Special Called Meeting 05-29-2026

001Good evening and thank you for being here. Tonight we're going to make a decision on who should fill Howard Barner's seat since his passing. But before we do that. I need an invocation and a pleasure allegiance for Mr. Cook. Thank you Mr. Chairman. Our heads, please. Heavenly Father, we come before you today with gratitude for the opportunity to serve the student's families. Educators and citizens of Ori County. We ask for wisdom discernment and integrity. Is this board conducts these interviews and considers who will fill this important position of public trust. Lord, grant each candidate clarity in their words, their humility in their service. In genuine commitment to well - being and success of our children, guide the members of this board to listen carefully. Judge fairly and make decisions based on not personal interest, but

002on what is best for the future of our schools and our community. Hope this meeting be conducted with respect professionalism and unity, even where opinions may differ. May every discussion reflect honesty, civility, and a shared desire to strengthen public education and Ori County. We also remember the teacher's staff and parents, and especially the students who are affected by the decisions made here tonight. May we never lose sight of the responsibility entrusted to those who serve in leadership. In your name we pray, amen. Amen. Please stand. And to republic for which to stand, one nation, under God. Indivisible with liberty and justice for all. DCed, thank you. Thanks, David. Now I need a motion to prove the agenda. Some of Mr. Chairman. Second. One of the favorite say aye. Aye. Thursday and hearing none. We're moving

003into discussion. And with that, I have. An introductory statement. With the resignation of Mr. Howard Barnard in April. A vacancy was created for District 5 seat on the Ori County Board of Education. During these times, the vacancies on the border filled by appointment until the next scheduled election, at which time the vacancy must be filled for the remainder of the unexpired term. The term for District 5 aspires. In 2028. With the expiration of disappointment, the scheduled election in 2028 will determine the individual who will essentially be elected. To serve full, a full four - year term. Pursuant to our governance bylaws for appointing a person to fulfill this unexpired term. The Board Officially sought applications. From citizens in District 5. We receive five applications that met our criteria. And at the May 18th meeting, we

004voted to interview all five. Since that time, one applicant. Withdrew their candidacy. So we proceed and interviewed the four applicants tonight. The board will interview these applicants in alphabetical order. We anticipate each interview to last approximately 20 minutes. Upon the conclusion of the four interviews and at the appropriate time on the agenda, we will entertain a motion to convene into Executive session. The board will later reconvene in public session to consider by way of appointment. An applicant to fill the vacancy and District 5. This will occur by a majority vote. There's four, five. There's ten of us here tonight. So six of us will need to be in agreement. So having said that, are there any questions or comments. Hearing none, we would ask Ms. Monica and Jeannie Floyd to approach. Good evening. How are

005you, Ms. Floyd? Good, thank you. So we appreciate you participating in this interview process. It is for the District 5. The vacancy left by Mr. Barnard. Each board member. Will ask you a question. And I will have the final question. We anticipate this did last about 20 minutes. And you may remain in the boardroom once your interview ends. If you're ready. You're in. Okay. We will begin with the first interview. And the questions will be starting from District 1 and proceed around here. Go ahead, Mr. Cook. Hi, how are you tonight? Nervous. A little bit. So, okay. This isn't intimidating. We appreciate you coming. Ms. Floyd. How do you define board governance. And please include is what you're understanding is between the relationship between the superintendent and the board. Okay. That's a great question. Um,

006and I do have notes that I will replace. I'm just like to come prepared and make sure that I, um, provide all the information that I possibly can. And sometimes I tend to forget a lot going on in this head. Um, as for board member, the governance, I believe, in my view, that is, um, providing oversight, you know, creating the rules and regulations, Soviet that's always centered on what's best interest of our students. Um, and that's policy development. Oversight, like I said, strategic planning, budgeting, hiring of the superintendent, evaluating the superintendent and partnering with the superintendent. So I believe that the role between the board and the superintendent is one of collaboration, a supporting one another, uh, reaching decisions that are mutually agreed upon as well as, you know, always keeping that sooner, the student,

007um, in the center. You know, is it beneficial for our student and the schools overall. And not a personal agenda. Answered your question. Thank you. You're welcome. How are you? I'm doing great. Okay, you got through one already. I know. Let's keep rolling. Question number two. What should a high school graduate from our district know and be able to do? And this is two parts. And then second part B, how do we measure progress towards that? Okay. Um, what I would consider the success for a student graduating from Ori County schools, uh, would mean that that student, um, whether they're going to hire institution or going into the workforce or choosing to go into the service, you know, that they are literate. Can write. Can calculate, um, based on norms that we present to them

008and whatever norm that might be. I know from the previous school system, I came from, that was standards of learning. And, you know, when they had to prove that. And, um, and so I believe in summary, those are the things that I believe a graduate needs to be able to do and articulate themselves. So then what makes a successful person, um, but if we provide those areas routes, so to speak to reach those goals, um, including the student, the families, uh, what's best in the community in developing that process. Let's make sure I answered. And how do we measure? Progress. Well, we do have assessments in place. I'm sure the sum of assessments that we use to, to measure progress, um, military has different standards to that they can complete assessments that they can complete

009for that, you know, college admissions, um, GPAs, all of those types of things can help judge how a school system is doing. Thank you. You're welcome. Good evening. Okay. You made it through too. My question is how do you believe a board member should communicate with school district employees. Um. I think that we, as board members, need to be good listeners, um, be approachable. By those within the school system as well as in the community. We though, the rules and guidelines that I'm sure we follow as a board member coming from the special ed realm, you know, legalities are things that we had to, I mean, you have to follow them. There's rules and regulations. Um, but I believe that, you know, we need to allow those that we're working with within the school districts

010to express themselves and let them know that they've been heard. Not divulging any information or confidential, you know, confidentiality is solidified in me, uh, because of my special ed background. But I think, you know, working to build those relationships is important. Um, I think when people are heard, they feel less threatened. Does that answer your question? Thank you. You're welcome. Hi. Um, question number four H Board member serves differently. Board members often attend meetings, workshops, school events, weekly school visits, deal with constituent communications and dedicate time to preparing for our board meetings. For some members, this may require only a few hours each week. While for others it may require substantially more. What level of time commitment are you willing and able to dedicate to your board responsibilities? Great question. Um, I am fortunate to

011be able to be retired. And so it's my husband and I and our cat. I do have a son in his new wife and their new child that's a little over almost four months here. So I'm very fortunate. My other ones are spread out. And so these are the ones that I'm really close to. So my time is more opened. And if I were working a full - time job, um, and I have a, um, I vested interest in education, um, and that's been my life work for close to over 20 years. And I don't, that professionally, but also personally raising for children, I'll be in public school students and my grandchildren will be in public school too. I was public school. So I'm, I'm, I'm very supportive. I'm loved to be able to get

012back. And so whatever time it's needed, I would love to have more information about like the committees and things like that. I do want to become involved. And I do want to work in collaboration with all the board members in doing that. Thank you. You're welcome. Hey. Hi. Halfway done. What is the toughest thing you've ever had to do in your life. Um, I actually thought about that. And so I did have on some notes I wanted to bring because like to try and think of one tough event is quite incredible because we've all, all of us, especially at this age have gone through lots of trials and tribulations and challenges in our life. And so I'd rather look at it as, um, those challenges such as raising for children birthing for children. Having to

013deal with workplace. Issues. Um, having to lose parents, you know, lost when you get to this age. It's all of those, I believe that have, um, I guess given me or defined how I react and how I treat others and give me the wisdom to be able to pause, take pause and to listen and to approach things in a way that, you know, like I said, I should get older that wisdom comes in play. And so, um, I can't really want to narrow it down to one horrible thing. I think it's just all the challenges that I face and that we overcome those and through those trials. You know, we come better people, better listeners, better providers better strategic planning, all of those types of things. Does that make sense? Oh yeah. Thank you. Good

014evening, Ms. Floyd. Thank you so much for coming to be with us. So yeah, thank you evening. We appreciate your interest in the coming aboard member. My question for you is understanding that no single board member has authority over another describe how you would handle disagreements with fellow board members while maintaining a productive and collaborative working relationship. From being in the school system, I understand that disagreement is just a natural process. We all do not believe in the same things we all don't always think the same way. I think that if we handle it in a professional collaborative manner, that we can reach the desired outcomes. Doesn't necessarily mean I'll write, are you wrong? No, I don't agree with that. We all have different backgrounds that bring us to a point where, you know, our

015decisions are unique at times. And so I think through thoughtful deliberation and collaboration, we can reach those goals as well as being respectful, be an open - minded. And, you know, taken, um, being able to listen to the advice of others. Thank you so much. Hi, Ms. Lloyd. Hello. What do you believe is the most important role of a school board member and how would you work to build trust and collaboration among parents, teachers, administrators and the community. What I believe the role of a school board member is to provide effective governance through policy development, oversight. Strategic planning, budgeting fiscal responsibilities, working with superintendent and developing those relationships. Um, we need to be able to work collaboratively, which I believe the sport is based on things that I've seen does that, which is wonderful. I

016think we need to remain focused on long - term goals and always center everything on students. Is it our decisions the best things for the students? Will this improve their outcomes? Um. I did also requires professionalism being prepared. All the little things that you need to be able to do and strong communication skills, um, that's something I always keep working on. But that's why I bring my notes because I know that's one of the things that I need to help me. Um, so what was the second part of your question? I'm so sorry, Ms. Graham. No problem. Bill that collaboration. Yes. And I think that's, um, as I mentioned earlier, being approachable. Being visible. You know, listening to others. Being thoughtful in our process, uh, taking some time to think and reflect. Being just a

017decent person. And always, you know, like I said, keeping the student centered in those discussions. You're welcome. Good evening. Hello. Um, my question is what are the top three immediate issues that you believe to be the most importance as a Ori County school board member. I want you to rank them and tell us why. Okay. Um, I believe the District's top three would be the supporting student success. That should always be the main priority. Um, supporting our teachers and staff. And ensuring that long - term, our thoughtful long - term, um, planning due to the growth of Roy County. I mean, we've had an influx of people. And I don't see that that's slowing down. Um, so the important students continuing to receive that high quality education, um, and working with curriculum teens and such

018to build those programs and have those in place. Providing those safe, positive learning environments is important for our students, where they feel comfortable and safe learning. And, you know, where we're focused on not only academics, but they're social, emotional well - being, making sure that they're happy campers. Believing that we support our student. I mean, our teachers and our staff, it's essential because strong schools require strong educators and support staff. Um, you can't do it without them. And so looking at that retention and teacher pay and different things like that is important, um, and hiring those quality, having good, good metrics in place to hire the most qualified applicants would be great. And, um, finally that rapid growth occurring, you know, that's going to impact your, um, your, your schools. I mean, because we're overcrowded,

019you know, and facilities building new schools or adding on, you know, the budgeting, the staffing, uh, transportation. I mean, it involves everything. And so, um, coming from a school system, uh, for many years, that, you know, that we didn't have the growth at Hory County has, but I could, I could visualize what that looks like. And so those would be my three. Priorities. Thank you so much. You're welcome. Machini, your response has kind of lead into this next question. How would you balance staff salaries. Facility improvements and academic programs. Um. I guess we would need to look at the information on those. And I would need some more research on where do our salaries fall in relation to other school systems. Um, what facilities are and disrepair. And I think that y'all had a study

020done recently that showed, you know, sort of what needed to be prepared new prioritize those things. And so that would be a great process to follow. Um, and, and new school systems. That's a difficult one because they're very expensive. And so being able to balance that and looking at your revenues, what's coming in and where we can make cuts if we need to in order to support increased salaries. Because that's, y'all pay very well considering where I've been. So, um, and but that might not be in relation to other South Carolina schools. So I think that I would need more information in order to do better answer your question. Mr. Names. But as for curriculum programs, my advanced degree is incorrect in instruction. So that's one of my areas of great expertise. Um, so with

021curriculum, I think that that takes committees and that takes time and effort and research. Which I'm all very familiar with. So to balance those three things, it would, it would be challenging. And hopefully we have more of a finance major on this committee that we could pull in to get expertise with helping to do that as well as, of course, Mr. Jones. I hope that answered your question. Okay. Thank you. I know it was a little lax, but I think I would be new information in order. To provide you a veteran. Sir. Thank you. Ms. Floyd, what skill sets and relevant experience do you have that would be beneficial to the school board? My life's work has been in education, both personally and professionally. Personally, raising four children, that is a lot of work. And

022you've, as a parent, your highly involved with schools at that time, uh, but I've spent over 20 years in education and a variety of roles as I collaborative special educator, um, an administration as a college adjunct teaching education courses at Randolph College and also private school leadership. So those varied experiences have helped develop, um, my views and have a better understanding of the needs of, um, a school system. So that answers your question, Mr. Cox. That's just fine. And finally. Share with the board any closing comments in reference to your candidacy for this seat. Yes, sir. Um, first I'm seriously like to thank you guys for the opportunity to interview today. As well as for the time and consideration you've given throughout this process to all of us. And Mr. Janir, he was very kind

023and generous on the phone and through emails. So I do appreciate that. Um, as I stated, education has truly been my life's work with professionally and personally. They're married for 40 years. And we've learned a lot and done a lot. Raising for kids and continue in our own education. And that's public schools instilled that in us. And so we continue to go even as we work through life. So, um, I am an advocate of education. And as well as continued education. I've seen firsthand the important role of the importance, the role of public schools plays in the life of students, families and the community, um, and I would be privileged to be a part of that in Ory County, which we now call home since 2017 moved here after our last child headed off to

024college. So, uh, this is our home. And I would love to become a part of that. Thank you so much. Yes, sir. That's all. That's it. I did it. Awesome. Um, I appreciate again your time. And I'm just going to hang out in here. Is that okay? That's perfect, you're fine. Thank you, sir. Dan, will you go ahead and open the door. Good evening, Ms. Moriel. Thanks for participating in the interview process for District 5. Each board member will ask you a question and I will ask the final questions. We anticipate this to last approximately 20 minutes. Please know you were free to remain in the boardroom once your interview ends. If you were ready. Let's begin. Mr. Cook. Ms. Morrell. Thanks for coming. Thanks. Um, I have the honor of the first question. And

025I should say, how do you define board governance and please include your understanding of the relationship between the superintendent and the board. Okay. Um, so. I would define board governance as the decision making process. That the board uses to govern the district. In my understanding, also the board does, um, they said the budget approved a budget. They appointed superintendent. And they create policy. Um, the role between the superintendent and the board is one where they, um, the superintendent is the sole contact. For the board. And, um, the superintendent then manages the day - to - day operations of the district. Thank you. Thank you. Hi, how are you tonight? Good. How are you? Good. Thank you. So question number two. What should a high school graduate from our district know and be able to do?

026Part B of that. How do we measure progress towards that. Um, I believe we have the, um, profile of the South Carolina High School graduate that we follow. And that kind of. Outlines their knowledge and skills and characteristics that we want every graduate to possess. Upon graduation. I think we measure that progress in several ways. Um, one that I can think of would be, um, IGPs. That's, you know, of course, you all know where that is. But, um, I think that's a good place where our guidance counselors will, um, sit down with our, our students even as early as coming into ninth grade to determine, you know, do they know what they want to do, whether it's college or a career or maybe Ori George on technical college. And then they can kind of go

027on that path. And then they meet regularly to kind of make sure they're still on that right path. Or maybe they've changed and they don't want to do that anymore. Um, so I think that's an important part of that. Process of following that high school student along. Um, I also think, um, the ACT is another indicator. And, um, I believe our students are doing the work keys. To assess all that. Thank you. Thank you. My question is how do you believe a board member should communicate with school district employees. That's a good question. But I would have to defer to the superintendent as to what his preferences would be. This is a new superintendent. Then one I've previously dealt with. So he might have something different. The prior superintendent was okay with us reaching out

028to executive directors directly, but I'm not sure what his preferences would be. So I would defer to his instruction. Thank you. Hi. Hi. H - Board member serves differently. Board members often attend meetings, workshops, school events, weekly school visits, deal with constituent communications and dedicate time to preparing for our board meetings. For some members, this may require only a few hours each week, while for others, it may require substantially more. What level of time commitment are you willing and able to dedicate to your board responsibilities? As a previous board member, I am aware that there is certainly a commitment of time that needs to be dedicated to that. Although it was a while ago, I'm not sure what's changed in that. And if it's more, um, I think the specific amount that you're asking about

029would vary. Um, I don't know that I could specifically say I'm going to give you 10 hours a week because I don't know that it would necessarily take that all the time. I think some years are busier than others like budget season. Um, and, you know, at the end of the school year May, you're running into your teacher of the year banquets. And the more obligations to attend, which would require more time, um, but I think there are other times of the year where it might not take as much. You know, you have committees. You might have a lot of work in some committees and not as much in others. So I think that is, um, would, would vary into that. But I would assure the board that I would devote the time that's necessary

030to be prepared and make informed decisions at every meeting. Um, and I do, I am very fortunate that I have an employer that, um, allows the flexibility I would need to, um, meet these obligations. Thank you. Thank you. Hey, have we done. Oh, good. Yes. Sound number five. What is the toughest thing you've had to do in your life. That's it. That's a good question. Um, just thinking off the top of my head, I would say, um. Give birth to two sons and have no instruction manual on how that works. Um, one of my children raced motocross and said there was always a possibility of injury with that and recklessness. But, um, you know, they are products in graduates of Ori County schools. They graduated from St. James High School. They both live on their

031own. They have careers in Ori County. They pay their own bills. And I find that to be a huge success. And those things take, you know, a problem solving leadership, um, flexibility. I mean, there's a lot of skills that it takes to raise our children. Not sure if that's exactly what you're looking for. Thank you. Thank you. Good evening, Ms. Norriel. Thank you so much for coming this evening and for your interest in this position. Thank you. Um, understanding that no single board member has authority over another describe how you would handle disagreements with fellow board members while maintaining a productive and collaborative working relationship. I think that, um, that's the great thing about a board is that you all have opinions and your own perspectives. And I think, um, that's what I serve on

032other boards as well. And I think that's what makes, such a great thing to be on is that you all have different ideas to share. I'm certainly open to listening to other people's ideas. And I've certainly been open to changing my mind on an opinion I did have by listening to someone else's opinions. I think, um, having the respect to hear people and to listen is very important. And the other side of that is we're all adults. So I know that we would all, as a board, you collectively make a decision. You vote on it. And that's your decision. I would support that regardless. Thank you. Thank you. Hello, Ms. Moriel. It's kind of a two - part question. Uh, what do you believe is the most important role of a school board member and

033how would you work to build trust and collaboration among parents, teachers, administrators and the community. First of all, can I say congratulations on school board elect for the South Carolina school board association? I saw that. That's awesome. I'm sure everybody is so proud. I think the most important role of the school board member is the same thing as the board. We set policies for the superintendent to follow. We don't get involved in the day - to - day micromanaging of anything. We're here to assist the superintendent with whatever he needs to accomplish questions to accomplish his job and the support of making our district even better than it is now. And the second part of your question. Was, you know, having served as a board member previously, I felt like I worked really hard. In

034my community and even in other areas of the district to build trust, collaboration among the parents'teachers, administrators, but obviously time has passed. We have new administrators in our schools. We have new parents and teachers. But I feel like what I did before, I would continue to do, which is, um, just very simple kindness. Respecting others and their opinions. And listening. People want to be heard. They might, you might have to agree to disagree, but I think people like just to be heard. Thank you. Thank you. Good evening. My question is, what are the top three immediate issues that you believe to be most important serving as a board member of Warie County schools? And I want you to rank them and tell them if why. Okay. First, I would say, um. Uh, immediately is your

035budget. On June 8th, when you swear in a new board member, you are voting. I believe that evening for your budget. I have, and by the way, I love the zero based budget. What a great idea. And that took a lot of work from the district. I know it's still kind of working in the process of getting, going through other departments. But it's very impressive to hear. I'm very excited. To hear about that. Um. But I've been keeping up with a board meetings and your retreats and, you know, ready to vote if necessary on that night. The second, I would say as an immediate issue is continuing to support the, um, rise to reading. That's, I know a new initiative. Uh, movement. Maybe is what I think we're saying. But, um, I have a kindergarten

036green sun who has been reading and we listen to audio books in the car on the way to school in the morning. And, um, I look forward to seeing what's going on next year for first grade for him. And so, um, I think your support of the rise to read. It's so great to see the social media pictures of kids reading, you know, on the floor and in the dark and under their desk. And I mean, it's just so, it's just so great to see how it's taking across the district. It doesn't matter what school, what Facebook you're looking at. It's, it's taking across the district and that's something to be proud of that you guys have supported. And I think that's probably going to continue to be, um, something that's going to be a

037priority coming up. The third immediate issue, um, this is just my opinion would be, um, student behavior. I think, um. We have a lot of schools and we're a large county, but I think we have a parent handbook. And our discipline is outlined in there. I think teachers need to be supported. Through the discipline. Um, and I think, I know it can't be consistent everywhere. And I know we have schools doing a really good job at that, but I think we have some that aren't doing as well as they should. I think the coastal areas, I think everywhere in the district, we have a lot of transient people who move. You might have to be in this apartment. You might go with your grandmother. But when we're changing schools, some bad behavior shouldn't be accepted

038somewhere. And then it's enforced at another school. We should really kind of be consistent as much as we can. And that also kind of runs into your feeder schools. I think, you know, especially when you're looking at a middle to high school, you know, some of those seventh and eighth grade behaviors might be pretty similar to what you could see at the high school level. And we should try to be as consistent as possible to kind of make some transitions and expectations very similar across the district. I think that's answer everything. All right. Thank you very much. Ms. Moriel of Janice. How would you balance staff salaries, facility improvements and academic programs? So staff salaries are vital to what we do. And we're in the business of Hory County schools is in the business of

039educating children. Without the teachers. And staff. We're really lacking then and we don't, we're not really educating if we don't have those people. I think we need to be competitive and our pay. I think and I think you've done a good job at really trying to bring that up and make us competitive. I think that will help you retain teachers. Um, I think that might have kind of slowed a little bit to where we're seeing some stability with that. But, um, I think, you know, we're not seeing it necessarily maybe with our younger teachers, but I think our, I think retaining our quality teachers that we have hired is very important to what we do every day. Um, the facility improvements, I'm not really sure exactly what we're looking for with this question, but the

040facility improvements, I mean. If we're looking at saving on a budget, I think in that area, you could make some moves to save some money where you're just keeping the priority of things that are important to do our daily function of our business, which is educating children. We're going to repair an HVAC. We're going to make sure our cafeteria is working appropriately. Maybe we're not going to paint this year because we might need to save some money. But if this is an issue where we have an unlimited budget, of course. That would be different as well. I think facilities could be an amazing condition. Um, but an academic programs, those are vital to what we do. I mean, the academic programs and the salaries are huge. I think, um, we should be making sure our

041interventions are really working for as what we need them to be doing. And the programs that we have and that we're putting in some of our schools like the aviation or, you know, some welding opportunities that we have those, you know, making sure those are working and we're seeing results with those, um, I think results is what I think is going to be important with all that. Is so long as we're seeing results. And those are important. But I think, you know, facilities also come into play because we need to make sure our children, this is where they spend a lot of time. You know, they're in our buildings from elementaries like seven in the morning until 233 o'clock or maybe five if they're in our after school care stuff or at your high school

042level, and you could be an athlete and you're in those buildings until six o'clock. So I still think even if you're watching your budget making sure they're clean and, you know, they're safe. I think, um, is really important because that's really a home for a lot of our children. Thank you. Thank you. My turn. What school sets and relevant experience do you have that would be beneficial to the school board. Hey, john at some notes, Don. I hope you don't mind on some things. I'm going to refer to. Because I have a little experience. So the skill sets that I have. That would be beneficial or that I am a good listener. I'm a team player. I mean, we have to be, we're all in the same team here. Um, flexible. And I think I

043have the courage to make decisions even some tough ones. I have to be made. I think that's, that's important. Sometimes you have to make decisions you don't like, um, and those can be tough, but they have to be done. Um. And I do have a little relevant experience. I did serve. As a word member previously. So I am fully aware of the time commitment that it takes. Um, I served previously on the technology and the human resources committee. I was actually a part of the board when we were implementing the one to one. And I love that you guys are really having some discussions about how to balance that with some screen time. And making sure our younger students are getting those writing skills because those are vital. And that was a concern. I think

044a lot of us at that time had had. And I'm really, I'm really glad to see that we're working on something like that now. Um, in addition, I did serve as a director with the South Carolina School Board Association. I'm very familiar with the budget process and student appeals and being a member of an advisory board. Prior to serving on the board, it didn't just start and decide one day to be a board member. I was involved in our schools like probably many of you were, um, so room parent. And then on the PTA and your school improvement council, and I was actually appointed to serve on the advisory board in my area. And so my commitment for wanting what's best for our students has always been there. And then when I wasn't on the

045board anymore, my commitment to wanting what's best for all of our students didn't stop. I'm still on the board at our St. James High Booster Club and working there to help make sure our athletics and facilities are good there. Um, my background does help the board to have a smooth transition. In order for you to be focusing on doing what's best for students and continuing the business of the district. Thank you. Thank you. Final question share with the board any closing comments in reference to your candidacy toward this seat. Thank you, Mr. Cox. Um, you know, I would say this is really an exciting time for Ori County schools. We have a new superintendent. Who's really introducing some innovative ideas to the district. I love coffee with cliff. I've been twice. As a matter of

046fact, I saw Ms. Edmunds at one of them at Myrtle Beach Middle. What a great opportunity for our community to get involved in a different way and very informal where you learn a lot about who he is and where he came from, but you also learn about what's going on with the district. The one I attended at Myrtle Beach Middle, I was so impressed and I was sorry, Dr. Christi couldn't be there, but because she would be so proud. There were students at it. And they were so engaged. And that was so impressive to have them be comfortable to ask you questions. And you asked them some tough questions and they were very honest. Um, and I know you've taken some of their feedback back to the District, I'm sure, um, because they had some

047really valid points. Um, but I think things like that are just are so wonderful. And I think those are great. I attended the one last year when you first started them. But I have three grandchildren. I have one in kindergarten. And then I have two who will be coming up. Um, and you know, this rise to reading is just a great initiative. And I can't wait to see what happens in first grade and how it evolves from there. And you know, you guys should be commended because one of your jobs and the most important job you have is to hire a superintendent. And that doesn't happen for every board. I mean, I was on here and it doesn't happen all the time. So to have the opportunity to hire someone, I mean, I want to

048thank you for hiring him to be our superintendent. I think you did a wonderful job at selecting him. And she be commended for that. I'm just, I'm truly appreciated. Um, and they've, you know, I'm proud that my sons are products of this district and graduates of St. James. And now that I have grandchildren that will have even more opportunities than we've ever had before, um, thanks to this board. I know you have a difficult decision this evening. And if selected, I look forward to contributing to the ongoing success and direction of this board. And I want to just to thank you all for your time this evening. And I'm grateful for the opportunity to be considered for this appointment. Thank you. Thank you. You may be seated. We appreciate it. Thank you. So I spread

049a. Question 10. Hey, on me. Thank you guys for being here this evening. That's. The only season. Good evening, Mr. Robinson. Thanks for participating in the interview process for District 5. Each board member will ask you a question. And I will ask the final question. We anticipate each interview to last approximately 20 minutes. Please know you're a free to remain in the boardroom once your interview ends. If you're ready, we will again. Yes, sir. Thank you. Mr. Cook. Good evening, Mr. Robinson. How are you tonight? I'm well in you. All right. Great. Welcome. So my question, uh, for you is how, what do you, how do you define board governance. And please include the understanding of the relationship between superintendent and the board. Thank you Mr. Count. My understanding of the definition of board governance

050would be that the board sets policy only. It's, it's our responsibility to charter path forward as a group for Ori County schools. Give that information to Mr. Jones and then let him be the action part of it. That's, that's what I've come to know about it. Is that it's, it's weird. The policy centers only. Thank you. All right. Mr. Robinson. Number two. What should a high school graduate from our district know and be able to do. How do we measure progress towards that. I love this question. Um, a high school graduate from our district. Should have been getting the best education that we can give them in a preparation standpoint. The children that want to go to college, we should have them as ready as possible from a testing standpoint and an academic standpoint. And

051from citizenship standpoint as much as possible, whether they go to Clemson or South Carolina or school out of state, whatever we can do to help those kids in preparation for higher education to go on and lead, that's what we need to do through the policy setting with Mr. Jones. Um, the children or students that are not on the college track. I think they should be rewarded with the opportunity in other ways. Um, you know, in this particular county, what we are lacking a lot of is in trades. And so if there are children that have already just assessed it and they know that what they want to do is something that is noncollegiate, I think it's our responsibility as parents and community. To set them up for success. Um, I think that anybody that we

052educate and train here in Ory County is more likely to stay in Or County. And that would be a great thing. How do we measure the progress towards that. Um. I mean, some of those metrics, I think, are tougher than others. Um, obviously from a test score standpoint or, what is it? My kids take the SE ready tests and map tests and all that. I don't have a high schooler yet. So I don't exactly know how that works. But I mean, every year, what is it? Is it twice a year? We'll get those little sheets with the graphs and it tells us where our kids were, where they, where they're going, how they're doing in relationship to their peers. I mean, those are measurable metrics. And so we can track growth. And I'm sure that

053the metadata on that is incredible. And you guys can look and identify which schools are. I hate to use the word achieving. But which schools are achieving what you've asked them to do and which tools are not achieving what the vastum to do. You know. I like metrics. I like numbers. Um, I think numbers don't lie. I mean, of course statistics can be, they can be skewed and they can, you know, we can show what we want to show. But I would hope through the goodness of all the people that are on this board and this gentleman right here that we could root out down to how we're doing. Um, the metrics as far as like our non collegiate track students. I mean, I think it, I think positive placement, you know, if we have

054just like, you know, maybe I don't want to go to USC. Maybe I don't want to go to Clemson. Maybe I want to own an HAC company. I mean, I think that they're like being able to judge with it that we, we were successful in educating them comes 10 years down the line or a little bit further. But I would hope that we could get those goods through the curriculum and put them in the best possible position for them to succeed after they leave our high schools. Um, and I'm going to say it again, cause I believe it and I mean it any way that we can retain talent here in Ory County is important. Um, there's no sense. And the best and the brightest leaving worry county moving to Charleston. We want to keep

055them here. This is a vibrant community. And we need people. Thank you very much. Yes, ma'am. Good evening. My question is how do you believe a board member should communicate with school district employees. Um, I think carefully would be my answer. Cause I think that our role on the board or your role on the board is to work directly with Mr. Jones. Um, it's my understanding that what this group, these people standing here sitting here today, they set policy as far as the vision goes for what we're doing or accounting. And then communicate it clearly to Mr. Jones so that he can then enact it in the ways that he sees best so fit. Um, my understanding of how this works is that the only employee that the 12 or 11 of y'all, 12 of

056you all have your number 12, right? Okay. So the only employee that the 12 people that sit on this board have is this man right here. And then so we deal with a, I think it's the where and the what, and he deals with the how and the why. Um, I've never done school administration. However, I have kids in school and my mom was a school teacher was a school teacher. And so I think that we're in the community. Obviously each and every one of you guys has probably had a kid go through orientic schools or has a kid in there now or seize people at church or whatnot. And I think that, you know, like hearing them without giving an opinion would be an important thing to do. Um, I mean, I don't think

057that, uh, Mr. Jones and Mr. Cox would want any of us giving our personal opinions on things when that would be the role the entire board, the clear communication of what y'all have already determined as policy. Did I answer your question? Yes. Thank you. Thank you. Hey, miss soldiers. Hi. Hbord member serves differently. Board members often attend meetings, workshops, school events, weekly school visits. Deal with constituent communications and dedicate time to preparing for our board meetings. For some members, this may require only a few hours each week while for others, it may require substantially more. What level of time commitment are you willing and able to dedicate to your board responsibilities. Um, I would say as much as necessary, um, I realize that the young man that's no longer sitting in that chair right there

058was important and he left huge shoes to be filled. Um, when I worked with him, I found him to be compassionate. And I felt like I was heard. So I do realize that like that was a man that was a pillar. And so probably a lot of time. Um, I am a parent. You know, I have a, I'm an employee, I'm a small business owner. But I have the energy for things that I care about and things I think are important. And when it comes to education, it's not just because I have kids. It's just kind of a rising tide raises all children. And that's what I think. So I'm sure that there are some weeks where there would be much more of an expectation for hours and time than other weeks. Um, you guys

059would have to tell me I've never been a school board person before, but I do recognize that there is a, uh, a certain reverence and commitment that would be required for this job. And, uh, I would just tell you unequivocally you guys have, have my energy and my bigger as far as what's needed. Thank you. I answered it completely. Yeah. Okay. Thank you. Good evening. What is the toughest thing that you've ever had to do. It's question number seven. But I'm really number five to your halfway. Um, yeah, wow. That's a great question. Um, I would say that easy answer is being apparent because it's challenge every day. I would say another easy answer would be just being responsible member community with consistency. Maybe firing people, you know, that's certainly not something I like to

060do. And sometimes something you have to do. That's a good question. Um, but I would default back to just trying to be the best parent that I can be. Thank you. Mr. Robinson, thank you so much for your interest in this position and for coming tonight. We appreciate you being here. Understanding that no single board member has authority over another. Describe how you would handle disagreements with fell award members while maintaining a productive and collaborative working relationship. I think that any disagreements would need to be handled like privately behind, you know, as much as possible behind closed doors. Um, I do understand that there's an awful lot of, uh, freedom of information act that goes on with this group and how you guys do business and what the community and citizens taxpayers, if you will,

061are. Privilege to know. Um, I think that there's 12 people on this board and I find it hard to believe that 12 people always agree, but I suspect that when you guys do vote on something that you guys are then in lockstep. And I think that that is a sacred part of being in a board, um, is that that clear vision and communication that once there's been a decision made regardless of if I thought it was what was right for the, you know, the constituents of District 5 that we all go together and present that common front, which is this is what the board has decided. And this is the policy that's been set for Mr. Jones. And this is what Rendo moving forward. So the short answer would be I would understand that grown

062people don't always agree, especially when they are representing other people, but that would indecision was made that it was our duty as a group to function as a whole. Thank you. Hello, Mr. Robinson. My question is kind of two parts. What do you believe is the most important role of a school board member and how would you work to build trust collaboration trust and collaboration among parents, teachers, administrators and the community. I answer your question. Um, I think community is one of the most important things that we have. Um, it's one of my favorite things in the whole wide world is, you know, what happens in a small town, what happens in a county like ours where we all kind of bump into each other and know each other. So what I believe is the

063most important role in the school board member is being an active member of community listening to what people tell you, taking of that moment to just make people feel heard. Um, I know that everybody in this room has been in a situation where they just needed to feel heard to have somebody believe and then hopefully advocate for what their needs are at that time. So I would say it starts there for certain is just that the fabric of community that we've all worked so hard to weave here in Ori County. As far as building trust and collaboration on parents, teachers, administrators and the community, um, it goes right back to the setting of policy. You know, what, what our job as a school board would be as my understanding is that we set policy that

064Mr. Jones then enacts. Um, so there's that. I've lived in the South End Oori County now for almost 20 years. And it's one of those things like it is a small town. And most of the time we've all met and know each other. And so service and community is something that I find to be, uh. Something that is inherent in all of us and something that we should want to do. And so. As far as any elected or appointed official goes, it's doing their best to understand and hear what people are telling them. And then act upon it. Thank. You. Yes, ma'am. Good evening. And Mr. Roberson. My question is, uh, what are the top three immediate issues that you believe to be a most important serving as a board memorable on Ori County schools.

065I want you to rank them and tell me why. Yes, sir. Um. I think all three are very important. Um, I would have to say with just those three, because you guys did not list a students in that. And I would put a student's number one. I think the second one would be, it would have to be starting with staff salaries. And you're looking at the wrong question. What you want to look like? You're on, you should be on number eight and number eight. Look at number eight. Right. Oh, I like this question too. Um, I would think first and foremost is safety and opportunity for all of our students. Um, it's like 1A and 1AA. I want to make sure that all the students that come through the halls of any of the schools

066that are here are provided the same opportunity to learn and achieve greatness. The second one, just be safety and security for all staff and teachers. And everybody that then does visit those schools. Make. Sure to answer number eight, right? Top three immediate issues. Overcrowding. For sure. In District 5, you know, we've seen an explosive growth down there in the last 20 years. And I've got kids in those schools and I know that they're succeeding. In spite of often overcrowding. Um, I know there's portables at St. James Middle. I don't think they're used. But I'm aware we do use portables around the county. And I think it's managing, how do we get it enough school property without overbuilding for the future? I don't think any of us want half full schools, but at the same time,

067I suspect Mr. Jones pre - hon his priority list is, you know, making sure the student a teacher ratio is correct. And the other thing is retention of staff and retention of existing students. Um, I don't, however we can keep a decline in students, um, you know, the idea, I'm sure that everybody in this room probably hopefully shares is that when we get a kindergartener as a student that we keep them through the 12th grade and that they don't want to leave County schools because y'all, us, all of us as a community have done a good enough job setting policy that gives him the opportunity to create an atmosphere that people wouldn't want to leave. Um, I know that there's charter schools. I know the private schools. I know the homeschools and I know that

068each child learns differently. And I hope they all land where they're supposed to be. But I also think that in Ory County, we have an opportunity to make the schools as good as we can so that they would want to stay. So let me see here. Let me make sure I answer your question exactly. So overcrowding. Retention of students and staff. And then the last one I would say would be. Making the most of the budget that we have in existence. Um, I want to work inside our budget without increasing the budget. I know that the 1. 2 billion dollar budget for 26, 27. I'm sure that that was thoughtfully put together. And I think it's important that we use the money that has already been allocated to schools to provide the best experience we

069can without having to race taxes or go digging for more money. Um, I want to do with what we have, not search for more. Thank you very much. Hey, thank you. Mr. Robertson. And now for the question you really want to answer. How would you balance staff salaries facility improvements and academic programs? That's a good question. Um. I think there's a very specific trouble with this. I think given those three choices, none of them are students. And so that one has been pulled off of this possible question. So I think the first thing if you were to ask me as a child of a teacher and, uh, having now gosh, what is it? My kids have had like 17 teachers now in Ori County and they've all been amazing. And I think I would say

070the first woman have to be staff salaries and that we need to surpass this debate or the state baseline without raising the budget that we've already put together. Um, I think that the taxpayer has been asked enough. And so if we can use the money that we already have. So I would be staff salaries. Define facility improvements. When you say that, are you talking about renovation or are you talking about new facilities. Could be both. Okay. Then I think that it's based on the policy that we set as far as overcrowding goes and then asking and respecting the opinion we get from Mr. Jones and, and probably the principles as well and understanding what each of these schools can have. I mean, obviously we're going to need more schools. Um, maybe not like in every

071district, but there are certainly some districts that are probably bursting at the seam. So other ones, I noticed today that, let's see here. Seaside Elementary only has 429 students. Burgess has 690 in St. James Elementary is 901. It seems remarkable to me that we can have one elementary school that's got half the attendance of another one. Um, I'm sure that the great reason for that. And it could probably be explained. But I would put facility improvements second. And then academic programs. Like I think that they all kind of go together. I mean, if academic programs is student - centric, then I think that has to be first. Because like, I'm sure that the mission statement for Or County schools is probably somewhere along the lines of serve every children or every child or every student

072or every people to the best of our possible ability to provide them experience, both educationally. Academically and athletically. To have a rich experience here. So staff salaries, academic programs, and then facility improvements. But if you were to ask me, I would tell you that they would all be of equal importance. Thank you. Good evening to Mr. Robinson. This is number 10 on the list, I think. Yes, sir. Uh, what skill sets and relevant experience do you have that would be beneficial to the school board. The son of a school teacher, public school, and I'm a product of public education and state university. So I believe in public education. I don't think it should be gutted. I think the supported to the best of our possible abilities. Um, I do a ton of mediation. And sometimes

073this was a little people. But, um, working with clients, owning small business in town. I mean, certainly budget is always an issue. And, uh, from a ranking of importance, outside of students, I think fiscal responsibility and how we allocate the money that we already have and working towards setting budgets. Those are things that I do every day. Um. I would hope that just being a parent and having kids in school would count for some of that as well. Cause I kind of see it from if Mr. Jones sees it from 30, 000 feet and you guys see it from 35, 000 feet. I see it from one foot, which is taking kids to school every day and talking to teachers and trying to make sure that I'm advocating for the kids that I can advocate

074for. Thank you. And finally share with the board any closing comments in reference to your candidacy. Um, yeah, I'm glad I get to answer this. I just want to start with, thank y'all for having me. I appreciate your time and this interview process. I'm sure through your leadership and appropriate candidate will be selected to fill this vacancy. I feel confident that with the people sitting here that you guys are going to select somebody that is going to do the best that they can do, um, I'd also like to personally just into the record. Thank Mr. Barnard. For his tenure. He was a great man and I personally witnessed his belief and service community and he leaves Lord shoes to fill. If selected, you know, I would look forward to the opportunity of living up to

075the high bar he has sat for those that come after him. Um, he did. He, he helped me. Like the one time I needed something like he called me back immediately. It was empathetic. It was, it was such a wonderful moment. Um, and two, I just want to be honest with you all, I'm a father. I'm an employee. I'm a small business owner. I'm active in the community and I always have been. I was raised to believe in local. This is where greatness lives in small towns. If appointed, I look forward to serving my community with a vigor and energy that the position deserves. I have a lot in common with my constituents. And I believe that would serve them well. Um, the lens that I look through is certainly cluttered with work and business

076and practice schedules and just the wants and needs the children. And kind of just in it. And so I do know half of the people that are already in District 5 and I would look forward to meeting the other half. But, um, I just appreciate the process that y'all are knowing through, uh, and that you guys are taking on time to interview people. And thank you. Like the schools, my kids go to are incredible. And for whatever role all of y'all have like played and putting policy together, thank you. Thank you, sir. Thank you. You may be seeing. Let's talk now. Send this to it now. We'll take five minutes. Okay. That's all right. You won't miss nod. You. Ready? Yeah. I'm ready. Good evening, Ms. Digne. Thanks for participating in this interview process. Each

077board member will ask you a question and I will ask the final question. We anticipate the interview to the last approximately 20 minutes. If you're ready, we will begin with the first interview question with Mr. Cook. Okay. Good evening, Ms. Stockdale. Morning, Mr. Cook. Thanks for coming. Thank you. So how would you define board governance and include your understanding of the relationship between the superintendent and a board member. Well, the superintendent has the legal authority of everything over the board. He is the, obviously, the ultimate boss of the education. The board works as a team. With superintendent, gaining some different ideas. Maybe some new ideas or, you know, things that the board or the District might like. But it's, he's, he's the, he's the boss. So he's, it's his, his district. But I believe that

078everyone works as a team. That, um, that good things could happen. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you so much for being here. We appreciate it. Thank you. Thank you, Mr. All right. My question for you. What should a high school graduate from our District know and be able to do. And then the second part, how do we measure progress towards that? Well, I believe high school seniors should be prepared for the world in front of them, whether it's a technical school work or college, because not all students go to college. So I think students need to be prepared to become good citizens. So I think a lot of life lessons, life learning lessons, um, interviewing skills, resume writing, because they're going to go for a job anywhere. It could be at an auto parts store.

079It could be, um, in a college, any opportunity. You know, applications for college. I think they need to be prepared with the knowledge and understanding of everything they've gained in high school to prepare. And that's through the guidance department, the guides department should prepare them as well as the teachers prepare them. For their future. So I think they need life learning skills. In whichever direction they go. And then also, how would we measure that. I would measure that through a lot of times you could check through the English teachers, English teachers. And ironically, the physels will know the interpersonal skills of the students to see maybe what direction they might want to go in. You know, if they might be good with kids, they might want to be, might want to be a teacher. If

080they're good with numbers, if they're good in history, you know, whatever their likes or dislikes, a lot of times the FIZED department and teaches would know the students based on their interpersonal skills. The guidance department prepares them by their courses. And prepares them. What courses they would need to go to various colleges and fields. That would interest them. And I think given the opportunities in the high schools, the middle school is well, but the high schools would have more direct. Input on what area they might want. You know, you have the source, you have different areas where the kids can go into either engineering or medical or technical schools. So technical schools pay very well. So I would encourage them as well. So whichever field, but I think they need to be ready. English teachers

081and physad teachers are primary, I think, knowing the students the best. Thank you so much. And I will let you know the page to your right. Okay. Just in case you need it does have the questions. Oh, okay. Just as a help. Oh, I could see my questions. Yeah. There you go. All right. Okay. Thank you very much. Thank you. Good evening. My question is how do you believe a board member should communicate with school district employees? Well, that's extremely important. Parents, teachers, the community. All of that. Cultivates into the school, into the community, into the school itself. It's very important to be visible. It's very important to be at events, very important to talk to the parents, talk with the teachers. They need to know that we're supporting their ideas, their thoughts. We might

082not agree with them, but they need to hear, we need to hear what they're saying. Cause what they're saying is very important to them. If it's important enough for them to come to the board, it's important to them. So I think communication is extremely important. Um, when I was working, I never let a day go by. Uh, when I got into administration, whether it was an angry parent, a happy parent. I never left until every phone call was made to a parent because they had to be heard. You have to speak with them. But I also believe in visibility. And they need to see you out there. They need to see you out events. Cause I think that's important. And it shows the students see that you take pride in their school. Thank you. Thank

083you. Aye. Each board member serves differently. Board members often attend meetings, workshops, school events, weekly school visits, deal with constituent communications and dedicate time to preparing for our board meetings. For some members, this may require only a few hours each week, while for others, it may require substantially more. What level of time commitment are you willing and able to dedicate to your board responsibilities? A lot. Um, I got into education because I loved working with kids. So when I was first, when I was a FISED teacher, I loved being with the kids. And then I realized that 22 years old, I'm like, wow, I'm getting kids that hated to exercise. Loved working out by the time they, by the time they entered the school year came, wow, that's so cool. You could have an impact

084like that on a student. And then as I got into guidance, I saw how, you know, you could help students in tragic situations, very difficult situations. But get them through it and let them know that they're important. And that has like gotten to administration. Pumping up the teachers and getting them to feel proud of what they did. Because my philosophy has been and always will be happy teachers, happy kids. If you have teachers that want to be there and they know that you admire and you look to them and you would, you respect them and you're there for them. They will go the extra mile. And as a result, the kids will be happier. And when you have happy teachers, kids know right away if you want, if the teacher wants to be there or

085not. And they, they sniff that out right away. So I would put in as much time as the board would allow. I would never want to overstep people, but I, I would be very visible at quite a few events because I believe in that. But I would always check with the board to make sure it's not too much or too little. I thought it'd be too little, but not that it's too much. But I believe in being visible. I also believe in being visible in the schools. Um, you know, they, again, teachers, Hey, how you doing? Having a good, just pumping them up. You pump the teachers up. It goes a long way. Goes a long way with the kids. Yeah. Good evening. Aye. What is the toughest thing that you have ever had to

086do. Toughest thing I ever had to do. That's a tough one. Over my 30 years. In the beginning, it was going to a house and getting a student to come to school when I went to his house and saw his, what he lived. It was very upsetting. That was very difficult. And. When my principal told me I had a fire, one of my teachers, that was difficult. And I knew why. I knew why I had to let them go. But that was difficult. But I think the student was the most difficult, probably. That was the most emotional. You know, seeing a living conditions and really seeing how some people live. And, you know, when I was young at the time, but that really took a toll on me for a while. Thank you. Ms. Scott,

087Bill, thank you so much for taking the time to come meet with us tonight and your interest in the board. My question is that understanding that no single board member has authority of her another described how you would handle disagreements with fellow board members while maintaining a productive and collaborative working relationship. Well, we're all the same boat. So I think we all work together. I would be the new kid on the block. So I wouldn't have much to say. I would kind of go with what the veterans have to say. You know, it might have some ideas, but it's not my ship to sail. I believe in working together. I believe in talking, always talking to people. Because communication is very important. On many levels with students, parents, teachers, and especially board members. And the

088view here. So, you know, the personalities, but then can't be worked out because I told, I would tell my teachers, you don't have to like each other, but you're here for the same reason. You're here for the common good of the kids. So you're here for the same reason. Thank you. Hi, Mr. Dale. I'm his Janine. And you're more than halfway through with the question. Oh, okay. Mine is kind of two parts. What do you believe is the most important role of a school board member. And how would you work to be able to trust and collaboration among parents, teachers, administrators and the community? Okay. The first part number six. But number one, oh six. Okay. The first part is what do you believe is the most important board member? Um. I'm a lot about

089teamwork. I go up playing sports. I played the visual embasketball and softball. I'm a team player. I believe a strong board is only a strong as its weakest link. And knowing who the captain is, is the superintendent. I think the most important role is that we work together and that we always remember why we're here. And the second part describe how you would have disagreements with fellow board members. Well, we did that one number. How would you work to be able to trust collaborating and collaboration among parents, teachers, administrators and the community? That would just be through again being seen. The more you're seen, the more they see you. And they get to know you by talking with you and listening. I always say God gave us two ears and one mouth for a reason.

090We got to do more listening than talking. So I would listen to what parents would have to say and teachers. They don't always might not always agree with the answer, but you got to give them time. And you just got to communication and presence, I think is very important. Um, not being in an office. I was never in my office when I was working. I did my work when their teachers left. It was very important to be visible. And they need to see you out there. Thank you. In the schools, especially. Because in the kids see it, too. Thank you. Thank you. Good evening. Hi. My question is number eight. Eight. What are the top three immediate issues that you believe to be most of importance serving as a board member for Ori County schools?

091I want you to rank them and tell us why. Three immediate issues that you believe to be of the most important safety. Is number one. Because of the knuckleheads we have out in society. Uh, I think safety. Is number one. And number two was communication. Um, I believe in strong communication with the board. Mr. Jones. Administration, teachers, parents, um, so I'd have to say safety, communication. And my third one is. I don't. Know. Being with, I can't say being with the kids. Immediate issues. I keep going back to the teachers. Because that's where it begins for the kids. Especially the elementary kids. That's where it begins. That's where they learn to either love vegetation or not. So I think my third most, most important issue would be communicating with teachers. Teachers need to know that

092you're behind them and you support them. Again, might not always hear what you might not always hear what they want to hear, but they need to be heard and we need to know that we appreciate what they do every day. I was in a class. When I first started phys, I had 60 kids in a gym. 60. In a gym. So it's, it's a lot. You know. And I know the classrooms are based on class size or based on the fire department. They give you the dimensions. I guess I'm assuming that's what it is down here as well. How many kids in a class? But you know, it's different than it was 30 years ago. The kids, you know, they don't, it's different. They have different lifestyles. They have different family dynamics. Yeah. Those, yeah,

093it would be communication with teachers. It's extremely important, extremely important to me. Thank you so much. Thank you. Mr. Stockdale. Yes, sir. How would you balance staff salaries, facility improvements in academic programs. Uh, staff salaries. Question number one. Seth salaries. Okay. Facility improvements and academic programs. Um. I would. First I would check to see how we, how our salaries rate rank with other counties in the state. How do we rate? Are we above or we below? Where are we? And we need to be where they are, if not above. Because you're not going to get good teachers if you don't pay them. So I always believe in going a step ahead. So I would look at the salaries as you want good teachers. You got to pay, you got to, you pay, you get what

094you pay for. Facility improvements. I would look for, um. See, we had, we had a staff. I'm trying to, it was different where I was and what it is here. The facility improvements, I would look at the safety. What facility improvements would have to be done? First, the number one would be the safety. Is it a safety issue for the improvements? That would be my first question. Our second question would be, would it be an accommodating? Okay, we can add, we can add an extra room. We can add this or add that. Something that's not necessarily safety needed, but wanted. So I would look at the safety first. Academic programs. I would, um, would I balance them. Gotta pay for the teachers. I would have to look at the facilities. Academic programs I would have

095to see. I would go by test scores to see where they, where we stand. In our district. We're going to send an artist would compared to acceptances of technical schools, colleges and the workforce. All our kids prepared to go in any of those three directions. Or the military. Can't forget the military. Are they prepared physically? Are they prepared to go to the military? They have Jim here, what, once a week. I got a problem with that. A former physI. Um. But they, they'd have to, I would have to balance that out. Are they ready to get into any of those programs? Did we provide them the necessary tools. For them to succeed in. Work. Technical schools or in colleges or universities. Thank you. Anything again, Mr. Pence. Um, this is number 10 on your list.

096Okay. What skill says and relative experience do you have that would be beneficial to the school board. Uh, my skills. I love testing. I was, I ran the S - 18 ACT state testing District testing. I love the organization of testing. I love to organize things. I like to organize. You say, all right, Cindy, we want to, we want, we want to do a test site for blah, blah, blah, blah. I like to organize those things. I like to put things together. I like to put all the pieces of the puzzle together and check the staff and who would be best to suited for here or there. I love testing. I love working with students. I just love to work with the students as far as. Getting them to feel good enough about themselves to

097think they could do anything they set their mind to. I think that's so important. And that again starts with the teachers. Pumping the teachers up to feel good enough to say, Hey, would I say the kids really do listen what I say. You know, and they really think maybe I can do this. Maybe I can. He pushed them the extra mile. I have experience in testing testing. I have experience in 504 students. I was a special needs guidance counselor. For five years. And, um, when I was in the middle school, I they did not have, this is how one goal was. There was no such thing as a 504 program. So I put it together. And what I did was I, I checked, I went to the state level. And got the information from the

098state and from districts that were looking to form a 504 implementation. So I put that together. So I enjoyed again organizing putting that together. So testing 504s, the special needs, uh, students, for the special needs students, parents and the students that have a say. So they are not forgotten because I had the special needs students. I was their guidance counselor. And they were a lot of work. And the parents didn't know what to do or what not to do. So, um, I have quite a lot of experience, but special ed background with that. Um. Testing special ed running programs. Uh, scheduling. I love doing teacher scheduling. Those are the other things I enjoyed doing. I would check to see what teachers were certified in and put together the master's schedule. Did that for many years.

099Rank the students based on the test scores, the basic skills on what they call down here was a basic skills. And they were A, B, and C. So you made sure you had, um, equal amount of students in each grade level in the math classes, how many math classes you would have. So you would spread out the intelligence of the kids. And make sure you have the equal amount of boys and girls in the class. Um, the intricacies of scheduling and how to put a school together. That's what I really love doing that. Thank. You. And finally please share with the board any closing comments in reference to your candidacy for District 5. Okay. Well, first I would like, which is what I wanted to open with. I wanted to send my deepest condolences to

100each of the board members on the loss of Howard Bernard. Which is why I'm here tonight. I just want to say I'm sorry for your, for your loss. I'm sorry that he had passed away. And I wanted to thank you all for this opportunity. To possibly be on the board. Um, I had my 30 years in education and I, and I really enjoyed loved what I did. And. Before I came in here, I was inside. And, you know, I would every now and then I would go on the website and I would see interim principle, interim vice principal. I'd scratch my head. I'd get excited. Cause I walk in a school. I get, I still get pumped up when I walk on a school. Like the. I said, you know, I don't know if I

101can go 10, 12 hours, five days a week anymore. You know. And so I apply to the board to hopefully, I'm not going 10, 12 hours, five, six days a week just to try to make a difference and to bring Ori County schools to the next level, whether it's through technology, um, through the students believing in themselves, the teachers believing in themselves and the administrators being good leaders for their teachers. So they could believe in themselves. Um, I had, uh, I believe in career day for seniors, which we were talking about before with, you know, how do you prepare them? I had done a career day. And what I, what the career day. I would get, that's what I was a guidance counselor. I would pull in, uh, fields, whether it was college, technical, it

102would be an auto parts store, be police, any, any field that a student can go into, whether it's college or workforce. The English department would write, would help the students learn how to write a resume. And they would teach them interviewing skills. And these seniors, before they graduated, knew how to write a resume how to dress and how to act in an interview. Sit up straight. I contact talk. Be engaged. All these kind of things. You know, so those are different things that I had done that I really, I just believe in getting the students to be the best they could be along with the teachers and administrators. And let's forget the administrators because they're the ones that are looking over the teachers. You got to make sure that they're doing what they're supposed to

103do and make sure the teachers are, keep them, keep them going. They're influencing kids every day. They're influencing kids every day. You don't realize one little thing she could say to a student. They take it home and they believe in it. So, but I would like to thank everyone tonight for this opportunity. Thank you very much. Thank you, Ms. Dougdale. We appreciate you. And you may be seated. We've now completed the interviews for District 5 Board Vacancy. At this time, is your motion to go into executive session for the purpose of conducting deliberations in reference to the District 5 Board Vacancy Interviews. Motion. Second. In favor say aye. Those likes I'm hearing none. We'll be excused. We'll be back shortly. Thank you. Second, my favorite say aye. Oh, sorry for the record. No votes. Were

104taken and no decisions were made. There you go. So we're now back in session. Okay, we're. Now back in regular meeting. And in our business section in reference to the appointment to District 5, we will proceed in the following manner. The board will vote by signed ballots. Should one candidate receive a majority vote of the entire board membership. That candidate will be declared the person to be appointed. For the District 5 seat. Should no member receive a majority vote of the entire board membership. The two candidates were the most votes would be declared nominees. That didn't sound right. Kennedy, read this on. Should no memory receive a majority vote of the entire board membership. The two candidates were the most votes will be declared. Okay, B declared nominees for the District 5 seat. And a

105second sign balance will be taken by the board. The person receiving the most votes will be the individual to be appointed for the District 5 seat. And would be administered the oath of the beginning of the next board meeting. On Monday. And Ms. Playler is up here. Any questions about that. Any questions about that? She will be doing the, she would be overseeing the ballots. Okay, and all four candidates are on this list. So we go with four, narrow it down. Okay. Bring them up here, pass them. What are we doing? Con. Congratulations, Mr. Robinson. You're a knee board member. Motion to adjourn. Second. Okay. Those like son, hearing none, we're adjourned. Thank you for coming.