School Board Business Meeting: 5-20-26

001Good afternoon. Welcome to the North Public Schools workshop for Wednesday, May 20th. Welcome everyone. We're going to go ahead and get started. Um, Miss Tan, would you please call the role? >> The scene >> here. >> The Caligger. >> Martin, >> present. >> Fson, >> present. >> Slaughter, >> present. >> Thomas, >> here. >> Buffalo >> here. All right, we're going to go ahead and get started. I'm going to turn it over to you, Dr. Rose. >> Thank you very much. We have a packed room here today. Maybe hoping the fire marshall does not show up. Um, so here on our agenda as we talk about school consolidation student transition update, it does say uh Freily for Rick Freley. However, we're going to be starting here with Dr. Paul. And before he begins, I I

002did just want to say that while we all know the board is fully aware how um how challenging and emotional this topic is for our students and community, it is this report after listening to our principles a couple of weeks ago preparing for this report. Um I it we I think will all feel encouraged as it relates to the just the care and consideration for students that our principles and schools are making. And I want to remind all of us that what we're going to hear today is actually year one. We have multiple years of this in year one. And I think it's important that we recognize that because even in year one, the kind of organization that has occurred once again focused on social emotional health amidst this transition for our students is impressive.

003I'm excited about it and of course we are a learning organization. We'll only learn from what works and of course what we're challenged by as the years come. So with that, I will hand this over to Dr. Paul. >> Thank you Dr. Rose and good afternoon, Madam Chair Buffalo, uh, Vice Chair Daliro, members of the board, Dr. Rose, the community. Um, this afternoon, we're here to present on the progress of the phase one of school consolidation and redistricting plan. And, um, we'll close out with some of the information on the beginning of phase two with Mr. Freley. Oh, it's not. Sorry. I thought we were up and ready to go. Yeah, that's what I'm gonna do. It's a little smaller than what I like, though. >> So, tonight we'll have the opportunity to hear from

004a few speakers from both central administration and principles uh to review this uh part of the the transitioning. Joining me will be Dr. Phillips, our elementary executive director, uh Mrs. Cable, principal of Norview Elementary School, Mr. Counz, principal of Oceanair Elementary. Mr. Holland, principal of Sherwood Forest Elementary. Then, as I said earlier, Mr. Freillley, our chief operations officer, will review the phase two of our redistricting and our next steps that are going on. As a reminder, phase one includes closing the building for Norview Elementary School and transitioning our students to both Sherwood Forest and Tanner Creek. closing the building for Ocean Air and transitioning students to Ocean View, Bay View and Mary Cowcott and moving a small group of students from Mary Calcott to Ocean View Elementary School and then closing the building for Willoughby

005and transitioning those students to the early childhood center that's going to become of Oceanair Elementary School. This will allow Norfick public schools to turn the buildings from Norview Elementary and Willoughby Early Childhood Center over to the city of Norfolk as part of our phase one of the consolidation plan in the fall of 2026. I'll now turn the presentation over to Dr. Phillips to begin the overview of what has taken place with phase one of the plan. >> I'm gonna just make it easier for you. There we go. >> Okay. Thank you, Dr. Paul. And good afternoon again to Madame Chair Buffalo, Vice Chair D. Caligger, Superintendent Dr. Rose, and members of the school board and members of the community. My name is Dr. Phillips, and I'm the executive director of elementary schools. This section of

006the presentation will provide a brief overview of North Public Schools communication and outreach plan for redistricting. Following this overview, principles will introduce themselves and share information regarding school-based activities and events planned to support families during this transition. The goal of the MPS school consolidation and redistricting is to ensure that the transition is smooth, engaging, respectful, and informative to our school communities. This plan is centered on proactive communication, family engagement, staff and student support. We want families and MPS staff to clearly understand what is changing, what is happening, and where we can go for help. Just as importantly, we want students and staff to feel welcome, supported, connected as we prepare for their new school transitions. North Public School will use a multi-channel communication strategy to ensure families and staff receive timely consistent information in multiple

007ways. Communication will include final set mass notification, NPS web page, social media, printed and digital flyers, and in-person or virtual family meetings. Family engagement specialists will provide direct outreach to families needing additional support, while interpreters and language support services will ensure effective communication with multilingual families. The curriculum and instruction and English language learner department will coordinate translate letters, flyers, and presentations to provide support at school-based activities. Equity will remain a priority through the use of the equity plan, community meetings, school walkthroughs conducted by school operations, learning support, preschool, and title one staff to ensure all populations are supported. Think I went a little too fast on the finger there. Can I go back? Sorry. Yeah, go back. Okay. This phase focuses on early proactive communication to ensure families and staff receive official information, have questions

008answered, and feel through feel uh supported throughout the transition. Schools will send notifications directly to families while human resources will communicate with staff. Families will also have opportunities to attend informational sessions with division and school leaders to learn what to expect next. Frequently asked questions will be shared through flyers, NPS website, and other social media platforms to provide consistent communication across the division. And family engagement specialists will offer one-to-one support. and school counselor and support staff will provide social emotional check-ins to help students feel reassured, supported, and connected. This part of the plan ensures that all families and students have information and resources to support need to support their needs and to feel confident during the first day of their new school. Transportation details include bus routes, stops, and schedules that will be shared through

009MPS website and the boundary locator. Family receiving Mcken Vento services will continue to update addresses and information through the MPS website. transition and orientation meetings, summer resources, bridge programs, school visitors, stu student tours, and meet and greets will help students and families understand new routines, connect with staff, and become familiar with their new school. Peer mentoring will connect transition students and new staff will return with returning students and experienced staff to build relationships and foster a sense of belonging. The outreach plan follows three phases of the timeline to help families and staff understand what to expect next. In April, the official announcement phase began with notification letters to families and staff. The launch of the frequently asked questions on the NPS website and social media supported families and the family engagement specialists. In May, the

010focus will shift to staff meetings and meet and greets with staff members along with combined school activities during this transition for staff. In June and July, the focus will shift to summer preparation. Schools will continue to coordinate activities such as bus rider or walk day, walk to school day, and orientation meetings with families to support students to prepare for the first day of school. Operations and facilities will also address furniture needs, maintenance work orders, and faculty preparations. These activities and events are designed to build trust, reduce stress and uncertainty, and to keep families informed throughout the transition. The final component focuses on building relationships and community. A successful transition is not only about logistics. It's also about helping students and family and staff feel connected. School tours, meet and greets, along with other combined activities

011will help families transition during meet and greets and help students become familiar um with the receiving schools. These activities are designed to create welcoming environments for those students and families. NPS is approaching redistricting through a coordinated student center and family focused process. Communication, preparation, and connected are being prioritized so that every impacted student, family, and staff member receives report support during, after, and before the transition. At this time, I would like to turn the presentation over to our proud principles. Hello. Good afternoon. So, due to our school closing, we chose to honor the rich legacy of Norview. So, we're proud to be the last triad in Norfick public schools with an elementary, a middle, and a high school so close together. All right. So, as for our current students, we're really focused on creating memories

012this school year. So, in addition to like our traditional field trips like the Norfick Zoo, Children's Museum, we added some new experiences like guided tours with Virginia Aquarium with multiple grade levels. Fifth grade got to go ziplining at the Adventure Park. And next week we're going to Ocean Breeze. So our last field trip was last Friday and so we tried to make it memorable by including a petting zoo, pony rides, obstacle courses, face painting, and access to the Norview Rex Splash Park. We also partnered with City Cruises who generously provided lunch to all our staff and our adult, our parent volunteers, and we had 65 of them that came which was amazing. and City Cruises um provided popcorn, cotton candy, and snow cones to all of our students for free. So that was amazing. So

013now to begin kind of boarding our families through the transition, we started with a question and answer Zoom and we did that right after the link was shared to kind of find their new homes. So we did our question and answer. We shared the link with the families so they could find their their new their new school. We reviewed the school uniforms and the hours because they'll be different than ours. We discussed transportation expectations because all the students will ride a bus. Right now we currently have about 30 that ride a bus. So that'll be a big change for us. Okay. So then to strengthen the communication um throughout this process, what we did is we shared updates through class dojo. We sent letters home in our Thursday folder. So that's something we do all

014year. They know parents know to look for Thursday folders. We added the important events to our student calendars. and we held conferences with families that had more questions. So, the great thing about being a walking school is that at arrival and dismissal, we could really talk to the parents and answer anything that we knew at the time. So, that really helped I kind of think ease the anxiety with the parents. So, now to support the teacher transitions, um 90% of our staff is going to Tanner Creek. So, what we did is Miss Harris, the principal of um Tanner Creek and I, we decided to get a restaurant in town and bring all of our staff out in town with their grade levels. So, we did one day grades three through five and they got to

015meet their new grade levels and we have teachers coming from Tanner Creek, Oceanair, and Norview. So, that was a big hit and I think that it eased that anxiety also meeting their their future co-workers. And the next day we did pre-K through two. So, that was a big help. and the the teachers said they felt much better afterwards because it's been, you know, your school is closing, there's a lot of anxiety that comes with that. And then the staff members that are going to transition to other schools, we made arrangements for them to go visit them um whenever they needed and what that looks like. All right. And then today is actually our uh finale celebration with the community. So today we have a DJ, we have food trucks, we have old yearbooks and memorabilia,

016we have a decades fashion show coming to you. We have performances coming from North um Norview High School and our own cheerleaders. And then opportunities to reconnect with former faculty, parents, students, and community members. So we'll be at Norview from 5:00 to 7:00 if you're still not here. All right. Thank you. All right. Ditto. Thank you, Miss Cable. >> Uh, good evening. I'm uh Jason Kun, the principal at Oceanera Elementary School. Uh, so with our student transition activities on May 12th, uh, we had three separate, um, assemblies for our principles came to visit. Um, so the principles and staff members from each receiving school came to Oceanair and they presented uh their school motto, their mascot, uh, highlighted programs and activities and daily routines and what it's like at life at their school. Uh, students

017were engaged, excited, and actively participated by thoughtful questions. And here you have some pictures of the three different assemblies. So with our family transition events and the days following the student assemblies, uh each school each receiving school hosted an open house for our families. Uh families received information once again about the school programs, expectation, daily routines, and student opportunities. Each school had a strong turnout with more than 60 participants attending each school. ESL support and additional staff members were available to assist families and answer questions. Each presentation concluded uh concluded a quest Q&A session for parents and guardians and families also participated in guided school tours including visits to classroom, cafeteria, auditoriums and other key areas of the building. As far as community engagement, uh we sent out our monthly newsletter and we send out

018anything um you know each month. So when stuff comes in, we we put it in a newsletter and each grade level sends their information to provide important school updates and information. Uh we did rooc calls, emails, letters, uh updated to school website, um the schoolwide dojo, and we also have our class dojo. Uh we had family conferences that were held with support of our US uh ESL family engagement specialist to ensure families receive ongoing assistance and support. We had a followup. Uh she created a ESL support create a Q&A form to help follow up after these meetings so the parents could refer back to it and if they had additional questions they could reach out um for teacher appreciation week. Um I'm sorry I went too fast. The supporting we had supporting staff transitions that

019Miss Cap will uh reported about too. We had other similar things where our the school where my staff are going uh they had welcoming events for transitioning uh staff members. The activities include school tours, meetings and opportunities to build connections with the new school. So here in order to celebrate to celebrate the life of Oceanair for our teacher appreciation week, we bought um yearbooks for all the staff and they had pictures not only from this year but previous years. We reached out to many community members to provide pictures to provide some addition additional information and then we gave each one to our staff member. We also staff also received Oceanair lunch boxes as a commemorative gift and we also brought back some of our favorite lunchtime activities uh for the staff. So we treated them

020to something special during the week. And there you see the yearbook up there. And then lastly, our farewell carnival was originally scheduled for May 2nd. Uh, but I was a a wash out that day. So, we rescheduled to May 16th. We had an outstanding community turnout. Volunteers from the US Navy and students from Graanby High School helped support the event. Families enjoyed a variety of vendors, games, activities, and community celebrations throughout the day. And one of the highlights of the carnival was the dunk tank uh featuring Miss Flack, who was our event, community organizer. She's one of our ESL teachers, uh, Dr. Huffina, the assistant principal of Oceanire, and myself. And I apologize, there are no pictures to share. Okay, turn it over to Mr. Holland. Thank you. Good afternoon. I'm Dennis Holland, principal at

021Sherwood. It's my honor to highlight the the work happening at the receiving schools to welcome the families entrusted to us through phase one. As you have seen through today's presentation, we at the at the receiving schools understand that change, even when it's for the best interest of our district, I forgot to change slot can feel deeply personal. These families have built communities, traditions, and trust within their schools. Our obligation is to meet this moment with care, compassion, and equitable opportunities. I would like to take a few minutes to highlight some of the work taking place from the receiving school perspective. Some of it will be redundant uh because you've heard how the other side of it. From the very beginning, we took a proactive approach, not waiting for the parents to come to us, but

022going directly to them. We hosted both in-person, in-person, and virtual workshops so every family had a way to engage. And we adjusted meeting times to accommodate as many families as possible. We also provided English and Spanish versions of invitations to ensure language was not a barrier. Most importantly, we were intentional about recognizing that welcoming family means meeting the needs of the whole family, not on the first day of school, but right now. We also believed that students and families needed the opportunity to see and feel what it's like to be in their new schools before the first bell even rings. This is why we built a frame framework around school tours, meet and greets, and transitional family meetings, which you've heard some about already. Receiving principles, counselors, and staff went directly to Oceanair to present

023during a student assembly. Open houses were also held so families could tour the schools, ask questions, and begin building relationships. Nora public schools transportation was also included. Thank you, Rick. So, no Norview family was left out and families were welcomed with a full building tour at Tanners Creek and Sherwood during an open house on May 12th where they met principles, staff members, and tooured the buildings. They also had an opportunity during this time to learn about the various programs at each school. At Ocean View, the PTA provided welcome gifts while the principal, ESL teacher, and counselor personally visited both Oceanire and Mary Calcott to speak directly to the students to welcome them, followed by the families at their respective open house. Madame Chair, board members, what you see in these slides is not just a

024simple list of events. It's evidence of a culture. A culture that says our families matter, their transitions matter, and we're willing to do that hard work before the school bell even rings to build that community for them. We're very proud of the work that we've done. We remain committed to ensuring that every child from every single school walks into their new building in August feeling known, supported, welcomed, and ready to thrive. Thank you. Now I turn it over to Mr. Freley. >> Good evening. You guys are a hard act to follow. Well done. Um the first slide is it represents the first planning sessions that uh we held. Um we held two all day planning sessions to create the year one redistricting plan. We met with elementary principles to share the year one plan the

025folks in our room tonight. And then we hosted three community meetings. One for Norview Elementary, one for Ocean View Elementary, and one for Mary Calcott. We then presented the year one plan to the board and we also held public hearings for the schools projected to close. Next slide please. All right. So this is um the technical slide. This is about the apps that we have updated and and will continue to update over the summer for our families to access. So, our SIS team had to do about 800 changes for the year one closures. They got all those completed. Very proud of them. They were diligent because we couldn't take another step without them getting that done. So, we have three contractors. One that oversees Find My Bus, one that Find My School, and then our

026consultant also has an app for the specific closures. All those are are going to be updated prior to the first um week of pra what I call practice school when our bus drivers are doing their dry runs. So our parents will be able to access those. The app from our consultant is currently posted and anyone can go in punch in their address and it'll tell them where their schools are for the next three years. Next slide please. Miss Karen. Next slide. There should be one more. All right. >> Well, anyhow, so let me go with the the last things I want to share is um we we held five planning sessions um to create the year two and year three redistricting plan and those were all day sessions because this was very difficult task. Uh

027we also want to reveal that we held community meetings. Uh we hosted one at Graanby Elementary School, Tarlton Elementary School, PB Young Elementary School, and Lindwood Elementary School. We met with the principles impacted by the year two and year three redistricting plan, and we invited members of the facility master planning team to join us for that review. We held that on the 11th floor conference room so everybody would fit. Um, in the early fall, we plan to host additional community meetings at the year two and year three closure sites and we will share the kind of transitional information you heard tonight for the year one. We'll have the principles come in and share their plan with you all and I'm batting cleanup. Sorry about the techy stuff. Uh, and now it's question and answer time.

028So, uh, if I don't know the answer, I will call the person that can respond. School board members, you've heard the consolidation redistricting update. Are there any questions? Dr. Martin? >> Yes, I have a question. Um, as I was listening, I realized that I've been asked by several community members who do not have children in the school district um anymore um at this time. and they're concerned because they are also impacted by these changes and they would like to know if there's a way which would probably come from the city that we could have a similar um what do we call the the communications that goes out to our phones and emails if the city could somehow communicate that as well and I I mean that we could start this conversation with them so that

029we can see if that because I think that'll help us out a to make you know because you have some people have information some people who don't and then we al always are going to have potential people looking at coming to Newport or Newport >> looking at yeah North public schools and so we want to keep everyone as informed as possible without having to constantly regenerate the same information >> before you start one I'll I'll mention that one thing we could do um and I could start just by engaging with the city manager is describing some of the things that that you're hearing, right? And and to pose the concept on what would a a mutual communication look like. Um I'm not exactly sure the mechanics of that, but that probably would be um an

030interesting thing for the city to hear as well, right? Because if patrons, our patrons or mutual patrons um have some of these questions or maybe even concerns, it would benefit, right, our entities to maybe work together. So that's an interesting conversation I could have with him. So >> yeah, and on our NPS web page, if you go to our division, drop down to the second column, second thing down, it's educational planning, and it has a whole bunch of things we focused on in the last years. One of them is redistricting. If you click on that, everything we've done in this process for consolidating, redistricting to include the app, all that stuff's in there so people can access that. is very transparent. >> Okay, great. Thank you. >> Yes, ma'am. >> I have one request with

031that dashboard or >> Sure. >> Can it instead of click click because I know most people after two clicks they done. >> Yes, ma'am. >> Is there any way we can have it like on the main web page? >> Well, I'm pretty sure we can work that out for you. >> Yes. So people don't have to really search and look for it on the main page. >> Yes, ma'am. >> Miss Buffalo, I've I've talked to Miss Whitfield about that already. >> Thank you, Dr. Yes. >> Uh, D. Caligger Gerald, then Colonel Pollson, then Miss Py. >> This is a little nitpicky and so I fully acknowledge that before I say this, but the Find My School app is not very mobile friendly and um, most parents will probably be scanning a QR code at a

032meeting. And I found it kind of clumsy and not hard to use, but the map tries to pop up and show you all this like there's a map popping up and then you have the things there. And I just don't know if it can be made more mobile friendly because I really think when we're at meetings and having these QR codes, people are doing that. And >> we've had similar feedback and Miss McGarity and I are looking into that. Okay. >> So, thank you. >> The the one the consultant has released in my opinion is more user friendly. >> Um, I think we uh need to acknowledge the administration and their staff and the principles and their staff for all they've done on this this was a huge undertaking and they've done it. They've shown

033us what some of the things that they've done, but the the outcome, it's it's going to affect the outcome, and that's that's what all that this is about. So, thank everybody. I thank everyone for this. >> I yield. >> Yes. Um, well, I'll piggyback on that. But I also want to acknowledge our principles and the whole all of the teams at the eight schools that are either closing or receiving uh students. I know this is an immense amount of work and effort and um uh applaud all your efforts as I I was it was reminding me of what I been I feel like I've been telling my oldest is like you know you either got the worst or the best of me because you're the first to go in the >> you know be in

034that role. And so, um, I know you are going to be leading the way for the future of Norfol Public Schools and what's going to transpire in our district. So, thank you so much for all that you're doing. Um, I do have a few questions related to um the transitions. Um, if well, first more of a technical question around Ocean Air and preparing it for receiving uh prek students. >> Sure. >> If if you could talk about the work being done or Yeah. >> This summer, uh Ocean Air is going to have a major revitalization. So, we have a contractor already awarded that's going to do the window replacements. We are upgrading the lighting to LED lighting. We are going to paint the building throughout. We are replacing the curtain in the cafet um which

035is in desperate need of being replaced. Um we are converting the building shaped like an E. So far right will be ECSC um preK and then middle will be grade level preK. The far left part of the E the far far left will be administrative offices. We're going to move the prek administrative team into that building for obvious support reasons. And then the right side of the far left will be additional prek. We're adding another playground. Um we are uh upgrading the bathrooms and um I believe that's that's pretty close to where we are. I'm probably forgetting something, but uh it's it's going to be uh what what oh security cameras. They're getting new security cameras. And just to recap, so as you guys might remember from the last CIP update, we put a a

036brand new roof on. We replaced the entire HVAC system. Um so it's it's got great air quality. It's, you know, the envelope is closed up. Um it's, you know, granted it's plus 50 years, but uh it will be it will it'll be looking good. >> Ready for day one. Yeah, absolutely. >> So, are we how many special ed classrooms are we going to have it? >> Uh, let's see. Is Dr. Walter in here? >> Everything like >> or Kellyto in here? I I think it's less than 10. >> Okay. >> Less than 10. >> Okay. >> They're moving the entirety of the group from Willoughby to there. >> Okay. >> Yes. >> Okay. Um, thank you for that. And um I would like to hear a little more of so so our you know schools

037you've done a tremendous amount of work um with outreach and engagement of your families in your school buildings and I would like to hear how participation in those outreach activities how that was um in your in your schools um if you could speak to that a little bit. And I know it's kind of difficult as I realize as I'm asking that question in this room. Um it's hard to kind of move around, but um would you say that you had a majority of your school populations u participating in the events? >> Can you pass her microphone? >> Microphone. >> Sorry. >> Oh, a mic. Um so I hosted um a joint uh with Ocean Air and Mary Calcott. Um and Mr. Coun attended. Uh so if you can help help me recognize, you know, some

038of the students. Um I'm supposed to get roughly around 136 children and I had about a hundred um families show up. So we had a full gym. Um I had a interpreter from the language line there. Um she took our um group that needed language assistance around. It almost looked like a Smithsonian group walking through my building. Um the others were self-guided, but I had many staff there that were placed appropriately. I had a grade level uh representative um for each grade there to welcome them into a classroom. I had my librarian, my nurse, um I had my cafeteria manager walking them through the line. So, it was very well attended. >> Great. >> Anyone else wanted to share or had anything different to share on that? not necessarily different, but at our we had

039about we're averaging about come to us and we had about 25 so about a quarter of the of the families came out. Um we had very similar model where we had staff stationed throughout the building and they escorted them down to where their class would be. Um, so for example, it was a fifth grade student. We would walk them down to the fifth grade classes, kind of give them an overview of what would take place day-to-day operation and gave the parents an opportunities to ask what was our school like or any questions that pertain to them specifically. Um, so our focus beyond the open house was on providing those opportunities. Um, what that's going to look like for every family is slightly different. Um, so we'll continue to provide those opportunities and they'll engage when

040it fits best for them. >> So for Norview, we did something a little different because I didn't want to go to to attend the open houses at Sherwood and Tanners because I didn't want it to be about me because they're going to come to me for questions. They're going to come to me. I've been there for 10 years. So I let them go on their own. And so the next morning, remember we're a walk-in school. So I'm at the front door every morning. So I'm like, "Hey, how'd it go yesterday that I asked all the parents and everything was positive." So they're like, "Miss Capable, we don't really like moving, but they we felt so welcome that, you know, so the feedback was really positive." And so I just took a different standpoint because I

041didn't want to be present during that because I didn't want it to be confusing. So you know, it was a little different for me. I guess it goes back to that same saying, people don't remember what you say, but they remember how you made them feel, >> right? >> So, right. Yeah, that's that's good to hear. >> Yeah. And Miss Cable brought up another um I think important point is you know because you are such a walking school and we're we're going to have other schools where majority of the students walk. How are we preparing our walkers who are now going to be getting on buses and you know all of that. >> That was my question. >> Oh, sorry. Well, >> thank you. >> Well, we haven't got the the master routing done. We're

042still working on creating the master route for summer school. And once that occurs, we'll start master routing for the next school year. Once we have those lists, we'll send them out to the principles of the receiving schools. And then if they want us to do u some other extra activity for a bus ride to school or some kind of thing like that, we'll do everything we can to to to support their request. >> We talked about that, too. >> Yeah, we've talked about that. We just haven't uh I keep hitting the wrong thing, y'all. We just uh haven't got it all organized. >> Okay. All right. Thank you. And finally, you know, and I've raised this concern. It's been a it's an ongoing concern um with all of our school consolidation and closures is around

043academic supports for students. And um so that's something you know I look forward to hearing about how that's going and how the school board can support our students in that work you know going forward and any lessons that we can learn as we prepare for future schools and closures because we know what the research shows about schools I mean you know per academic performance in schools that are closing or merging together and so um I'll be curious um to see how we can support in that realm. But >> you want to >> excuse me. Yeah. So, um, you know, as we said before, you know, we are keeping supports that, you know, beyond just the teachers that we're keeping reading, math specialist, GRTs, other positions that we know that will offer in more intensive support.

044Um, so, and as you also well know, we're in the midst of testing season right now. Um, Christine McGarity, you know, is just so happy about that. Um, but we will take this year's data and we'll scrutinize it and we will look at it very closely now that the CIS is set up. We'll be able to look at it as if it was next year's data in the schools already. And then based off the that performance, we'll look at placement and additional supports that are needed. Um, and then as Dr. Rose opened up with it is a learning year and it you know more and more as we do more consolidations we'll look at how do we how do we revitalize support across the entire division not just at our consolidating schools with the resources

045that we'll have. So really following that data like we do each year you know and the board's aware each year we we move different positions based off data because it's it's about the equity of supports. So we'll continue to do that and just this these next few years more intensely at our schools that are being reconfigured a little bit to make sure that we get the formula right >> right and not just by ratios like beyond that >> so we've always combined ratio with performance right >> so you know there is something about ratio right because if you have a reading specialist and you go from 400 students to 700 students that's that's a lot of work but if you you know if you go from 400 and 7 400 students to 700 students and

046you have a 80% pass rate in reading. That's different than going from 400 students to 700 students with a 60% pass rate in reading. Right? So that's how we balance everything out is the number of students and in the in the performance of students to really show that the need for the school. >> Yeah. So, this is probably already a thought, but as we move into next school year, I would really like for us to keep the line of communications open about what has worked, what hasn't worked, things that we need to make sure that we improve for the second round because, as we've stated, it's a lot happening all at one time for everybody, not just our scholars, but also our staff. And so, we want to make sure that um that we take

047their feedback into consideration and do something with it once they provide it um to us. And I want to go back to the bus question if I may. I um and I hope I'm not stepping on your feet. I do feel like we definitely need to do something for our walkers who now will be riding the bus because I think there's a lot of anxiety, not just going with a new school, but now I have to ride a bus, you know, uh with somebody I don't know, going somewhere I've never been before, and that can produce a lot of anxiety. So, if there's something that we can do to assist with that um process, I think that would be great for our scholars. >> I'm going to add to it, scholars and and parents. We've

048we've >> some of the meetings we had um >> felt like yesterday, but would last week um several families expressed concern for themselves. How do I support my children in an environment that I'm not used to? Right. >> Right. which is uh an environment that's harder to get to. And so that for sure will be something that we're going to have to consider and learn from and and pay attention to >> and receiving schools because what we don't want is for the first three weeks a you know 552 um kids showing up with anxiety on the you know and like what do we do you know school's not happening because we're working through anxiety. I mean, I'm laughing. It's no funny matter, but you know, it it's, you know, there's a high likelihood that that

049will we'll have that experience. So, also being prepared for that as well. >> And thank you all for the work. Um, I'm excited. I have some concerns that I guess as we weigh through the water will kind of subside. But I do know that it was a a very large task. and just thank you all for the work that you've done just to uh provide support and to um allow our scholars, families and staff to be seen during this process. >> Madam Chair, if I may jump back to Miss Bassine's comment about the learning and sharing what's been going well and I think Miss Lauder said this as well about what's going well this year. I want to one Mr. fairly I want to commend him right away once we knew he brought principles together

050for each of the phases and said hey this is what's going on we need to be together on this and then I want to commend the principles because once they knew they were communicating with each other when we started talking with with teacher transfers everything else and openings they they were they were like doing draft days you know they were they were on it you know and and the principles really they they embraced this because they knew long term this is what we we need Um but also they knew that this would be the best for the students if they embraced it and they owned this this transition process and already the phase 2 principles that we've been meeting with and you know already are reaching out to phase one principles to talk about hey

051how did you do it what did you to do so absolutely this is a learning process that you know with the massive amount that we're doing as a division you know I I think is studyable in the future to be honest with you because the divisions across the nation are starting to do this, but to the to the level that we're doing it at a time is pretty immense. And I just want to commend especially our principles who grabbed onto this and they just took ownership of it right away because they knew they knew their support was important. >> Well, I'll just make one quick comment and we'll go to you, Miss Bassine. Um, just to touch on what you just said, Dr. prop. You know, there's school divisions across this country that are kind

052of going through this closing schools consolidations um for um decreasing enrollment right here in our region as well. So, we're kind of the poster child, so to speak of this process, right? And um so it's for me um just modeling what this looks like for other school divisions, I think it's it's a plus for us. >> Absolutely. nine out of 45 schools is 20% reduction in our portfolio over about seven years. It's significant. It's probably one of the highest reductions on the east coast. >> Yeah, we're we're definitely going to be a model for this region. M >> absolutely. Um before I ask my question, I just want to give Dr. Martin and Miss Thomas time to ask since if they have any. >> You're good. Okay. Um so, and Dr. This is around the

053academic piece as well. Um but chronic absenteeism which a lot of it is there's things that we can control and then things that we can't control and um I know the the present schools is is not but looking ahead even in year two I know we have some schools that are have some real challenges around absenteeism. um how are you know the schools in year 1, year two, how are they I guess anticipating with those families that um where we're having challenges with chronic absenteeism like how are we addressing that uh while we're you know going through this process right now. So I think the most important thing is the relationship building um and and like Miss Lauder pointed out you know that they kind of trying to reduce the anxiety down as we go

054um and learning what's happening during phase one to get a better understanding of how we can support for phase two. And the the the biggest benefit of phase two is we know now, right? We're we're a year out and we already know we're looking at zoning already for phase two and shared the initial plans where you know we had to get there where we are now for phase one from April. April was when we knew the zoning and and we are it feels like we're later but we're in the end of May right now. So in two months they've come this far. So, when we talk chronic absenteeism, I think building those relationships early on. Um, uh, leveling out anxiety early on. Um, we'll be able to do um, I think Mr. Freley had confirmed

055we'll be able to do bus routing differently next year and they'll know their routes a little earlier on as well. So, all of those things and then, you know, making more connections through the year. Plus, I was talking to Miss Moore today um, who's our our senior coordinator. You you you've seen her present when she did with the graduation coaches. Um her and I were talking today about chronic absenteeism and different supports that she she is looking for of course and then also that she is already putting into place. So it is in our minds about what do we do because we also know if the students aren't there it's much more hard for difficult for them to learn um if they're they're not in school. >> And can I add something to that? >>

056Is that okay? >> Um I I agree with everything that was just that Dr. Paul just mentioned also as as I've been talking with principles on school visits as we've been attendance has come up numerous times um and I just I'm trying to bring some level of um personal honesty to the room in some ways we don't know I there districts across uh the country schools across the country have been struggling with the pre and postcoid phenomenon as it relates to what has impacted our psyche which is not just a showing up to school but if you look even in high schools when the bell rings is what that means. The bell currently in high schools when it rings means something different to students now than it did even 10 years ago and different than

057the 10 years prior. Now, if someone were to say why, I don't know, right? I we don't necessarily know. Um and then therefore, what's the solution? The solution is tricky. I think that we since we don't have it, we just need to continue to figure out what our communication looks like. And I'm this is just just my own personal opinion with families because they're they're you know the the role of the educator has become so big and it's become bigger and bigger and bigger. It's become harder work and and more complex in many ways. And so once again, if we say students attending school, showing up to school on time is also the role of us, which it is, but we also there's lots of things we don't control. So I think a lot what

058I'm intrigued by over time and in the future is what will be the way that we talk with families in a very clear and pragmatic way to say these are our roles and responsibilities as it relates to raising really strong learners and critical thinkers. And this is what we can do in school. And here's the things that we have a hard time controlling. and here's the things that you can't do while the kids are in school because they're with us and here are the things that you can do at home. I'm just curious about that. And so I don't have an answer. I just think we're continually we have to start to reinvent the way in which we communicate with parents relative to roles and responsibilities because something has shifted that yet we have not

059put our finger on. And I know that sounds like you know nebulous and you don't necessarily like to hear from you know an educator to the superintendent. We don't know, but I'm just trying to be honest. I don't think we necessarily know. >> Yeah. And I I think that's pretty clear because we would have solved this problem if we knew, right? >> So anyway, but I appreciate that uh perspective. Yeah. >> Other questions? >> Oh, I'm sorry. I heard a comment. Yeah, I was looking at a document and I saw the name of the new school called the Willoughby EC at Oceanair. Is that the official name of >> It's going to be It's going to be Ocean Air early childhood center. >> Oh, car. >> No, I I just saw that one of these

060documents. >> Yeah. So, it'll be Oceanair EC childhood. Okay. I think originally there was a talk about Willoughby at Oceanair, but it just didn't make sense. So, we went with Oceanair Early Childhood Center. >> Okay. Thank you. Absolutely. >> Thank you, Mr. >> Yes, ma'am. Thank you. >> All right. >> And thanks to our principles. I know Miss Cable, I know you've got somewhere to be in six minutes. >> So, >> have fun for us. >> Hi. Thank you. >> We're going to transition to our close session. May I have a motion to go into close session? >> I move that we go into close executive session. >> I second. >> Okay. Uh motion by Miss D. Caligger, second by Miss Slaughter. Is there any question? Hearing none, Miss Tanner, please read the motion. Move

061that the members of the school board of the city of Norfolk go into a closed meeting for the purposes which are set out in subsection A of section 2.2-3711 2-3711 of the Virginia Freedom of Information Act as amended for discussion, consideration or interviews or spe of prospective candidates for employment or of assignment, appointment, promotion, performance, demotion, salaries, disciplining or resignation of specific officers, appointees or employees of the school board pursuant to subsection 2.2- 3711 A1 of the act. The subjects covered by this exemption are the discussion of specific candidates for appointments or reappointments to various schoolboard committees, the continued employment of a specific employee, and the discussion of specific persons and related personnel actions on today's personnel report, discussion or consideration of disciplinary and any other matters concerning students in Norfor public schools that would

062involve the disclosure of information contained in the scholastic record pursuant to subsection 2.2-3711 A2 of the act. The subjects covered by this exemption are the discussion of specific students and related disciplinary actions on today's student support report and consultation with legal counsel regarding specific legal matters requiring the provision of legal advice by council pursuant to subsection 2.2- 3711A8 of the act. The subjects covered by this exemption are consultation in connection with the matters set out above in subsections A through B of this motion. Bassine. >> Hi, >> Davajero. >> Hi, >> Martin. >> I >> Pollson. >> I >> Slaughter. >> I >> Thomas. >> Hi. >> And Buffalo. >> I May 20th, 2026. A quorum is present to conduct the business of the school board. Miss Tanner, please call the role. Bassine, >> here.

063>> Daliro, >> here. >> Martin, >> present. >> Pollson, >> present. Slaughter, >> present. >> Thomas, >> here. Buffalo. Here we're going to move down to 4.03 pledge of allegiance. Miss Ash, would you please do the honors? At this time, may everyone please silence their cell phones and pages for the remainder of the meeting and please rise for the pledge of allegiance. I pledge of 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, we're going to move down to 4.04, adoption of the schoolboard business meeting agenda. May I have a motion to adopt the schoolboard business meeting agenda? >> Go ahead. >> I'm I move that we adopt the school board meeting agenda.

064>> May I have a second? >> Second. >> Thank you. Dr. Martin and Miss Slaughter. Is there any discussion hearing? None. Miss Tanner, please call the role. >> M Bassine >> I. >> Caligger. >> I. >> Martin. >> Present. >> Hi. President >> I >> Pson >> I messed everything up now. Yeah. >> I'm sorry. >> Just say I >> I >> Okay. Slaughter. >> I >> Thomas. >> Buffalo. I We are all here tonight. Okay. I know it's right before uh holiday weekend, but we're going to get through this. All right. 4.05 school board members reports. We're going to start with our school board representatives. Miss Ash. >> Okay, so this is my last report as a school board uh student rep. I don't have too much to say just because the school year

065is wrapping up with the sen Norfolk senior's last day of school being last Friday, May 15th. And over the next week, Mo um the seniors are going to be having their graduation at the Chartway Arena a couple different days all next week. And school's also wrapping up for non- seniors with last day of school being May 29th for all non- seniors. And there's not too much to report on since most students are just focused on turning in work before the quarter ends. But yeah. >> Oh, awesome stuff. Awesome stuff. All right. You ready? You want to come to the podium? You don't have anything tonight, but can you just come up so we can see you for >> You have to leave us with something. Last chance, >> as Athena stated, uh last Friday, May

06615th, was the last day for seniors. A very great day, a very emotional day. Um I was crying, uh but it was a really great day. And I'm just so grateful and so blessed to have this amazing opportunity to be here with you guys. And I'm just very grateful for all my teachers, all my friends, and all the memories that will stick with me forever. Thank you. >> Oh, thank you. Well, we're going to start our school board reports this evening with Miss Slaughter. >> No. Can you come back to me? >> Oh, come on. >> Uh, Miss Thomas, >> I'm happy to go. >> Okay, I'm ready. >> Okay, I Good evening to everyone. First of all, starting off, April ended and May began with me having the great pleasure of attending all five

067high school proms and Graham's junior prom. It was so great seeing the students dressed up, enjoying their friends, and engaged in collective with their principles and other staff. Teacher appreciation week was a great and inventful week. Thank you to all NPS teachers and I appreciate the job that you do. On May the 7th, I attended Booerty Washington High School PTA meeting. We had a very informative session on fitting all is a well-needed conversation to have in public schools. It's always better to know than not to know in the time of a crisis or emergency. I would like to thank the principles and staff at St. Helena Camposella STEM. Thank you for the sweet treats. Linda Wood, PB Young, and Jay Cox for welcoming and allowing me to share some kindness and love by presenting some

068educators with small token appreciation. I went to the May 6 city council meeting to hear what NPS has to look forward to to in the proposed 2027 city budget. May the 7th, I attended the Norview, Coronado, and Engle Nook civic leading. On May the 11th, I attended a school board training in Charlottesville, Virginia. Also made it back home in time to witness my god daughter being committed to um a wait a minute, wait a minute, wait a minute. This this um wait a minute. This college here is spelled a different way, but it's pronounced something else. Okay, wait. I have all my notes. College in Maryland. That's all I'mma say. Sorry, I can't find my other notes. There's so much up here. Okay. Um, she was part of the Morris girls basketball team, class of

0692026. May the 14th, I attend the redistric phase 2 meeting at PB Young. Thank you, principal driver and assistant principal Hawkins and staff for having us. Also, on that same day, we recognized our MPS professionals at the AEOPN awards. We had a ball dressed in 70s, 80s, and 90s attire. It was also a time to fellowship with the admin. Last week, I was invited to have lunch with St. Helina. Thank you for the fried fish. Also, I attended their end of the year field day. It was lots of fun and had a great lunch. On this past Saturday, I was blessed to have attended the annual 200 plus scholar scholarship breakfast in Hampton. There were a lot of NPS scholars that receive a great amount of money for college. Just last night, I attended an

070eighth grade pound presentation at St. Patrick's School. Meline who had a pleasure of I had a pleasure listening to Maline who will be attending Mory High School in the fall. She hopes to have a career in in medical field upon graduating from high school. Congratulations. Making sure I didn't miss nothing before I end it. Okay. Congratulations to Dr. Glenda Waters being named the 2026 VCAS H. Doug CS outstanding special education administrator. Job well done. And also congratulations to the class of 2026. You did it. Job well done. Thank you. >> All right. We're going to move on to Miss D. Caligger. Hello. Um, this has been a fun and busy month. The first thing I want to do is say congratulations to all the high school seniors, especially the ones with us tonight. Um, as

071a board, we have three graduating high school seniors among us. So, we are very excited for graduation this year. Uh, other things that have gone on this month is that I visited Graanby High School, attended the AO AEOPN awards, and I had my 70s in full rocking gear. I even had a twin there, so that that tells you something. Um, and I've been very fortunate over the last month to attend two excellent concerts put on by our music department. The first was the Mory High School pops concert which I think I was trying to count in my head how many years I've been attending and I don't think we did one in 2020 but I think we might have done one in 2021 and so that would have been my first year attending those and

072I am still attending those to this day. But also, uh, the Mary Good Foundation working with the VSO had a chamber music concert on May 12th, which which featured quartets and quintents, quintents, and a maybe one trio from all of our amazing high schools in Norfolk. And these students were giving given challenging pieces of work to learn and play. And they did an outstanding job. And we were also treated um by their mentors with a with a piece at the end of the concert. And so I just wanted to say that if if if we do this next year, we need to get more people there. It it it was not well attended, but the students put so much heart into their into their into their performance and it was moving for me to um

073be able and be part of be there and be part of the audience. So, thank you. >> Thank you, Miss D. Caligger, Dr. Martin. >> Okay. Good evening, everyone. Um, like everyone else, this has been a very busy time of the year. Um, let's see what I kind of just jotted down little notes. Um, so I have been out in the community talking to parents and um and community members about the consolidation and closure plans for our phase two that we are entering and getting a lot of really good feedback. Um, one of the things that I like to remind everyone is, you know, I know it can be frustrating or confusing at times about what's going to happen. Um, we are doing our best to communicate uh plans as they are laid. Uh also

074please be mindful that the children are watching you. So if you're reacting in a way that may be upset or scared that does get passed on to the children and we are working really hard to make sure that this is a positive experience for them and for the parents. But my concern is about the children and um we want to make this you know um as seamless and fun. We're trying to build in a lot of fun for the kids so that they um so that they have the best experience possible. Um as a parent of a graduating senior, I have been um very busy with soccer, lacrosse games, um end of year awards meetings at the schools and uh it's all very bit bittersweet. I it's it's uh one of those situations which I

075know many of you have probably already gone through this um but where you've planned for them to grow up and meet their goals and go off into society and do great things. Um but then when it happens you're kind mourning that you that lot that uh the whole concept of it. Um, so, uh, that's kind of I've been very emotional lately, um, about my oldest going off to college, but I'm also very excited and supportive. Um I one of the major highlights of this past month has been the Access College Foundation and the humongous absolutely and totally impressive um send off that they give our students and um it's held at Chart the Chartway Center every year and they give away millions of dollars in scholarships to our students or all over Hampton Roads not

076North public schools and to see these students running down to the stage um is just amazing and it's it's just I I don't even I don't even know if I have any any words for it. just like to give them the opportunity to buy books to, you know, pay for their uh tuition in some part and for some in whole part. Um it's just a really we are just so blessed here in NOFK to have such generosity among us. Um and I it it never gets old. I had o over 150 views of the kids dancing and uh Timberland was there. So, that was exciting. Um, anyways, we just it's just phenomenal. It's one of my favorite events. And, um, yep, that's all I have really. Oh, actually, I've been meeting with some of our

077delegates, uh, from the general assembly to advocate for our schools and um, while they're on break. So, that's been really nice to do as well >> at the forum at um, city hall. Um, Colonel Pollson, >> thank you. Uh, not quite as busy as everybody else, but I I w I did get out there and, uh, I went to on the 21st, I'm going to go by the dates like Miss Thomas suggested, so you can follow. These are sequential. On the 21st of last month, I went to two of the civic leagues that are in Ward Five. On the 23rd, uh the VSBA had a uh online budget uh course, so I attended that. Also went to the uh nursing at NTC, their graduation exercise on the 23rd. Um also that night was the VSBA

078Tidewater networking event. Uh on the 25th, I went to Norview and Graanby High School proms. On the 27th, North Side was a wrestling match. Uh unfortunately, the one player from North Side, he was injured, but he's uh recovered from that injury that night. Um the 28th uh went to Ocean Air uh elementary school to look at what's going to happen there. Um, also went to the Champions Together and Big Feet event that was on at U Lake Taylor. Um, on the 2nd of May, I went to Fire Station 11 dedication. It's on Lafayette Boulevard. Brand new fire trucks and all kinds of the stuff that would the young scholars, young people would like to see. Um, I went back to Ocean Air on the 7th of May and spent a half a day in the

079working with the folks in the office and and in the clinic getting a uh being seeing how they operate. So that was very enlightening process for me. Um, then I went to uh see on the 9th Graby uh junior high school uh prom. I attend that out also. I missed two other proms. I went to all five. As Miss Thomas me mentioned, there were five proms, senior proms, and I went to those. Uh the 11th, we went to VSBA for some training. Um the uh 13th and 14th was the NPS uh community outreach about the right sizing. Uh also on the 14th I went to a business association meeting. It's it's important to get besides civic leagues the business uh businesses their input on what they'd like to see happening at school programs and issues.

080And uh back on the 14th, two civic league meetings and on the 16th 200 uh scholars breakfast at uh >> Hampton Coliseum. Um then the same day there was a rededication of the uh military circle uh military uh military monument that was placed there. when uh military circle was built, they had to relocate it because it's going to be torn down. So, they relocated it over towards uh where the lone sailor is on guess right by the uh nauticus and then uh the 19th the GSA governor school of arts I'm a member of the regional board so I attended that also visited uh assistant principal Principal McCracken from Mory because he just graduated and got his uh PhD. So I went by and congratulated him on that significant event. And then on that night I

081went to another civic league. That was about all I could get in. >> I would say that's pretty busy. >> Well, it it's in interesting. It's because I get a lot of input uh going to different places. Things like I haven't been to a prom since I went to mine. >> It's been a while, but it was fun to see as Miss Thomas mentioned the the the scholars and their how they were uh celebrating moving on in their life. they all understand this is going to be the big finale before they join the rest of us. So, >> right, >> hopefully next month it'll be shorter. >> So, thank you. >> Thank you, Colonel Paul and Miss Slaughter. I'm sorry, Miss Bassine. >> Uh, okay. So, I I'm not going to mention names, but I've

082seen some yawns in the in the crowd. So, I'm going to keep this short and highlight um some of the bigger uh bigger exciting things that have been through because May is I think what people call Mayber uh because it's so busy. Um, but I attended Carolton's community ter uh opening Willard's Arts in the Park, which was awesome, and the engagement there was great. All of those things were awesome. Um, uh, I attended the community meetings that uh were going on this month around redistricting. I visited schools like Aelia Garden Middle School and Richard Bowling Elementary. And I know there are some others in there that I will uh I can't recall. But as I see Mr. Larkin sitting in the room, I do want to also say give a shout out to to the

083Graanby Orchestra. I see many orchestra uh students here as well. And um the Graanby the orchestra concert was fantastic as it always is. And um a huge shout out to all of our students that are here tonight uh for the amazing uh concert and to Mr. Larkin for always uh uh putting on a great uh concert and supporting our students in the best way. Um aside from that, also attended several of the same Virginia School Board Association trainings and um our Tidewater region forum which was hosted by Norfol Public Schools. and I appreciate everyone who was involved in making that happen. And finally, I continue to serve on our SEP board and also serve on the Virginia School Boards Association Students and Schools in Challenging Environments Task Force. And we I've submitted a draft of

084our subcommittee recommendations and a final report will be out on that in the summer. Uh but with that, I will turn it over to Miss Slaughter. >> Thank you. I appreciate you turning it over to me, Miss M. Good evening, everyone. Um, I also attended many of the same things that everybody else attended, so I'm not going to go through everything. I will say that I had a really nice time at the governance training with BSBA was my first time and I really had the opportunity to get to know board members and it it gave me some insight into them. Um, so I appreciated that opportunity. Um I also attended the general assembly at town hall um with some of our delegates and senator Graves. Um I uh also was able to attend the 200

085men 200 plus men school uh scholars breakfast in Hampton. And it was so funny because on the way out another board member and I wanted to take a picture and we asked these young men to take pictures and they just happened to be graduates. It was Miss Thomas. Okay. um she told me, "Why don't you just say me?" Um and it was so funny because they just happened to be Graanby High School students, so we were really excited to get to see them and wish them well. Um and I was also very happy to attend the AEOPN um event where I got to have a dance with Elton John. Um you had to be there to know what I'm speaking about, but I think there's video footage. Um, and I would like to say, um,

086it has been an honor to serve alongside our stu our two student representatives who will be graduating and moving on. Um, you have big seats that will need to be filled when you all leave. And congratulations to all of our 2026 graduates. You are the greatest part of the most amazing pieces of Norfick City Public School. So, thank you. Okay. So, when it gets to me, a lot has been said and it I don't need to restate. I can go very quickly. Um, I do want to say thank you um to Willlet um elementary school administration. Thank you for the invite to the arts in the park. That was a fascinating event and Norfolk Public Schools did host a VSBA tap water forum. It was nice to have conversations with our colleagues around the region

0872 region leaders of tomorrow at Ruffner School. Thank you for inviting me to your leadership end of the year program and thank you for the garden of hope for your partnership with Norfol public schools and shaping our future leaders. I also want to say thank you to Norfa sister cities for the invite to for the taste of Ghana. Um that was a very uh interesting um experience along with students learning some original Ghana dances. It was so much fun rich culture. Uh also AOPN bosses night. Um always enjoy that event. Um as I shared before office professionals, your work is valuable, meaningful and absolutely essential and we appreciate you. 200 plus men is also a great event. I love I look forward to uh attending that event. As a school board member, as a former

088parent and community leader, I always look forward to that event. And if you don't know what that is, that is um where AfricanAmerican high school males from Hampton Roads public and private schools who are graduating with a 3.0 or higher are being recognized around um Hampton Roads. And I also want to say congratulations to the class of 20 26. you you did it and you are the reason you got to the end point and um hard work paid off and um don't uh hesitate to come back and share your first year experience um in college or whatever your future plans are. We we really want to hear and see what you're doing. And so since I um I did go to training the SBA um like Miss Slaughter, I did appreciate spending time with my

089colleagues, getting to know one another and how we can work better and and um build on what we're doing here for North Public Schools. So with that said, I'm going to pivot to my colleague because I got a real cute note that she she would like an additional one minute to share. So go ahead, Miss Thomas. >> Yeah. I'm so sorry. Okay. The college is Alagany College in Maryland. that's what she would be attending um in the fall. Um I have to I have to um take a shout out to Lake Tella High School. They had a wonderful talent show. Um thanks to Principal Wade and the staff for the invitation. And also thank you to the staff and principal Robinson at St. Helena for going to the end of school year field day. Did

090I say that already? >> Yes. >> Okay. Thank you. >> Appreciate you, Miss Thomas. Well, we're going to go on to 4.06. Dr. Rose. >> Well, I'll start by saying in in terms of high school proms, I went to zero of those. Um, so as as some of you may know, over the past several months, I've been engaged in a very intentional entry plan really focused on listening, learning, visibility, and engagement across Norfol public schools. And um you know at the end of this week I'm actually going to be releasing a short reflection um regarding the organizational alignment proposal before the board this evening but I want to mention some of what I will mention on Friday. So I will say this and much much more. One thing that has become abundantly clear to me

091throughout this process here in Norfol is that Norfolk cares deeply about their schools. I've seen passionate educators working tirelessly on behalf of students. I've seen principles and school staff creating environments where children feel supported and valued. I have seen families advocating for their children and engage in impactful conversations about the future of our schools. I have seen students excelling academically, artistically, athletically, um, and as leaders within their community. The collective commitment here is powerful and it gives me tremendous optimism about where Northfor public schools can go in years ahead. I had a long list of things I was going to mention and yet um listening to my first team here much of my thunder was stolen. So I will not do that and just continue to repeat because often we were together doing some of

092these things. I do want to say this um I know every week is busy and by Friday all of us are tired. I can tell you by Friday evening, exhausted like all of us, no one has a corner on the marker when it comes to being busy. If I've been in schools spending time sitting with principles, walking in and out of classrooms, my week feels different. And so some of the schools I've been able to uh visit recently are these Richard Bowling, Lynenwood, Sherid Forest, Aelia Gardens, North Side Middle School, Mary Calcott, Willard Willard Model, and the Academy for Discovery at Lakewood. These visits have just been um they they make a difference in terms of how I feel about our work because it reminds us of the overall why of what we do and

093why we do this. So I'm thankful to those. So, just know as I continue to learn across this division community, um I do know that we have a lot of work to do. A lot of work to do. But I'm also feeling incredibly optimistic about the future of North Public Schools and I'm grateful for the opportunity to serve in this city. More to come by the by Friday. Thank you very much. >> Thank you, Dr. Rose. We're going to move down to 4.07 highlights and celebrations. Miss Tanner. >> Yes. I am excited to just remind everybody we have such artistic students here in Northfor public schools. So, just take a moment and look around the new artwork that's here on the walls here and then one in the hallway. Let's give these students a round

094of applause for working so hard throughout the year to do great artwork for our schoolboard room here and on the 11th floor. And madam chair, I would like to begin our recognitions this evening with gratitude and appreciation for our two school board student representatives, Athena Ash and Mariana Chandler Wyn. I would ask superintendent Dr. Rose, Chair Buffalo, and Vice Chair Dalerro to go to the podium at this time. And once they make it to the podium, I would like for the rest of the board members to go to the backdrop for us and line up. and our board members, you can go to the backdrop and line up for me. And as they make their way, I just want to say a few words about Athena Mariana will receive a commemorative plaque to honor their

095service and a medal to wear during graduation this year. Yes. As soon as they get to the backdrop, we'll call each person up. First, we'll have Athena Ash. Please come to the podium. Let's give her a round of applause. I'm close. >> Okay. >> Well, Miss Ash, Miss Athena Ash, here on May 20th, 2026 with sincere appreciation for your services at the city of Norfolk School Board, student representative during the 2025 2026 school year. It's signed by Dr. Jeff Rose and board chair Tiffany Moore Buffalo. Congratulations and thank you for being a servant leader. >> Thank you. Say something. >> And if you'd like, we invite you to say a few comments. >> Yeah, I have something. Can I leave this right here? That's kind of That's good enough. Okay. Um, I just wanted to

096take a moment to thank the members of this board. Um, serving alongside you has been one of the most genuinely eyeopening experiences of my life. You gave me a real seat at the table. You listened. You pushed back when I needed it. And you never made me feel like my perspective was too young or too small to matter. Watching each of you navigate decisions that affect thousands of families with the care and seriousness you bring to this work has changed how I think about leadership and about this community. So, for that, I am deeply grateful. and to the community. Thank you for trusting a student with this responsibility. I hope I represented you honestly. The truth is, the more time I spend at these meetings, the more I realize how much this community genuinely cares

097about its kids in a not in an abstract way, but in the way that people show up, ask hard questions, and hold this institution accountable. That is something worth protecting. To whoever comes next, this seat matters, so use it. Thank you. And we'd like to get a photo with you with the board and the superintendent. >> Thank you. >> Awesome. Now, our next recognition will be Mariana Chandler Win. Let's give her a round of applause. for Mariana Chandler Wyn on May 20th, 2026 with sincere appreciation for your services as a city of Norfolk School Board student representative during the 2025 2026. It is also signed by Dr. Jeffro, superintendent and board chair Tiffany Moore Buffalo. Congratulations. Thank you. Thank you. I would like to thank the Norfolk School Board for the opportunity to impact my

098school and my community. I am blessed to have served alongside Athena to gather knowledge about running a school system and gain perspective on the challenges faced by the school board members. Your work and passion for all the schools will not go unnoticed. And thank you for investing your time in providing a great public education system. I would also like to thank my family and friends, some of whom are here to support me. Most importantly, my mom, for never allowing me to give up when times are challenging and to go through the unknown, even if you're afraid. Most importantly, I thank God for blessing me with this opportunity. And even when I didn't deserve it, he continues to always be with me. and I give all my glory, all my honor and praise to him. Thank

099you. Let's give both these ladies another round of applause. And now we want to have the board stay because we have some more recognitions that we're going to go through. So next I would like to acknowledge the artistic excellence of the following MPS students who were recognized by the Virginia Schoolboard Association for their Tire Water Regional Awards Art Contest. And with us here tonight is second place high school winner Lauren >> Hend Hing Hend. Okay. Thank you. from Norview High School. And Miss Buffalo is going to bring forth your certificate. Please come forward so we can recognize you. Everyone give her a hand. And we need to show her artwork. And I'm going show you her artwork. >> Yes. And we get a picture with the board. Wonderful. Is Mariah Smith here? Well, I'm going

100to recognize her if she's not here. Um, third place middle school winner was Mariah Smith from Blair Middle School. And cheer Buffalo is going to show her artwork. And we also want to recognize Melanie Ramos Mija of Oceanair Elementary School for having her artwork showcased for the judging. Is she here this evening? If not, let's show her artwork. It's beautiful. AGAIN, I say we have some very talented students here in Norfolk Public Schools. So, next we have music recognitions presented by Zack Rrooksby, senior coordinator of music, along with some special board and superintendent presentations. Mr. Rrooksby, there you go. Come forward. Thank you. >> Well, hello everybody. Uh uh hello uh school board and uh Dr. Rose, administration guests. Uh my name is Zach Rrooksby. I'm the senior coordinator of music for uh Norfick public

101schools. And I'm so pleased to be here to honor uh some major accomplishments uh that our music department has achieved this school year. Um so what I'd like to do first is uh honor our all Virginia chorus members. And if I could have those members kind of uh come forward and just stand right here and we'll u I'll tell everybody about your accomplishment here as you do that. Um the event is a collection of Virginia's most talented musicians uh who through a rigorous audition process qualified to participate in a multi-day event and performance enrichment. At this time I'd like to recognize the following students who represented Norfick public schools in this prestigious event. Precious White and Tummaine Spruel from Booker T. Washington. Zandi Bamu, Elliot Leeb, Payton Donahghue, Isabella Medina, and Melissa uh Melan, sorry,

102Melanie Parish from Norview High School. And I'm sorry, Zandi and Elliot are from Mari High School. I just want to make sure I I recognize them from Mari. And then we'll do a group shot afterwards after you finish with this group. >> You get the fun. >> All right, I'm do my best. If the students can just stand in front but just bend your knee >> and these next recognitions, Mr. Rookie, we'll call them up one at a time. Thanks. Uh next up, uh during March, all of our high schools and middle school music programs participated in a concert assessment event throughout our region. Uh students from each school's band, course, and orchestra uh perform a panel of music educators and eval uh who evaluate their performance and give them feedback. The Virginia Music Educators

103Association uh blue ribbon award is uh given to schools that achieve the highest uh rating of superior for all the band course and orchestra uh from that school. And I'm pleased to announce that two schools from Norfick public schools was designated as blue ribbon schools. And I'd like to recognize those folks right now. Uh representing Graanby High School uh is Liliana Garza. Grand Oh yeah, we we can stretch this out. That's fine. Uh Brandon Lane, >> and when you come forward, shake hands with the board first. >> Uh as you come up, you can grab your ward, shake hands, and then come and return to your seats. Okay. Uh Sadi Amaddio. Landon Culver, Sire Davis, and then our educators there, Azie Church, choir director. Jay Larkin, orchestra director, and Steven Smaltz, band director. >> Oh,

104there's more. >> Can we get a group shot with those individuals? >> We'd like to get a group picture with those individuals. Okay. >> Oh, we may have to tighten up just a little. That group. >> Yeah. >> All right. One, two, three. And also receiving a blue ribbon award is Mari representatives for Mari High School. Parker Wesley, Deasia Chandler, Zandi Bamu, Elliot Lee, And then representing uh there's uh music staff, Phil Lane. >> I'm in the front. Stand in the front. One, two, three. Oh yes. >> And lastly, I'm pleased to announce that for the fourth consecutive year, Norfick Public Schools has been designated by the National Association of Music Merchants as a best communities for music education award recipient. This national recognition uh national recognition reflects the dedication of our talented students, staff,

105educators, supportive families, and community partners who believe in the power of music to inspire, connect, and transform lives. From our elementary classrooms to our outstanding band course and orchestra programs, music is thriving in Norfol. And this honor celebrates the commitment we make every day to ensure all students have access to highquality music education. Tonight I have certificates for our school board members and Dr. Rose to acknowledge your roles in supporting music education in Norphick, but I humbly ask that we continue the support and continue uh all the wonderful things that you are doing to enrich our students participation in the music program. Thank you so much. So, I'll just kind of show you our certificate with a little emblem from uh Best Communities. >> Thank you so much. Thank you uh Mr. Rrooksby and let's

106give them another round of applause. We have some very talented students in North Public Schools. Board members, you may be seated. This concludes my report. Chair Is he still here? Yeah, that's right. >> Comments. >> So pretty. >> You're missing Miss You miss Bassine. She's coming right back. >> Um, and Sarah's getting a picture. >> Vice chair. Oh, Chair Buffalo, there was one more recognition that was just brought to our attention. So, >> I'm going to go save the mic for >> we have one more recognition. Tmaine Spru from Booger T Washington High School. He's going to share what that recognition was. Thank you, Miss Bass. >> Oh, okay. >> Yeah. Great. >> Thank you, Miss Bassine. Um, hello board. Um um so basically I'll explain it like this. Um all state all Virginia um

107choir is a great opportunity and like uh Mr. Rrooksby was uh saying it's a great opportunity and it it is also a high honor um basically awarding um all of the best singers um corally and you know oporatically from around the state. Um, so actually a little bit of history. Um, last year um I was able to get um selected for all state um but I was alternative um and this year I was the real deal. Um and so thank you. And so it was actually the first time last year was the first time a student from Booker T. Washington High School has been selected for all Virginia choir in >> I'll say it >> 40 years. I'm going say it. It's been about 40 years. Um so not only was uh it was it

108was a big thing for me. Um it was also a big thing for my other friend Precious White. Um you know cuz we did it together and I'm I'm grateful for it. So thank you all. um and just praying and hoping that you know that we all can continue to celebrate and recognize all the arts that that happens um in the city. Thank you. >> Thank you. >> Congratulations. >> All right, we're going to move down to 4.08 citizen comments. Miss Tanner, for today's citizens comments, we have 10 speakers. Today's speaker signed up for public comments before the start of today's business meeting. If you would like to provide public comments, you're required to state the agenda item or items or topic you're addressing. Um, when your name is called, please come forward to the

109speaker's podium. State your name and whether you have a child in Northfor public schools or if you are employed by the district. Um, one person is to speak at a time. If you are representing a group, state the group's name. You may ask your group members to stand in place to be recognized. Speaking time is limited to three minutes. A timer is set with an alarm that will signify the end of your speaking time. Please state your position and give facts. Avoid saying anything that identifies students or personnel. Information about individual employees, personnel, disciplinary, and confidential matters may be addressed to the schoolboard directly via email at schoolboard npsk12.com. Comments should be addressed to the board and not addressed to an individual member. Schoolboard members do not respond to public comments at the time they

110are given and any written statements or supporting materials should be given to the clerk. Chairwoman Buffalo, our first speaker for tonight is Joyce Keron from Graanby High School. >> Welcome. >> Good evening. I appreciate the opportunity to speak here this evening. My name again is Joyce Corron. I am a current employee of >> pull the microphones closer to you. >> Yes, >> there you guys. I didn't know you couldn't hear me. Okay. I am a graduate of Norfolk Public Schools Norview High School class of 2009 and a current employee at Graanby High School. I hold lensure in K to2 adapted curriculum, K to2 general curriculum and early childhood special education with an autism certificate from ODU. I have 14 years of experience across those areas. My younger brother had an IEP throughout his entire education,

111and I watched my parents fight relentlessly for what he was entitled to. 100% of my life has involved special education. This is not a job. It is a lifelong commitment. Every year, educators ask themselves whether they can return without you losing their light. I have faced that question myself, and I did almost lose mine. I came back to Norfol public schools last school year because this is my home. I made a promise to students and colleagues to return next year and I intend to keep it. There is a reality. Special education teachers are often the last to receive support but the first to be handed directives. We are pulled in competing directions expected to reconcile demands with limit to support and no time to breathe. Not enough time to collaborate, not enough time to fulfill

112our legal responsibilities. We are treated as interchangeable paper pushers who can be strong armed into every demand. When the truth is that loses sight of the fact that we are the one constant for every student on our case load. We are the last person in their corner making sure they are not overlooked, not pushed through, not forgotten. I am able to designate legally binding IEP meetings and represent this district in federal compliance processes, but I am here to share that we lack collaboration. Special education is built on built on conformity and control and we are we experience that from the very people charged with supporting us who are able to do this behind outdated policies and bureaucratic systems. This culture has consequences. It extinguishes the light that keeps qualified desperately needed teachers in the classroom.

113When teachers are made to feel like burdens and liabilities instead of asset assets something is fundamentally broken. I'm not only here to name the problem. I'm here because I am collaborative. I have valuable perspective and I am ready to be part of the solution. I I welcome that conversation with any will any leader willing not just to have it but to make meaningful changes. I made a promise and I intend to keep it. The question is whether this district, its leaders, its systems, its culture will listen and consider making changes for the teachers who show up to keep these promises every day. Thank you. >> Thank you. >> Next, we have Callum Farmer. Callum Farmer. Okay, they're not here. If they come, we'll see later. Uh Tammy Hunter. Welcome. Good evening, board members. Good evening,

114parents, friends. This is my second time addressing the board. It's sad that as a teacher assistant with North public schools, the NMA make five years that I have worked for the state of Virginia. It's sad as a teacher assistant that you're in the school system and you constantly are bullied medically and emotionally. My pay has been taken from my administrator because I have medical documentation. I am currently on disability, long-term short-term disability because of mental health. I had to come out because I asked my executive of my school to be out or to be transferred for administrative leave because my pay was taken because I'm being harassed for telling that teachers, teacher assistant, and administrators are neglecting our kids. y'all kids because my kids are grown. But I call them my kids because I work

115with them. These are kids with disabilities that has nothing, no wits about themselves. They run out of cafeteria doors. They run off the playground. Teachers not paying attention. Teacher assistants sleeping in the classrooms. School board members know about it. Executive directors know about it. But when I choose to walk away from this and to go into the office setting to apply for different positions, they don't even process my applications. Now I'm being harassed by school board members, by executive directors. Why? because I'm willing to be a voice for these kids that cannot be a voice for themselves. Is sad. We come up here and say, "Oh, well, I love these kids. I want to do this and that for these kids." But show me that you love these kids. You tell me to sign a

116documentation saying that I am a mandated reporter. I tell it now I'm constantly being harassed. I won't even go back to work mentally because I'm constantly being harassed whether it's medically or because I'm telling for our kids. >> Thank you. Next we have Veronique Copelan. >> Welcome. >> Hi. Good evening, school board members, Superintendent Rose. My name is Baronique Copelan. I am a high school teacher at Burgerty Washington High School and a proud member of NFT. NFT members, if you're here, please stand. >> You please, I'm sorry, I'm having trouble hearing you. Could you please move the microphone closer? >> Should bring it closer. Okay. NFT members, please stand. Thank you. I come before you tonight because I want Northfor public schools to succeed and I want every child, family, and employee in this district

117to feel valued, supported, and safe. We all want the same thing: strong schools, thriving students, and stable communities. But if we want that future, we must invest in the people who make it possible every day. That means real lasting pay increases for educators and staff, not just one-time bonuses. Bonuses may help for a moment, but they do not solve the challenges of keeping experienced teachers in our classrooms or attracting new next generations of great educators to Norfolk. We need compensation that reflects the skill, dedication, and workload that that this profession demands. I also ask you to address the safety of employees who work with students with behavior needs. Teachers, parap paraprofessionals, and support staffs deserve safer work conditions, more training, and enough staffing to respond appropriately when students are in crisis. Safety is not just

118a luxury. It is a basic condition for learning and teaching. And during this transition period, transparency matters. Families are frustrated, worried, and un and trying to understand what school closures, redistricting, and consolidation will mean for their children. They deserve clear communication, honesty, timelines, and real opportunities to be heard before decisions are made. Please protect programs that serve our most vulnerable students. Please preserve relationships that help children feel known and supported. Please encourage that changes do not fall hardest on the communities with the fewest resources. Norfk's future deserves on the choices you make now. Invest in people, protect safety, be transparent, and keep the community at the center of every decision. Thank you so much. Thank you. Next, we have Dr. Yansy. Welcome. Thank you and good afternoon board and good afternoon family, friends, parents. My

119name is Dr. Yansy and I am the CEO of Virtual Peace of Mind which is also the new partner as the premier mental health provider for Norfolk Public Schools. We provide teleaalth services to your students at no cost to families. Um, it is not required to have an IEP, a 504 plan, English as a first language. It is a 100% accessible plan for all Norfolk Public School students. Um, we are open Monday through Sunday. We work holidays and all throughout the summer. So, I came to the board um not quite a year ago to announce that we had won the Department of Education um award to provide this type of services to all the state of Virginia. And so, it was my job to just announce it to come to boards and see what districts

120wanted to partner. Um, at that particular time there was a grant being provided by the state. Um, and your district chose our services and we won the grant. And so that is a five-year continuum grant for $300,000 a year. And so I came to the board today because we onboarded Norfolk Public Schools in February of this year. Um and then they launched the program, meaning it hit your school, each school's website, um right after spring break. But as of today, we only have two Norfolk Public School students. And so obviously the word is not getting out and I wanted to just make sure you guys are aware that this service is available. We offer individual therapy, family therapy, group therapy, parent and guardian supports, even staff therapy, um care coordination for our parents, um which

121includes food, shelter, uh medication management, um as well as helping and assisting families get insurance. And so we just want to just make everyone aware about this program. I know the board starts your conversation off about all the different events that you guys attend throughout the community. Virtual peace of mind goes everywhere. And so I want to make these connections because we come out to the schools, we hand out swag, we hand out information, we have interactive things for the students. And so we want to make mental health um you know just normalized. We want people to know that we're here to support. You guys have this huge grant and we want to make sure we're a good steward of the state's money and really support these students. So thank you very much for your

122time. >> Thank you. >> And I do have flyers um and handouts if you just want a little bit more information. >> Give those to Miss Tanner. Yep. Thank you very much for your time. >> Thank you. Bailey White >> or Baya White. Okay, you can correct it. >> Good evening board members. Evening >> and um yes, my name is Bala White. I am advocating for my grandchildren. They're in North public schools. I have one that's has autism over at Ocean View. I have another one that's in Eastern Preschool um that's non-verbal with autism and I have one in co place. Um I'm advocating because um I've been volunteering with the schools for years and apparently this year I was not approved but years prior I was approved and advocate and volunteer reading to the

123children and everyone. So apparently um I have a background which is 25 years old. So somehow they saying I slipped through the cracks. Now I work with Mr. Hughes. I came to this building several times to voice my opinion. Um but this year it really hurt me. So I was given this information to come speak um before you all by Miss Jones to voice my opinion. I would love to see change. I would love to continue to advocate for my grandchildren and other children as well. Um I would like to continue volunteering within the school system itself. Um they are my pride and joy. I understand safety is priority. Um but I would like to be given a second chance. you know, not sure um what the protocol is or how I slipped through the

124cracks, but for some reason I was very disappointed cuz I was not able to um provide any services this year. So, I'm just advocating and would like to see either the raptor um amended some type of changes being done so that I can continue to be part of North public school system. Thank you. >> Thank you. >> Next, we have Glenn Jones. Yes, that's fine. >> Welcome. >> Good evening, Ward. >> Evening. >> It's been a minute since I've been here. To those who know me, these halls are grandfathered to me. To a lot of you guys, young folk. At my age now, I may look young, but young folk. I've graced these halls, talked to many superintendents in the office about the point of education. I've raised assistant secretary of education for the state

125of Maryland. My youngest as professor at North State. And this right here is my son who was a Grammy high school in 2013. He died of cancer. Two-time all-American, two-time national football champion, 6'4, 321 pound lineman. So, I advocate today because of this. Education's always been my thing. To those who know me, I've always talked it, preached it, showed it, walked across. I don't know how many football players come out of my bedroom in the morning. But it was always a chance to teach. Education changes. I've listened to things here tonight. I've listened to the parents. I've listened to the teachers. So, I stand there as an advocate. There's a way that we get things done. And like one of my mentors, Barack Obama, it starts from the bottom up. M >> that's the only

126way for us to accomplish things. Our teachers are not getting paid. Folks, there is a way for them to get paid for the time for the years that they have put in. A lot of our teachers are leaving not getting what's due to them. A lot of our parents are harassed, hurt, disappointed when they come to the school board because they receive no answers. A lot of you folks weren't here when I was here. Dr. Rose, I appreciate a lot of things that you said earlier that is in compliance to a lot of things that I'm trying to do accomplish here today. I stand here today as a candidate for Ward Five school board. I stand as a candidate with new ideas, new concepts, new things that bring our schools up to par to where

127they should be, where a parent can gain an understanding, where a teacher can feel that even though this year I've done 20 years, but they owe me for 10 years, they still can get paid. And I want to show you how to do that and tell you how to do that. I want to take our 12th graders to the grading are leaving schools. I want to build our school into a business with the help of business. So when you leave there, there's possibly a proclamation of you receiving work cuz right now all of you are not guaranteed college and some folks are not going to go to college. But I want to see the school board if we're a community if we're community nation. We put out what the world see today, you guys. And

128it comes from a signature. I've been here for a while, folks. I'm not new to this concept. I'm not new to ideas. Miss Basin, I don't see Rodney, but that's a lot of different things. Miss Tanner, I've been around for a minute. I've been here for a while and I've seen it. I took five years off to care for my son. He died of osteio, which they call a sportsman disease. He died in my arms. But he said something before he died to me. He says, "Pop, you're going to do something great one day." And I kept wondering what it was, what it was for me to do. this to bring change to bring closure to some of the things that our teacher are saying that they're not. >> Thank you sir. Your time has

129expired >> or the concept is again I say you'll see me around. My name is Glenn Jones. If you want new concepts, new ideas. >> Thank you. Thank you, Mr. Jones. >> Me on the board. Glenn Jones, ward five represent >> Lisa Walker. It's hot up here. >> Welcome. Welcome. >> Thank you. >> All righty. Good evening to all in attendance and welcome to you, Dr. Rose. My name is Lisa Walker and I serve as the reading specialist at Southside STEM Academy at Campastella. This is a time of the year that I comb over the data and try to pinpoint what I can tweak and where I faltered. I'm metriculating roughly half of my student population with reading deficits that demand a school year to supplement two to three years of gap instruction and teach

130current content. This unrealistic cycle continues to widen the gap for students who simply based on their attendance zone have inferior academic outcomes. As a historical reminder, this system of oppression was presented to the courts by Norfick school officials. The US District Judge John A. McKenzie gave a ruling in July of 1985 that would make this city the first in the nation to successfully desegregate its elementary schools and then dropped its mandatory busing policy. The judge stated that the board had legitimate concerns about the impact of white flight to the sur to the suburbs and parental involvement in schools. The current redistricting policy has done little to address this travesty. So I look forward to ways or I look to ways to overcome these outcomes and improve it for all students. I attended a conference where

131Tim Shanahan discussed his model the wheels of reading improvement. I want to highlight three components of the golden cycle. Students directing instruction towards them amount of instruction maximizing time spent content and curriculum the quality and focus of the instruction. Additionally the model emphasizes teacher efficacy. We all know that who delivers this the instruction determines student outcomes. The board has received two of the most consequential reports of why NPS can't propel forward. The equity report stated that half of our staff has zero to three years of experience and discipline data reveal how your most underresourced populations are handled. A WHO article I read this morning states we have a 10.7% vacancy vacancy rate. I can't say that word right now. the third highest in the region. This leads me to my last comment. Teachers are receiving

1322% raises and a letter to remind us to apply for a $24 monthly credit to offset rising insurance costs. As a frame of reference, that credit will purchase five gallons of gas. How tonedeaf could you possibly be? I have decided there is not a national teacher shortage. However, there is a global awareness amongst professionals that teachers must do a lot every single day and receive crumbs for it. We are not valued for our expertise, but everything in public education hinges on teaching and learning. The current budget has $17 million planned for a pool and a contract for tutors in a rig system that was created by Norfolk Public Schools. The board discusses AI, advanced studies cohorts, use of technology, textbooks, and adding agenda items. We need meaningful conversations and action steps around district policies and

133change because that is the destiny for our most valuable commodity, teachers and students. Thank you so much for listening. I'm going to leave you with the articles I referenced and I want you to enjoy your summer. Lots of peace, blue crabs and Netflix. >> Thank you, >> Carter Molen. Did I say that right? Thank you. >> Uh, good evening. This is public comment to the Norfick City Public School Board on May the 20th, 2026. My name is Carter Molen and I have been a continuous resident of Norfick for over 31 years. I'm a member of the Virginia Symphony. I play the cello. My wife Jacqueline has been a continuous resident of Norfolk for about 24 years and my daughter Olivia has lived with us her whole life. I want to talk to you about the

134City of Norphick foster care placement services. I am providing you with one copy of a city of Norphick RFP issued for this purpose on April 13, 2015. This document names the Norfick City Community Assessment Team and the recommendation and review board and seems to indicate that these are the for the Virginia Comprehensive Services Act. They are not. These committees are Norfick inter agency consortium committees not named by the Virginia Comprehensive Services Act. My daughter was served by these two Norfick committees. So by definition, she was or is in the foster care system of the city of Norphick. There would have to be written guidance from the Virginia Attorney General or the United States Attorney General to make the community assessment team and the recommendation and review board compliant with the Virginia Comprehensive Services Act. And

135I do not believe that that document exists. I am again asking you for a second time to publish on your website the state and federal documents mandating the existence of the Norfolk inter agency consortium and to provide me a copy of such. I was never told that my daughter was in the foster care system. No one told me. I don't appreciate this dishonesty. So I will leave you with the following Arab proverb. avoid the company of liars, but if you can't, don't believe them. You hurt my daughter and my family by doing this. And um since you had all these people talking about IEPs and graduation and concerts, my daughter did a whole lot of meetings in the eighth floor of this building and uh you guys fought against her ever being in the schools.

136You guys don't even represent my daughter. You're you're the Norfick inter agency consortium is not under the schoolboard. It is a segregation. I've every meeting I go here, I see a lot of people that are African-American. They probably think that segregation is about race. It's not. Segregation is about segregation. My daughter was segregated and she was segregated through a system of dishonesty that was provided by a terrible group of attorneys that did not represent the law from my daughter or anybody else in this city. Your entire legal team should have been fired and they weren't. So you guys all hate my daughter and because of that I guess I I hate you too. >> Thank you. >> Next we have Danetta Russell with NFT. >> Okay. Thank you. Good evening, Miss Russell. There's nothing on

137that sign that is uh >> inappropriate. >> It's not inappropriate. >> It's not a whole word. >> Okay. My name is Donetta Russell. I work at Norview Middle School for over 30 years. Uh, what I'm about to show you is what we get every day. It says combat pay 5%. Can y'all see? Everybody see? And the words you see up here are not from teachers. These words are from students. Imagine uh what Miss Buffalo know she used to work in the office. She was an office manager at Norview Middle School. Students coming up to you and telling you this word right here. I can't say it because I'm a Christian. I don't curse anymore. Thank you, Jesus. Um, but they coming up to you in your face saying this word. What I have up here

138is combat pay, mental health for our teachers. You see the words is not written out. These are not teachers saying this. These are students saying it. That's why I said combat pay. Okay. Last week, I'm a building rep for NFT. And two teachers came to me and they came crying cuz I work in the office. They said, "Miss Russell, I can't take it." What I what they can't take because they can't teach in their classroom because of not all students, but maybe a few students uh cursing them out, getting up in their face. And uh she came crying to me. I sent her to the after I calmed her down, I sent her to the principal office and had her talk. the principal allow her to go outside and uh and sit in her car

139while somebody else cover her class. But my thing is while I'm up here is because the student was supposed to been sus uh suspended or been in ISD uh for a couple of days. The next day that same student was in her classroom back up in her face again and she came to me and said, "Miss Russell, uh what can we do?" I said, "I'll go to the school board. you know, I don't have a problem speaking. Uh, and then I had a teacher came just yesterday and she said, "Miss Russell," she was crying and she said, "I can't teach." And I, she said, "It's not all my classroom. It's some of them." What my what I want to say is when these children are disrupted. Put them out. Uh, or let their parents come

140and see. You know, some parents, they can't even hardly control their own kids. I I don't understand. It's the generation now. You just can't understand it. It's not all our students at Norview Middle School. It's only a few. But my thing is to the board when when if the dean put them out for a couple of days, let them go. If you if this child has a problem with a teacher, put them in another class. You know what I'm Do y'all understand what I'm saying? I teacher A teacher wrote this right here. Come back pay. That's what that is. When children get in your face and bully you and call you all kind of names, that's come back. Especially when you can't say nothing back to them. Thank you. Thank you, >> Chairwoman Buffalo. Um,

141correction on the numbers is nine. And that concludes our speakers for this evening. >> Thank you, Miss Tanner. We're going to move on to 4.09. Approval of the consent agenda. May I have a motion to approve the consent agenda? >> That we approve the consent agenda. >> Thank you, Dr. Martin. May I have a second? >> A second. >> Thank you, Miss Thomas. Any discussion hearing? None. Miss Tanner, please call the role. >> The scene. >> I. >> D. Caligerro. >> I. >> Martin. >> I. >> Pollson. >> I. >> Slaughter. >> I. >> Thomas. >> Hi. >> Buffalo. >> I. 6.01 monthly financial report. Dr. Rose. >> At this point, I'd like to invite Mr. Starks to the podium. Good evening, Madame Chair, vice chair, members of the school board, superintendent, and members of

142the public. Tonight, I will provide a summary of the April 2026 financial highlights report for Norfolk Public Schools. This report reflects financial activity recorded through March 31st, 2026 and provides a point in time overview of the division's fiscal position as we continue through year close and reconciliation activities. As of March 31st, 2026, total revenues recognized were approximately 78.9% of the revised budget. Total expenditures and encumbrances were approximately 83% of the total revised budget. At this stage of the fiscal year, expenditures are currently exceeding revenues by approximately 19.7 million. However, it's important to note that federal revenues reverse reimbursements have not been posted at this time of the report as those revenues are recorded through the reconciliation and closeout process. The variance between revenues and expenditures are expected to improve. Additionally, this variance is influenced by

143normal year end timing differences associated with payroll cycles, open purchase orders, grant reimbursement timing, summer program obligations, and outstanding incumbrances. Historically, these are time invariances and are common during the final quarter of the fiscal year. From a revenue perspective, state revenues are approximately 76.7% of the budget. City revenues are at 80% of the budget. Assigned budget, fund balance, and prior year incumbrances have been fully recognized as planned. On the expenditure side, the division continues to prioritize direct instructional support, student services, school operations, and safe learning environments. Major spending categories include classroom instruction at approximately 147 million, special education at approximately 49 million, operations and maintenance at 44 million, technology services at approximately 17 million, puper transportation at approximately 17 million. As part of the year in monitoring pro process, finance is closely reviewing several programs

144areas with notable variances. In terms of variances, several departments are operating near or above budget projections due to staffing costs, contractual obligations, operational demands, and timing related expenditures. For example, school social workers reflect increased salary and benefit expenditures associated with expanded student support. Special education continues to experience higher purchase service costs tied to mandated student services. Child nutrition reflects timing related payroll and benefit allocations that are still being reconciled. Pupil transportation expenditures reflect operational pressures associated with transportation services, maintenance, routine adjustment, and fuel costs. Conversely, several departments continue to maintain available man balances which are expected to support plan expenditures later in the fiscal year and during summer operations. Some of those include summer school where the majority of expenditures occur during summer instructional period, media services, technology, and facilities related accounts where purchases and

145projects continue throughout the year end. Other extracurricular programs where activities and programming expenses occur later in the year. The finance department is actively reviewing all open encumbrances, payroll allocations, grant activity, and purchase orders to ensure expenditures are properly recorded and align with approved budgets prior to the fiscal year close out. Additionally, several federal and state grants are approaching expiration during the coming months. The finance staff continues to work closely with grant managers to ensure funds are utilized appro appropriately and in accordance with the approved spending plans. Overall, the division remains financially stable as we move through the final stages of the fiscal year. This concludes the April 2026 finance highlights. Are there any questions from the board? >> Thank you, Mr. Stark. Schoolboard members, you've heard the monthly financial report. Are there any questions? Well,

146hearing none, may I have a motion to approve the monthly financial report subject to audit? >> I move that we approve the monthly financial report subject to audit. >> A second. >> Thank you, Dr. Martin, Miss Thomas. Are there any is there any discussion? Hearing none. Miss Tanner, please call the role. >> Bassine. >> I. >> D. Caliggerro. >> I. >> Martin. >> I. >> Pollson. >> I. >> Slaughter. >> I. >> Thomas. >> Buffalo. >> I. We're going to move down to 6.02. Discussion of the schoolboard budget fiscal year 27. Dr. Rose. >> I will hand this back to the board here in a moment. Just to remind all of us that even in in my time here, the board is presented with a budget. That budget was passed. Um some caveats were noted

147sent to the city. We were obviously tracking the city conversations as well as the city recommendation on their budget. Based upon um the direction that we believe that was headed, we pulled together a committee. That committee had multiple departments in it. We also engaged with our principles and so forth. At their last meeting, you are presented with the modifications that we have been rec that were recommended from that committee. And at this point in time, um is moved back to the board for a for discussion and a vote. >> Okay. And so, Dr. Rose, do we when you say uh for a vote are we because I don't see a attachment or anything is it has referred back to what we originally >> at the May 6 I believe. >> Correct. Correct. We no modifications

148have been made from the last time we presented the budget recommendations. >> Okay. So as a result of that we're just kind of re voting on what we voted back in March. Am I correct? >> You're voting actually on the modifications that we made >> correct. Okay. >> Right. >> Um it was May 6. >> Yeah. >> Miss Bain. >> Madam Chair. Um if I'm hearing correctly, are we opening this up for further discussion? >> Yeah, I was going to open it up. >> Okay. I'll let you proceed. Sorry. So I am going to open it up for any discussions around um the modifications that were presented on May 6. So I'll open up anyone who have any questions. >> Miss Bene. Um well, first I want to say I like I said on May

1496th, I appreciate the attention and detail uh that went into uh determining where those modifications would be made based on what the um discussions have been with the city. Um, I also went back and looked at what the budget originally the originally proposed budget um to also consider what some of those unfunded priorities are based on, you know, what our board goals are, what our non-negotiables are, and really what our students need. And for me, all I can say is while I I appreciate the work and the effort that has gone into this out of principle, I still feel um that we are not fully addressing the needs of our students. Not because of lack of effort on our division's part or our administrator's part, but based on um our I think lack of collaboration.

150uh not lack of collaboration, that's not the right word, because we've been trying to be collaborative um but lack of what I feel is lack of support um from the state and the city to get to provide uh the resources that we need to allocate them appropriately. And I say this because, you know, we had a significant amount of our reversion funds that we had uh allocated toward tutors and instructional supports. And while I appreciate that was found in the current operating budget, the funds for a lot of that was found in the current operating budget based on what our data has shown where what targets we have met or not met in our case around um academic performance. I feel uh uh unsatisfied with what our budget is currently proposing. Um in that case

151and our rever back to the reversion funds uh the city has indicated that that would go towards CIP and if I'm understanding correctly that would mean that the city is not giving any additional funds for CIP such as the the 3 million as little as it was. Um, we're also not getting the 3 million in CIP funding. And I just want to verify again that that is correct. And so I see Dr. Paul shaking his head. So that that amount of reversion funds which was our unspent funds from last year that largely went toward instructional support um and largely reflective of the vacancies that uh we had last year is what the city has determined will go toward our capital improvement plan. So I feel that by accepting that we are saying that that is

152okay and I don't believe that it is and so as collaborative entities which we are working toward I think we need to come up with a better way a better way that puts our students first not our buildings although we definitely need uh support for that as well because the buildings that house our students matter, their environment matters, having safe and healthy learning environments matter, but we need to work more collaboratively on what that looks like. And I don't believe we have gotten there yet. And at this time because of that, um unless something has changed since our May 6th meeting, um which I have not heard. I've watched the city council meetings I even attended last night. Um I'm not hearing that. And so with that, I at this moment cannot support um the

153bud budget along with the modifications that have been made. So I just wanted uh my colleagues and Dr. Rose to know where I stand and um if there's anything that I have stated incorrectly, you know, I I would like the feedback. Is there anyone else? >> I agree. Mr. Caligger, >> um I am very concerned about having us use our reversion funds solely for CIP in this environment. Um, I would like to take city council to task for cutting out the $3 million a year that they um have used for CIP and calling it an additional five because they're giving us $8 million of the money that we were able we weren't able to spend back. Um, we have I I heard a figure we have $700 million in facilities needs um to get our

154schools to meet the schools that our students should be going to school in. And it just seems cruel to me the cut of that extra $3 million. Um, and also not allowing us to put that money where it is needed most. Um I I am not in favor of this budget but I feel that we are our backs against are against the wall that there is not much we can we can do at this point. I mean we need every bit of money going towards c that we have to go to that we have going towards capital improvement. Our students need safe and healthy places to go to school. Um yet, you know, we were only able to give our teachers a 2% raise this year, which I know does not keep up with the

155cost of gas. And I am and I am devastated that we cannot do more, but we can't. Um so, you know, I will I will vote for this budget because I don't think we have an other a a different path forward. Um, but kind of shame on you, city council, for that $3 million. We could have used that. We could have used that for many things. I think that $3 million covers a roof. >> Almost a roof. >> Um, and it could have been used um to shore up one of our buildings. So, I am a reluctant I will vote another reluctant yes to this budget, but I think I think I don't know if the school system could have done better, but I think city council could have. >> Madame Chair, if I may.

156>> Uh, yes, Miss Slaughter, and then Dr. Rose. >> So, I I agree. I believe that our scholars absolutely and our educators and our staff need um safe physical buildings, but I also believe that there needs to be safe emotional space within the learning environments. And we know that both of those are really important to improve student outcomes, which is ultimately our our goal. And so, um I stand with Miss Bassine and Mr. Caligerro as well. Um and I think that it's important for us um when we're advocating to remember, you know, at the end of the day student outcomes, but what leads what has been um statistic statistically proven what does research say leads to the best student outcomes. And that's all that always should be in the forefront of our minds even when

157we're having conversations with city council. Not to say that it wasn't when we had our conversations, but I think that that's important. Um, and so I stand with Miss Bassin as well. >> Thank you, Miss Ser. Dr. Rose. >> Yeah, just a just a comment there. There's definitely no argument or debate as it relates to anything that's been mentioned um regardless of where board members stand on on the budget. Once again, focused on what we were allocated, right? the our resources um have have been demonstrated to the board as it relates to once again what we know we're going to be allocated from the city. Keep one thing in mind there is potential modifications coming because the state has not passed their budget yet. So um we there there will be some level of moda

158mod modifications because likely the state won't land exactly uh where we assume or hope that they will or how about assume let's not even talk about the word hope at this point. So keep this in mind. We will have to come back regardless um and talk about our budget as it relates to what is possible or what needs to be done once we hear from the state. >> I know. >> Okay. >> All right. Colonel Pollison. >> And then Miss Thomas, >> um what have we done? This is a rhetorical question, but what have we done to ask for more money or correction, more funding? I don't uh think that we've really confronted uh the city council on on our needs. We give them a budget, but yet we only ask for $3 million in

159CIP. We we should ask for more. What we need we need more if we need more funding for the $700 million in repairs needed, we ha we have to do something. But asking for more money doesn't fix the problem. The problem is at the current um utilization of our buildings, we're at 70% of utilization. We have 30% of our buildings are empty. That's a that's just an average across the the spectrum for the 49 buildings. and and we need to have a plan that goes beyond five years, I believe, as it is now, that addresses that. Right now, the we're scheduled for nine closures, and that will save us at the the rate that's been quoted about approximately $1 million. We get $9 million, but it's a one-time savings. It's not a continuous savings. So,

160how do we how do we meet our future needs with how do we express our future needs and what are we willing to do to make those happen? And I that's a bigger conversation that we we should have. >> Miss Tom, >> I yield the full >> Miss Thomas. >> Uh it's just short, simple, and sweet. Um, this budget doesn't align with student outcomes, nor does it show how we value our staff. So, I'mma vote no on the budget. Is there anyone else? Well, I'll echo um the sentiments that I've heard. Um Miss Slaughter, Miss Pacim, Miss Thomas. Um it's disheartening. Um Colonel Pollson, I hear what you're saying. I I don't know if you're saying, you know, shorten our portfolio. I don't think um that's the solution. I think we need to reinvest in

161our staff and students. if we say we want our student outcomes to look a certain way as we move forward. So, right now I I'm on the I'm on the fence as well, but by law we have to well, as Dr. Rose said, we we're going to find oursel back here anyway with modifications because we don't have a final state budget yet. So, with that said, um I'm a reluctant yes. Um hopefully we can have definite numbers. I would say in another month or so because by July one we we start a new physical year whether you know so we're going to find ourselves back here as well. Um but yeah it is disheartening very disheartening. Is there anyone else? >> All right. Miss Tanner, please call the role. May I clarify I need Yes,

162this the hour is getting long. Um I need a motion on the floor, please, to approve the budget with the modifications presented to the board at the May 6th meeting. >> I move that we accept the budget with the modifications brought forward to the board at the May 6th meeting. >> Second. And any further discussion hearing? None. Miss Tanner, please call the role. Bassine. >> Nay. >> D. Caligger. >> I. >> Martin. >> I. >> Pollson. >> Um, a reluctant. Yes. >> Slaughter. >> Nay. >> I'm sorry, I didn't hear you. >> Nay. >> Thomas. >> Nay. >> And Buffalo. >> Yes. We're going to move down to 6.03. Organization alignment proposal to strengthen school support. Dr. Rose. >> Yes. Um, so I'm going to try to be as as brief as I can about

163this. Prior to coming and then especially during my time, part of my role as one of many leaders is to assess our organizational structure to determine are we best equipped to support our schools. I do believe in my earlier statement that we have really good people working very very hard. That's not the question. The question is, are are we organized effectively for us to be able to serve the schools? And you've heard me say this and I'll continue to say it as a school division versus a division of schools. I don't believe that um that a division of schools or any sort of sitebased strategy or mentality was ever strategically or intentionally launched. I believe it's happened over time. And I I do think there are some very uh very focused and impressive ways that

164we can make some modifications with the resources that we have um to create more collaboration, more structure and a more cohesive environment so our schools are keenly aware of the support that they will be receiving as well as the overall guard rails and accountability structures that we set up to support them. And so I'm going to read a few things. Um there are two documents that you can look to. What you're currently looking at is the current structure. And I want to remind not just our board but but those watching that I am going to be going into what is a macro description, not a micro description. As I've been meeting with departments, even principles yesterday afternoon, the the point of the shift to the uh to my recommendation is not to list out every

165position or even every aspect as it relates to um every department, but it does demonstrate a significant shift. In fact, I'll I'll if we were to go back one, can we do that, Miss Tanner? >> We went to the first slide. Is that possible? Okay. Like I said, this is a current um structure and so the one thing that I have been focusing on is number one how we make decisions, how we communicate with our schools and then also engaging with our principles specifically to the kind of support and guard rails that they feel are in place for them. And what I once again I think a lot of our departments are doing some good work but often sometimes in isolation. And so there are two very specific departments in our division that are keenly

166important what you would describe an Indian district as your bread and butter. And uh number one I don't want them separated. I don't think that they should be separated. And so without going into detail here let's let's make a shift to the next. And I'm not going to go through this um piece by piece. I'm going to mention some of the important changes. Number one, the purpose of these changes is not simply to redesign, but to ensure schools receive clearer support, stronger coordination, and more effective service to students. This proposal is a thoughtful balance between operational effectiveness, strategic investment, and stewardship, I believe, of public resources. While the revised structure may generate savings, it may generate savings at the executive level, flexibility will remain to make targeted operational adjustments at the micro level. So I

167have mentioned this to the board that um while there is some level of savings thus far, the intent in this is not to save resources is to be more effective. Um so the concept under this proposal know this that the academic leadership and school leadership functions will be consolidated under a deputy superintendent model to improve coordination, accountability and support to schools. Secondary school leadership support will be expanded to provide more focused attention to middle schools and high schools and that's through an additional executive director. A chief of staff role will strengthen the strategic coordination, organizational execution, including communications, community engagement, policy coordination, and legislative affairs. Information technology, security, and related operational support functions will be aligned within the operations division to improve responsiveness and service delivery. Talent development and professional growth functions will be elevated

168within human resources in close partnership and this is very intentional with teaching and learning to strengthen recruitment, retention, leadership development, instructional capacity and grow our own initiatives which I believe is def desperately needed. And then academic operations and student support functions will be more closely aligned to improve collaboration, reduce silos and strengthen service to schools. So one note is in the previous um organizational chart there were two specific chiefs that I am not recommending to be part of this. Um so once again this is not in addition in some ways it's in subtraction by combining some of our um some of our very very important departments. So the goal in this leadership structure is this one we want to be more connected to schools. Two, we want to be more accountable. We want to be

169more responsive. We want to be more collaborative. Our departments need to collaborate, engage with each other. We always need to know what the left and right hand are doing so that when we support schools, we're supporting them as a division as opposed to just a department. And we want to be efficient and then better equipped to support student success across the division. I do believe with this model there will be a great deal of learning ahead of us, right? There will be um some some new things that we will have to start to focus on as it relates to how we collaborate across departments to ensure once again clarity for our schools which I believe can make a dramatic difference in student achievement over time. By changing our structure, it does not automatically impact student

170achievement because our teachers do that, our schools do that. However, the more effective that we are as an organization to support and create clarity within our schools. I do believe it focuses on where I do Norfolk know that Norfol was to be a school division as opposed to a division of schools. And there is a dramatic difference and I believe this is a step not the step a step to what I believe will be a continuous improvement model over time. Thank you Dr. Rose. May I have a motion on the floor? >> I move um to support and approve the superintendent's recommend recommended changes to the central administrational structure of Norfolk Public Schools. Second. >> Thank you, Doc. D Caligerro, Dr. Martin, any comments? >> I do have a comment. Um uh you know, we

171given this motion um we we do expect that you'll make you would be making further recommendations to the board about personnel upcoming um as they become necessary. Indeed, this is like I like I said, this is a macro version. There will be many um aspects of the micro that will continue to come to the board piece by piece. >> Colonel Pollson, >> I um comparing the chart that was up there a moment ago and the one that's here and it's a little bit different than what we had seen I think two weeks ago. And I I see the same the same >> same >> this is the same. >> Yeah, that's the same. >> Well, but compared to the other chart that was >> one before this >> previous mean the old chart >> well.

172Okay. >> Okay. >> That's from before I understand. from before. Um the one I'm looking at is the chief operations officer. You know, we've changed names and moving uh function around. We we've added more under the chief operating officer to maybe even three uh new responsibilities. >> That's correct. 10. Okay. And I don't remember all the the this number but that's I mean this is this is uh being developed. I understand that this is not the final product. Correct. >> No, this is the final product in terms of the departments. Um, now of course there will naturally be some things coming to the board as relate to new hires because as I mentioned the chief of schools is not something I recommend we hire. The chief of technology and communications is not something that I

173recommend that we hire. I don't believe those should be separate departments as was previously displayed. So I do believe that those should fall within the context of these departments. So, for example, and I I appreciate you bringing this up. If you look at operations as an example, I'll choose um something that was moved under there and then describe why. Safety and security. So, I believe safety and security belongs in operations. Um and that's not just a belief. Um there are a lot of other systems that have uh demonstrated this because safety and security needs a keen awareness to the infrastructure of buildings, right? That from from cameras to doors and a variety of things. We we want those to be locked at the hip so that our our security services um are constantly a part

174of decisions being made, communications occurring and so forth. I'll mention a couple other key elements that are important to note too for the community as well as those uh listening now. Currently, I hold a meeting um with our current chiefs. Our current chiefs knowing that um I was the it would be six. It would be six, but it's been four because I haven't hired the other two or I haven't recommend that we hire the other two. they haven't been they so now currently it's myself and four others that meet weekly. Um no offense to those four because they're four fantastic people. However um the dilemma is with our my future cabinet um this won't be something I have to have approved by the board but we'll be 19 because we need more heads at the

175table relative to um a variety of initiatives. We need more collaborations occurring when decisions get made. We need clarity as to whose responsibility it is throughout the departments. So the initiatives is not focused on just one department. It's what we agree on and then we're all supporting. So so much of this is actually to reduce kind of some of the silos that occur over time. And like I said, that wasn't anybody's intention or fault, but it has occurred. And we have mo many examples within our division where um there are lots of people working really hard, but what I would describe as a lack of collective system departmentto department that I think creates some confusion and I think we can be much more efficient with this alignment. And by the way, when we look at

176high-erforming districts across the country, um, we have gone through a process of comparing. So, I believe that is possible in Norfol. I think it's going to take time. Norfolk has been a high performing division in the past. I think it can be again, but it is going to require change and it's going to require some modifications. I will tell you that this model is much more aligned based upon our size to high-erforming divisions and districts across the country because once again in order to get to where we know is possible we need to start creating some of our um consistencies um and clarity throughout our schools but we won't get there I believe with the same departments with the same design >> is the CIP planning part of facilities. I mean, is is that it

177it's there. It's not separate. Correct. I I I don't think I've seen it separate before, but that is a very large function and it is something that takes a lot of planning and we're with the redistricting, we're getting a chance to look at where we're going uh in >> indeed. And yeah, so CIP as an example won't that maintains and so we I've heard yesterday when I met with um you know all of our departments here throughout central office and the principles in the afternoon um they would have certain questions about wait where is this particular responsibility or task. So for example that has not been moved. It's just that this chart doesn't list every responsibility within the departments. So, if it's not listed here, um it's not because it was changed or moved. It

178was just because we're trying to create this on a one page. Would would that CIP planning responsibility be on the job description for the who's responsible for really the CIP? >> Richard uh Freley, would you like to raise your hand? >> Yeah. >> Okay. It it >> Yes. >> Thank you. >> Yeah. >> Anyone else? >> Well, I'll make a comment. Thank you, Dr. Rose. Um I've seen this model like you you shared in uh many high performing school uh districts. I'm really um excited to see the support um for the schools and um the two departments put together because the teaching and learning piece and the school leadership piece go hand in hand. And so I thank you for that. I I do um excited to see what this strategic initiative and project manage

179management it's going to lead to our school division and building on our legislative affairs and government relations with our legislators and advocacy for our school division. So, um, thank you for, um, analyzing departments and and putting the pieces together for us to be a, uh, school division and not a division of schools. So, appreciate that. Anyone else? >> No. Uh, Madame Chair, >> yes. >> I just want to echo um echo echo your sentiments as well. Um, Dr. Rose, thank you for bringing this to us and being thoughtful in your evaluation of where we are and where we want to go. Um, so I appreciate that and anything I can do to support um, you have it. So, >> thank you. >> All right. Anyone else? You have my support, too. We talked about this

180and I I really um I think this was um going to work well moving forward but it'll be positive outcomes. >> Thank you. >> All right. With that said, Miss Tanner, please call the role. >> Bassine >> I. >> Tealro. >> I. >> Martin. >> I. >> Pollson. >> Hi. >> Slaughter. >> I. >> Thomas. >> Hi. and Buffalo. >> I And with no further business, the hour is late. This meeting is adjourned.