? [Music] H I'm going to be a biking. So, and now beware. >> I've never seen a king of beast with quite so little hair. >> I'm going to be the baby that's like he was before. I'm rushing up on looking down. I'm working on our roses for rather uninspiring. Oh, I just can't wait to be here. [Music] Don't say do this. Don't say be there. Don't say stop that. Don't say see here to run around all day. Free all my [Music] [Applause] Everybody look left. Everybody look right. Everybody look high. >>

004Stay in the spotlight. >> Not yet. >> Let every creature over and sing. I hear it in the on the wing. It's going to be fixed in his finest way. Oh, I just can't wait to be king. Oh, he just can't wait to be king. [Music] Just can't wait to be king. [Music] [Applause] All right. >> All right. I take it that's Phoenix and Shelby at the podium. All right. Um board questions. >> Oh, sure. I'll kick it off. Sure. So, you guys are exceptional. How did you get so good in just a few weeks? >> Um, well, I think me and Shelby, we've both been doing choir since like fourth grade, so we're kind of like experienced with performances and it was just like we kind of wanted to put this together. So, >>

005you got a lot of other people helping you. How How about them? >> Yeah. Um, everyone really contributed really well. And I feel that for the people who haven't done choir, it was that everyone was so committed to this and everyone felt that it was their responsibility to bring it that the way all of us do. >> Well, you guys brought it. Good job. Good job. >> Thank you. Very awesome. All right. Awesome. >> Well, I have a feeling in a few years some of you are going to be on the stage at Cocoa Village Playhouse uh pretty soon. Anybody down in the crowd think that would be fun to perform? Yeah, I Yeah, I thought maybe you guys. Awesome. So, um I was asking Mr. Yo a question beforehand, but did anybody hear the

006answer? Did you guys hear the answer how long he'd been at Stevenson? >> Um, if I remember correctly, he's been there since it first opened. >> Yes. 26 years, right, Mr. Yo? So, but he was quick not to take all the credit. And I heard that you guys also have your dance instructor here. So, would you like to one of you introduce your dance uh teacher also to us? >> Well, here is our amazing, spectacular and allaround incredibly flexible Miss Whitney. That is most excellent. Thank you for that wonderful uh introduction of your teachers. Fantastic. Thank you guys both for leading such a great group of students um in the performing arts and you guys know that is close to my heart. I love kids to see kids perform. Even if you never perform after

007elementary school, the confidence obviously the confidence that you build and getting to stand in front of people and shine is just something that will go with you for the rest of your life and I'm very proud of you. Good job. >> Thank you, >> Ray. >> All right. Well, thank you guys so much. You remind us why we are here and set the pace for every board meeting. So, we appreciate you coming. Let me ask our vocal solo singers. Were you guys nervous tonight? >> Oh, 100%. you were. Oh, we could not tell. All right. All right. Um, and let me ask you this question. Is what is your favorite class that you take currently? >> Um, I mean like from like academics, I would say science because our amazing Miss Sears is just amazing.

008But >> I think that my favorite like class that I could do at Stevenson would probably be the drama department because I love like performing in the arts. >> Good. What about >> For me, I believe that academically ELA would be my favorite. >> Okay. >> Because I love reading and Miss Gucci is just amazing. >> Okay, that's awesome. And for the arts and mostly in general, I got to say singing. I've always loved it. >> Yes, you have quite the charisma. So, I have no doubt you are going somewhere. But thank you so much. And to the parents that that sacrificed to bring all of your children tonight. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. It definitely, like I said, it sets the tone for the evening and we appreciate it tremendously. >> Do you

009have any who's >> Okay. Sorry. I've got a couple of um recognitions that I want to do, but there's two children right behind you, sir, that when you had mentioned about who wants to go do Coco Village and everything, they were raising their hands. So, I didn't know if any of you those are your siblings back there, but um I fig is that your your >> That's my sister. >> I figured as much. She was so excited. So, you have I see it's in the jeans and you're leading with good example. Um Mr. Yo, I wanted to say thank you. uh this many children when you had to make that adjustment and they all moved together is something of an accomplishment because you've only had them for I mean you may have had them previous

010years but you've only had them like for two weeks right now. >> Yeah. All right. >> And I have five children and I can't get them to move like that. So you just moved an entire group of people. >> I I understand. I I get it. Yes, ma'am. Thank you. Thank you for saying that, Mr. Yo. Um and I just want to take uh and thank the parents. You guys, it means the world for you to come down. I know it's the last thing you want to do on a on a the Tuesday night is to come down and do stuff, but your kids get the opportunity to be here. And we wanted to say thank you for taking the time out of your busy schedules to come down here. I wanted to give a

011shout out to uh dad of the year that's holding the uh kids in the front row there because yes, that's it. You know, I I um I was the same way. Hey, I had children all over my arms when I was going when I was, you know, when they were young. And it's something special to be able to hold your children like that. And I was just telling Miss Wright, I said, I I missed that when I was uh when my kids were young. So, thank you so much. Don't you tempt me, man. Don't you tempt me. But no, I wanted to say thank you to all the parents. I really appreciate you guys. Thank you for coming tonight. And that's it. Thank you. Awesome. >> And dad of the year award goes to what's

012what's your name? >> Kevin. Thank you. >> All right. Well, that was fitting for the scene out of uh Lion King, right? It's all it's all tied in. So, very good. Uh once again, you know, I understand that uh you guys are very nervous. It's hard to speak up there. No, you guys are excellent. You know, we would really like for you to come back and introduce the board the way you introduced your teacher. That's really good. Um or Paul, you got to get better at it. All right, here we go. >> Some walk up songs. >> Yes. Oh, I got that coming. But guys, awesome. One week. One week. That's great. Um, you guys are in like rare form already. So, uh, thank you so much. And, um, I can't add much more than

013we've we've had here. You guys were excellent. Um, you know, we expect, um, you know, when you come back mid year, it's going to even be better, right? They don't know they're not coming. So, sorry. That that's good. But, no pressure. No pressure at all. So, uh, again, thank you parents for again, you know, bringing them out. You know, Matt said, you know, bring out on a Tuesday evening with this, you know, the the rain. You know, it's the last thing you probably want to do is get in the car and bring in the siblings and get it get here. But we appreciate it. Um, don't think we just put you out here for something to put on the agenda. We really do like to hear from you guys. So, we we appreciate that. And

014uh yeah, and you'll see, you know, um, you know, how this will pay off. Miss Campbell had said it about confidence. It is so important for you to be able to, you know, speak in public clearly, look people in the eye. I couldn't do that at your age, what you're doing. So, congratulations on that. But parents, that has a lot to say for for you uh you know, putting your children in the you know, programs like this and uh we couldn't be more proud of you guys. So, thank you so much. >> Dr. Indel, do you want to add something? >> Yeah, I think it would be appropriate to take a break and take a picture. >> Absolutely. All right, guys. All right. Well, welcome back. I'd like to invite Mr. Wilson, Mr. Rashad Wilson,

015assistant superintendent of district operations, to the podium for our first recognition of his procurement department. >> Good evening, board members, Dr. Rendell, staff, and guest. Tonight, I have the pleasure of recognizing a team that consistently demonstrates excellence, integrity, and innovation in one of the most vital areas of our district operations, our procurement team. This year, the department has achieved multiple significant milestones that deserve our attention and sincere commendation. First, we are proud to share that the department received the 2025 award of excellence in public procurement from the Florida Association of Public Procurement Officials. This honor is awarded to only 25 public entities across the state and recognizes outstanding performance in key areas like innovation, e- procurement, and transparency in the use of public funds. This award is a testament to our department's commitment to best

016practices and operational excellence. Also on the national stage, they were awarded the 2025 achievement of excellence in procurement award from the National Procurement Institute. This recognition places our district among the top tier public and nonprofit agencies across the country. It confirms that our procurement systems, staff training, and leadership strategies not only meet but exceed national standards for ethical and effective public procurement. And lastly, we want to recognize a significant accomplishment in professional development. In the past year, eight team members earned their Florida certified contract manager certification, a rigorous credential issued by the Florida Department of Management Services. This certification represents a deep knowledge of state regulations and highlevel proficiency in contract management. We proudly congratulate the following. And when I call your name, please stand. Triana Castile, procurement agent two. Jessica Waldron, pre uh procurement

017agent 2. Heidi Datson, senior procurement agent. Will Hinesman, senior procurement agent and director of procurement and distribution services, Sean Hines. Not present this evening are Laura Chase, procurement agent 2, and Michelle Cherry, senior procurement agent. Their wait, >> hold tight. Their commitment to professional growth strengthens not only their individual expertise, but the overall effectiveness and accountability of the entire department. These recognitions and certifications are far more than awards on a wall. They reflect a team that is forwardthinking, missiondriven, and deeply committed to serving our students, staff, and community with the utmost integrity. To the entire procurement team, thank you for your outstanding service and for setting a standard of excellence that inspires confidence and pride across Bvard public schools. Please join me in a round of applause to honor to honor their achievements. And if

018I'm not mistaken, um I think Don has one of the awards in her hand and I think the other award is uh with with Sean. If you can hold them up so everyone can see the awesomeness. Another round of applause for an awesome team, please. [Applause] And Don, I'm sorry. Don also received her certification. >> Yes. >> Don, please forgive me. Don is a critical valuable uh team member of of everything great about procurement. Could you also you have a few words? >> No, you did it. You walked up there. >> Being being put on the spot here. Um I can't thank Mr. Wilson enough for his uh support in these endeavors. It it takes time away from uh my BPS job to make sure that we're meeting these standards and providing the team with

019the opportunity for that professional development, but it is crucial to continue and make sure that we're learning all of the new standards. So, I can't thank him enough for that support and thank you for this presentation. >> Yay. [Applause] didn't know if any of the board members wanted to make any comments while they're still standing up before we take a picture and all that. So, >> yeah, I would. >> I just did really I just did really quickly. These you can add to your large collection >> cuz I've I've been back there. There's a whole table full of them, right? So, thank you. Very proud of you. this helps us have trust in the process and when we talk about the budget to know that that you guys are uh helping us expend every dollar

020um and squeezing every the little bit out of every penny. So um you guys help us accomplish that when it comes to all the stuff that we have to get. And so thank you guys very much. You're you may not stand I say this when I send my thank you emails to staff like you may not stand in front of a classroom full of kids but what you're doing is impacting our mission every day and we appreciate you. Right. >> Yeah. Thank you. >> Good. Thank you guys a lot. >> Take a Are we taking a photo? Yeah. I I echo her sentiments. Honestly, procurement when you walked into that that department, Sean, I know you've not been here for all that long. There's been a lot to to, you know, get under your belt

021and a lot of things to work out and you're doing an amazing job. Your team is doing a great job. So, we do thank you for all the hard work that you put in because I know a lot of days when you're behind the scenes, it seems like nobody even recognizes, but we do recognize and we very much appreciate all the hard work that you put in. I wanted to take a second and say thank you. I know when I make phone calls to you guys and I said, "Hey, I need this. I need that." You guys are always more than willing to work with me on that. You've always been open. You said, "How can we accomplish this?" And you've always worked towards the goal of um you know what I mean, transparency and

022accountability. And it and I know I don't get an opportunity to ever thank you guys. And Don, I'm sorry I call you all the time and bother you all the time. >> Um and you're kind of the point person, you know what I mean, to everybody. So, thank you for all your work and and and I appreciate everything that you guys are doing cuz without you, we we're vulnerable without you and thank you for being on the front line. So, I appreciate you guys. >> You appreciate it. Keep up the hard work. John, you want to say anything? No, we're good. >> Can't say anything that hasn't been said other than thank you very much for all your dedication and hard work. >> All right. >> Yeah. Just congratulations on the awards. We had a

023staff meeting earlier today and we were talking about how all a lot of people have roles that are unseen in providing a high quality education for our students and procurement is one of those areas that we don't see but we can't get all the things we need to do our jobs without them doing their job. So appreciate all the hard work and thank you for finding a cheaper price and a better value all the time. I remember when I was a principal I'd say I want to buy this and reach out to purchasing and procurement. and say, "Wait, actually, we can get you a better deal and this a better product over here." So, thank you guys for all that. >> Picture. >> Yeah. >> All right. We'll be back. >> That's what it looks

024like. >> All right. At this time, I would like to invite Irene her with BASSA to to the podium for our second recognition, the 2026 Principal Achievement Award for Outstanding Leadership and Outstanding Assistant Principal Achievement Award. >> Thank you. Good evening to members of the board and Dr. Randelle. I'm Eileen Hair. I'm the executive director of the Bvard Association of School Administrators. As retired administrator here in Bvard County Schools for 28 years, it's my honor to announce this year's 2026 Principal Achievement Award for Outstanding Leadership. And that goes to Heather Smith from Central Middle School. [Applause] Oh, who? >> I'll just hold him right here. >> Oh, boy. All right. Uh, first, thank you to the board and Dr. Rendell, uh, and Mr. Ramer for entrusting me with Central Middle School. It is literally the

025greatest middle school in the county. My my kids went there and so I've experienced all of the things from parenting to now um principal. And I just want to thank Sher Bowman for the nomination for the CNI department for always being thought partners. Um my colleagues for always being thought partners to talk through all of the things you're like what what is this? um always answering phone calls and answering questions to my family for sacrificing some of my time, a lot of my time maybe. Um I appreciate you guys and your support always. Uh the youngest is rowing right now. So um uh um I want to thank my staff for taking this journey with me. So, they have been instrumental from my custodians and making my facilities look amazing and welcoming to my teachers

026and my clerical staff for always being willing to do what's in the best interest of kids. Um, and doing some really hard work and that hard work has paid off this year in soaring to a B. We are still shooting for an A. So, that's the goal for this year. Um, and I just I believe in them and I'm so thankful that they believe in themselves to be able to do this work every single day and that they're right there with me. So, I appreciate all my faculty and my students. It's really hard to follow Stevenson Elementary School because they make me want to go to elementary sometimes. Um, but middle school is literally the best. My middle schoolers today thought I was 25, so that's a win. Um, and so I just really appreciate

027the opportunity to get to serve this community and this school. So, thank you. Okay. So, before she leaves the podium, um, full disclosure for our audience, uh, we actually gave out the awards at the superintendent summit in in the summer. So, we already announced Heather as the winner and everything. And you saw her holding up a check over there. You might have seen it. Um, Community Credit Union is one of our best partners. I mean, they are fantastic. And so, they are sponsoring this award with cash prize for the principal of the year and assistant principal of the year. Um before Heather leaves the podium, she has transformed Central Middle School in the short time that she has been the principal there. Um the academic achievement gains are remarkable, but what you you actually just

028feel it when you come on the campus. The campus is a a joyful place but a business atmosphere. Um the students know that they are there to learn. Um they listen to their teachers, they follow the rules. Um all the data shows that not just academic achievement in in increasing but also um discipline infractions decreasing tremendously. Um and it's really a a result of her leadership and how she's created a team at Central that's all committed to that same mission. So this was an easy selection for principal of the year. So congratulations again. >> Thank you so much. Miss Price, if I may say something also, I wanted to take a second and say thank you. Um, you came from my district and then left. Um, when you were here, full disclosure, when you were

029here, you did an amazing job. And I just wanted to take a second to your family. I know that a lot of the times that mom may not be home because she's working and doing all the great achievements that were there. And from the bottom of my heart, I appreciate your dedication and your sacrifice so that all of those children can learn and everything else and can achieve at levels that they never dreamed. So I wanted to say take a second and say thank you to your husband and your kids for that and thank you for everything. We miss you here in this district. So if you ever want to come back, just let us know. But uh we appreciate you. >> I am soaring eagle for a long time. >> I left it open

030for you. Thank you. >> Yeah. >> Thank you. >> Anybody else? >> All right. So we'll do the assistant principal of the year and then we'll do pictures. So, we'll just wait for a second. So, Heather, you can't leave yet. >> I mean, you can leave the podium. >> You can. >> Thank you. Um, you know, as a retired administrator, as I said, I I need to just always remind people that school leadership plays such an important role in the success of our students and our entire school community. There's not enough that we can say about the hard work, as you said, Dr. Randelle and the teamwork that these administrators bring to our schools and to our district. Um, having been there, having sacrificed, um, that's what BASSA wants to do. Bassa wants to bring

031to light what all of our administrators work so hard to do to bring success to our school district. It's now my honor to announce the outstanding assistant principal achievement award and that goes to Cole Manis from Cocoa Beach Junior Senior High School. [Applause] >> I'll take this. >> Yeah, that's getting two points. >> Thank you. Uh thank you very much to the board obviously for having us and uh for recognizing it. It is nice when you're in the trenches and you get uh a little bit of validation when you're doing this. Dr. Rendell obviously um we've been into some things together too which has been great bonding experience in that side and over on the school side. So thank you for that. Um Mr. Powers, uh thanks for taking the time to come out here

032today as well. Uh, I really do appreciate that you make it your mission to give me opportunities to try to groom me into a leader and I I really do appreciate that. I know you make it part of your job and thank you for that. Miss, uh, Miss Bowman, thank you for the nomination. Thanks for looking out for us uh, always and forever over at Cocoa Beach. Um, my CTE crew, I think I saw Miss Rachel Rutled in here somewhere. Thank you for all the support that you've done for us. Um, anytime I call, you keep answering the telephone, so I appreciate that. Um, Miss Han, I see you over there also. Thank you very much. Same thing. Um, I always did things as transparently as possible when possible and, uh, you always help me

033get through some of those, so I appreciate it. And I do want to echo all the sentiments we had towards family. Uh, I'm not going to cry when I say this cuz my family will use it as leverage, uh, any of our arguments right now. But um my family's in the front row right here and they do absorb uh a lot when it comes to the administrative world. The the amount of time and effort it takes to run a school is considerable and I love you. Thank you so much for everything. We wouldn't be able to do it without you. Thanks for hanging down the board. So thank you all very much. Appreciate it. >> Okay. So before Cole leaves, so >> so I I had the pleasure of working with Cole for a couple

034years at Coco Beach and um he is truly a leader on campus, a leader amongst the staff and the students. Um he's one of the most uh personable administrators I've been around. The students love him, but he also holds them accountable for their behavior and their performance. and the amount of improvements in the role as assistant principal for operations or facilities. The amount of improvements that he's been able to bring to Koko Beach are are incredible. Um the campus, the improvements of the campus, but also programs and everything that he's had a direct hand in improving um also made his selection as assistant principal of the year very easy. And I know Tim's doing a good job of giving you growth opportunities. That's called delegation. Good job, Tim. And that kind of thing. And and

035he's in a new role in charge of curriculum now. So growing more as a leader every day. So congratulations. >> Board. Anything? >> Picture time. >> And he used to be at Central Middle School. >> He did. No. Hey, I I got >> Mr. Susan, you're not seeing or anything else. Have a seat. Uh right. Here we go. >> No, I had a little bit of time to work with you as well. So, uh, everything you said, Dr. turned out absolutely true. Um, couple things is I I I I'd love to get over there and see you confined to a a a curriculum desk because you when you were in operations, you were everywhere. You probably had to have 30,000 steps a day in. You were just nonstop working. So, that's one thing. And uh

036another thing is, you know, you're obviously the most outstanding assistant principal of the year, but if anybody had any time to be around you, you're a much better person. So I I I personally want to say thank you for being a part of BPS. Um it's an honor that you're in my district, but you're an honor to be in this district, and we appreciate you. Um if we could clone you, we would do it. So let's figure that out. But um you know you are you're a gem in this district so we appreciate everything you do. >> Thank you. >> So actually before we do the pictures I do want to recognize Community Cranian and give Dan Kelly the new CEO of Community Credit Union opportunity to say anything if you'd like at the podium

037because they're here and they've sponsored this these cash awards and again as one of our best partners want to give him the opportunity. >> Thank you Dr. Redell. Thank you school board members and everybody for being here. Really just congratulations to the two of you for all you do for the kids. I uh have two children that were adult children uh BPS students for a while and just appreciate all your efforts and everything you do. Congratulations. Um CCU is celebrating 72 years this year uh in Bvard County. So teachers 72 years ago created this amazing organization. It's just an honor and a privilege to to be at the helm and we look forward to the continued partnership. Thank you. Awesome. >> All right, take a break. >> All right, let's go to >> We're now

038at the adoption of the agenda. Dr. Endo, would you read what is on the agenda this evening? >> Thank you, Mr. Chair. On the agenda, we have administrative staff recommendations, one presentation, 35 consent items, two public hearing items, and two information items. Changes made to the agenda since it was released to the public include the following revisions were C1, administrative staff recommendations, and D1, a student achievement presentation. Do I hear a motion? >> Move to approve. >> Second. >> Any discussion? Follow roll call, please. >> Mr. Thomas, >> I. >> Miss Campbell. >> Hi. >> Mr. Trent. >> Hi. >> Mr. Susan. >> Hi. >> Miss Wright. >> Hi. We are now at the administrative staff recommendations. Do I hear a motion? >> Move to approve. >> Second. >> Any discussion? Call. Roll call, please.

039>> Mr. Thomas, >> I. >> Miss Campbell. >> I. >> Mr. Trent. >> I. >> Mr. Susan. >> I. >> Miss Wright. >> I. >> Dr. Rendell. >> No one to recognize at the time at this time. >> All right. At this time, Miss Harris, assistant superintendent of curriculum and instruction will present on student achievement. So before we begin this presentation, I do want to make an announcement that several members of the audience are probably eager to hear and maybe some of our viewing public. Earlier today, the board held a workshop and during the workshop, they discussed the wireless communication device policy that was passed two weeks ago. When we passed the wireless communication device policy two weeks ago, there was some concern about the policy hindering students from accessing certain technology that impacts their

040learning. So the board heard those concerns and did made some decisions during the workshop today. So there is going to be a slight revision to the policy. So I'm going to read a sentence that's very similar to what the final sentence will be. We're still word smithing the final sentence, but this is basically what it's going to say. Students in grades 9 through 12 will be able to use personal laptops, tablets, and e-readers for instructional purposes at the direction of their teacher and with the approval of their principal. So, the board did hear the concern about personal laptops, tablets, and e-readers being caught up in the whole wireless communication device policy change. So, no change with cell phones. No cell phones from first bell to last bell, but personal laptops, tablets, and e-readers for instructional

041purposes only at the direction of the teacher with the approval of the principal. So, we sent word out to the principles already. We'll be sending out communications to the schools and the community. So, the board did listen, made some changes, maybe not the changes everybody wants completely, but still they made some changes. So if if you're here um for that purpose, the board did listen. Personal laptops um tablets and e-readers, you can use grades 9 through 12 teacher direction with principal permission. And with that, we'll move to the academic achievement presentation. Thank you. >> Good evening, uh Mr. Bo Chairman, uh board members, Dr. Enel, and Mr. Gibbs. It is my pleasure to be up here tonight to give a very high level overview of the efforts of our school-based staff, our teachers, our students,

042and our school leaders to celebrate the tremendous success that Bvard achieved in achieving a district grade for two years in a row um of a as we review the um school student achievement data. Tonight, what we're going to review is uh what made up the components of that district grade of A, our school grade um update when we consider all of our schools. We're going to also talk um at a high level overview around the other side of uh school accountability. So, we have our school grade side of the house and then we have our ESSA which is focus on our subgroups at each of our schools. We're going to also speak to our data around middle school acceleration as well as college and career readiness. So, we have some lots of data to share

043and celebrate. So, this first sl uh slide takes us to the information that makes up our district school grade. So, you will see we are thrilled that um in nine out of the 12 areas of the district school grade, we maintained or improved. This goes into um an even higher A than we experienced in the 23 24 school year. So we are thrilled with the success of our schools. When you see we have a strategic plan goal of moving all of our schools to earn a school grade of A or B. So you will see we're well on our way as we increase the number of uh schools earning a school grade of A or B. Most exciting is this next slide. And this is when we um list all of the schools that improved

044their school grade. And Bvard had 13 schools to include our traditional and our charter sites that improved their school grade in the 2425 school year. I'm very excited about this slide because you see there are lots of school names on there. So we had 41 schools that increased in total points and this slide represents our traditional BPS schools. So 41 of our schools improved in their total points earned. I want to do a special congratulations to these three schools. So Madison Middle School, Palm Bay Elementary, and Space Coast Junior Senior High School earned improvement in every cell of school grade. So that is to be commended at those three sites. Now we're going to flip to the other side of school accountability. So everyone is familiar with the school accountability system that grades A through

045F. What not all stakeholders understand is we have accountability when we look at um the underperforming subgroups and tracking all students in on a school campus. So there are three categories of state identification. The first one being ATSI and that means there is at least one underperforming subgroup that is represented on that school campus. The next level is targeted school uh support and improvement and that means that there is a subgroup with the scoring below 32 for three years. And then the following identification is comprehensive and that looks at u several factors but one of the major factors that impacts our schools is looking at how many years a subgroup has been underperforming. So I'm very very excited to share that Bvard has reduced the number of schools that are under this state identified status.

046So you will see um for the school year 2425 we reduce the number of schools significantly with underperforming subgroups. This is a collective effort not only at the school level but with our student services team doing wraparound services to students with disabilities, students in our ELELLL population, really ensuring that all students are making learning gains. The schools um in front of us at this time they all exited ESSA status. So they had some type of identification and they were able to improve their subgroups across their campus and no longer are identified with ESSA status. So now we're going to switch gears to talk about acceleration. So you will see when we look at Bvard's data in comparison to the state for the 232 24 school year as well as the 2425 school year you will

047see we maintained at 70%. We've talked earlier at the workshop about some strategic plans um in identifying and making sure that students are in the right place to be successful and so we expect to see an increase in this data. the columns on the right that represents our college and career readiness. Again, we've been very strategic with um making sure we are setting students up for success with those acceleration opportunities. So again, lots to celebrate and also opportunities to accelerate. This next slide, it reflects the progress of students performing in our CTE programs. So the information on the left that speaks to our industry certifications. So those are certifications that allow students to opportunities to go into the workforce or go on to career pathways in a post-secondary setting. The columns on the right, this

048represents our digital tools. So we're looking for uh programs that uh that demonstrate readiness moving forward as well as in our sixth grade last year. This represents our sixth grade STEM students that participated in the digital tools process and we had more students um earn digital tools than we have in the past. One of the items as we reflect data from year to year is we know with legislation moving into the 2526 school year that our data will be impacted by uh the no longer offering this in sixth, seventh and eighth grade that we'll be moving some to the high school and some to the fourth grade. This data is hot off the press. So this represents our students uh in our dual enrollment programs both in the or in the fall, spring and in

049the summer. So you will see we had more students have access to these courses. They took more courses and we uh were able to even bump up our percent of tests p or courses passed. This is significant because sometimes when you are having more opportunities and you're um increasing access for all students, it becomes more challenging to maintain or exceed data. And in this data point, Bvard is continuing to excel. Now, we're going to move to our advanced placement. Again, you will see a trend. More students had access. And so, we had more students take tests, more students passed. that increase our overall pass rate to 75%. As we move forward with this trend, you're going to see even with our IB results. So, we had more IB tests taken, more tests were um passed

050and you see we maintained right at that 79%. So, we're looking at the numerator being the test taken or test passed and the denominator being the tests taken. Now, we're moving to our Cambridge results which were just recently released and we are thrilled to say again that we have more tests were taken, more tests were passed and guess what the answer is? Increased outcomes for students. So we continue the trend of more opportunity and um higher rates. Our graduation uh data, remember this is lag data, but since we were doing an overview of everything, we included this data for uh comparing BVAR to the state. We showed a slight bump, but we have some strategic moves that have occurred. And we know when we get this data because it's lagging, we should have this um

051by the end of the semester possibly. and we expect that it will be significantly improved. >> And any questions? I know that was a fast and furious, but we spent some time together this afternoon going into this with great detail. >> I don't have any questions other than just to say that uh excuse me, this didn't happen by accident. Um it happened because Dr. Rendell put together a great team. you guys, his leadership team has done a great job setting a plan and and and driving the the the goals uh forward and then this obviously the students and teachers um doing the the hard work of getting it all done. So, I just want to commend you guys. You've done a phenomenal job and u looking forward to even improved results next year. >> Well,

052I appreciate that, but I just want to echo for everyone to hear it is what happens in the four walls of the classroom. And so, um, I I appreciate that and I know my team hears it, but I want all of our students and our teachers and our school leaders to hear that message as well. Thank you. >> Absolutely. >> Exactly. Uh, Dr. Reno echoed that, hit the nail on the head earlier today. It is exactly what you just said. U, I mean, you can have all the plans in the world, but if it doesn't get put into play, they don't run the right play in the, you know, in the play on the field, in the classroom, it doesn't it doesn't work. So, you know, shout out to all of our teachers, our students,

053and our parents. But, uh, it this is just great news. I mean, this was just an overview. We had a little deeper overview um earlier. Uh, it was wonderful. Um, repeat though what what did you say we've done two years in a row? >> Uh, we are an A district two years in a row and this year even a higher A. >> Yes, I did want I did want us to repeat that again. So, >> I wasn't paying attention. I say what' you say? I I believe they said that we were an a district two years in a row. >> Yeah, that's right. >> So, uh congratulations, but out there teachers, congratulations for for doing that. So, it's you make us proud once again. So, Dr. Endell, do you want to add anything? >> Just

054a couple things. Um number one, the last few slides were about increased access to challenging curriculum. We had more students take AP courses and AP tests, more students take IB courses and IB examinations, more students take dual enrollment, more students take ACE, and in almost every one of those cases, we increased our performance. Um, usually when you add more access, you see a dip in performance. So the fact that our students were able to perform so well, including students who weren't exposed to that kind of challenging curriculum before, is a testament to the teachers in the classroom that they prepared those students to do that and they succeeded. Um there's an old mentor of mine used to say more good stuff for more kids and we did that. You that's an incredible amount of more

055students taking challenging academic coursework and performing at a high level. So, um, we should be really proud of those results, but to thank, you know, really the people in the classroom. You know, none of us took a single test. None of us delivered a single lesson plan. You know, they're the ones that did all that. So, kudos to them and thank them for their hard work last year. And now, Mr. Thomas said, better results this year. Well, we'll see. We'll we'll do our best. But, yeah, it was a great year, great accomplishments, and we should celebrate. >> Great. >> Thank you. All right, we are now at the public comment portion of the meeting. Paul, how many do we have? >> Eight. >> We have eight speakers. Each will receive three minutes. Our attorney will

056call the speakers in order which they have signed up to speak. Mr. Gibbs, we'll call the first three speakers. >> Gina Daring, Bernard Bryan, Christopher Higinbothan. Good evening, school board. Um, I just want to say to Tara, >> yeah, girl, we did it. Um, I spent the past March and April on the phone to our legislators and our finance people talking to them about my journey as AP teacher, an IB teacher and a Cambridge teacher and the change that I saw in students who ended up going to college who would have never gone to college and the first in their families go to college and the first families in many instances to graduate from high school And a lot of our legislators are not familiar with this program at all. Their aids were when I

057would talk to their aids, they would go, "Well, they want to they want to gut the program." I went, "Yeah." So, um, I graded this year for College Board. I graded uh 500 essays for AP World. And the the scores were great and the kids are I think they're using the digital classroom. It's a game changer. Anyway, um, what I'm I'm here to talk about is the student progressive plan for Bvard County. I sent it out to the members of my civics group that I am the education chair with, and one is Fran Bear, who was my uh, union president when I started teaching in 1997. And I said, Fran, just anything you want to look over and comment on and she said something interesting. She said that um there's a information of the forward

058talks about the parents, the teachers and the principal and the students and their obligation for this plan. But there's nothing about the school board and you guys are the ones who fund and make things happen. So Fran could not make it tonight, but she wanted to say, "Please keep in mind that you should be part of the forward as well of this plan of your responsibility to the teachers in Bvard County and the students of Bvard County. Um, just wanted to to state that I'm also concerned by House Bill 1105, which basically is gutting uh certificates of attendance for students who are special needs. I am the mother of a ESSE teacher. My daughter has taught for 15 years. She was a best buddy. And um I'm concerned about this program and what we're going

059to do to supplement uh this new law that's passed. Students show up and they get a certificate of attendance. And yes, it's not a diploma per se, but it shows to future employers that the student had the tenacity and the grit to show up every day at high school. So, I'm hoping that you keep those students in your in your minds and your thoughts when you are thinking about the alternative to this plan. Thank you. >> Bernard Brian, Christopher Higenbothan, Shelby Botmley. >> Good evening. My name is Brent Oprand and I'm representing the South Boulevard branch at the NAACP as well as the concerned citizens of South Bard. I want to comment on your student progressive plan and first of all I I would like to thank Dr. Randelle uh Dr. Tara Harris, Adrien Mcdana.

060When I reviewed part of that plan, I see a lot of information of improving VPK students instructional participation. And I was so excited to see that. And I want to just continue to thank this team because Dr. Randelle uh put together a wonderful video that recruit and educated our communities about how important VPK is and that really went off pretty good. uh we're not quite there yet, but we have seen some increase in participation and I would just like to encourage the staff to continue to do that because we understand early learning is critical in reference to closing the achievement gap. And then one other thing I would like to bring up, um I noticed in your student progressive plan uh that the certificate of completion has been eliminated. So, one of the things I'm

061asking when I read through your plan, um, how is the parents notified that my child is not there yet? So, I'm hoping you would add to your plan, um, a communication strategy so the parent uh, uh, grandparent wouldn't be s surprised when they get to graduation period that their child does not meet the criteria to graduate. So, I'm asking if you will to add to your plan um those steps, those communication step so that no child will have the remediation plan to recover. So, if you would do that, we really would appreciate it. Again, thank you so much. Um in terms of the VPK video, I thought it was excellent. If you haven't seen it, I'm still impressed with it. And matter of fact, I was at a church uh this past Sunday and they

062were pro they were magnifying getting your children in the VPK. So, you know, continue to push that um communication path and we would appreciate that a lot. So, thank you very much. >> Christopher Higenbothan, Shelby Bottomley, Julia Cohen Pensley. >> Good morning. I'm sorry. Good. Good evening. Uh Chris Higotham. I just want to say I'm a parent of three. All three kids here go to Bvard public schools. Uh I want to talk about I2 which is the school improvement plan. Uh I wanted to draw a specific part of it. It has to do with culture. I think all school improvement plans should involve some sort of culture. Um in uh the school I'm currently at, it's positive learning environment. We spent a lot of time on that. Um, Mr. Thomas, you were at my school

063today. Hopefully, you got welcomed and it was a enjoyable experience. Uh, also I wanted to speak about the progression plan. Uh, specifically my son. Uh, I love my son. He's a good kid, but he normally would not be an AP student. He struggles with discipline and and studying. So, when we talk about the um pushing for students to take more advanced placement classes and A's classes or IB classes depending on what school they go to, that's the kind of culture that we have. I spoke to I don't know if I can say somebody's name. Uh I spoke to Mr. Rush and he convinced me that juniors should try that class and and he's doing well in that class. So that's the kind of culture that we want and that's why on I2 um we should

064be building that. With that being said, um even this board uh you guys have a culture whether or not you think you do or not you do. And I think it's a testament to you guys that you went to the workshop and altered something that I view as a win-win. I like that we kept the cell phones out of the school. um during the school hours from bell to bell. But I I feel like you guys went back and thought uh intelligently and said there is some educational value in the uh laptops, tablets, e-readers and stuff like that. And the school principles um and the school teachers, they know their school best and I like that you guys gave them that um autonomy. So I think that was a good job and and I want

065to thank you guys for that. Um, but that's all I have and uh thank you for your time. [Applause] Shelby Bottomley. >> After Shelby, we have Julia Cohen Pensley and Jennifer Hopkins. Good evening, members of the board, Dr. Rendell and members of the community. I am here to speak on item number seven, instructional staff recommendations, specifically the 21 resignations. I want to speak to why those educators may have resigned like myself. My name is Shelby Botmley. I am a former BPS student and former BPS educator. I taught AP and honors English at Satellite High School for four years. During this time, my AP scores were well above the national average with this past year being a 94% pass rate. You might be asking yourself, why would such an effective educator quit? The reason is, unfortunately,

066incredibly simple. As a teacher, I no longer felt supported, respected, or safe within my classroom. The actions of this board and the manner in which they have treated the public and educators have made it abundantly clear that they choose to serve themselves and their politics over what's best for their students. This has created a toxic culture of fear rather than one of collaboration and respect. When teachers are not empowered in the classroom, this has a direct impact on the students. For example, I felt like I couldn't connect with my students for fear of saying something that could get me in trouble. Because of this toxic environment, I felt as if my students were not getting an instructor they deserve. Students deserve to have a teacher that is solely focused on giving the best instruction. The

067environment that the school board has created has made this nearly impossible as now teachers have to worry about how every word they say could get them fired. It is my belief that the job of the school board is to trust and empower its teachers because this has a direct impact on the students and the classroom. Until this board can treat its teachers with the respect and trust they deserve, then I think we can count on the fact that those resignation numbers will continue to rise. It's my only hope that BPS can get its act together for the 67 newly appointed educators before it's too late. As Richard Ingresol said, 44% of newly appointed educators quit within the first 5 years. Unfortunately, we also know that the most effective educators are those with at least 5

068years under their belts. Please understand that you have the power to create a positive environment where teachers want to be so that they can reach their full potential for our students. Thank you. [Applause] Julia Cohen Pensley, followed by Jennifer Hopkins and Xander Kangelo. >> Good evening, Superintendent Randelle and members of the board. I'm here tonight to speak on agenda item F1. At the last meeting, I stood here frustrated because students, teachers, and parents were shut out um sorry, one second. Um of the decision-making process. The vote felt decided before the community even had a chance to speak. That was not leadership. But I want to start tonight by saying thank you. The policy was amended. Students are now allowed to use laptops. That might seem like a small shift, but it proves something big. That

069when you listen, change happens. When you take voices seriously, solutions improve. That is why this moment matters so much. Because if one amendment can happen after one meeting, imagine what could happen if students, parents, and teachers were included from the start. Imagine how much stronger and smarter policy would be if the people most impacted were treated as partners, not problems. Yet, let's not ignore the reality. Phones are still banned. And in today's world, they are not just distractions. They are lifelines. In a lockdown, a medical emergency, or a threat, every second counts. Students may need to call 911. Parents may need updates. Teachers may need fast communication to keep us safe. Until schools can guarantee safety, removing access to phones removes a basic line of protection. Safety must come before control. So, let's be honest.

070The laptop change only happened because this board finally listened. That's proof of why listening must be the rule, not the exception. That's proof of why this community needs a town hall. A town hall would mean parents, teachers, and students can speak directly to you before policies are finalized. It would mean trust built on transparency, not secrecy. And it would mean avoiding unnecessary conflict because voices were included from the start. You showed tonight that you can hear us. Now prove you can lead with us. Hold a town hall. Make transparency the standard, not the compromise. Choose trust over control. If schools are meant to prepare us for the real world, let this board be the standard for true leadership. Leadership rooted in service, trust, and integrity. Thank you, [Applause] >> Jennifer Hopkins. >> Mr. Gibbs, >>

071Mr. Chair, before before we continue, can I just clarify one thing? And I want to just address this because this was spoke about today at the workshop and I'm sure that most of you have had not had the opportunity to go back and watch that, but um we were very clear that your phone is allowed to remain on your physical body. It just cannot be turned on and you cannot I mean it can be turned on silent. It can't be out. You can't take it out. Um so we were clear on setting that perimeter and then if the phone is used for medical purposes again, you're allowed to have it. So there's certain perimeters that go around that. If you go back and listen to the workshop today, we talked about it in depth. Uh,

072but I just want to clarify that for any future speaker who might be concerned with the fact that we're going to take their phone physically away from them. That is not what we're >> and that was always the case. >> Right. Correct. >> Right. And we still teach civics in high school, right? >> Yes. >> Yeah. Okay. Just wondering. >> Right. So, it's Jennifer Hopkins followed by Xander Kangelo and Quinn Dyus. >> Good evening. My name is Jen. I'm here to speak on agenda item F1. I recognize that this board already passed a flawed policy with the stated intent to revisit and revise it. Thank you for acknowledging the valid concerns of students, teachers, and the community. Truly, we do appreciate it. I want to acknowledge that managing cell phone use in school is a

073valid concern. Um, even with the changes, this policy is overly broad and deeply insufficient. It prioritizes control over education and in the high school setting, it fails our students. Taking away students access to phones limits the ways in which they can complete assignments and communicate with their teachers, parents, and peers. Empowering teachers to make the decision about when these devices are beneficial is the right thing to do. Let's be honest, banning phones at lunchtime is unnecessary. It is a misguided approach to managing autonomy and trust, and it undermines the students ability to make responsible decisions. At the last meeting, we heard from a parent who wondered what could have happened to their child if it weren't for Snapchat. There is no question that access to a phone enhances safety and communication. How many times have

074we heard stories about students texting or calling their parents while emergencies were happening at their schools? How often have we had um have emergencies been avoided because of ready access to a device? Do the benefits of an all-out ban outweigh the drawbacks of having no access? Several parents and students have already given ex excellent examples of how a complete ban of cell phones is detrimental to both the educational experience and the development of essential digital skills. Mrs. Campbell and Mr. Thomas, the two members that Mr. Trent does not consider to really be part of the board, heard the pleas to reconsider and are possibly able to see why um public comment should be heard before you decide how you're going to vote. Passing a flawed policy with a promise to revise it later can be

075a signal of poor governance. It shows a lack of due diligence suggesting that you didn't fully vet or analyze it before approval. The resulting consequences that will affect students, teachers, and parents could have been avoided with more thorough planning. We all rely on this board to make decisions that are well considered and impactful. Not doing so undermines confidence in the board's ability to lead effectively. The promise to revise later means that harmful effects are felt immediately, creating frustration among those affected. At the time of the vote, you indicated that you needed to act quickly and that further discussion was not an option. I don't know that very many of us understood why that was the case. Communication is key. A clear explanation of why the decision was made followed by a concrete plan for revision

076could make the process more understandable to the public. I would like to take this opportunity to again invite you all to participate in a town hall. The Bvard public schools policy manual policy 0123J standards of boardmanship/code of ethics states as a member of the board each board member shall promote the best interest of the school district as a whole and that each and to that end each board member shall adhere to the following educational and ethical standards encourage the free expression of opinion by all board members and seek systematic I apologize. Can I just finish the sentence? Yeah, you too. >> Xander Xander Kangelo. [Applause] Xander Kangelo. After Xander, we have Quinn Dyus. esteemed members of the board. Superintendent Randell, my name is Andrew Kanga. I'll be speaking on island 28. I'm a student at

077Salad High School and also an honored to be a member of our cross country team. Um, coached by the 24time state winner and nationally recognized coach, Coach Doug Butler. First, I'd like to thank you for your support for our upcoming trip to Huntsville, Alabama, where we'll compete in the Southern Showcase. This is one of the premier meets in the Southeast and gives our team a chance to uh to run against the best runners in the nation. For us, it's not just about racing. It's about learning discipline, commitment, accountability. Under Coach Butler's guidance, we've also learned teamwork and leadership and how to push ourselves beyond what we thought was possible. Those lessons reach far beyond the pre-dawn practices and shape us as the people we are today and will be in the future. At Satellite, we've

078learned what happens when a leader like that steps away. Last year, Coach Spotler retired from high school coaching after 25 years. The void he left was so deep and so wide that no one could truly replace him. And yet, because of his passion for supporting us and preparing our young minds for their future in the real world, he chose to step back in and return as our coach. That kind of leadership goes far beyond the stopwatch and the finish line. It's about life lessons that stay with us long after the race is over. In the same way, I've had another irreplaceable coach from mock trial. Like cross country, mock trial requires long hours, teamwork, and mental toughness. I was um I was coached not just to argue a case but to think critically, to speak

079clearly and to carry myself with integrity. But when she wasn't able to coach anymore, I wasn't just losing a coach, I was losing the very opportunities that prepare me for the challenges of the real world. Just as cross country wouldn't be the same without coach Speler, his mentorship, Moxra wouldn't be the same without Miss Calhoun's guidance. I know there have been a there's been a controversy about her not being retired even though she kept her teaching license had a record of strong evaluations. Whatever the policy considerations may be, I ask the board to remember how students experience experiences with coaches and teachers drive our daily lives. Some position some positions can't be replaced. In closing, I urge you to reflect on your mission to serve excellence as a standard. Excellence comes not only from the

080opportunities you support like our trip to the Southern Showcase, but also from the people who guide us, our coaches, our teachers and mentors. But both Coach Ber and Miss Cahoun represent the standard of excellence. And I hope we will continue to value the irreplaceable impact they have on our lives. Thank you, Wayne Digis. Good evening. I did want to say really quickly if someone lost a hat, I put it over there. Just want to get that. I'm sure they left already, but Okay. Good evening board members, superintendent. My name is Quinn and I'm here to speak on item F16, the investment performance review. I was looking forward to seeing the budget hearing this uh afternoon in the workshop. Um I know it got pushed. I'll look forward to the next workshop to look at that.

081Um, but I'm speaking on this item because the performance of our investments directly affects how our severe our budget shortfall will be and how that shortfall impacts classrooms, staff, and services. We know Bvard, like other districts in Florida, they're facing a serious shortfall this year. That means we do not have the funds to cover everything our students need and cuts are on the table. When the board reviews investments performance, the numbers may seem abstract, but to me, to the community, those numbers represent real consequences. Strong earnings could help ease the shortfall. Weak earnings could make the gap larger. Either way, the public deserves to understand what this review means for the financial decisions that lie ahead. So, I want to ask three questions. First, what is the current size of Bvard's projected shortfall? Second, how

082much do the investment returns being reviewed tonight reduce that shortfall, if at all? Third, if the gap remains, how will the district decide what to cut? and how will you protect classrooms, essential student services, and essential positions? These questions matter because budget choices are not just about accounting. They are about whether students will have enough teachers, whether support staff will stay in place, and whether programs that give children opportunity will continue. As you discuss item F-16 tonight, I urge you to explain clearly how the results of this investment report connect to our budget crisis and what priorities will guide BARD in navigating it. Families, staff, and students deserve transparency and a plan that keeps learning at the center. Families, staff, and students deserve transparency and a plan that keeps learning at the center. While each

083of you might understand the policies you are creating and navigating, much of the community does not. The idea of hosting a town hall has gained support, not because extra policy discussions sound enjoyable at all, but because a back and forth conversation that builds real understanding is necessary. I just want to take the time to thank you too for responding to my emails this past weekend and I do look forward to hopefully hearing from the rest of the board. Um, just thank you for your time and for your work. Thank you. >> Paul, is that it? >> Yep, it is. All right, that concludes our agenda items only. Public comments. We thank you for taking the time out of your schedule to address the board with your concerns and suggestions. I would like to remind the

084public that the board is accessible for further conversations outside of our business meetings through scheduling a meeting. We're now at the consent agenda portion of our meeting. Dr. Randell. >> Thank you, Mr. Chair. There are 35 items on the list under this category. >> Thank Thank you, Dr. Randell. Does any board member wish to pull any items? No. Okay. I'll entertain a motion to accept. >> Second. >> Any discussion? >> Call. Roll call, please. >> Mr. Thomas. >> I. >> Miss. Campbell. >> Hi. >> Mr. Trent. >> I. >> Mr. Susan. >> Hi. >> Miss Wright. >> Hi. >> The public hearing is now open to the p uh to public comments. We will in accordance with the Florida law accept the speakers. Student progression plan for Bvard public schools. Is there anyone present who

085would wishes to address this item? Is there anyone present that would like to address this item? Do I hear a motion? >> Move to approve. Second. >> Any discussion? >> Call. Roll call, please. >> Mr. Thomas. >> Hi. >> Miss Campbell. >> Hi. >> Mr. Trent. >> Hi. >> Mr. Susan. >> Hi. >> Miss R. >> I. >> Uh, G2 contract amendment for Pineapple Cove. Is there anyone present who wishes to address this item? Is there anyone present who wishes to address this item? Do I hear a motion? >> Move to approve. >> Second. >> Any discussion? Paul, roll call, please. Mr. Thomas. >> Hi, >> Miss Campbell. >> Hi, >> Mr. Trent. >> Hi, >> Mr. Susan. >> Hi, >> Miss Ry. >> I will move on to the information agenda, which includes two

086items for board review and may be brought back for action at a subsequent meeting. No action will be taken on these items today. Does any board member wish to discuss this item? All right. At this time, I would like to offer my fellow board members and Dr. Rendell an opportunity to recognize students, staff, or members of the community. >> Mr. chair. >> Yes. Go ahead. >> Uh, a couple things. I'd like to first recognize uh AT&T. Um, they just presented a check to the Bvard Schools Foundation today. Uh, Dan Pollock with AT&T presented a check for $30,000. So, very much appreciated uh that uh contribution and just want to make sure they were acknowledged publicly. Uh and also um I had the opportunity to go to astronaut um Palm Bay football game the other night

087and there was a injury that could have been very significant. A player had to be airlifted out and I just wanted to commend principal Miller and Principal Kaminsky um from both schools, their trainers or staff. Um Dr. Pinsky, who is uh was not even an official doctor on the field, but he was a parent of a of a player, came down and they all did an exceptional job. And one thing I just like you guys to be aware of and um Mr. Wright, you should be proud of astronaut because all the players came together from both schools, all the student athletes that came together and said a prayer at midfield for for the player. It was very cool just to watch that happen. So, um, great sportsmanship, great, um, great, um, move by those both

088those schools to come together. Um, I would like to point out though that, um, I don't know all the facts yet, but, I do know that there's talked to Dr. Randell about some of the trainers positions. We have full-time training positions for for trainers at our school. And I'm was made aware today that the Palm Bayside football game won't even have a full-time trainer present. Um, we have positions open, but they're just not all filled. So, if anybody in the community knows of a full-time trainer that is interested in working at a school full-time, um it wouldn't just be for football, be for all sports, um you know, please let the district know because we're in a need and uh especially in the middle of football season, having a football game without a without a

089trainer is is not a good thing. So, um that's all I have. >> Okay. Awesome. I wanted to start out by thanking our state representative for this southernmost part of the county, uh, Mon'nique Miller, who joined me for a couple of school visits last week. Um, it was exciting to show her our new new programs at Heritage and as our electricity program we talked about today, as well as some other um, CT programs in Cambridge classes and also we went over to Bayside and showed her the new construction that's about to happen um, as well as some CTE programs and different things. And I just I just public want publicly want to appreciate her because she walked into every conversation with a notepad and a pen asking the teachers and principles what's your biggest struggle.

090So just very much appreciate her participation um in that. And also want to thank um Congressman Mike Heridopoulos. um in my time on the board, we've not had uh any senators or or you know from the from the federal level or or congressman come and visit a school and he just was very engaged um with that process and appreciate him and his team for coming to uh let us show off uh some amazing CTE programs. He also popped into a and I think scared half to death a civics political science teacher um was she was so excited um to to get that visit and because she she had his name she had the pictures of all our federal representatives up on her board and she's like look there's a picture of him right there. Um

091so it was it just really appreciated his visit. Last week on um Thursday I believe board we were invited but it was very last minute so I understand nobody else was able to come. I happen to have the day free, but um Commissioner Altman invited us to come across the street to the reveal of the county's new initiative about opioid abuse um and in our county and Bvard has had just more than you know per capita what we you know than a lot of the other areas in the state when it comes to uh opioid abuse deaths and overdoses. And so, um, they have a new, uh, campaign that we're going to start seeing around. They're wrapping the county buses with it. It's called Space for Recovery. And I know they would really like for

092us to partner it with, um, initiatives, education initiatives. There's a couple people I talked to that um that, you know, they we we I know we talk about those kinds of things, but it's such a big problem in the nation. I was just listening to the news today about, you know, we talk about how bad fentinel is. um and they're talking about the next thing ISO and how terrible like it's even more powerful and so just it's such a danger and so we want to um if we have a way that we can partnership with the county to partner with the county on this initiative so that make sure we're starting from when they're young to show them the dangers of drug use we got to go back to the 80s when I was um

093when Miss Wright wasn't born yet but we were doing you know >> I was thank you >> when we were wearing you know say say no just say no I just say no. Um there are all kinds of you know it's it's so dangerous and we want our kids to to be aware of the of the things that might be lurking even in a vape pen you know or something else. And so but I I I would like for us to join in whatever way that we can. Uh on Friday the early early learning coalition that we got to hear from at our when Dr. Rendell did the um the state of the schools event. Um they hosted a community conversation and we had representatives from um our own uh early learning department uh Miss

094Mcdana and and uh their team and I just wanted to thank them for being a part of the early learn learning coalition and have that conversation. It was a great conversation. We had a representative from um uh Representative Traymont's office came and talked about a bill that he passed to try to get more eligibility for our low-income families to do child care, but also VPK falls under that. And so um it was just a it was a good conversation. I wanted to share with you guys about um about that. And one of the things that they are dealing with is the federal some of their funding is federal funding and it's looking like it's going to be cut significantly next year. And so they're trying to figure out how do they how do they operate

095to make sure that our families have continue to have access to BPK and child care so they can you know go to work. >> You know it's hard to go to work if you can't find someone to take care of your children. So that was a it was a good and very informative meeting. And then I just wanted to thank the board and thank the public who reached out to us about the wireless communication device policy. Um we did good work today board and I uh very much appreciate that. Um, finally, as just a topic of conversation because it has come up in the public and Kofi will ask about it tonight. Um, I was can Dr. Wendell, can you have someone um send to us? I want to do a clarification about certificates of

096completion. I there's there's been some news in there and a lot of the you'd see like a picture of a child um who has Down syndrome and say they're not going to get and that's that's not accurate. We have some students are who have the severest um disabilities who are actually getting a diploma through our access points and we're not talking about that. We're talking about the students who they haven't been able to pass the test and it's still a sad situation but uh or they haven't had the GPA. They haven't had the 2.0 minimum GPA. Um but what we and I listened to the state representative who really and I just I've been thinking about her name all day and I forgot it. I can't remember it. Um but she who pushed for this

097piece of legislation introduced it. Uh her thoughts were um like we're handing people a piece of paper that gets them no they can't get a job with it. It's not a it's not equivalent to a GED. It's um you know so it's a in her words a meaningless piece of paper. This is not our most severely handicapped students because they have access points. They have another route into um possible work workforce jobs for them and and we continue. We can put them in the blast program and do all kinds of things. But I I did want to know just for my information for people who might ask if you could have someone send us what is the normal the average number of certificates of a completion that we issue. Um someone asked tonight like how

098are we going to communicate that to the families? But if we I it would help me to have a better idea of how many of those are we talking about every year ballpark. Um >> yeah so we can put together that data. I think a really good suggestion would be to put an FAQ together. Yeah. Yeah, what does the new change really mean? How many students does it affect? That kind of thing. Students who qualify for alternative assessment are still going to qualify. >> So, it would be good for us to put an FAQ together. We'll do that. >> And and I think it's important for families to understand that this point in the year are, you know, we talked about our academic achievement today. Um, schools and the district leadership and support are doing

099everything they can from the from the first day of school starting August 11th all the way up until May and even really into the summer to get these kids across the finish line. If it's a GPA, if their GPA is not high enough, they're trying to get them into course recovery. We have grade forgiveness. Um, if you made a D or F in a class, you can retake the class and replace it. We're trying to get them to take all the options of tests so they can get that concordance score. So that is what our high schools in particular are doing to try to get every kid across the finish line that we possibly can. We now have Riverside Charter School that a lot of the schools in the south area are sending kids who

100are severely behind um or have super low GPA where they can they can access it. We our adult ed you know has cert high school diploma. We have all these ways that we are continuously trying to get kids across the finish line. So, I don't want people to think that because this has eliminated this piece of paper that really doesn't get them anything that we are giving up on these students because we absolutely every year the staff are working so hard to get every student across the finish line and preferably on time. And if we can't get them across the finish line on time, we're going to try to get them across the finish line in their own time. And uh but I just I just wanted to say that word and but if you

101could get that data to us, I think that would be helpful. Thank you. >> Yeah. Not just the data, but I think an FAQ definitely would be good. Yep. >> Good idea. >> Thanks. >> Yes. Thank you, Miss Campbell. I actually had a conversation earlier today with Miss Vega about this very thing because I've been approached uh from the community as well. And it was touted as though this was going to be our most vulnerable population, our ESC students or um students that are born with developmental disabilities. And that's not the population that this is pertaining to from my understanding. So um uh when that information comes out that would be helpful for us all to have so that we can share it with everyone. Uh all right. So, we are off to school. School

102is uh it's running very well. And I just keep holding my breath going, if we can make it through week three and not get sick, we're doing okay. So, kudos to all you teachers out there and all the the students that are, you know, immune systems are working and and they're not catching any germs. Appreciate that. I I had the opportunity to attend our kindergarten roundup and that's always a fun fun moment. And I just want to give a shout out to South Lake and how special they were with what um they do a really special thing which I was laughing. None of the moms were crying until they handed them a boo bag. And the boo bag was so sweet. It had tissues and it had Hershey kisses and a little saying in it.

103And it was just a very personal touch that a mom got from their little child that was going into kindergarten. And immediately tears started being shed. So I said, "I think that's counterproductive to what you were trying to do, but it was still a very nice personal touch." So um thank you so much to that school and all the wonderful things they're doing. Um been in all the schools lately visiting lots of them. So had the opportunity to attend Mr. Trent your school Merit Island. Looks like wonderful things are happening there. I'll let you talk about that ribbon cutting. Um had time to visit with our new our new principal at Space Coast and she's off to running start doing amazing work there. Um spent time with our new principal at Coina. She's off to

104a running start doing amazing work there. Um been to Mims Elementary just really trying to make sure that I'm hitting as many schools as possible and really trying to hear from our staff what we need, what our vacancies are. And I want to say this and I and I'm trying to figure out how to say this tactfully because one of the things that I always like to go and see is our littles that that are in there. So, our kindergarters, um, VPK, if they have a unit there as well. Um, but there seems to be a trend that keeps happening and and it's getting worse every year since I've been on this board. And so, I'm like, I don't I'm not sure where this originates from, but walking into kindergarten classes and asking I asked

105the teachers, are all your kindergarters potty trained? Which used to just be a standard when I had kids? Um, and it's not happening. And these are not ESSE students. So, they're having several that are coming in board uh, and they're not potty trained. And this is a huge burden on that classroom. And so I'm just saying this publicly like to parents, hey, if you need help in that arena as far as there's got to be resources out there. Make sure your kids are potty trained. Uh that used to be just a basic standard of make sure they can tie their shoes, they know their phone number, they're potty trained, those things going into kindergarten, but we're seeing kindergarters show up now and they're not potty trained. And that, you know, trying to figure out how

106are you going to change a a diaper on a 5-year-old when there's 20 more of them right here. Um that becomes very difficult for our schools. So whatever we can do to help our communities there, parents, you are empowered. Please, please, please help in that arena. Um, I had the opportunity to attend the Space Coast Symposium uh that took place last week. Thank you so much for that invitation. There were so many brilliant people in the room and Miss Rutled I think was able to make some meaningful partnerships that will help our students find job placement in the career and technical education world. So, very very excited about that. Um, other than that, I don't think I have anything else. That's it. >> Great, Mr. Susan. >> Yeah, thank you. I uh wanted to go

107through a couple of things and I might take a little bit of time just because you know I didn't talk much today during the workshop. Yeah, you can go go see that. Um, first thing is is that we were in Merit Island and we went to that opening of the new career and technical program that's there and I was able to catch up with some of my really good old friends like people that I taught with at Space Coast and some of the other people that have been in my life way back in 2005 67 and the passion that they have inside of those classrooms is still the same as the day that they were there. Um, and I said it a little bit earlier in today's um, speeches earlier, but they had said like

108our classrooms are in a better place because of the cell phones. And um, what was unique and the only reason I sat sat there, one of them said that they she has all of her classes are actually filling out all of their worksheets and forms and stuff like that, engaging inside the classroom and having conversations. So, I wanted to say thank you to the board for taking that decision that we did. It was a strong decision and I appreciate you. Um, the reason it reminded me was because you were talking about athletic trainers and two of the individuals I spoke to used to be athletic trainers. One of them still is from a island. The other one used to be one for Space Coast. Um, and I think one of the things that we're being

109inhibited on which we might want to bring up. We doubled the supplement. We cleared a bunch of stuff. We went through a whole overhaul. But one of the things that tagged back and you may be talk you want to talk to talk about the requirement to teach. Is that what All right, you can do it. um there's a requirement to teach on the back end of it and a lot of our athletic trainers are athletic trainers. They work inside of other organizations and stuff like that. So, we might want to take a look at that as far as removing that requirement so we can fill that position. Um it's a different type. We have like career and technical programs that don't require the teaching certificate, just a certificate from the c the area, you know

110what I mean? So, there's there's some work there that I think could help. Um but you're 100% right. like I by coaching and you coaching, you realize how much that support for those coaches is through that athletic trainer and protection of those kids because sometimes a coach will turn around and put a kid in that is questionable and it's not good and those trainers are on the line. So, good point. >> Um, and thank you for bringing that up. I did want to bring up the fact that there were some football games. >> Um, I'm not sure if somebody caught that Merit Island Coco game. >> Yeah. >> Holy cow. And then, uh, what is being benched? I'm I'm not kidding you. It was the known as the golf cart boys were beat the rocklage.

111I don't know if you heard the air rockage. >> Um there was literally a a meme that came out and said the golf cart boys because they have their golf carts parked up there. >> I was laughing so hard at it. But but um Coach Gallow with all kidding aside has run a hell of an organization over there at Vieira and you're seeing our other teams that normally were like in the mid level are starting to compete at that top level with some of those coaches that had already been winning. now the other teams are winning and that's going across the board in career and technical in sports and everything else. So I just wanted to throw a shout out there. Um Harding is the lady that Mr. Herodopoulos, Congressman Herodopoulos went to at O'Galli.

112She was very vocal on the cell phone issue and other individual and somebody that I I hold dear near and dear. She has all of our information and she talks about us all the time in her political science class in a very positive way and I want to give her a shout out for that. Um, one thing I needed some feedback from you guys on, uh, the the value adjustment board that I honorably sit on that you guys, everybody didn't like it, so I took it like four years ago, and I actually love it. Um, there was a thing that came through. Uh, we pay two fifths of the budget for the value adjustment board. Not many people know that, but our budget pays for a portion of the value adjustment board. That's all that

113the lawyers, the um, people that are involved in everything else. Um, there's an opportunity for us to increase, and I'm not asking for a vote right now. I'm just going to throw it to you guys. You guys can look at it. We'll come back to it. There's an opportunity to increase the application fee from $15 to $50. Um, there's a new law that came out that allowed us to do it. The increase um might offset some of our costs. Uh, the only issue that I asked for is I said, "Let me see the budget. Let me get it bring it back to my school board members." I still haven't received it yet, but once I do, I'll bring it back. But the idea is is that if we increase the cost um not because of

114the increase to save money for the school district, the main one would be less people might not frivolously not show up because a lot of people file, there's a lot of work done and everything else and then they just never come to the actual thing. They're thinking that that may help that situation. But I'll get you guys some of that information. Um, I also wanted to tell you guys I got selected officially to be the chairman of the presidential youth physical fitness for all 67 school districts in the state of Florida through the Florida School Board Association. The in indication um the looks like uh Mr. Gallow out of Miami Dade will end up being my vice chair or Al Hernandez from Pasco. Um but what we're going to do is is kind of set

115a standard and then you know what I mean work through that legislation for the president. But I did want to give a shout out to somebody very special here is Rachel Winston. Um Rachel and the main reason I want to bring it up is is that she's the vice president of the organization that basically oversees for all of our coaches and um health teachers and everything else and gym teachers and everything else in the state of Florida. So she's going to work very closely with me to oversee a lot of those metrics. So I wanted to give a big shout out to Rachel Winston. She's an amazing individual who uh was so excited to be a part of it. So now all I have to do is say go Rachel go. And then uh we

116come out on the back end. But thank you Rachel for all your hard work. Um and then the last piece is is that I I just going through today I came to the realization of how much I appreciate you guys. And one of the things that we run into is is that many times when we're in the tussles of battling and we're arguing over certain things and we're uh you know back and forth and um we don't get a chance to say how much we appreciate each other. And you know, um, Miss Campbell, there's some times where you and I get into it, but I did want to say I appreciate you so much and what your dedication to this board. Mr. Thomas, the same thing. You guys, um, you guys put in your worth

117and your effort and you try very hard and we may not always see eye to eye on every issue, but we always I always appreciate you guys and what you do. So, thank you for that. Um, yeah, and I uh, Dr. Rendell, you do an amazing job, too. you know, you uh you put it you you hit my heart when you talked earlier about how we're not the ones that put together the lesson plans and we're not the ones that uh you know what I mean are in the classroom and those are the people that make deserve all the credit and you always say that. So, thank you for all your dedication and work and keeping it real, man. So, thank you. I appreciate you guys. >> All right. >> Yeah. You want to give

118me a hug now? >> Yeah. Well, you know, we'll hug it out. This is what this is the mad susan we get when he eats dinner before me. So, um, thank you for that. And, um, uh, you guys covered a lot. So, I I I will talk about the ribbon cutting that we had at Merit Island High. It was astronautics. I'm getting that. That's a new word. That's correct. I haven't seen that. >> Um, what a wonderful program. And I I did find out that I will never be a pilot. Um, they have flight simulators there. So cool. >> It's amazing. Uh, those kids uh, what they're doing, right? They're taking off. They're landing. What was so cool about it was if you've ever been on a golf simulator, you can be like, I'm at

119this course in Scotland. Well, they were at the airport in Merit Island on the screen and they were taking off and they were going over to Cocoa Beach and it it was absolutely amazing. I didn't even think about that, that they could be that specific. And it was it was wonderful. Um, you know, you hear people say you never work a day in your life if you go to work happy. Um, but it also is the same for children and students when they're in the classroom. I I I thought they were the the doors were just open and it was voluntarily coming in. That was a class and they are so excited to be there. So, uh, with our partners with FIT that helped put that together. It is going to be an amazing amazing

120program. So, shout out to Merit Island. A shout out to uh this board and any other elected official that had anything to do with getting funding to getting that program in there. I know Dr. Mandell can talk about it more. He knows more of the details, but there was a lot of excitement in that room. So, that was that was exciting. Um, also going around the schools with uh Congressman Mike Ceropoulos, you could really tell he was not uh it didn't take a lot of convincing for him to come here. He really enjoyed himself at our schools. He was a former history teacher. So, he's he's very comfortable in the schools. It won't be the last time we uh we see him. We're actually with him for the next couple days at some of our

121schools. But, um you know, he he's got a lot of things going on in Washington that's directly affecting Bvard County and our schools. So, a lot on the horizon. And uh he knows this is a a shining star, not only in Florida, but in the country, this area, and a lot of opportunities for our students in the future. So it it's great just to be around him with the the amount of knowledge that he's he has of of what's coming some of the money that was in some of these bills that are coming directly back to Bvard. It was it was amazing. So also beginning of the school year I know Mr. Wright you had mentioned about not getting sick and all that but also a shout out to a few people. One is uh

122Rashad Wilson because usually by this time we have uh loads and loads of emails about bus routes and and late kids and wrong bus stops and nothing. Zero. So congratulations. Um you >> in your area >> working on it. >> All right. >> And I have not checked my spam folder. Uh so um but no, good job on that. uh also to the administration because I I I also have not been having those emails in district 2 uh about uh the beginning of the school year. So shout out to uh um to to all the administrators and again echo the same thing Dr. Randelle said, Matt, you said uh aid two years in a row and all the improvements that we have here in Bvard. It's just a shout out uh to our teachers that

123you know um people don't leave jobs because of of money for for example uh they leave when they're not supported. So I will say our our staff um that's a testament that um they feel supported. Uh that's why we have an A district two years in a row. That's why we've improved in so many areas uh in our district. So um from top to bottom but again starts with the students the parents the staff administration then it comes to us but uh we couldn't do it without you. So thank you so much there. Uh also uh students you had some fast testing today right I believe so um I already got the phone call from my daughter uh that was yelling at me all day. No, she didn't like it when she went to school,

124but when she came home and she's like, "Look what I got." And I'm like, "Great, that's that's awesome." Um, but that's just PM1. We'll get there. But, um, again, great start to a great year. We're looking for another wonderful year in Bvard. So, that's all I got. Dr. Rendell, >> I really don't have anything to add. The AEX program, astronaut aeronautics, astronautics and flight exploration is a new program at Marid Island High School and it's really a just a an idea that I hatched with Dr. Nicolo from FIT and then we said go do it and then his staff and Rachel Rutled and the CT department and the staff at Merid Island High School made it happen. So, it's a program designed for people who want to be an astronaut or learn how to design

125spaceships and become an aeronautical engineer or um a mechanical engineer or something like that, that's the program for you. If you are looking to design rockets or fly in a rocket, that's the program. If you want to build rockets, we have other programs for you. But, uh it's a it's a great exciting new program at Merit Island first year. Um, as the students get into the upper level courses, there will be dual enrollment with FIT. They'll even be able to go to FIT and participate in the zero gravity lab and things like that. So, it's a really cool program. But, um, Dr. Nicolo at FIT and I kind of had an idea and then we told people to go do it and they did it. So, it's pretty cool. Um, other than that, uh, we

126did have a a lengthy dive into the data today at the workshop. So, if you want to know more about how our students performed last year, you can go back and watch the tape, it's a really deep dive into the data, not as uh surfaced like we did tonight. So, lots of good data for you to go look at if you're interested. >> All right. Okay. >> We are now at the non-aggenda items public comment portion of the meeting. How many speakers? >> Eight. >> We have eight. >> All right. We're going to take a short break while we get ready for those uh speakers. [Music] Heat. Heat. [Music] [Applause] [Music] [Applause] [Music]