001Good evening. At this time, I'd like to call this meeting for the public schools of Robson County Board of Education December the 9th meeting to order. Um, I'd like to have a moment of silence. In that, I would like to mention Mr. Andrew Lair was a third grade student at Prospect. Um, Mr. Charles Bullard who was a former board member of district 4 as well. And also let's remember um North Foresight High School that had a stabbing today on their campus. Let's remember them. At this time we'll have a moment of silence. >> Thank you. Next up we have the Pledge of Allegiance by PSRC Early College, Miss Christina Edwards and Mr. Drew Davidson. Thank you so much. >> I pledge algiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic
002for which it stands. One nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. >> Miss Edwards, if we could, can those students introduce themselves? >> Okay. >> Hi, my name is Deborah the Jesus Perez and I'm from early college. >> Hi, my name is Gabriella Abila Garana and I'm in 11th grade. Hi, my name is Lega James and I am a senior. >> Hi, my name is Paige Cummings and I'm a senior. >> Hi, my name is Ethan Aton and I'm also a senior. >> My name is Hannah Emman and I'm also a senior. >> My name is Faith Lester and I'm a junior. >> My name is Chad Jackson and I'm 11th grader here at Early College High School. My name is Christian Ballinger and I'm a sophomore. >> Uh, my name is
003Jaden and I'm a freshman. >> Hi, my name is Taye and I'm a 10th grader. >> Hi, I'm Colin Hunt and I'm an 11th grader at RC Early College. >> Christina Edwards, these are Beta Club students. [applause] >> Thank you, PSRC Early College. Miss Miss Edwards and Mr. Davis, we appreciate all you do. Thank you. >> Thank you. >> Next up, we have adoption of the agenda. I got a I got a motion by Mr. John Simmons, a second by Mr. Henry Brewer. All those in favor say I. Any oppose? Eyes have it. Approval of minutes. Motion made by Miss Crystal Monroe, second by Mr. Vonte Leech. All those in favor say I. Any oppose? Eyes have it. Information items. Holiday card contest presentation. Mr. Steven Taylor. Good evening, Chairman Britt, Superintendent Williamson, and board
004members. I want to say thank you to everybody here and all the teachers, board members, uh, administrators to help with the arts in our schools. If you know me, I'm pushing hard for us to continue to align our arts education goals with the goals of our core subjects and and blend those together. Work hard with our teachers. And every year, if you don't know, we do a holiday card contest. We task all of the visual arts teachers in the county to have all of the students create a holiday card for the beginning of our festive season. They take the best ones from their school. They deliver those to me. We have a group of judges that judge the best ones. And I want to present those to you here today. So, we'll start with our
005K2 division. And the first winner for our holiday car contest this year is David Strickland from East Robinson. Next, we have Hazley Wellman, also from East Robinson. Next we have Cali Alford Rosenwald. Next is Malaya Gardner East Robinson. And the last one for this category is Sailor Oxendine Prospect. Always love to see the little kids work, the things that they're doing with their hands and stuff. It's always a lot of fun. Next we have our 35 division. Our first winner in 35 is Liliana Huer Parkton. Next is Sebastian Mora, also from Parkton. Next is Ariana Tyler Magnolia. Next is Carolina Ortiz, East Robinson. Next is Brian Ter Parkton. Next is Esther Gonzalez, St. Paul's Elementary. And the last one for this category is Olivia Hunt, Pinbrook Elementary. Next is our middle school category, our sixth
006through eight division. We start here with Anna Grace Willis from ORM. Next is Jackson Mayor Littlefield. Next is Carly Mafrey Parton. Next is Courtney Hall, also Parton. Next is Annayia Fininklia, Red Springs Middle. Next is Mahogany Gatlin, South Robinson. And the last one for this category is Mackenzie Mitchell Oram. And our high school category this year was was really tough. We've had a really up year for our submissions for these things. I'm really proud of what our teachers have been able to do. The judges had a fit with all these. and we even added one for this category because it was just such a good year. So, I'm real proud of these as well. Our first winner for our 912 division is Khloe Blackwell, St. Paul's. Next is Deanna Todd, Lumberton High. Next is Taylor
007Gerald, Lumberton High. Next is Aiden Messer, Pernell Sweat High. Next is Rachel Bamarito, Fairmont High. Next is Karia Mauricia Baltazar, Lumberton High. Next is Kimberly Lopez, Lumberton High. And our last one for this evening is Asai Maldonado Agillia, St. Paul's High School, Buff Santa. We were really excited for that one. So, thank you for everyone for your support. We're really happy with the the products of our arts education. Thank you, [applause] Mr. Taylor. Thank you for all that you do. At this time, can I have the board meet me at the podium? [clears throat] >> [snorts] >> as a district 8 member. Um when I start talking about my district and some of the schools, I can't go without talking about Lumberton FFA. Um it's one of the strongholds in the public schools of Robinson
008County. And um even on the national level, they set the bar high. have great leaders, great students all together. And um at this time, we're going to recognize them for a national award. They got the three star national chapter award. Um I'm going to ask them to step on up here. Mr. Brooks, come on as well. [snorts] And I'mma read this, okay? presented to the Lumberton FFA in recognition of your outstanding achievement in earning the three-star National Chapter Award, the highest honor bestowed by the National FFA organization. Your dedication to growing leaders, building community, and strengthening agriculture exemplifies excellence in agriculture education. Through innovative initiatives and meaningful service and unwavering commitment, you have represented Lumberton High School, Robinson County, and North Carolina with distinction on the national stage. Congratulations and thank you for your extraordinary
009work. [applause] >> Get in front of the Py Congratulations. [laughter] >> Good job. [applause] [laughter] Congratulations. Hello everyone. My name is Leak [clears throat] and I'm our chapter president. And as a chapter, the national chapter application is something that we don't take very lightly. you know, we fill out this application and as the officer team, we work very hard throughout the year to be able to fill out this application and apply for awards at the state and even the national level. And none of this would be possible if it weren't for our supporters. And one of those being, of course, our principal, Mr. Brooks, who allows us to do all of these events and activities and who also just allows us to do these things and give these members these opportunities within our community. And
010we would also like to thank our CTE director, Mr. Herman Lleair who allows us to do these things and travel across the state and even across the country like national convention that gives members these opportunities both inside and outside of the classroom. And lastly, we would like to thank our superintendent, Dr. Freddy Williamson, for again allowing us to do all of these things and giving us nothing but 100% support as we do these things throughout the year. So again, we would like to thank you all for allowing us to do these things and allowing us to reach our goals like receiving the three star national chapter. So thank you. >> [applause] [laughter] >> Next up, Mr. Bobby Lleair, North Carolina Summer Nutrition Champion Award. >> Oh boy, I done skipped all that, didn't I? Monthly
011impact award, Mr. Jamal Campbell. Good evening, Chairman Brit, Dr. Williamson, and school board members. I'm here once again tonight to recognize the December 2025 impact award recipients. Our recipients exemplify our district's one team one goal motto. These individuals work collaboratively to cultivate to a supportive and thriving school environment. We want to thank Mr. Austin Jacobs and Chick-fil-A for sponsoring this month's gifts gift cards. Also, Mr. Brandon Venour and Sign City for sponsoring our plaques. [sighs] We want to first recognize our classified employee of the month for our impact award will be from Miss Teresa Jones of Roland Norman Elementary School. She's unable to be here tonight, so she's represented by her principal, Dr. Cole. The public school counties proudly honors Mr. Terresa Jones, teacher assistant at Roland Norman Elementary School as the district's December classified
012impact award recipient. Principal Cole shared, "Without without a question, Teresa Jones embodies the true spirit of dedication and compassion in education. After a successful career in the private sector, she brought her wealth of experience and love for children to our school community. In our extended content standards classroom for exceptional children, Mrs. Jones demonstrates remarkable patience, professionalism, and care every single day. Her genuine kindness, faith, and positive nature brighten our school and inspire all who has a pleasure working with her. As a district, we celebrate and honor Miss Jones for the powerful difference she makes each day. [applause] And for our certified impact award recipient is Miss Jessica Cummings of Rex Renard Elementary School. [applause] The district proudly recognizes Miss Jessica Cummings, a fourth grade teacher at Red Spring Elementary School as the December's certified impact
013award recipient. Miss Cummings exempl exemplifies excellence in education through her unwavering commitment to student growth and innovation. Principal Nikki Brooks shared, "Miss Jessica Cummings has made a lasting impact on our school community as a dedicated fourth grade math teacher. the digital teaching and learning coach and the Lego club coordinator. Her passion for teaching has inspired countless students to develop a love for problem solving and critical thinking. She has shared her knowledge and love for technology to assist staff and with the roll out of infinite campus. Miss Cummings has brought joy and creativity to students, fostering teamwork and collaboration. As a district, we celebrate and honor Miss Cummings for the powerful difference she makes each day in the lives of her students, colleagues, and school community. Thank you. [applause] [laughter] Standing up to Congratulations. >> All
014right, Mr. Bobby. >> No, no. Good. Uh, good afternoon, Chairman Brit. Uh, Superintendent Winston and board members. Uh, at this point in time, I would like to recognize Miss Charlene and her staff. If they will step up, please. So th this past month, the public schools of Robertson County has been named a rural non- congregate meals innovation summer nutrition champion by the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction and the Carolina Hunger Initiative at the UNCC Center for Health Promotion and Disease Pro prevention. That's a mouthful. Uh, this prestigious recognition honors districts that demonstrate exceptional commitment, creativity, and impact in ensuring children have access to healthy meals throughout the summer months. And I would like to just personally say if you have not been to one one of our summer feeding sites where the boxes are
015distributed and see the hard work that Miss Charlene and her staff do to ensure that children across this county receive meals throughout throughout the summer. It's an extra extraordinary event. I was at a school uh this past summer and said, "I'll get here early. Find me a parking space at the back cuz I know today the boxes are going out." Well, the boxes went out and I was stuck in. So again, but the line was wrapped around the building. But we're going to present Miss Charlene and her staff with this plaque. And the plaque reads, "In recognition of excellent for out excellence for outstanding leadership, innovation, and commitment to ensuring children across Robinson County have access to nutritious meals throughout the summer. Your tireless efforts and dedication have earned you the 2025 summer nutrition champion
016award honoring their excellence in non and rural non- congregate meals innovation program. with heartfelt appreciation for your service and impact on the lives of students and family. Public schools of Robertson County feeding minds fueling futures [applause] and then at pictures we will have Miss Charlene and her staff introduce themselves. >> [laughter] >> You are fancy. Are you ready? >> [applause] >> Charlene Lclelair, child nutrition director. >> Harrison branch supervisor. >> Gloria Sinclair, accounts payable. Sandy Leot, supervisor. >> Charles Pay, commodity clerk. >> Tashan Smith, commodity driver. >> Elizabeth Hunt, bookkeeper. Sandra Bell, supervisor. >> Crystal Hunt, supervisor. >> Joseph Hunt, commodity driver. Thank you. Are you >> Mr. Craig? Thank you, Chairman Grit. Uh, Miss Charlene's sitting back there now. She's scared to death because they were fixing to leave and I said, "You can't
017leave." I'm not going to ask you no questions, but uh, think, uh, about five years ago, I got a call from Dr. Lynn Hargrave who was a director of child nutrition for the state of North Carolina. And basically, there was discussion. We were changing over with director and she said, "Will you write a letter for Miss Charlane?" Absolutely. Without a doubt, one of the better things I've done because she has proven that she is an outstanding director. Uh it's not just a summer feeding. You just need to go to the schools at any time and you will see the impact her and not only her, all these people that's back here with her. And uh a few of those were young enough to be there when I was there. So uh they're still working. But
018uh we thank y'all for what you do each and every day cuz we know we got kids that come to school that they don't have meals at home and what you do is vitally important for the school system. So thank you Mr. Henry Brewer. >> I just wanted to say that um every board meeting we have some snacks and I know it come from our nutrition department. I want to thank them dearly for that. Thank you. >> I would just echo what's been said already. Charlene, thank you for your leadership and to all your team members for what you do every day. Not only Mr. Craig, do they not have a meal, most receive their best meal in our schools and we appreciate that. Thank you. >> Thank y'all again. Next item is new standing
019committee requests. Mr. Jamal Campbell. >> Good evening once again, Chairman Brett, Dr. Williamson, school board members. Um, I'm here tonight to just um present to you a summary. In your board packet, you had a summary of our human resources department responsibilities and initiatives. And so, um, not sure if you guys had a chance to read over everything, but I'm here to answer any question that you might have as relates to that summary [snorts] of responsibilities and initiatives. There was nine particular areas that we focused on which is earnboarding, communication, recruitment, [snorts] support and retainment, recognitions, staff reporting, state reporting and data review, lensure, our partnership with K education and our staff staff well-being. Dr. Chair, >> Mr. Schwarz, if um if this committee is to be created, um is that something that the board has
020to vote on or is that something that the chair can do unilaterally? The chair can create the committee. Um uh or the board could do it either way. Um, I I've got some suggestions if the board decides to do this on the suggestions on uh that I sent to you late this afternoon. Um, um, some things I would recommend changing uh, just tweaking a little bit. [clears throat] >> Thank you. Dr. Man, you have a question? >> Hit your but hit your button, Dr. Man. >> Am I on now? >> Yes, ma'am. >> I'm not sure what time I should make this request, but it has to do with the Mr. Tur's description and the lawyer's feedback. I'm asking if you would consider both of you or whomever where you have the limitations and they're
021listed. Okay, it says the committee at the bottom. The committee does not participate any step of application or hiring or any discipline firing supervision or evaluation. Would you add the word or placement of any employee? I think that's important. I know you can say it's interpreted in any other assignments, but would you consider adding the word or placement of any other employee? >> Yes, that would be appropriate since your uh board policy designate delegates that to the superintendent. >> Exactly. >> I'm asking would you consider putting that word in? >> Yes, Mr. Chair, if I may, also remembers as you consider them, please keep in mind that our committees are established by policy and and so it would need to be a policy change to add this standing committee. Keep that in mind, please. >>
022Um, I have a I have a Chris. Hold on, Mr. Craig, and I'll get you. Um, Mr. Schwarz, I guess this would be for you. How would this possible newly formed committee relate to somebody that is on the grievance committee as well? >> Um, this committee wouldn't shouldn't touch anything dealing with grievances. Um, >> could they be on both committees? >> Yes, they could. >> Okay. >> Mr. Craig, >> um, some of my questions have have been answered that, uh, this committee does those limitations. It just could not have anything to do in my opinion with any of those things down there, hiring, firing of any of that. But u just my thought instead of us sitting here and discussing this now, I know we had it put on tonight for information. We got some
023information. It needs to go to policy. So my suggestion would be we send it to the policy committee and you will have five members there at most that could vote and let them come back with a recommendation to the board. which way to go with it. If that's just a recommendation, not I'm not making a motion at this time. It's just a thought. >> Dr. Emanuel. >> Uh adding to what Mr. Craig said, it appears to me if we're sending it to the policy committee, we are approving it. So, we're making a policy. Are we approving it? Is that what you're saying? We're sending it to policy committees because we approving it. So, they need to make the policy. Is that what we're saying? >> That's not >> Is that what we're saying? >> As
024is. This is just information item tonight. >> I know we're not approving it now. >> I haven't I haven't said that about sending a policy. I'm at the board of discretion. What do y'all do? >> See, it can. May I make another comment? Yes, ma'am. >> It appears to me if we're saying to the policy committee, make a policy, that appears to me that we're going to approve it. I mean, that maybe I'm assume >> Mr. Correct. Uh well, my thought on it was since Mr. Schwarz has gave us recommendations that the policy committee could look at those re recommendations with the option to take those recommendations and form a policy or say no. Now, we know if a policy committee recommends something to the board, the board still does not have to accept it.
025The full board has to vote it up or down. So, it would just be in my mind for them to look at everything and make sure if we do do a policy that we get everything in the policy that should be in there and there is a very clear understanding of what this committee would do as opposed to what Mr. Campbell's office does down here. Also, that's that was my thought in Dr. Terry. >> Mr. Schwarz, if this were an ad hoc committee, um, not a standing committee, would it have to go through policy? If if would it have to go through policy in order for the chair to create it as an ad hoc committee? >> I don't believe so. I'd have to look at your policies to to be sure. Um, if I
026can do that in a minute or two, but um, I'd have to check for a second. I think it may it may be more efficient to at least initially create it as a ad hoc committee uh where and then the board can determine whether or not it needs to be converted to a standing committee. >> What if I may um in the in the letter in the email that I sent you one of the things I suggested is that before doing anything that you carefully consider >> I'm sorry what? >> Go ahead. >> That you carefully consider what is currently being done by the administration in these areas. Um, and I think that's laid out in the um, summary that Mr. Campbell presented to you. Um, and determine whether the committee is needed um, and
027determine whether the scope of work that's listed in this proposal might need to be ch changed based on what's currently being done. So, um, that could be done in policy that could be done elsewhere. Um, but I think you've got two things before you. One is whether or not you want to have a committee like to do these um uh these jobs. And uh this this is kind of an overview committee. Um uh whether you want to have a committee to do this and second is if you do, what's the scope of the committee's charge? >> Mr. John Sims. >> Yeah. Um Dr. Ller um by looking at what you presented to us and what Mr. Came have, it's basically the same thing. So what would this community purpose be and how would it be
028any changes? I've got some examples of how um such a committee could possibly fill the the gap between what HR does and what the the superintendent of advisory um committee uh or advisory council does. He sent us an email earlier this week with a with a nice summary of their um initial meeting and I think they they've they're they've got some meetings coming up. But if you think about the way those two um entities are structured, u the each of those u each of those entities, the superintendent's advisory council and the office of um of human resources, those are essentially administrative um appointed areas. uh every formal structure that rout routinely meets or or touches or monitors our workforce uh is under administrative control and what I'm proposing is is more or less a governance
029not an administrative structure and I think that in terms of governance our work would begin where there were ends and um as it stands right now we only see in terms of HR um hirings resignations terminations in individual transaction and nobody is currently really responsible for bringing uh any workforce health updates or kind of patterns to this board. What's going on with their workforce in terms of patterns? Uh that that doesn't happen on a regular structured basis. Um if any if anyone's u looking at why people stay or why they leave or why they resign or or retire early, uh that may be being done, but there's no uh there's no line to the board where that that kind of information is discussed on an ongoing basis. and this uh this type of uh committee
030could do that kind of work. >> And to that point, Mr. Chair, I'll just add as a board, you can recommend as you've done other recommendations for me to present those information. So our exit surveys, we routinely review those exit surveys as a department with the superintendent so we can always stay a breast to our hiring and as those who are leaving. One of the things we found on our exit survey is that 82% of those who left want to return because they believe that we have a supportive environment. They're leaving either for family reasons, for relocation. Um sometimes they deal with the pay. That's something we can we as a district we cannot um change as of right now. Um, so we do analyze that work and so as a board, you know, you
031can always make a recommendation for me to present certain items to you and I don't mind presenting that information to you as well. >> Mr. Jamal, did you just make myself clear on that? You just said 82% of the people that leave want to come back. >> Yes. 82 based off our exit survey, 82% of those who leave our district are willing to return back to our district. And once again, they're leaving. The top three reasons why they're leaving is because of family issues, relocation, or pay. Those are the top three reasons. Um, and so one of the reasons, one of the things that they do say in their exit surveys that they love about our district is the support that they do receive from their school staff and from certain district um office um
032departments. And so that that information does get analyzed once again routinely by my department as a whole. I would argue that the same could be said for uh Mr. Bobby's area in terms of construction, Miss Erica's area in terms of finance, uh Dr. Carr's area in terms of uh curriculum. I would argue that that the same could be said. um about each one of those uh departments. So um if if we have standing committees uh that that's committed uh to ensuring that those areas are um have a governance um aligned to the board, then why would we not um especially the with the way our workforce is going now? And I understand um that that that um we're not the only district that has these types of challenges, but um it just seems like a
033natural fit that if we're serious about taking care of our employees, then we would be uh willing to sit down on a on an ongoing basis and and get serious about some um 30,000 foot discussions on what this board can do to support our workforce in a in a better and more efficient manner. >> [clears throat] >> Mr. Bradley. >> And I guess to kind of build on that or to go off of that statement, you know, what can we do to bring if if let's say it's 82% saying that they're they're willing to come back, you what are we missing with the um the other 18% saying they're not willing to come back, you know, what what maybe can that group do to to bring, you know, other ideas? Maybe it's not from other
034school districts. Maybe it's from creative things that you know other employers are doing. Um you we can bring those thoughts and ideas here and hopefully you move that to a more number that would come back or maybe it decreases the turnover rate. I mean I'm I'm willing to do anything at this point to try to you better not only ourselves our employees that we have but you know to retain employees um in the future. So, I mean, I'm willing to look at anything um as long as it doesn't you cross paths and and you it looks like the the attorney kind of helped you mitigate that. So, yeah, I'm I feel better about it now. So, Mr. Bot to that point. So, you have 18% when you dive into that some of them are changing
035or getting out of education altogether. So, they've determined education is not for them. So, you're not going to get all 100% back. Um, one of the things I'm participating in each month as an HR professional, our region holds our regional uh, meeting with all the HR directors in the area um, in which we meet each month and we go over hiring best practices for hiring um, within the district overall district as a whole. Um, what trends are we seeing as a region? How can we help each other? What ideas? What like what is CN County doing? What is Bon County doing? and we interact and we have those conversations. What what are they doing to attract individuals? What are we doing to attract people? Um what problems are we seeing as relates to individual leading?
036And so we're seeing pretty much the similar trends where those conversations are happening monthly um that [clears throat] I participate in as a as a um HR director in this um district. So that happens for our region each month and then twice a year in fall and the spring um the HR directors as a um as a state we meet for our state region as well and we go over some of those trends as well there. >> Mr. Jabal, hold on one second. I'm going to roll it over to Mr. Schwarz. He's got some information. >> Yeah. Responding more directly to Dr. Lle's question. um looked I've looked up the uh the policy your board policy 2230 board committees establishes standing committees um that you operate with but it also has a provision dealing with
037ad hoc committees that says as time and situations demand ad hoc committees may be appointed by the chairperson with the approval of the board. Um, ad hoc committees have no final authority and are subordinate and advisory to the board unless the board provides otherwise. Um, in some of the discussion, there's been a conversation about governance. I think you're talking about oversight with this committee, not governance. Governance is the superintendent's um, operation basically. [clears throat] So, does that answer your question more directly? >> Okay. Thank you, Mr. Schwarz. Dr. I just had a comment and it's in relation to Mr. Phillips. One thing, Mr. Phillip, that we do not have the advantage of is the economics in this county, our tax base. And county commissioners, we don't get up to money to match the supplements that
038the other counties do. and talking with a lady that works at Drugs America. She informed me, one of our teachers, that she's planning on leaving to go to Cumberland and it's because of the tax supplement and the salary. So, you know, a lot of times money is important to people and the grass looks greener on the other side. So, that's one thing. If we were to say we're going to give every teacher a $10,000 supplement, you know, that would increase morale tremendously. But we're handicapped by our budget, too. And Eric can say more about that, about how the county commissioners have held us hostage, I don't know, maybe 18 years, and where we are with the ranking of of how they fund us. Erica, I mean, I can't tell the chair what to do, but
039may Erica make one comment about that, Mr. Absolutely. >> Hold on, Crystal. Terry, I'll come back to you. Good evening, Chairman Bri, Superintendent Dr. Williamson. >> So, you want me to make a comment about like where we rank for local funds? So, >> and how long we've been at that rate with the county commissioners? >> So, historically, Robinson County ranks either 114 or 115 out of all the counties for the lowest local per pupil expenditure. Um, so the local amount per child that we received from our county for our appropriations, um, Cumberland County just received 13.7 or 13.8 million in additional funds to support their, uh, supplement increase. We have asked for that um, each year as part of our request to the county. And over the years, we have received an additional 1%. We
040moved from a 5% teacher supplement to a 6% teacher supplement that has been funded. Um, our entire budget from the county is a little over $14 million and so Cumberland's receiving that in addition to just for that funding, that purpose. >> Thank you, Miss Erica. Crystal Monroe, >> I think I forgot what I was going to say [clears throat] because it went way back. Um, I guess in my head I'm just trying to put pieces to hit the committee and then what you guys do and I just want to make sure that I'm on the same page as Terry, what you're trying to do is get it where the teachers that are leaving like have someone to go to and like more feel secure. Is that what it's that's why I'm trying to feel because
041I do feel to a point that a lot of teachers and I've had this conversation that aren't being honest when they leave because and granted there is a lot of teachers in our district. So if you look at a handful compared you know apples to apples but I do feel like a lot of them are not honest because there is you know and I've seen it and heard it but just certain things that has happened that prevent them from being honest about it. So that's where I was just trying to see if this is why he wants this is for them to have, but then I don't know where like the policy and all that comes into play. So I'm kind of need more information. >> So when you think about um the information that
042that we're currently receiving, you know, we we'll hear something like um uh we need more EC teachers, but there's no ongoing process. And that's just one example. you know, there's shortages and there's workforce um shortages in in multiple areas, but uh there's there's no ongoing means of us to analyze, you know, that sort of information. Also, when you think about um you I I think most individuals in in education are not necessarily com um not necessarily happy about where we where the funding is for for public education nationwide. I don't think everybody's uh cool with that, but I think everybody is I think most people are understanding of that. But uh you know when you think about shared in in in my world it's shared governance but when you think about shared oversight when you
043have a committee like this um we're we're more or less sharing that responsibility of recruitment uh retainment and and and overall employee experience. you're uh as a board we could share that responsibility uh with the administration and also perhaps maybe be able to pull some levers u here and there that maybe make some adjustments along the way if we're noticing patterns if we're noticing trends. One of the things that that we don't look at on an ongoing basis is if you've got a school that has a mass exodus, what's going on there? uh look at uh the the flow of employees in in and out of different schools in different areas um along the way. Not necessarily a school, it could be a department like like EC. And also when you think about that sort
044of shared responsibility, I would have a whole lot more confidence going up to a a county commissioner or a legislator or whoever uh advocating for an area that that I've uh been on the ground working in uh versus just hearing um just hearing anecdotally that we're doing all we can do. And I'm not saying that you're not doing all you can do. I'm just saying that I that that we I feel like we can get more done if we share uh in this responsibility. >> Miss Christy Phillips, >> I'm just going to add this because I know we need to move on. We're elected officials and we have been given the responsibility to make sure that our constituents who are taxpayers as well as us, we've been responsible for one of the largest employers in
045this county and for the economic sustainability of the county. It's not about pointing fingers, but it is about making sure that we are providing the best for our employees because everybody in this system are our employees and our responsibility. That's what we took the office for. And while it's great that 82% say they want to come back, how many actually come back? Because numbers can be skewed. And people most of the time aren't going to say that no, they don't ever want to come back because they don't want to burn bridges. And that's understandable. It is. It's understandable. But as one of the largest employers in this county, we have a responsibility to create a better workplace for them. And it takes everybody to do that task. The it takes a lot of people to
046make that happen. A lot of pieces to make that happen. So I I feel and believe Dr. Secretary is not asking to lord over anyone, but as board members, we are approached by the community community and it is our responsibility to know what's going on and to be transparent and it's going to take everybody doing that together. >> And to that point, Miss Christie, I'll just add this one two points to that. Um last year alone we had 40 former teachers to return back to PSRC which was a huge amount of um teachers who returned back to our district. Um we haven't run the numbers for this year just yet. Wait till the middle of the year to do that. Um and then also our trends as it relates to um we keep hearing about
047this mass exodus in our district. Our numbers are actually trending south. Um, as of the last teacher turnover report, our numbers were actually below the state average as relates to um, attrition, which was below 9.9%. Um, as relates to vacancies, we are below where we were at last year. So, we are improving those areas. We had an article that was just released today that talked about the the support and the transformation that our school district has incurred over the past five years. That's another layer of support that we're showing that the work is being done. Once again, I get to your point, Miss Christie, that we're trying to make sure everyone stays and that's our goal is to keep we keep all our excellent professionals and we're working daily on that to to your point
048on that. Um, but I don't want to discredit the work that we are doing as a district to support those who want to be with our district and those who have left to go to other counties because of money and they realize the grass is not green on the other side and they return back just because they know that they feel supported. They know they will get supported through our districts and through the things that we're doing currently in our district. And so I just want to speak to that point. But yes, is there work to be done? there's always work to be done and we can always improve and grow and that's our job is to grow and and develop um and so we're going to continue striving on that as well. >> Mr.
049Vonte Leech >> um [clears throat] I've been I looked at both sheets and I've been um listen to Dr. Terry talk and what what I'm seeing instead of committee Mr. T, you need more information. You need uh more ongoing information and transparency, whether it's with teacher retention, whether it's EC teachers, how many we got, how many we uh how many we don't have. Um with people leaving, I think you need like a monthly report instead of instead of like a a committee. I think HR is doing a doing a good job. And I think what we need is just more information, ongoing transparency only probably on a monthly basis. That's it. >> Dr. Emanuel, >> I just have a comment and this is for the lawyer. I can see the lines becoming blurred is to
050both both views of this. And Mr. Logger, in in a brief summary, tell us the role of school board members. What are we supposed to be doing? you're supposed to be setting policy and establishing um the parameters within which the administration functions. Um you also have an oversight role. Um and this is a little bit of a blur. Uh you could, for example, if you wanted to um uh direct the superintendent to come back to you with reports on what are we doing to monitor workforce health? what are we doing to enhance employee communication and support um and the other things that are listed in this polic in this proposed uh committee charge um but uh you know it's up to the board what you want to do with this really >> thank you >>
051okay >> Mr. Chair, if I may, please keep in mind we're having conversation around personnel. So, confidentiality is an issue. There's a lot of information by law we cannot share and and will not share. And those lines are nobody's pushing back, but personnel law is different. Confidentiality is just critical. I don't know how you prevent crossing over. >> All right. Dr. Terry, Miss Melissa Ocean, >> even um even with the original language in the u in the committee charge, there's limitations. This is not about any individual. Um it's not touching a person. It's not circumventing the superintendent's authority. It's not overstepping HR's um HR's uh role and it's certainly not um overlapping with the work that's being done by the super by the superintendent's advisory council. U Mr. Mr. Uh Jo, Chairman Brit, what are
052your thoughts since you you actually have the the authority to say, "Okay, uh we're going to um you can propose an ad hoc committee just to see how it goes for a set period of time. I'm not exactly sure how those how those work. Maybe a year. Um what are your thoughts on perhaps uh working with the attorney to t to tighten the language up on to tighten the language on this and at least form a um an HR um excuse me at least form an ad hoc committee you know for a certain period of time just to see how things go. One I think um it's like Dr. Emanuel said I think the lines are becoming a little blurred on both ends of it. I think there needs to be more discussion if you
053understand what I'm saying. Um, this is one of those situations where as the old saying goes, measure twice and cut once if you understand what I mean there. And then at the same exact time, the way I understood it, am I right, Mr. Schwarz? I'm at the pleasure of the board with this. They would vote on it. Then >> you you would have to propose it. It would have to be approved by the board. If you don't propose it, it doesn't go anywhere. >> Right. >> Unless the board wants to change policy and establish a standing committee. >> Yeah. So, that was my question. you know your thoughts on proposing something like this. We can we can table this discussion um for a later time. >> Miss Melissa Ocean I'm just the whole thing is
054is basically it's like we're doing a job twice to me. Um as I stated before I don't feel like this is anything that us that we as a board should be involved in. Um because as Dr. Emanuel said the lines can quickly become blurred. I don't want to be involved in anybody's personal affairs. We hear enough I this is not anything that I would this is not anything that I would want to be a part of. So I I don't want to the these the individuals before us are employees of public schools Robinson County. We do not work for public schools Robinson County. And there's just some things that we as a board don't have access to and it's it's for a reason and I think it should remain that way. Um, as far as
055getting a report, that's fine. If if we need additional reporting on why, you know, XYZ people left the county at a certain time, we know what was their reasons. Is it because of money? Is it because of child care? That's understandable. But as far as having an entire committee to analyze these things, what are we going to do with this information? Because as a unit, they're not able to change the tide. So, what are we supposed to do? >> Does anybody have anything else? >> Go ahead, Mr. Cherry. Last thing, m Mr. Schwarz, um, with your experience, uh, throughout the state, um, is this something that's unheard of? >> I am not aware of another board that has a committee like this. That doesn't mean it doesn't exist. I'm just not aware of it. Any
056other information? Thank you, Mr. Jamal, Mr. Bobby Lley, you got something you want to add right here? [clears throat] >> So, [clears throat] good evening again, Chairman Brit, Superintendent Whims, and board members. Failed to say this earlier, merry Christmas and happy holidays. So, um, before we go before you guys go into close session, do want to share with you, uh, this holiday season, we started a new tradition last year that is part of our ham giveout drive-thru that we're going to pick a theme and go with that theme. So, this year, each department has chosen a special organization within our county to support. The public schools of Robinson County is thankful for the kindness we receive from our comm from our community throughout the year and this is our chance to share that holiday spirit
057and give back. During close session, please uh be sure to stop by and look at our stockings created by each department. A ballot uh is waiting at your desk for you to rank your top three favorite. All stockings will be delivered to our selected organizations by next Wednesday, spreading cheer throughout the community. Uh thank you for thank we would like to thank every department for bringing their creativity, joy and generosity this holiday season. So again each department chose a particular organization. We stuffed those stockings with things that that particular organization needed to make it through the holidays. So again just please take a moment and let us know your favorites there. Next, at your desk, uh you should have a flyer announcing our holiday drive-thru next week, next Friday, December 19th. So, that will begin
058at 11:00 for our transportation. Our time on there for board members and principles are floating. So, any point in time you would like to come by and join us next Friday, please do so. Again, thank you and have a joyous holiday season. Oh, and last thing, we have 11 uh angels on our tree out front. If you would like to grab one of those angels, um fulfill that kid's wish and get that back to Dr. Sherry, I'm thinking by next Tuesday. By next Tuesday, >> right? And we and we are turning the ballots into Miss Jessica. >> Yes, just turn the ballots into Miss Jessica and we will rank and and let the winners know who they are tomorrow. Um, next item in public comments. There is no public comments. So, we'll move on to
059action items. Miss Erica sets her soul source explore learning gizmo science license. Good evening again, Mr. Bobby beat me to it. I also want to say merry Christmas, happy new year, and happy holidays to everyone. So included in your packet, you should have a soul source um vendor request for explore learning and it's a dig district gizmo science license. >> Oh, >> Dr. May, >> I have a question. [clears throat] Miss Erica, how long have we been using Gizmo? >> At least for three years. >> And it's used with which curriculum? The science. >> Science. And what grade levels? K12 >> it's online and virtual experiments for science >> and to May I ask a follow-up question to your knowledge is it being used? >> Yes. Cuz I remember going in a classroom and they
060were using it. Um I I make a motion that we approve it. >> I got a motion made by Dr. Emanuel, a second by Mr. Vonte Leech. All those in favor say I. I. >> Any oppose? >> Eyes have it unanimously. Monthly financial report. Miss Erica Settzer. >> And I can answer any questions anybody has about the monthly financial report. >> Motion been made by Mr. John Simmons to approve the monthly financial report. Second by Mr. Bradley Phillips. All those in favor say I. Any oppose. Eyes have it. Unanimous. >> Thank you so much, >> Mr. Henry. I just wanted to make uh as Miss Christie mentioned earlier about we're here to um to listen to constituents. Also, um I've been asked that we um take a notion to when we get to the finance
061reports that we don't hear them out that we just automatically um approve them. But I think what the public is not understanding um is that we get that beforehand to oversee and and analyze. So um I think if there's any discussion um we would bring it up as board members, but I just want to make that clear to the public. >> I agree, Mr. Henry. Miss Melissa, >> I move that the board of board enter into close session for the following purposes to consider confidential personnel matters as provided in North Carolina general statutes 143 through 318.11 A1 and A6 and 115C through 319 and to consider confidential student matters as provided in North Carolina General Statutes 143. 3-318.1181 and 115C-402 and 28 US code 1232G to consult with the board of education's attorney to preserve
062the attorney client privilege and to discuss the following pending litigation. Chloe A. Oxen versus Robinson County Board of Education and John Avery Brooks 2023-CVS Amber Dunn versus Public Schools of Robinson County at all 25CV and Jonathan Dial versus Robinson Robinson Board of Education Freddy Williamson Matthew Lleair 25CVS 005759-770 0 as provided in North Carolina General Statutes 143-318.11 A3 and pursuant to North Carolina General Statutes 143-318.11 A1 to consider close session minutes that are confidential pursuant to North Carolina General Statutes 143-318.10E. >> Got a motion by Miss Melissa Ocean. Second by Mr. Bradley Phillips. All those in favor say I. Any oppose? Eyes have it. We are now in close session. Craig, make a motion we come out of close session. >> Got a motion by Mr. Craig, second by Mr. Vonte Leech. All those in
063favor? Eyes have it. Miss Christy Fields. >> I'd like to make a motion to amend the agenda to to approve a legal settlement in the Chloe Oxen matter. Please. Got I got a motion made by Miss Christy Fields, a second by Miss Melissa Ocean. All those in favor say I. Any oppose? Eyes have it. I need a motion to approve certified and classified personnel. Mr. Henry for motion. Second by M. Crystal Monroe. All those in favor say I. >> Crystal. Any oppose? Eyes have it. Need a motion to approve close session minutes >> made by Mr. Vonte, second by Mr. Craig. All those in favor say I. Any oppose? Eyes have it. >> You good, Mr. K? >> Y. >> I need a motion to approve the settlement of Miss Khloe Oxnner. Mo motion made
064by Miss Christy Fields, second by me made by Mr. Henry Brewer. All those in favor say I. Any oppose? Eyes have it. Unanimous, Mr. Forbes. All right, we have the tallies together for our stockings over here. And um the winner, drum roll, please. The winner of the stockings is going to be our athletic department here at central office. Mr. Glenn and his staff did a good job on that, but they had the most votes. And we appreciate our central office staff doing this for different various organizations that will you definitely need it and use it during this Christmas time. I need a motion to adjurnn. Motion made by Miss Melissa Ocean. Second by Mr. John Simmons. All those in favor say I. Any oppose? Eyes have it.