001Good evening. We will call to order the Tuesday, April 28th, 6:00 p.m. school board meeting. Please rise for a moment of silence followed by the Pledge of Allegiance and our national anthem. We are joined by Matanzas High School JROTC with Commander Sergeant Major Andrew Spano, Cadets Braden Vaughn, Cadet First Sergeant Carvone, Cadet Captain Tessa Newman, and Cadet Staff Sergeant Michaela Jeffers. >> Halt. Halt. Left, face. Present, arms. >> 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. >> Okay, and now our national anthem will be presented by Flagler Palm Coast High School with singers Lorelei Kilmer, Logan Walden, Emma and Emma Gilbert. >> Oh, say can you see [singing] by the dawn's early
002[singing] light, what so proudly we hailed at the twilight's last gleaming, whose broad stripes >> [singing] >> and bright stars through the perilous >> [singing] >> fight, for the ramparts we watched [singing] were so gallantly streaming. And the rocket's red glare, the bombs bursting [singing] in air, gave proof >> [singing] >> through the night that our flag was [singing] still there. O say does that star-spangled [singing] banner yet wave? O'er the land [singing] of the free and the home >> [singing] >> of the brave. >> [applause] >> All right, please All right, please >> That was beautiful. Thank you Matanzas High School and Flagler-Palm Coast High School. You all may be seated. All right, can I get roll call, please? Olivia Delgado, FPC, here. Ava Muldoon. >> Lauren Ramirez, present. >> Janice Ready. >> Will
003Furry, present. >> Kristy Chong. >> Lashaco Moore. >> Moving on to proclamations resolutions. We'll go to 2.02 teacher and employee appreciation week with Mr. Walker from human resources. Chief of human resources. >> All right. Should we get started? Good evening, board. Um today we have before you a resolution of the Flagler County School Board recognizing May 4th through May 8th as teacher and employee appreciation week. Whereas teachers shape the future by guiding and educating the next generation, and whereas educators work with students from diverse backgrounds and experiences, and whereas the future of our nation relies on ensuring every student receives a high-quality education, and whereas our dedicated educators devote countless hours to preparing lessons, assessing student progress, mentoring, coaching, and engaging in service to their communities, and whereas the vital work of educating our children
004is made possible through the efforts of all employees within Flagler schools, and whereas these committed professionals ensure students are transported safely, learn in clean and secure environments, are well-nourished, supported, and cared for throughout the school year, and whereas the Flagler County community values and supports its educators and school employees for the essential roles they play in shaping the minds and lives of our youth. Now, therefore, be it resolved by the Flagler County School Board that the week of May 4th through the 8th, 2026, is recognized as Teacher and Employee Appreciation Week in Flagler Schools, and be it further resolved that the School Board of Flagler County strongly encourages all members of our community to join with it in personally expressing appreciation to our teachers and employees for their dedication and devotion to their work. Adopted
005by the members of the Flagler County School Board, Flagler County, Florida, at the regular open public meeting thereof held on April 28th, 2026. So, for all those folks watching at home and here in the in the board, thank you all so much. Please know your work is truly appreciated from our educators to all of our support staff. If you haven't already, I know local businesses and national organizations are putting out promos for teachers and school employees, so be sure to have your ID badge and see what you guys can get at, you know, gas stations, restaurants, and other local businesses. So, thank you. >> Thank you, Mr. Walker. Okay. 2.03 water safety month presented by Matanzas Swim Coach, Ms. Carrie Purdy. >> Good evening. Um whereas swimming and aquatic-related activities contribute to good physical and
006mental health, enhance the quality of life for our Florida and Flor- all Florida and visitors, and whereas education in water safety helps prevent drowning and water-related injuries, and whereas with 18 miles of beach with Flagler County, plus hundreds of private pools, lakes, canals, and hotel pools, the danger of drowning is some is everywhere. And whereas it is important for everyone, including children, parents, and caregivers be aware of water safety rules and programs to prevent drowning and recreational water-related injuries. And whereas water safety month in Florida is an opportunity to promote water safety and provide education the on the prevention of recreational water-related injuries, illnesses, and deaths. And whereas Flagler Schools is proud to be part of an annual water safe event held in partnership with many community organizers to promote safe practices when in and
007around the water. Now, therefore, be it resolved by the Flagler County School Board that Flagler Schools joins the nation in recognizing May 26th as National Water Safety Month. As [snorts] a symbol of our commitment to creating a safe environment for our recreation and physical activity across our community adopted by the members of Flagler County School Board, Flagler County, Florida on the reg- on regular open public committee therefore held on the 28th day of April 2026. I'd like to rec- recognize a few outstanding student athletes from Matanzas High School and Flagler County or Flagler Palm Coast swim teams. These young men and women do more than compete in the pool. They are helping to save lives in our community. Aurora Purdy, Volusia County Beach Patrol Jeremy Standish, Belle Terre Swim and Racquet Club Carmela Cuccinello, Flagler
008Beach uh Leo Peters, Flagler Beach Oliver Morris Flagler Beach, Nelson Rojas, Flagler Beach Dempsey Manhart, Volusia County Beach Patrol, Stella Guimond, Bel- Bel Terre Swim and Racquet Club, Emma Gilbert for the Bells Artistic Swimming. These students are not only teaching swim lessons, but also saving lives. We want to remember and thank thank them. Always thank a lifeguard and always swim near a lifeguard. Thank you. >> [applause] >> Thank you very much for that. Good job, guys. Always grateful for those that promote [clears throat] water safety, so thank you, guys. Okay, 2.04 Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month will be presented by FPC register registrar Ms. Fetuu and her family. >> [music] >> Aloha. Resolution of the Flagler County School Board recognizing May as Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. Whereas Asian American and Pacific
009Islanders Heritage Month seek to honor and recognize contributes of residents of from Asia, India, and Pacific Islands. And whereas Congress designated the week of May 4th, 1979 an annual celebration of observance of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islander Heritage Week. The long The week-long celebration was extended to the entire month in 1990 by the act of Congress. The observance of traditionally celebrated >> [music] >> in May to mark the arrival of the first Japanese immigrants in the United States in May of 1843. >> [music] >> Whereas Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders have been significant population growth the late the latest [music] estimates from the US Census show that more than 3,000 people or approximately 2.5% of Flagler County's population identify as Asian Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander. And whereas we acknowledge Asian Americans and
010Pacific Islanders have lived in Flagler County for many years contributing to our local economy, culture, education, politics, arts, literature, science and technological developments. And [music] whereas Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders Heritage Month allows us to appreciate and celebrate the importance of inclusion and building a brighter future for all residents by recognizing the contributions and the accomplishments of the Asian Americans and the Pacific Islanders. Now, whereas it is re- resolved by the Flagler County School Board that Flagler County School recognizes May 2026 as Asian >> [music] >> American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month and encourages all residents to participate in activities in promotion of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage. Adopted by the members of the Flagler County School Board, Flagler County, Florida, at the regular open public meeting therefore held on 28th >> [music] >>
011day of April 2026. I wanted to introduce my family to you. Give me 1 second while we reorganize. Come on, Ohana. Okay. Ocean shining [music] in the sun covering the [singing and music] shore when I see them my heart tells me [singing and music] that I love you more than all those >> [singing and music] >> little pearly shells. One more time. Pearly shells, pearly [singing and music] shells from the ocean. Shining in the sun. Hovering the [singing and music] shores. When I see them my heart tells [singing] me that I love you more than all those [singing and music] little pearly shells. All pau. One more. More than [singing] all those [music] little pearly shells. Aloha! >> Mahalo. Thank you for having us. >> That was beautiful. Please join us for a picture. >>
012Thank you. >> That was lovely. Wonderful. >> Here you go. Guys, everybody look right up here. Look up here. >> Wonderful. Thank you so much >> [applause] [clears throat] [laughter] >> That was beautiful. Thank you so much. Okay. 2.05 Mental Health Awareness Month presented by our coordinator of counseling services, Ms. Brandy Williams. >> Good evening board, Chair Chong, and Superintendent Moore. Thank you for having me tonight to read the resolution for Mental Health Awareness Month. A resolution of the Flagler County School Board recognizing May as Mental Health Awareness Month, whereas good mental health is essential to overall health, productivity, and quality of life, and whereas mental illness affects individuals of every age, background, and community impacting millions of families each year, and whereas with appropriate treatment, support, and understanding, people living with mental health conditions
013can lead full and meaningful lives, and whereas stigma and misconceptions surrounding mental illness continue to discourage many from seeking care, and whereas open dialogue and personal connection are powerful tools in reducing stigma and promoting compassion, and whereas greater public awareness and community support are key to building a healthier, more inclusive society. Now, therefore, be it resolved by the Flagler County School Board we do hereby recognize May 2026 as Mental Health Awareness Month and encourage everyone in our community to recommit to increasing awareness and understanding of mental illnesses, reducing stigma and discrimination, and promoting appropriate and accessible services for all people with mental illness. Adopted by the members of the Flagler County School Board, Flagler County, Florida at the regular open public meeting thereof, held on the 28th day of April 2026. I will just say
014and quick closing, one of the most common questions I get for mental health is how can I help support my loved one, my neighbor, my family, my friend and with their mental health condition? And I'll just say sometimes the biggest thing we can do for one another is provide hope. So, please, if you have the opportunity, remind people that mental health treatment is available and is effective, and sometimes that's just what people need to hear is that there are effective mental health treatments just like we cast an arm or a leg and it takes 6 weeks to heal, the same thing may be true of your mental health condition. Treatment works, so thank you. >> Thank you so much, Ms. Williams. Okay, and now for our superintendent's strategic plan spotlight. >> Good evening. I'm super
015excited to provide a spotlight today. I want I have a couple areas that we want to spotlight. I want to first start by saying, please watch our 1:00 p.m. board meeting. We did an extensive presentation around the budget and that does align with our strategic plan, so we will not rehash all of that, but we do ask that our community goes back and watch that 1:00 p.m. board agenda item. I also want to we have future problem solvers they'll come along with my spotlight, but we're in the season of graduation and talking about all of the diploma plus options and opportunities that our students have. And so I want to take a moment to recognize Mr. Andy Dance and Chief Tucker and ask them to come forward and provide an update around a positive story
016from our diploma plus options that we have and then we will move into our other spotlight. So I've been saving up my time for a long spotlight today. >> [laughter] [clears throat] >> Good evening, Superintendent Board. This is a surprise. I was ready to squeeze this into a 3-minute public comment section, but I'm happy to have a little bit more relaxed conversation. Good evening again. I'm here really to relay an interesting story that shines a light on our fire leadership academy. So that's why Chief Tucker and I are here tonight. Um and it's especially meaningful, right? It's kind of a circle moment for us where 10 years ago I sat on the dais as we talked about starting the fire leadership academy. So 10 years ago, right? We had a vision about creating stronger career
017pathways for students and building partnerships that connected education directly to public service and workforce development. Another circle moment, right? At that same time Chief Tucker, his he was in Tallahassee. >> Ocala. He was the serving as the chief bureau the bureau chief of fire standards and training and superintendent of the Florida State Fire College. And that's where he helped oversee approval of programs and actually approved the fire leadership academy in his capacity then and now is here as Siler County's fire chief. Um So recently I came across a Facebook post. Many of you may have seen it. It was in the P section neighborhood and it was a resident named Frank Cypert. And he posted this um thanking the crew at station 25. He said, "Shout out to station 25 who serves our neighborhood. I
018had a massive heart attack Monday night and if not for them, I would have died. I actually did die on the operating table that night, but because of their rapid response, I'm here today. So if you see them out and about, thank them for serving the community." So I I saw that, shared it with Chief Tucker and and he shared with me that that station 25 has two of our leadership graduate firefighters stationed there. One is a supervisor, Tyler Allisey, a 2020 graduate. Um and the other is um Hunter Hunter Lang Lang Hunter Lake And um and the other person on duty, Morgan Stein. But both But Tyler and Hunter were graduates of the FPC Fire Leadership Academy. So think about that for a moment. 10 years later after uh starting the program we've got
019students who once sat in the classroom rooms and are now out serving the community and saving lives. Um and and right, that's the power of career education. So we just wanted to come tonight, talk a share that story with you and strengthen our partnership between the schools and our public safety. Um Also want to recognize Lieutenant Thomas Cope, the academy instructor, for his leadership, mentorship, and guidance that he provides the students every day. Programs like this succeed because of dedicated people willing to invest in the next generation. Um that's really the synopsis of the school district is right, investing in our kids. Um the academy is producing leadership, discipline, teamwork and future public servants who benefit all of Flagler County. County government, specifically, is very uh is a benefit to us, right? One of the
020goals we had shortages 10 years ago, couldn't fill firefighter positions. And the vision here, again, was uh keeping our homegrown talent here in Flagler County. So with that, I'm going to I'll let invite Chief Tucker to briefly speak about um his firefighters. And um that's what he loves to do is talk about his firefighters. So thank you. >> Well, good evening. Um obviously, it is as as Commissioner Dance indicated, I do love to brag about the fire department. Um been doing this job for 41 years. I would not trade it for a single day. It is the best job on on the face of the earth. But when as you know as Commissioner Dance indicated, you know the circle of being the individual who authorized the program and oversaw it as it began and into
021cycle into here and begin to see the impact that these graduates are beginning to have on the community. I'll tell you that the Flagler County program is the flagship program in the state of Florida. Bar none. It is the program with the Florida State Fire College. When another school goes to start the program, they point them to Flagler County and say do what they do. And I will tell you that the student the schools that fail to do what we do, the programs are not successful. They usually fold after a couple of years. It is a very intensive investment upon the part of the school board. It's a very intensive investment on the part of Flagler County Fire Rescue. And it's very intensive investment on the part of the students who start in their freshman
022year. And many of them we start with about 40 students. When they start that first year, get their eyes open up real quick that this is not a game. You know, even in the freshman year, they're learning quickly this is is real business. But what I want to really point out is the fact that you know the when Commissioner Dance reached out to me, obviously I'm able to see the report. I'm not going to share that with you for obvious reasons. But when I read this report and I and I look at the individual Mr. Tyler Alessi and Hunter they are true professionals. And Tyler is now a rescue supervisor for us. He's responsible for that truck. That truck is about $530,000. He's responsible for every bit of it on the in addition to the
023lives, you know, that that are on it as well. We also have another rescue supervisor Beau Krotzer who graduated from the program. Both Beau and Tyler now sit on our promotional eligibility list for lieutenant. And Tyler will be the next individual when we have an opening to become promoted to lieutenant. This is a big deal. And um, so to read this report, to watch what Tyler did, to read what Tyler did, it is amazing to know that that he he came out of this program. Um, and what is also interesting is that Commissioner Dansby was also uh played a significant role in us putting the rescue into that station. Uh, rescue uh station 25 is actually a co-located facility between us and Palm Coast uh fire department. They allowed us to stay in there and
024then we are able to respond, you know, from there as well. You know, so that rescue is there because of Commissioner Dansby's actions and support of fire rescue. You know, the program, you know, obviously back to 2016, you know, can be attributed to his efforts and support as well. But you know, these young men and women that are doing the paramedic job now, I said I I've been doing this 41 years. You don't want me working on you as a paramedic anymore. These young men and women have far surpassed the things that I ever did as as a paramedic. The things they're doing now now is absolutely amazing. And to see these young men and women do this and and again to read this report, this is well written. This gentleman is alive today because
025Tyler knew what he was doing, initiated so that when they got to the hospital, things were already in place. You know, and Flagler County Fire Rescue received our third Mission: Gold Lifeline Award from the American Heart Association because it is a system that starts with the people that call 911, the crews that are in the field, and it goes all the way through to the hospital. And because of Tyler and Hunter's actions that day and and Morgenstein, we can't forget him. He gets to tag along, you know, with them. He's a he's a brand new recruit for us. But because of their actions, this gentleman is alive today. And that is pretty amazing. So, we want to thank you, uh the School Board of Flagler County, to continue to support, you know, the program. It's
026paying dividends for our community and it is making a difference. So, thank you for your time. Thank Thank opportunity to brag about Flagler County Fire Rescue and the people that work for us. >> Chair John, may I have the floor and ask a question? Um, so first I just want to say thank you so much for your service and you two, um, Mr. Dance. Uh, the FPC classroom that we have that the students went through. If anyone has not seen them, we they're always taking visitors, you know, potential FPC students that are looking into getting that field. Um, so thank you so much. Uh, is there anything that you would, um, any more partnerships that the community you would need to need us to help with or strengthen this program or any other getting the
027word out for this need? >> Well, obviously, you know, we there's always the opportunity for partnerships. You know, we're looking to expand the program. You know, one of the areas that that Lieutenant Cope is working on right now is to try to implement virtual reality into the training of the firefighters. That's a big step, you know, for us, but you know, we think it's a big deal. So, if anybody has any money that we can buy virtual reality equipment, that would be fantastic. You know, but, um, and again, just to mention Lieutenant Thomas Cope, he is so passionate. You know, when when he's at the rank Lieutenant, he has the ability to go back on shift and he has had it multiple times and he turns it down every single time so he can stay
028with those kids. You know, but we appreciate your support. >> Thank you so much and I will I will just say our community, and I say it as many times as as I can, a lot of the things that we see within our school district is because of the investment that this board and our community is making to make these things happen because they become second nature to us, but it's not like this everywhere. And so, I just want to continue to thank our community for investing in our schools and because that's investing in in our young people and therefore investing in our community. So, thank you, um, for being here and sharing the story with us today. We really appreciate you. >> Thank [clears throat] you. >> Can we get a photo with you?
029>> Oh, yeah. >> Thank you. >> [applause] >> Thank you, Commissioner Dantzler and Chief Tucker. We appreciate it. >> One more piece. And my last and final it is our student school board members their final meeting today. Though we know that they are invited to join in May, but May is optional. But we want to take time to recognize them. We have a gift for them from the board that I will bring down to them. And then we usually give them an opportunity to speak. And of course, the board an opportunity to address them. So, congratulations to you. Thank you so much for all of your hard work. >> All right. My name is Olivia Delgado. I'm FPC senior school board representative. I will be going to college for marine aviation at Jacksonville University where
030I'll be studying mechanical engineering and physics with a minor in I haven't really decided the minor, but I'm thinking computer science. I just like to say for a moment before we do our our closing comments. This has been such a wonderful experience to sit sit under all of you. And I think it's an extreme understatement to say that you all just pour into the community is more than pour. You devote yourselves wholly to this community and it's not just the community, it's the kids who of course make up the community. I have personally been blessed by Diploma Plus and it it literally got me the opportunities that I've I've received to this day. So, I cannot be more grateful and emphasize my thanks to this position. >> Well, thank you. This is a little unexpected.
031I'm very appreciative of this. Um This fall I'm attending the University of Florida to major in architecture. I'll start working my way towards earning my bachelor's and I walk in a few weeks for my AA from Daytona State, so that's pretty exciting. Um I have more to say in my in my closing statement, but I feel everything Olivia does. Thank you for this opportunity. >> And that is all for my spotlight today. Thank you. >> All right, we'll move on to Flagler County Education Foundation spotlight, Ms. Rizzo. >> Good evening, everyone. I'm just going to continue with the celebrations of graduation, Diploma Plus scholarships, all that great things. I do have to say how ironic that I was literally at the Fire Academy today filming a senior named Joseph who was working on a through
032our matching grant program, we were able to purchase them a metal door and I wish uh Mr. Tucker was still here because I'm not going to describe it correctly, but um Mr. Cope actually said to me, "The county firefighters have to come here to train on this door because they don't have one." And I said, "So, we're probably the only school in the state that has one, right?" He said, "Yeah, probably." So, um but Joseph um has already passed his EMT and he he has to sit he has to wait till summer he graduates to sit for his fire but then I asked him where he's planning on being employed and he said whoever will take me and Mr. Cope said that's the political correct answer to say at this time. So it was an
033honor to be there today to watch him break open this door and we're going to continue to support that program. I know they are looking so fire gear only has a 10-year expiration date to be able to use an actual firefighting. They can train with expired gear. It's about three to four thousand dollars for an entire gear set. So we'll be working to help him get some new gear at least a couple sets for his for his students. So excited to continue to support that program. >> And if I could just add again those things do not come out of general dollars, right? That comes from our community being willing to invest ensure that our students have the proper door to train on and the proper gear. >> We have to thank our legislators as
034well because they're the ones that continue to grant us those funds. >> This is the real deal. >> Yeah, absolutely. It's pretty incredible. And if you haven't been to that room, you have to go see it. It is I'm amazed every time I go. Anyways, let me get back on track cuz that was completely off script. I had to say it though. Definitely want to highlight our diploma plus honor cords initiative this year. We were challenged by the superintendent to recognize our students who are diploma plus. They've received some type of acceleration. And they will be getting an honor cord thanks to the United Way support of our classroom to careers. It's the first year we've been able to do this. We had to purchase over 900 honor cords for our two high schools this
035year. So any of our students who are diploma plus will be able to be recognized at graduation and we're just so excited and we're going to continue to sustain that because that's what we do. Um also want to thank everybody for your support of the Joe Rizzo Memorial Golf Classic. It was an absolute wonderful day and that um event is one of our major fundraisers and it supports our classroom to careers as well. All of our CTE programs in Flagler Schools. Um we do have the Hunter Grant coming out. Hunter Foundation is a local organization that supports our classroom to careers. They actually were the first funding for the Fire Academy and they continue to support all of our programs um and that will be coming out for our teachers and principals in the next
036month. And the most exciting thing coming up next week, which I've been working on all week, is our senior scholarship surprise nights. I have a feeling I'm going to be at a few houses dropping off some signs. Um so we're just so excited to be able to support our students. Um everything we do is really rooted in the goal of removing those barriers and creating opportunities so that every student in Flagler County can succeed. So we just thank you for your support and our community's support on continuing to do this for our students. So thank you so much. Have a good night. >> So, thank you. Okay, and now our future problem solver spotlight 3.03. Welcome. >> Good evening. Good evening, Chair Chong, Superintendent Moran, board members. Thank you for this opportunity to showcase three
037Flagler County Schools employees who go above and beyond dedicating their time, resources, and knowledge to the Future Problem Solvers program. Mrs. Amy Kopack, Mrs. Beth Beth Garden, and Ms. Danielle Moss who unfortunately could not be here tonight. Future Problem Solvers is an international competition program where students from fifth to 12th grade have the opportunity to learn and use critical thinking to solve real-world problems. This year some of these futuristic topics included surveillance, invasive species, space exploration, and video games. Without the support and kindness of our coaches, this program would not be nearly as successful as it is today. >> Today we have the FPS seniors from Matanzas and Flagler Palm Coast High School here to thank our coaches. Seniors, please step forward if you've been in FPS since fourth grade. If you've been in since
038middle school. And if you've joined in high school. All these students have had the opportunities to compete at the state and international levels. This fall, 46 Flagler students will be staying at the Indiana University campus to compete with students across the globe. Seven have been invited from FPC and six from Matanzas. As seniors, we are grateful for this opportunity to celebrate and honor our coaches who commit countless hours evaluating, editing reports, and ensuring the successes of their students and the program for Flagler County. So, thank you so much to all the Future Problem Solving coaches. Come up here. Please. >> [laughter] [applause] >> Y'all ready for a photo? Okay. >> [clears throat] [laughter] >> Don't do that. >> Thanks, y'all. Wonderful updates tonight. Okay, we'll move on with our agenda and approval of minutes. I'll
039entertain a motion to approve the minutes from March 10th and March 24th. >> Move approval. >> Second. >> Moved by Mr. Furry, second by Ms. Ramirez. All in favor. >> Aye. >> The motion carries. Do we have any additions or changes to the agenda? >> No additions or changes. I do want to say for the benefit of the public that BoardDocs is currently down. However, if you visit flaglerschools.com, there is a pop-up that will direct you to this agenda as well as all of the attachments for tonight's meeting. >> All right, we'll get a motion to approve tonight's agenda. >> Move to approve. >> Second. >> Moved by Ms. Ramirez, second by Mr. Furry. All in favor. >> Aye. >> The motion carries. Okay, do we have anybody for public comment? >> We don't have
040any public comment. >> There's also a space for instructional materials public comment. Anybody? No? Okay. Thank you. Okay, moving on to finance consent. Could I get a motion to approve? >> Move to approve. >> Second. >> Moved by Moved by Ms. Ramirez, second by Ms. Ruddy. All in favor. >> Aye. >> The motion carries. Academic Services, 9.01 to 9.04. Is there a motion? >> Move approval. >> Second. >> Moved by Mr. Furry, second by Ms. Ruddy. All in favor, >> I >> The motion carries, 4 to 0. Human Resources consent, 10.01 to 10.02. >> Move to approve. >> Second. >> Moved by Mr. Ramirez, second by Mr. Furry. All in favor, >> I >> The motion carries. Operational Services consent, 12.01 to 12.02. I get a motion? >> Move to approve. >> Second. >> Moved
041by Mr. Ramirez, second by Mr. Furry. All in favor, >> I >> The motion carries, 4 to 0. Academic Services, 16.01. >> Move approval. >> Second. >> Moved by Mr. Furry, second by Ms. Ruddy. All in favor, >> I >> The motion carries. And 16.02 also expulsion with services. >> Move approval. >> Second. >> Moved by Mr. Furry, second by Ms. Ruddy. All in favor, >> I >> The motion carries. The Operational Services action, 17.01. Let the unsolicited letter of interest to purchase a 4-acre portion with Ms. Davina. >> [clears throat] >> The motion before you is to accept or reject the unsolicited letters of interest to purchase a portion of Corp one which is located >> I got a motion for discussion, please. >> I'm motion I'll make a motion to reject the offer.
042>> Second. >> Okay, so let's open for discussion. >> a clarifying question? Um the way the phrasing of the vote is to reject the offer on the table. Is there a second uh in order to put the parcel up for bid or is it just we're accepting or rejecting it before the the way it was worded seemed like we were doing both together. >> Um it was our understanding as of staff that today's um discussion was strictly on the um this particular letter to accept or reject the letter and that any discussion around board property would come back at a later meeting. >> I personally would like to reject this offer although I would like to look into selling that property and seeing what kind of offers we can get so um that's just where
043I'm at. >> Uh yeah and I think that we need to be a little bit more strategic with some of the land holdings we have and uh see if there are opportunities to develop what many other districts in the state have done in workforce um housing which uh could be a partnership with the uh city and help support our staff and faculty who often uh earn under the average salary. That as well as perhaps taking a look at which parcels are maybe at the height of their value and which are more strategic to hold for a later time. And for those that we hold in a later time, are there ways that we could leverage that property to generate revenue um in the interim. So, um yes, thank you. >> I'd like to add that
044I did definitely think it's worthwhile for this board to review our land holdings and assess what future uses they might be best fit for. Um they're all shapes and sizes. Some are small, some are large. Some have a lot of wetlands. Uh so, there's a a lot of things to consider. Um I I do think it's it's a good idea if we do sell a property that we have a reason to do so, that that there's a a capital expenditure that we're looking to take on um rather than just have the money sitting in the bank. Um but uh also, um you know, workforce housing, I I'm open to that idea. Um I don't know what that exactly looks like uh from from a district level. Um but I do know that we do have
045challenges with cost of living and it is continuing here in our community um primarily with our uh a lot of our support staff as well. So, it's it's I think it's worthy to to explore that. Uh if our land is a way to do that, if it's within within statutes that that allows for that type of um investment. The um I also think when we were evaluating these different parcels, that we need to start maybe looking in the future and saying we we have a a model of what a school looks like and has always looked like and we talked about the cost today of what a high school cost and it's pretty high. But also should we look at and say will the schools of the future could they be could they look a
046little different? Could they be constructed in a different way that that wouldn't take up such large parcels? Or maybe they're they're focused flagship schools, things like that. I'm saying we're going into we are all board members that are pioneers in this new world of vouchers and parents want different options when it comes to their their education if and if we don't provide it they're going to seek it out in in the private sector. So uh in this world now of of competition, I think we need to be uh ahead of the game to meet the needs of the parents as um we had a public comment earlier saying, you know, let's evaluate these exit interviews from parents that are leaving and going to vouchers. Why did you leave? What did we miss uh uh for
047your child that you decided to go that that way? And and maybe it's not that we failed them, it's just that they had a need that that we we're not offering right now. And so compiling those needs and looking in the future um could provide a better learning experience for for our um students. So those are my thoughts on the subject. >> And Ms. Roddy mentioned, you know, um using our properties for revenue. In the past I've asked for uh to look into RV storage, trucking storage. I know there's some preparation for that, but I still would like to look into that to see if that can help build our um our general fund up, you know. Um yeah, any other comments? >> Uh yes. Um yeah, I do think looking into it and having
048potentially a workshop and you know, like a major discussion. I do appreciate the slides and the recordings that we received from 2023. I remember watching it briefly as just a community member, but obviously now in this seat you're you're going to focus more and you know, read and look into it more and the recording was very interesting, but how everyone has mentioned things have changed, you know, they didn't have what we have now going on with vouchers and things. Um storage though unit you know, I know that's just an idea, but we do have quite a few storage units in but I know that was just an idea. >> units, but RV. I don't want any more >> Yeah, I was going to say no, but I definitely think >> [laughter] >> yeah, looking into,
049you know, let's see what we have, what can we do with it, but within reason, you know, Ms. Moore talked a lot about staffing. You know, let's manage what we can. Um I would look like to have a more detailed meeting and I think if I'm sure you guys when you looked at those PowerPoints and then watched the videos, um you know, a high school for example needs according to our policy that we created, we meaning our district 70 acres and that is quite big. However, if you do think if you want a football field, you want a soccer field, you want a track, you want that's where the the size comes from, but can it we think outside the box and that could be a great discussion in the future, but I would definitely
050like to I think we should dig down in that and see what we could do in the future. >> And um just one additional comment, you know, we hear from the community that well, there must be a new school on the horizon. Look at all the development we have and we did speak about this at the workshop, but in the um uh planning around what they were going to use some of the land for back in 2023, there was a report that was being developed called the Davis report and that one was quite extensive in looking at the development birth rates, current students. And I received a copy of that report and so this report from 2023 projected us to be at around 14,300 students at this time and we're not. So we actually have
051bought ourselves additional time to get to the point that we need to be at a critical mass for um considering a school. But the good news is we do have that property um and we but it would be uh behoove us to decide strategically what are we doing with these different properties um if we do want to take a look at well, hey, a high school takes 70 acres. Do we need to adjust that policy? Do we want to create an area that has some shared space for those types of track and field uh uh and other resources that typically a high school comes with because it is uh quite expensive, but um one item that I feel if we decline this offer today and we look into uh uh putting this up for sale,
052this particular parcel to get the best uh return on this investment, we know that our students and uh have been in need of a proper uh swimming pool for their competitive needs. And while that the funds from this sale would not necessarily purchase a whole swimming pool and I certainly do not advocate that we run or administrate administratively oversee a pool, but it would provide us with some funds to be in that partnership with the city and the YMCA potentially if that's where the board wants to go. That would provide a solution and a partnership. Um Um and uh you know, those competitive facilities for our students. >> So, the motion is to I'm sorry, do you have another comment? >> Motion is to reject the unsolicited offer. >> Second. >> Okay. All in favor?
053>> Aye. >> Motion carries 4 to 0. Okay, we will move on to public comments. Do we have anybody for public comment? Okay. All right. Our board member request, any request? >> Uh yes, I would like us to uh look at putting that particular parcel up for sale and evaluate the use or determine the use of the proceeds for that property in a um partnership perhaps for the YMCA and the community the city in order to um um provide priority access to swimming facilities for our Matanzas and FPC students uh who are in those swim programs as well as the syncros. Um so, I think that's something that that property from having conversations with people who are more in the know than I am uh is perhaps at its peak value at this time. And
054so, it would be uh strategically um uh the best time for us to pursue a sale. Thank you. >> And 22.02, upcoming board discussion topics. Anything else? No. Okay, we'll move on to closing comments. >> Good evening, Superintendent, Ms. Chair, and school board. I'd first like to thank you all for allowing me this opportunity to speak on the dais [clears throat] one last time. On behalf of FPC FPC students, um this opportunity to speak on the dais um and watch all of you, as I said before, has been such an honor. It has made me grow as a person and of course sitting next to Ava and getting to enjoy that pure relation has been incredible. Um if I didn't say it before, thank you so much for giving us a gift. Um that's just
055so thoughtful and kind of you all. Um so, I really appreciate that. Um so, on to a little bit about FPC, on April 14th, FPC dance held their last spring show. Um IB seniors Hennessy, Ella Sheffield, and Addison Davis and Zenara Nonard performed fantastic fantastically. Most of them had a solo and I wish you all would have got to see. It was beautiful. Um our FPC women's choir um and Formality's mixed choir, which you got to hear this evening, um did an outstanding performance at the FVA Central State Concert Music Performance Assessment and they earned overall superior and excellent ratings. Um our HOSA have participated in state leadership conference and several students had uh qualified to compete at internationals, which is really big. HOSA is a massive program, so that's incredible. The FJROTC color guard
056team um placed first um in the Space Coast drill meet, which was also incredible. And our Mu Alpha Theta um uh competed at the Orlando state competition and placed fourth in inner school test. So, that's awesome. Um for the first time in FPC history uh and and in Flagler County the FPC Varsity Starlettes uh performed at the WGI Championship in Dayton, Ohio and it is only because of the school board are we able to have such wonderful programs such as our Starlettes who have had an incredible year. They have I feel like I have said so many times that they came in first place and that's because they have. They're just an incredible group of girls. Um as for some of our sports um our athletes do get free registration for physicals, which we now
057require to have um I know we uh had someone come and speak about it, but it's just so important that young students are getting EKGs and it's because of the sport that we were pushed to do that and that's incredible. Um so, our boys like weightlifting team also had a fantastic season. Um regional champions included Coi Starcer, um Landon Gates, and Matt McFall, which was incredible. Um 10 boys have also qualified for state championship, which is just outstanding. Um both our track teams won the five five-star conference this year, which was incredible. Our boys and girls are amazing. Um our FPC beach volleyball team crushed their first round of playoffs and made it to the district semifinals for the first time in our program's history. Um and our FPC C softball team has also had
058a fantastic season season thus far and we're expecting some uh big ones then. Um so, seniors just an advisory um I would be doing a disservice if I did not use this platform to remind you that graduation practice is mandatory um meaning that your spot at graduation will be removed um if you do not attend graduation practice. So, make it a day. Go out with your friends afterwards. Um and then I would also like to highlight um just the wonderfulness of our school board as over 280 students at last night received um honor cords, um diploma plus uh, awarded for their GPA, their senior of the month, our IB program, um, laude, magnum laude, and summa laude, which is just absolutely incredible that we were able to not only just have a group of seniors
059come together and see each other's accomplishments, but that it took an over an hour to get through. Um, so that was just really a blessing. Uh, all Bulldogs are doing incredible things. Um, we stay involved and we transition well into the next chapters of our lives and that is all thanks to our peer relationships, our teachers, our coaches, our staffs, and of course our school board. Um, once again, thank you all and it has been such an honor. Thank you, Olivia. Thank you again to everyone from FPS who came out to support our coaches tonight. I've been a part of this program personally for 4 years now and every moment has brought me so much joy. Exams and graduation are approaching, but Pirates are continuing to strive for excellence. Matanzas High School in Flagler County
060was named the US Small District of the Year by Cambridge for our exceptional student achievement and academic opportunities. Over 300 seniors out of a class of about 515 students will graduate with an industry certification. We've talked a lot about this tonight, but it truly is amazing. All of these students will have an extra opportunity and advantage to pursue careers out of high school. Matanzas Theater produced The Addams Family play and it was a huge hit. Choir earned a superior rating at their state music performance assessment and tennis is the second in their district and undefeated in regionals thus far. Seniors have so much look to look forward to. As Ms. Rizzo spoke on tonight, the Flagler Education Foundation Scholarship Night is approaching. MHES is also hosting a senior lock-in, senior awards night, grad bash at
061Universal, and walk the halls of their elementary schools. Also, we're gearing up for Teacher Appreciation Week starting May 4th. We can't wait to celebrate our amazing teachers and staff. Last Monday, the Vystar interns visited every elementary 4th grade in the county to give financial literacy presentations to the students. On the 17th, Matanzas held a successful prom at the Shores in Daytona. A special story I'd like to share that highlights community involvement of our students is a few students who regularly volunteer at an assisted living center were surprised with a mini prom hosted by the members of the center. They even rented the students a limo, which took them to the actual dance. Thought that was very special. Finally, I'd like to express my gratitude for the position and title I hold, student school board representative
062for Matanzas High School. I would also like to affirm that I earned this title through my dedication to my school initiative and a thorough interview process. In this position, sitting on the dais, I represent my high school and serve as a reminder to our board and to the public. In addition to my closing statements, which confirm this role, I take the information I gain from these meetings back to my school's leadership, acting as a liaison. However, as student school board representative, my responsibilities do not end when board meetings are adjourned. Holding this title, I feel I am more involved in my community than I in a more impactful way than I ever have before. The opportunities I've had to lead Teen Town Hall meetings have left me feeling inspired and motivated about Flagler County students.
063Experiencing honest conversation between peers at our Teen Summit a few weekends ago showed me the power student leadership can have. The recognition I receive around my campus and the support I'm able to provide to students remind me of the value I have to my peers. These outcomes were only possible because I am a Matanzas High School student school board representative. I'm looking forward to seeing this opportunity continue and grow in our county in the years to come. Thank you. >> So, Olivia and Ava, I just want to say I am extremely proud of both of you and I thank you for being here. I know being a part of this school board as a student, it comes with some challenges, but I know a lots of positive things have come out of it and you'll
064remember this forever and we appreciate everything that you do. Every time I have gone to either of your schools where there are thousands, hundreds of kids there, right? I have ran into you guys all every time. Every time and I don't know how and I've seen you whether you're volunteering at the elementary schools, at the high schools, any activity on the weekends, Sundays, Saturdays. So, I thank you from the bottom of my heart and I wish you both the best of luck and we're always here for you and you did a wonderful, wonderful job. So, thank you. And I want to take a few minutes to share a few reflections. So, this past week, I had the opportunity to spend time in several of our schools and classrooms and it was really just a great
065reminder of how much is happening across all of our schools in Flagler County and like I said, every time I go, I somehow run into our liaisons over here, our school board members. So, they're working really hard in and out of the schools. And I was in an eighth grade Spanish one class and it reminded me actually at FPC ran into Olivia in her Spanish class. She literally was speaking Spanish and and she's like, I learned it in Flagler County schools. I thought she traveled abroad and learned this language being around in another country. She said, "No, I learned it here in Flagler County schools." So, when I was at a Spanish one class last week, those students, eighth graders, so what, 13 years old, they came up to me, they spoke full conversations to
066me, who they were, where they're from and they kept going on and on and um I did have to tell them I I am a Ramirez, but I did not understand what they were saying all of it. Uh but they were incredible. And so that is because of our Flagler County schools. So I I'm just so impressed of all the level that our students are learning. I also got to visit our agriculture programs. So those again are here. They're not just in middle school or high school or elementary. They're they're all over and the instructors are just so passionate. And when I was there, those students brought me out. They showed me the food they're growing. They were feeding me. I had peas. I had cilantro, lettuce, and some had was covered in dirt and
067they're like, "Oh, it's great, you know?" And and it was great. Um but they worked hard on it and they were so proud. Like you you would be amazed. So the students that we have here in Flagler County schools, they're learning more than you could even imagine. And uh they're looking forward to the cucumbers that will be coming out. And the teachers, they're just so passionate. So those hands-on skills, it really sticks with them. And they are like, "Oh, you have to come back next season and we're going to have, you know, the tomatoes." And like they know it all. And um I was just impressed. The civics class, I went into a civics class and those students they came right up to me and they're like, "This was my favorite court case and this
068was why." They went into so much detail and they learned it from their instructor. And they blew me away. The things that they're learning here in Flagler schools are just incredible. And um it's very clear how engaging they were. They were understanding the material and they were all learning at their own pace and doing different things, but it it was mind-blowing to go in there and it was exciting. And then our ESE students, so our exceptional student education classrooms. The teachers, the paraprofessionals, they are working so hard with those students. Those students are learning life skills and they are having the time of their lives. They remember me now. So, when I go in there week after week, their their like eyes light up and um the confidence that they're gaining and it's because of
069the programs that we have here in Flagler schools. So, it just makes me so proud when I see see our students and then you remember back in the day, you know, when you were in school and what programs did you have and you know, the opportunities just keep growing and they're just going to keep growing here in Flagler County and I'm very excited to see where our schools are going to be, like what type of schools are we going to have or need or what do they need from us because what people aren't remembering that Flagler County, like we're a little different in a good way. We're creating what our students and families need and I don't see that stopping. So, when you take a step back, it highlights just all the opportunities that we
070have, our community partnerships, just we could go on all day. You heard Ms. Rizzo about that. They're just giving these students the opportunities that they may not have had elsewhere, apprenticeships, workforce development, and the certifications. We're over 900. Where are we going to be next year? So, it's very exciting. So, we do need those partnerships in the community to continue because we can only do it with our community. So, uh I will end with I'm very proud of our students, our faculty, those administrators at the campuses, our students, the liaisons that are representing us and um have everyone have a wonderful week and it's almost summer time, but we don't stop working for you. Thank [music] you. >> Uh yeah, so this is a wonderful time of year, a lot to reflect on. And as
071I sat in the FPC auditorium yesterday watching almost 300 students receive honor cords. I sat there and thought, you know, I hear so often what we're not doing as a school district, right? What educa- how education is failing our children and our kids. But I as I watch each one of those 300 students walk across the stage, and I look at these fine ladies here and think, you know, when I talk to parents and students when they're complaining or they're uh identifying shortcomings from the schools, very often they can't identify something specific. They just say, "It wasn't for me." Or, "I'm not successful." Or, "That's not how I learn." But I look at these 300 students and uh our two representatives here are excellent examples of we have a plethora of resources and offerings, and
072it's about when you decide to take action and control of your own choices, and you go after the things that you want. And if you are uh involved, if you're challenging yourself, you are more rewarded with the things that you do in school. You become more um passionate about your school community. Uh you uh take a more invested interest, and I really firmly believe that if more of our students uh moved beyond the classroom and got involved in more activities like sports and music and clubs, that many times they would have this innate need to pull everything out of the education that they're being offered that they possibly can. And so, um it was interesting. I had a conversation last week with uh an individual who was um very um an esteemed individual. I'm not
073going to name them. Uh uh who was very connected with the education world at the higher ed level and was sharing that education has not changed in 150 years. And that's what's wrong with education. And I was just blown away because um it has changed in the last 3 years, much less the 150 years. Um and so, if we're not communicating that enough, uh that's probably the area that we can most improve to show and highlight how much we have changed the classroom environment, how we've changed instruction, the opportunities that are afforded to our students, uh and how we meet um the challenges that our students are going to uh face in the future, how we equip them with those skills. So, if uh you know, you ha- would love to see more about what's
074going on in in schools and you're of the mindset that education hasn't changed in 150 years, um I'm sure any of these board members would take you on a tour of some of the fascinating um uh avant-garde and >> [music] >> uh strategic changes that we've employed and our wonderful teachers and paras are implementing at their at the schools. It's just um a sound astounding. So, take this time to celebrate your children. Take this time to recognize what is it you want from your education if you're continuing your education with Flagler schools, you've got to be part of it. You've got to get in and dig the most you can out of your education. Um uh you know, look at the resume of these individuals who are sitting on the dais today. Uh go and
075stop by some of the active students uh who won their honor cords. They're often not involved in just one item. They're involved in so many things in their school community. Um and uh you know, they take great pride in it and it's wonderful to reflect on students who are just making the most of their educational career. Uh and if you're feeling like you can't, we want to know how we can help you. How can we open those doors for you? So, please reach out. So, I'm looking forward to the uh promotion ceremonies and the scholarship drive-bys. This is a wonderful time of year to celebrate and then we'll let the dust settle and we'll get started on uh thinking of a new year and all the wonderful things we can continue to improve because education
076certainly changes week by week, not just uh every century. Thank you. >> As you close your comments there, it's just hard to believe that uh here we are coming up on graduation. It just seems like the year began not too long ago. Um but it is exciting time uh for everyone involved here at Flagler schools. Um so, I just want to start off by uh saying to uh Ms. Delgado, Ms. Muldoon, it's really been um an honor to serve with you up here on this board and you know, as uh you mentioned in your comments, uh Ms. Muldoon, that that um you know, you earned that and both of you earned it and you should be very proud of it cuz you distinguish yourself amongst your peers and you were appointed to this position and
077I'm certain that the leadership that you have demonstrated in your respective schools has inspired others and I see a bright future for both of you and whatever you guys decide to go to. And [music] you know just speaking of two great examples of what happens here at Flagler schools when students apply themselves are are our student school board members is a one example but tonight we heard another from Commissioner Dancin and Chief Tucker. Here are two students that took advantage of a a program here and we're able to go right out into the workforce work in our community and have a great job great paying job right out of the gate. And then to have the stories come tonight that not not only did we through this school produce two two great individuals here we
078created two heroes that saved a life and they're going to save many more lives I'm sure as time goes on and I think that's just a wonderful story because you know over the years one of the complaints I had heard from people was the term brain drain some of our students they graduate they go on to a career path and then they end up in another area but we're seeing more and more students staying here and and as more opportunities grow within our community. I was just at the bank the other day and that teller was proud to tell me that she graduated from Matanzas High School you know, and it was just great seeing it more and more and these are just more examples of that. Um, and you know, I really encourage our
079students to realize there are many pathways to success. Um, you know, I'm very encouraged that our diploma plus results here and I and I want to see these continue to grow. And there there are there are there are ways to go to college, go to to university, um, but there are also other paths into the into the workforce. And actually workforce um, career and technical is one of the fastest ways to a median income in this country. So, don't think that that is any less if you choose to go down that path. Um, it is a very respectable path and it's something where you can earn a living wage and be proud and have the dignity of of creating your own way and supporting a family if that's what you choose to do. And the
080um, also I want to thank the the Rotary Club of Flagler County. They we had an interact they have an interact program here at FPC and um, at the we had a ceremony for them as they were having their the leaders there move on and install new ones. They're doing great things promoting public service amongst the youth and um, I'm I'm proud to be part of that as a as a fellow Rotarian myself. And um, just on the um, to touch on on some of the land. It's a a lot of discussion about that right now. I you know, I encourage that we look at all of our holdings, we look at which land is best to sell at the right time for the right purpose. Um and I think that um uh a pool
081is definitely something that is needed. So, I'm open to that conversation, whether that is a partnership uh or or we build our own pool uh for a student-focused pool and expand our aquatic uh options for our students. And again, I just want to thank staff uh for for a long uh for all the efforts you put in today. It's been a long day. And uh have a blessed night. >> All right. Olivia and Ava, just very proud of you and excited for your future and just thank you for spending this year with us. Um I'm just happy for you guys. You know, every year that we get to be a part of graduation, it's just it comes around so quickly, but it's such an honor to be able to stand up there and shake your
082hands and see the excitement and just be excited for your future and I always just encourage every student, you know, if you have a dream, there's something you want to do, just you know, take that first step. Just say, "You know what? I'm going to do this." And you may be surprised where you end up. You know, I've always been a believer that the time is going to pass anyway, so I'm just going to take that step and um you'd be surprised where you end up. So, I'm excited for your future and to see what you'll do um whether you go out into the world or come back into Flagler County. So, very proud of you. Congratulations. And yeah, it's you know, it's our community is really awesome. I know we live here, but you
083know, we're all so proud and I've also had a chance to see um just the work of our our firemen, thankfully not in a medical emergency, but you know, when we had lightning strike out at our house, just how quickly they were there and I was like, "Wow." Like it was just very impressive and you know, that's a good feeling to know that they are so prepared and ready to attack any emergency situations. Yeah, looking forward to all the exciting things ahead. You know, as parents it's bittersweet. I feel like every year even if we don't may not have a graduate, you know, just every year we know brings us closer to our own kids getting closer to those to those days. Also just once again to continue to pray for the Lugo family for
084that child at Old Kings Elementary who had a medical emergency. There is a GoFundMe set up for them. So we want to just surround them and be able to help them in this time. All right. Thank you. I hope everybody has a great week. >> Good evening. Happy 158th day of school though, you know, Mr. Foley is in the background saying no, it's 159. Well, I've already said after 100 I get a little squirrely with the days and so you know, we're going to just split the difference. Happy 158 and a half day of school. But sitting and listening to our student school board members speak today just had me just sitting also reflecting at how thankful and proud I am to be able to sit and serve in this capacity and to not take
085it lightly because we're making big decisions for our community and for young people. We are so super proud of the two of you and cannot wait to see all that you accomplish. But to you and to your peers, we want you to know that we're still here and available to you. And so as you go out into the world, when things get hard, reach out to us. Whatever it is that we can do to support you, we're going to to do that. And we do have students that reach out when they need support, but even beyond that, reach out and share with us all the great things that you're doing and all the great experiences that you're having. And please just know that you have people here in Flagler that are rooting for you always.
086Not just after grad Not just until graduation, but after graduation, that we're here and we're rooting for you. So, don't forget about us as you guys go out and do great things in in the world. >> [snorts] >> Today, we've spoken a lot about Diploma Plus. And it is something that is so special because it's for everybody. Right? And Miss Ruddy has spoken spoken about the academic ceremony that was held at Flagler Palm Coast High School, and we know Matanzas recognizes their students similarly, but it's for everybody. So, there were people There were families sitting in that room that were receiving their plus cord in recognition that maybe they weren't going to get recognized for having the highest GPA. Maybe they weren't going to be recognized for some of the other things that individuals were
087recognized from, but they were recognized from saying, "I'm going to graduate from high school, and I'm going to graduate from high school with more than just a high school diploma." And I'm super proud of the work that we're doing there. But what I'm most proud of is that we're really doing it the right way. When we hear our students talk about the benefit of it, we all know that there's a fast way we can do we can do this, but that's not what we are here for. It does not honor our guiding principles. And our guiding principles say we're going to put our kids first. And when we have them leave with a plus, we want it to be a plus that's going to help them in what it is that they're going to do
088next. And so, we've put a lot of work into um getting better in that area to ensure that our students are graduating with that plus. Lots of events happening over the next couple weeks. Um so, please come out and support our students. We're going to have all types of promotion ceremonies and um and things, but I cannot wait to shake our students' hand at graduation um as you go out into the next part of life. Uh we also talked today about education educator appreciation week, where we recognize our faculty and staff uh that work so diligent uh to to support our students. And the reality is that your appreciation is never going to be um captured in the discounts that you may receive, the your appreciation is not going to um be fully captured in
089um even related to your salary and the time off or extra time and all these um other things that are great and that we work towards having as tangible um appreciations. But really, you our appreciation as educators, it is felt and experienced as we go across our community and we see those that we had a part in helping along the way. You don't ever want to be behind me at any event or any location and I see one of our students because there's an opportunity for me to remind them of how proud we are of them and to see them serving our community. And so, to our faculty and our staff, it does not matter what position you hold within this organization. It's important. And the work that we're doing is important because it's helping
090to change lives. And we appreciate you, and we thank you for all that you do, and we hope that everyone has a great night. >> All right. Thank you. This meeting is adjourned. >> [clears throat] >> Mhm.