001Mhm. >> Mhm. >> Chuck. >> Mhm. >> Amen. >> Good evening, everyone. >> Good evening. >> This is a meeting of the Southfield Board of Education in public for the purpose of conducting the school district's business and is not to be considered as a community meeting. There is one opportunity for public participation during the meeting and comments are limited to 3 minutes per individual. The board will listen to comments, but may not respond during the meeting. If you wish to address the board, please submit a comment card immediately. Roll call. Talisha Belk, Board President. >> Good evening. Uh Yvette War de Ball, Board Secretary. >> Amani Johnson, Trustee. >> Julianne Holloway, Trustee. >> Sorry. Uh student representative, Chitty. >> Paris Whitman, student representative. >> Jennifer Green, Superintendent. >> minutes this evening will be Ms. Carolyn
002Foster and technical support is being provided by M1 Studios. >> Thank you. At this time, may we all stand for the pledge of allegiance. >> I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. >> At this time, we're going to have board matters. Trustees. >> Through the chair. Good evening, everyone. I'd like to provide a brief report from our recent sustainability committee outing, which was a little bit different from our traditional meetings. The focus of this outing was really on experiencing first-hand some of the sustainability activities and initiatives that um we're engaging in within the district, uh particularly our transition to elect- electric school buses and our recycling efforts. Myself, uh operations director
003Joe Corres, trustee Denson, trustee Holloway, and First Student staff were in attendance. The committee began the day at the bus yard uh right behind JWE, where we met with the First Student team. They shared their growing uh experience managing electric school buses across the Midwest and gave us an overview of how these vehicles operate and what makes them different from traditional diesel buses. Uh we had the opportunity to tour one of our brand new electric school buses and then ride it over to Kennedy Learning Center. One of the first things that stood out was how quiet it was um and how smooth the ride was. Uh when the bus came to a stop, it was genuinely silent. You could hear a pen drop. The First Student staff explained that this quieter environment has actually improved
004the experience inside of the bus as well because students are no longer competing with loud engines and exhaust noise just to talk to each other. Um I also wanted emphasize the health benefits for our students and drivers. Students riding these buses are no longer breathing in diesel exhaust fumes on their way to and from school, which is a major improvement for student health and air quality. In addition to the environmental and health benefits, we discussed the operational and financial advantages as well. First Student shared that each electric bus could save the district an estimated $6 to $8,000 per year uh in fuel and maintenance costs. They also explained that the buses can fully recharge in in an hour and a half, which makes it possible for the district to complete up to three separate runs
005in a single day. That flexibility is really important. Um currently the district has 10 electric buses in operation and will have 10 more starting in July. And it was really exciting to see this investment coming to reality. Once we got to KLC, we were welcomed into the library by Dr. George, um who I gave a presentation, a brief one, about the school's comprehensive recycling program pilot. The Dr. George shared that the program already has more than 50% student participation. She noted that Kennedy or she didn't note this, but it was noted that Kennedy was the first building leader to actually volunteer um to try out this recycling program. And what was especially impressive is how intentional they've been about educating the students. So, students are being taught what materials can and cannot be recycled. They're
006actively participating in sorting paper, plastic, and glass, and metal. Um Dr. George even explained that students rinse out recyclable items to make sure that they are actually able to be recycled once they reach the center. Um there are 12 bins throughout the building. Students help transport materials to the larger receptacles outside, which then are taken to Waste Management on 8 Mile. Um and I really want to commend Dr. George and the staff and students at KLC. They've really created an exemplary model for what this could look like district-wide. Um overall, this was a really great experience. It showed not on only that these infrastructure investments are worthwhile, um but also that a culture shift has taken place around sustainability and student engagement and environmental sustainability. Thank you all. >> Thank you, Trustee Johnson. >> Thank
007you, Trustee. Um good evening, everyone. Um just wanted to report out real quick. Um ju- I Trustee Holloway and I attend the Government Relations through OSCBA Open County Schools Board Association. And during this time, we talk about legislation and what is happening um with bills and things that will um go for or against our uh level of education and money that are afforded to the district. We also just wanted to lift that um cell phones will be coming a new way of life or different way of life next year and we'll drill down more into that as um the bill develop. Um also um just a couple of up coming meetings that I'll address the board with at a later time. Thank you. >> Thank you, trustee. Um at this time I would like to
008um just address all of our parents. Um we will be enforcing our student code of conduct. Parents, please talk to your children. I know you have spent a lot of money on prom activities, all of those things. The board will be enforcing um revoking those privileges. Um if you can't have good behavior in school, why would we let you go to any of our activities? Proms, graduations, it doesn't matter how many people you know and how many times you guys call us. Please talk to your students. You spent a lot of money. You waited 12 years to see them 13 years to see them cross the stage. We would not want them to forfeit that because of bad behavior. And I'm going to say it again, we will be enforcing our student code of conduct.
009Parents, please talk to your children. And before I turn it over to the report of the superintendent, I just wanted to state for the record trustee Denson and vice president Smith um Thomas is out today with an excused absence. >> Mr. President, can you address water wars? >> Oh, I would love to address water wars. Um parents, water guns, any type of thing resembling a gun, I don't care if it's pink, yellow, green, red, any of those things are not allowed on school property. Water wars is not allowed on school property. We have had several incidents where students are running back and forth with water guns on school property. You cannot have a water fight, a water balloon fight, a gun fight, nothing with water. Again, we will be enforcing the student code of conduct
010and it is there. Thank you. Now, the report of the superintendent. >> Well, Board President, before we go to the report of the superintendent, we have some amazing young people here today that we'd like to introduce. Before um we go to our report of the student board reps, we'd like to introduce the new student board reps for the 2026-2027 academic school year. Representing Southfield A&T is Miss Samantha Amissi. >> Come on up. >> And representing University K-12 Academy is Favor Abrinde. Did I get that right? >> YEAH. >> ALL RIGHT. >> AMAZING. >> THESE YOUNG ladies scored extremely high on the interview uh whereby they came in and interviewed with the board members and they both scored top of their class in the interview process. So, we look forward to working with you both next
011academic school year and they will be bringing you the report of the student board reps next year. So, thank you ladies for coming out this evening and we have something for both of them. >> Thank you, ladies. >> Thank you. >> And now, student board reps. >> At this time, we will have the report from our current student board reps, and we're going to start with you, Ms. Paris. >> Good evening. My name is Paris, one of your student board representatives, and it has truly been an honor to stand before you one final time representing Southwood High School for the Arts and Technology. As we enter the final stretch of the school year, this season has been filled with celebration, reflection, accomplishment, and transition. Looking back on this year, I'm incredibly proud of the resilience,
012school spirit, and growth shown throughout our warrior family. For May, here are the past and current highlights for Southwood High School for the Arts and Technology. I will first begin with our sports highlights. As we head into the final stretch of spring sports, we have so much to celebrate. Our girls' soccer team continues to make us proud with an incredible season built on teamwork and determination. As they celebrate senior night against Oak Park, they are looking forward to another big win as they move closer to a league championship and prepare for districts play. I would also like to say that the boys' baseball team has found its momentum after a slow start, earning two big accomplishments last week before preparing for districts. I would also like to say that the Lady Warrior tennis team has
013wrapped up their season this week and will now prepare for regionals against Dexter High School tomorrow. Their team captain, Ariana Anderson, earned an impressive singles victory against Waterford Mott, and we are excited to see what the team has accomplished next. Now for the leadership, arts, and activities highlights. This past week has truly reflected the talent and spirit of Southwood A&T. On May 2nd, our Southwood Marching Warriors traveled to Trotwood Madison in Ohio for the Battle of the Bands Showcase and proudly came home with first place. Their dedication and performances continue to make our school proud. On May 1st, students and families gathered gathered for decision day, where seniors proudly celebrated the colleges, universities, and trade schools they will attend next year, including the University of Michigan, Wayne State University, and several HBCUs. Seniors were also
014recognized with cords honoring their achievements in academics, C2 Pipeline, and Gear Up. Outstanding scholars from the Southwood A&T and University High School were also recognized during the Superintendent's annual scholars ceremony for their hard work and academic excellence. Throughout Teacher Appreciation Week, teachers and staff were celebrated for the countless ways they support and encourage students every day. We are incredibly grateful for everything they do to help our school community thrive. Our concert band students recently visited Bose for a hands-on experience focused on music production, sound engineering, giving students a unique look into the future of sound technology and innovation. Tonight, students in Ms. Newirth's acting classes will present 10 ways to survive a zombie apocalypse at 6:00 p.m. And this Friday, all musical arts programs will come together for our band concert featuring marching band, concert
015band, and orchestra performances. This Friday will also feature our highly anticipated Field Fest, bringing students together for games, performances, activities, and school spirit as we close out the year. As we continue throughout senior season, there will be several important milestones ahead. Progress reports will be released May 14th, senior finals will take place May 20th and 21st. Prom will be held May 27th with the theme Veritas Dream. Senior breakfast will take place June 3rd, and finally graduation will be held on June 5th as the class of 2026 officially closes one chapter and begins another. As seniors prepare for graduation and underclassmen prepare prepare for the next year, this final stretch reflects the determ- determination and growth our entire student body has. As I close out my final report as the student board representative, I want to
016sincerely thank our administration, teachers, staff, coaches, advisors, parents, and especially the students for allowing me to serve and represent you this year. I also want to give a special thank you to the board members for welcoming me and supporting me throughout this entire experience, especially to the secretary, Ms. Foster, for always keeping me prepared, organized, and on my toes. Your support truly meant more than you know. When I gave my first report at the beginning of the school year, I spoke about wanting to strengthen school spirit, help others help other students feel connected, and create a culture where everyone feels proud to be a warrior. Looking back now through every school spirit week, football game, assembly, blood drive, concert, and celebration, I truly believe we've accomplished this together. To the underclassmen, continue getting involved, continue
017showing up, and continue making your voices heard. High school passes so much faster than you think. To the class of 2026, congratulations, we made it. Through every challenge, memory, victory, and late night, we pushed together throughout We've pushed together. And I hope we all leave Southwood to remember not only what we've accomplished, but who we've become. And finally, to the future student board representatives, lead with confidence, kindness, authenticity authenticity, and fashion. The impact that you make matters more than you realize, and I cannot wait for you to see and continue uplifting this school's community. I am also incredibly excited to share that this fall I will be officially attending the University of Michigan. With my love, Kady, as well. So, no matter where life takes me, Southwood Antilope always remain a special place in my
018heart as I will forever be able to call myself a warrior. Thank you all for listening to me today, and thank you for allowing me to honor and serve as your student board representative for this year. >> Excellent job. >> The board has something special for you. Thank you, Pierce, for a job well done. Not just inside of school, Southfield A&T should be proud because you represented them well, not just inside of school, but outside of school because I have seen her out in these streets and she has been the same sweet young lady that she is in here. So, that matters. Representation matters. Um thank you for leading with integrity. Thank you just for being a sweet young lady and just showing others what to look forward to, look up to. Thank you. Trustees,
019do we have any questions for Ms. Whitman? Our last time we should drill her, like how many questions? I think she's ready to go. >> Ms. Pierce, what is your major? Did I miss it? >> I'm going to be a neuroscience major on the pre-med track and I want to become a neurologist. >> All right, thank you. Now, we're going to have our student board rep, Mr. Chidi, from University. >> Throughout this year, I've talked about about countless things we've done at the U and sadly, today will be my last time. So, for the last and final time, I would like to say, my name is Chidi and this is the U. A place filled with future businessmen and women, a place filled with people who run the runaway, a place filled with people who
020make it everyone is included and who might become your future lawmakers. I said from the beginning that we at the U teach students to leave their prints on the world and I truly believe this year's seniors understand that. From young women like Alex who plan to work in international business to young men like Miles who plan on working in the film film industry. Then our future teachers like Thompson. They will change the world whether it's the media we consume, what laws we consider just, or how we educate the future children. Above all else, if I had to say what the U R taught me, it's the importance of just being you. And what a place it is to just be you. Because we at the U believe in excellence in all things, whether that may
021be how our robotics team got to fly that pegasus and brought to the barn another award this time for drones. Then there was the deadly 1v1 competition. I have never seen so much fighting spirit that I was swept up in it. So much that I was swept up in it. I mean, who would want to lose the most important thing in their world? Their beads. We at the U never stay drowned in a loss, however. As a proud chapter of Junior Optimist, every student knows the importance of optimism, no matter what shape that takes. However, the middle school team does know how to burn up the court. We recently had a seventh and an eighth grade basketball team championship, a fifth and sixth grade boys boys and girls basketball championship, and last but not least,
022a fifth and sixth grade girls volleyball championship. That doesn't mean we only excel in bronze. Academic teams team won second place in the basic concepts and third place basic equation all during the academic demic game state super tournament. Imani Echoes, who is more mathematically inclined, won first place in the seventh grade. He knows how to show the where they truly shine. However, not to be outdone, Jordan Doon won second place in eighth grade and Messiah Dickinson won third place in eighth grade. Excelling in all areas of STEM, with a sixth grade tying for second place in the district science fair. Last year, I said the importance of managing one's hair should not be understated. With the help of Junior Achievements, we determined our work preferences. JA also introduced us to the 16 career clusters, and
023we chose careers that matched our work profile diamond. During the national tax filing week, we out we calculated tax deductions for a high students, a college student, and a college professor. We quickly understood that the more money made more money equals the more money taken. We learned names like social security, Medicare, federal and state income taxes, and the difference between gross and net incomes. Since that would give me a headache. Additionally, Miss Rankin shared her city of Southfield winter 2026 and some of 2025 tax statements. Ah, sorry. That what terrifies me, taxes. I would have to do them soon. After all, all I can say is watch out for the 2026 summer bill. Our classes also worked in groups to practice public speaking, eye contact, and communication skills about the career classes in order to
024land a job. Hopefully they get this one. One of our last activities was purchasing our first used car so that we could get a new job along with shopping for car necessities. Fun, right? Our scholars will to present at Oakland Schools 3P Learning Showcase on Monday, May 18th, 2026 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Scholars from AD will be presenting their ethnographic study that was complete just completed last week. They will present their study, answer the questions, and engage with a variety of different people from other districts within Oakland Schools. If you're available, we'd love to see your smile. This event is a chance for them to share their thinking, learning, and real world impacts with an authentic audience. This event will be looking at the Oakland Schools campus. The upcoming events are seniors exams
025are next week, prom is on May 28th, graduation is on June 5th, and promotion ceremonies for the kindergarten through fifth grade and eighth grade team will be held on June 8th. Grades 9 to 11 exams will be the week of June 8th. Have fun with that. Uh, all I have to say is thank you for letting me serve you. And as Miss Perry said, I'll be going to UMich studying chemistry. Thank you so much. Oh, I'm not muted. >> Thank you so much, Cheaty. Thank you for your comic relief. Thank you for serving with excellence and thank you for being a good representation from the university. We appreciate it. Any questions, trustees? Cheaty will probably ask us some later. Are you going to stay with us? Are you guys going to stay with us for
026this final round? It's We might have a long night. Okay. All right. Just know that you are able to leave if you want to. Thank you so much for your wonderful presentations. At this time, we're going to really turn it over for the report of the superintendent. Thank you. >> Well, we are going to extend that. We see the greatness after 13 years of spending time with Southfield Public Schools, but let's look at the greatness happening in all grades, pre-K through 12th grade in Southfield Public Schools. So, without further ado, I'd like to turn it over to Ms. Summer Caldwell Caruthers and her amazing team as we honor the science fair, spelling bee, and CTE students. >> Can my team join me at the table, please? Thank you. So, board president, trustees, Superintendent Green, we
027are so happy to present um our students have been doing some fabulous work this year and we just want to take this opportunity to give them a little token of our appreciation. And so, first I'm going to turn over to our ELA and social studies supervisor, Ms. Jessica Hines. >> Good evening. Good evening, board president, trustees, Superintendent Dr. Green, and Southfield Public Schools community. My name is Jessica Hines. I am currently the curriculum supervisor of ELA and social studies. Tonight, we are It is my honor to recognize these scholars and their exceptional work um during this year with our school school spelling bees. Um, these students actually participated in the Oakland County Regional Spelling Bee that was sponsored by Scripps National Spelling Bee. So, they competed with students around the county and they did phenomenal.
028They are truly examples of what scholars position for success. So, um, once I call your name, come up here. Um, we are going to take pictures, but hold your applause to the end. All right. Aliyah Hood from Bernie K8. Brandy Yopp from Levy Middle School. Nice posture. Anasi Spade from University Middle School Academy. All the way. >> Yeah, right there. That's all right. >> Andrew Andrew Jones from Stevenson Elementary. Come. There you go. Liam Moran Martinez from Thompson K8 International Academy. And last but not least, Cadence Gibson from Aller Elementary. YES. YES. >> WOO! SCHOLARS, THANK YOU FOR YOUR willingness to challenge yourself not only academically, but as true scholars of Southfield Public Schools. Um principals, can you come up as well and honor your students? >> Next, we're going to honor our CTE seniors.
029So, I'm going to have our director, Ms. Arese Robinson, come up here. Ms. Arese? >> Thank you, Summer. Good evening, board members, board superintendent, Dr. Green, guests, family. Good evening. My name is Arese Robinson, and I am the director of the Career Focused Education Program here with Southfield Public Schools. Uh this evening, we are proudly recognizing our high school seniors who are enrolled in our CTE programs. They have dedicated their time, hard work, leadership, and they're also dedicated to career readiness, which is what's important to us in the CTE world. So, these students are um they have hands-on learning experiences working in industry. Many of them are interning at various corporations or in organizations. Um, they have academic achievement, and they are prepared for what we consider to be the life beyond high school, ready
030for college, careers, and beyond. So, tonight, will you please join me in celebrating our CTE students for their high academic achievement, their industry experience, and just dedicating their time to career readiness. So, first, we would like to have our business finance program students that are enrolled with uh Tracy Brown Perkins. She's our educator. Jasmine Lockley, is she present? Okay. Jasmine and Michaela Miller. Okay. So, Jasmine and Michaela both are employed with JNF Advisors accounting firm. So, we want to congratulate them for the work that they're doing, working already. Next, we would like to recognize our business marketing and entrepreneurship program. This work is being led by Ms. Cheryl Dunn. I think she's present in the audience. And uh we have eight No, we have six students, I think. Six students that have um they were
031very instrumental in placing in the state BPA, which is Business Professional Association Student Leadership Conference. So, we want to give them a round of applause for their work as placing eighth in that uh conference. And then, they also lead the small business management um team at the Warrior Den school. It's a school store that we have at at Southfield A&T High School, and they lead that school store. So, we want to give them a round of applause for the hands-on learning that they're already doing as being entrepreneurs and managing a small business. So, we have Corey Hickman. Okay, we have Salah Bah. I don't know which one is it. We have Addison Spears. Is Addison here? We have uh Kendall Spearman. We have Armani Davis. Okay. Armani Armani Thank you. You want to do a
032photo? >> And Director Robinson, for those of our families that are not familiar with the term CTE or the acronym is career technical education and CFE is career focused education. So, they're often used synonymously. >> Thank you. Thank you, Dr. Green. Okay. So, you want to do a photo with this group? Okay, so if we can have Ms. Dawn and our school leadership team, if you can come and take a photo real quick. Okay, we have a few more. And so, the next one is our culinary arts program. Uh we have Reese Robinson. And then for our Fire Academy, we have Eric Strickland. Is he here? Oh, yes. And he came dressed in his uniform. Thank you. Yes, congrat- And we have for radio TV, we have Adrian Lockhart. We also have um Denaya Wright.
033Denaya? Okay, we also have Blake Burden. And Ellis Threadcraft. And last is Marie Wheat. So, just to let you know, those six students from the radio TV program, they are the they were awarded the um finalists for the Detroit Teen Film Festival. So, we wanted to recognize them for their work. So, thank you. >> Thank you. >> That's it. >> Good leadership. Thank you. >> Stop standing. >> Okay. Okay, great. Thank you. >> One, two, three. >> Good job. That's it. You're fine. >> Director Robinson, as you are transitioning, it's important to note to our audience that while other school districts having career focused educational pathways, Southfield Public Schools actually has the largest number of career focused educational pathways in a single school district with up to 19 programs now that we house here in
034Southfield Public Schools. You don't have to go offsite to other campuses to learn these skills. You can actually earn them while earning your high school diploma here in Southfield Public Schools. So, kudos to the team for the creation those 19 pathways. >> Thank you. >> And last but not least, science fair. All you parents that helped us out so very much for science fair. I saw you running in the schools with the boards and at Michael's getting everything that you needed. So, first I want to say thank you for helping us with science fair. The kids did an amazing job and I'm going to have our math and math and science, sorry, science supervisor, Ms. Krista Claxton Sailor. >> Thank you. >> Good evening. Good evening, everybody. We're really, really excited because Southfield Public Schools
035has not had a district science fair in a while. So, we brought it back this year and I thought how fitting to have our student representatives to be here who are also scientists. That's really exciting, right on our science night. Perfect. Um I'm sorry if you can't hear me. I apologize. First of all, I want to thank the administrators and the principals for pivoting cuz I know that many of you planned to have your science fairs later in the school year, but because we were planning on going to the Science and Engineering Fair of Metro Detroit, the regional fair, you were kind of, you know, we readjusted and we had our science fairs earlier. So, I really appreciate your efforts and your diligence. And then I want to thank the families for the support that
036you gave your children because I raised two children and I understand that when there's a project, you're involved. So, thank you so much for that. We totally appreciate teachers and I'm going to give them certificates in a minute. And I want to thank my judges. I had a diverse group of judges. I had my counterpart, my literacy coach help out and I had literacy coaches, math coaches, IT teams, and even Oakland Schools came and helped us with our judging for the district fair. So, that was really exciting. Um so, you may have heard the term the sky's the limit. Recently, now that we're talking about science, I had a student who now works for NASA and he was on the team that helped the astronauts come back safely to Earth. And I was so proud
037of him, and I was like, "I'm going to claim you and let everybody know." He goes, "You absolutely let everybody know that I was your student." I want to say that because for you students, really this guy is not just a limit. It's I think about Buzz Lightyear when he says, "To infinity and beyond." You can do anything. And teachers, the hard work that you do and you pour into your students, it's totally worth it. We have no idea what amazing things our students are going to do, and they're going to do exploits. So, I really want to commend all of you for the work that you've done here. Our young scientists and their teachers. All right, so let's begin. We're going to start with the district science fair winners. We have four categories. K
038through 2, 3 through 5, a middle school, and a high school. So, our K through 2 winners, we started with Assad Pennix, who received third place from Atler. Tiffany Blake Neil received second place, and she's from University Academy. Should I hear them? I hear I hear coming. And our first place winner is Dakota Nichols. Her title was flower power, and she's from the University Academy as well. So, come on in so we can give you your awards. I'm not sure. Maybe not. I don't know. Is she coming in? Oh, pretty hair, just a beautiful hairstyle. Our young scientists, come on up. Congratulations. I don't know if Tiffany's here. I think this is Dakota. Okay. All right. And what I need you all to do is just stand over here. We're going to wait. But, you
039have a trophy, you have a science pack, okay, and you have a certificate. You got it? Okay. Third through five grade band is Carter Ruffin received third place from McIntyre. Ashton Cox is second place from Thompson Elementary. Joseph Applewhite and Clarence Cody tied for first place and they're from the University Academy and Bernie Elementary. >> Come on up. >> So many gifts. All right, our middle school category in third place was Corey Turner from Levey Middle School. We had two second place winners, which are both from Miss Eat's classes. One is her first hour class and we'll have Savannah Snyder come and represent that group. And the second hour class we'll have Nigel Murphy come and represent that group. Please come up and grab your certificate. And our first place winner is Bryce Davison from
040Thompson International. This was middle school. No, Bryce is behind you. This is Nigel and Savannah. This is Miss Eat's first and second hours. Okay, I'm going to move on. You got it. The high school category third place was a group from the University Academy. Doyin, Alani, Camille, and Micah. If you all are here, come on up and receive your third place certificate. And second place was Azaria Ayers. She's from Southwood High School for the Arts and Tech. Come on up, Azaria, if she's here. And our first place winner, high school, is London White. These are our district science fair winners. Thank you. Great job. So we're going to pause here and take a picture and then I'll do the regional science fair. So, all of the teachers of these students and principals come on up.
041We'll take one big picture. Principals, you're getting your exercise today. Oh, I have to take a picture. Okay. All right, let's move on. I'm going to now give the awards for our Science and Engineering Fair of Metro Detroit. This is a regional fair and it included Washtenaw, Macomb, Oakland, and Wayne counties. There were over 962 student participants. 133 in elementary, 314 in the junior division, and 315 in the senior division, or 515. I'm sorry. So, we had a few students who actually competed and was on the podium if we had a podium. So, I'm going to start with our elementary division. Rowan Wesley received honorable mention in the physical science category from McIntyre. And then Clarence Cody received an outstanding rating in plant life category. He's from Bernie. And then Ariana Adams, who's from Thompson
042International, she actually placed third overall in her category of life science. That was amazing. Um in the elementary division there was 133 students. Ariana, come get your You have a trophy. In our junior division, we have Gabriel Gross, who received an outstanding rating in the chemistry category. She's from Bernie. And Corey Turner received third place overall in the chemistry category, and he's from Leavy. Corey, you You have a trophy. All right. Now, let's talk about our senior division. We have quite a few. Some students worked together in pairs and others submitted things individually. They had to go before um live people. They asked them questions, interviewed them. They had to stand and talk about it. So, we had them record video just so they could practice, but they had to be in person. So, here
043are those winners. Azaria Ayers received an excellent rating. Peyton Peyton Kirksey Banarge received excellent. London Clements received excellent. I'm going to just read the names. So, Kayla Daniels excellent. If you hear your name coming up if you're here. Jordan Harris, outstanding. Jada Lyons received an excellent rating. Kamara Salter received an excellent rating. Ayana Shamley received excellent. Curtis Sherman Jr. also received excellent. London White received excellent. And Kennedy Winbush received excellent and a professional award. And then Shakar Owen received honorable mention. So, those were all of our groups in the senior division. There was one special group which was called exhibition and so they took some of the projects that we submitted and put them on exhibition for people to go around and look and see their work. And so there were four groups that were
044um submitted into that category and I'll just read their names. If they are here, we did give them certificates individually. So, Noel Stewart, Kristen Teddy, and Peyton Williams was the first group. Alani McClain, Doyin, Camille, and Micah was the second group. Aisha, Karen, London, and Dakota, Ariel and Jordan was the third group. And our last group was Joel, Michaela, and Georgia Yarborough. Okay, so let's give them a hand. Now I'd like to give the teachers their certificates and we'll take a picture. Are you ready? Did we call your name? Do you got Come on. Come on up. COME ON UP. We need you to get your certificates. Tell us your names. Yeah, we'll give it to you later. But don't worry, we're going to give it to you. Okay? Come and take a picture that
045we're going to stand up here. All right. So, now I'll call the teachers. Dr. Relena Boone, first one. I really want to thank Dr. Boone because she was a chaperone and took our students down to Huntington Woods and she volunteered and said, "I'll take them. I'll take them." So I really, really appreciate. They couldn't have done it without her. Ms. Charles, Ms. Connelly, Ms. Fatima Dixon, Ms. Eat, Ms. Kimberly Jordan, Ms. Anne Lesauvage, Ms. Makeham, Did I say her name right? Lesauvage? I'm sorry. Thank you for correcting me. Um Ms. Makeham, Mr. Mann, Ms. McKee, Ms. McPherson, Ms. Pinchoff, Ms. Purdy, Ms. Reed, Ms. Twiss, and Ms. Wojito? Am I saying that right? Wojito? Yes. Come on up. Everybody Let's take our picture. Okay, thank you. And all of the administrators, if you can come
046and join us. Teachers, administrators, please join us. One last picture. Thank you. That's what I said, you guys were getting your exercise in tonight. And we got to get close. Woo! It's hot. I'm coming. >> One, two, three. Four. You got it? All right. >> Are we done? We done? >> Yeah, we're done. We're done. >> Thank you for giving us this opportunity. We're all done. >> Thank you, instructional team. This is what Southfield Public Schools is all about, and we are grateful to you for leading this initiative. As we transition from our scholars to our adult greatness, it is with great pride. Ready, Ms. Foster? >> I'm getting it. >> Drum roll, please. That I introduce you all to Ms. Denise Brown, who is our partner of the month for transporting our scholars to
047and from school safely each and EVERY DAY. >> MY NAME IS LORI OSBORNE. I'M the interim location manager here in Southfield. Um, and I've worked with Denise for about 5 or 6 months. Um, a great driver. She's been driving a school bus for 13 years. And she's been with First Student for 10. Um, she feels like her calling is special needs students. Um, she enjoys putting a smile on their face every day and getting them to and from school safely. We appreciate you, Denise, and thank you for your years of service and your dedication to um, delivering students safe. >> I was trying to get Denise to come in here because she is our partner of the month for Southfield Public Schools. >> Your colleagues were so appreciative. All right. >> Denise, don't go anywhere.
048Stand right here. We're going to take one quick photo just like the children. You get to take a picture with the board. >> for the safety every day and for the care that you show as you transport the children back and forth. So, thank you for all that you >> You're very welcome. >> And where is the box of tissue for the next person? The next person is known affectionately throughout the district as the mother of all of Adler Elementary and it is long overdue that we recognize Ms. Alma Dean as our >> My name is Summer Collins, Principal and I >> employee OF THE MONTH. WHERE IS MS. ALMA DEAN? Come on, Ms. Alma Dean. I have the tissue ready. Come on. >> our employee of the month, Principal Dean. Principal Dean was nominated
049by a parent and I just want to tell you a little bit of what the parent had to say. She stated, "Principal Dean is just the best person I know dealing with young people. My son and I moved to Southfield 2 years ago after his mother passed and when we got to Adler Elementary, he was having a very tough time. But Principal Dean welcomed him and treated him like he was her son. We love her very much. She's out there in the parking lot every day. She knows every kid by name, which is amazing, but it shows the level of care that she has for her kids. Congratulations, Principal Dean. This award is very deserving. Thank you." >> Oh, boy. Oh, boy. boy, what? They said I was needed in kindergarten, so I rushed in
050because I thought it was you. Always needed in kindergarten, but they didn't call and tell you because you are actually the person receiving the employee of the month. >> What? >> For South WILL PUBLIC SCHOOLS. >> Y'ALL GOING TO MAKE ME CRY. >> YOU KNOW IT. CONGRATULATION. OKAY, I'm going to stop. >> Thank you. I appreciate it. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. >> Everybody, 1 2 3, we're going to give it up for Ms. DAY. 1 2 3. >> GO MS. DAY. GO MS. DAY. >> THANK YOU. THANK YOU GUYS. THANK YOU with me. Thank you. Come on family over there in the corner. Come on family. Come on. Yes. Yes. >> 1 2 3. Oh, okay. >> Oh, yeah. >> There you All right. Give her another round of applause. >> It's >>
051Wrong presentation. Okay. You ready? All right. Next we will move on to the staffing update presentation. We're at the end of the school year and I know that there were some mixed messages going out so I did want to clarify. Um there was a message going out saying that there was a hiring freeze. That was actually for the remainder of this academic school year knowing that we have 30 days remaining. We're not hiring anyone for this year. But I'm very proud to announce um particularly in our special education department they have been very thoughtful and doing their pre-hiring for next year. And while we have a number of individuals retiring and other vacancies they have almost staffed every position in our special education department. So I'm very pleased to report this out to you this
052afternoon. Roll through, please. The ASD teacher, as you see, candidate identified for the '26-'27 school year, offer being formulated and um currently being filled by an ISS team member. Speech pathologist at Adler, candidate identified, offer being formulated. So Adler will be fully staffed in the fall. Next we have McIntyre, the .5 gym teacher. Um we knew that that was going to be continuously filled by the long-term sub for the duration of this year. Stevenson, the 1.0 resource room teacher, being filled by a substitute, receiving report from a teacher consultant, and we do have an internal candidate identified for the '26-'27 academic school year. Barney, ASD teacher, once again candidate identified for the '26-'27 school year, offer being formulated, and one I EI teacher, currently being filled by an ISSN team member. Thompson, two ASD teachers
053being filled by substitute teachers. Interviews are currently scheduled for the '26-'27 school year. And our Spanish is Meg's language platn- partner platform. Levy, 00000 vacancies. All right, Principal Jackson. Southfield High School for the Arts and Technologies, 0000. University K-12, 000. And KOC 1 SXI teacher candidate identified and offer accepted. Bussy, two speech pathologist candidates identified for the 26-27 school year and offers extended. Both are currently being filled by our partner, two ECSC teachers, which is early childhood special education, filled by a substitute retiree and one EIV early intervention teacher. One ISSM Medicaid billing and two ESL support teachers. That is amazing. Ms. Angela Smith, please stand and be recognized because you have been interviewing, interviewing, interviewing. Thank you. And trustees, we are going to have our partner speech pathology group come to your next study
054session so that they can talk to you about how they provide speech pathology services in a remote setting so that you can ask as many questions as you'd like relative to that program, okay? Wonderful. All right. Moving right along, next we have the Bussy director's report, Dr. Kelly Wash. Good evening. >> Okay, well, good evening, everyone. Mr. President Belk, Superintendent Green, and all board members, audience. Okay, I'm going to start with the May, sorry to believe it's May. I'm going to start with the May um Bussy board report, so um it was Teacher Appreciation Week, May 4th um through the 8th, and we're still acknowledging and celebrating our teachers at Bussy. So, it's always wonderful to acknowledge all the great, um, uh, ways that our teachers empower and celebrate our scholars at Bussy. Moving right
055along to just give an overview of the director's report, I'm going to talk about our FA1 review, kind of give some additional information about that, our enrollment updates, our average daily attendance, our monitoring reports, um, education, ERCIA, and family engagement. So, last month I gave a little overview about our FA1 review and our action plan. And as we're digging deeper to, uh, make sure that our eligibility, um, component is, uh, meeting all of the requirements, we're going to make sure that all of our ERCIA staff that they're trained regarding our new eligibility policy and procedures. We're going to talk about the housing costs calculator provide training. So, to make sure that all of our over income, um, parents and families that they're meeting all of the eligibility requirements. And then we're going to continue to
056develop relationships with the following following service organizations, CARES, um, Orchard Children's Service, um, organization, and Easterseals. And then also to make sure that there is a direct, um, relationship with our district enrollment enrollment manager, um, to support the anyone who needs McKinney-Vento Services. So, for our enrollment, uh, for all programs, we have a total of 153 scholars at Bussy, and we're still enrolling, which is wonderful. So, I'm I'm sure that next month that number will be higher. For our average daily attendance, overall for all groups, we have an average daily attendance of 83%, which is, um, pretty steady for most of the year. Um for our CACFP, the total number for scholars that um received meals, 5,677. And for our adults, 1,301 meals were served during the month of April. Okay. And as always, we're
057still continuing to make sure there are scholars are well positioned for um next year. So, for uh right now we have 20 child find forms and we're collecting them again um for next year as we're enrolling students and so far we have two for next year. Um for our CA updates this month, last Friday we did a CACFP presentation making sure that um we're creating healthy meal time experiences in our preschool classrooms. And we continue to have our weekly meetings. For education, the highlight for this month was our home visits that took place on the 1st and the 8th of the month, making sure that we have those direct um connections between home and school. And so um the teachers did quite well making sure that all the home visits are taking place. And um
058once again last month we had our Bussy enrollment fair. We will continue to have them throughout the summer. We received over um we have 50 um parents uh families attend and we're still taking information regarding that enrollment fair. So, that's exciting. We're proud to announce that we will have um a summer program two at Bussy, our preschool enrichment program for our current Head Start scholars and our kindergarten boot camp for rising kindergarten scholars. And so, the enrollment um is currently taking place and we're excited to continue and sustain learning throughout the summer. And currently for our in-kind we have little over 190,427.64 and that number is increasing daily. We still need to enter some more numbers. And once again, I know March is reading month but reading is always celebrated. So Mr. Ingram, he's always
059welcome. He likes to come out and read to our scholars and so once again and you're always welcome to come and you know read. That's always an enjoyable experience at Massey. Okay. And at this time are there any questions? >> What was it? >> Yes. >> Um good evening. >> Good evening. >> Um I'm going to ask you a question about the child and adult care food program. >> Sure. >> What why is there um different amount of meals served for the AM and the PM? >> Oh because for our you're looking at the snacks. Let me go back to the >> AM snacks and PM snacks. >> to it. Oh. Because in the well because for the Head Start the early Head Start they do not have the the evening the afternoon snacks. Most
060of the kids are still resting and for the GSRP and Head Start that's why the number is so higher so much higher for the afternoon snacks. If that makes sense. Okay. Thank you. Okay and congratulations to I'm so proud of you. Go blue. Both of you, congratulations. Yes. >> Board President, that concludes the report of the Superintendent. >> Okay. Thank you. Thank you. >> Thank you. >> Trustees, at this time is there a motion to approve um minutes for March 24th, April 14th, April 21st and April 21st again for our closed session as well as April the 28th. >> So moved. >> Support. >> Motion has been moved and supported. Are there any questions? Hearing none, Board Secretary, please call for the vote. >> Trustee Anderson? >> Yes. >> Myself, yes. Trustee Belk? >> Yes.
061>> Trustee Holloway? >> Yes. >> Trustee Johnson? >> Yes. >> Unanimous. >> Motion carried. >> Thank you. >> Report 6478 firewall replacement e-rate. Trustees, you have received this in your package prior to this meeting. Is there a motion to open and approve report 6478? >> So moved. >> Support. >> Motion has been moved and supported. Are there any questions? >> Um what is the report What is actually is that? >> That is the firewall system that we have in the district to ensure that we don't have cyber attacks occurring throughout our district network. And this is for the next 5 years of our infrastructure. >> And Dr. Green, to clarify, the $23,000 is a reimbursement for the e-rates, correct? >> So it's a total of 44. That is correct, ma'am. >> Okay. >> Yes. >>
062Through the chair, Dr. Green, can you just explain um what the e-rate uh what the e-rate program >> e-rate program is a federal program which affords us an opportunity to receive up to 80% reimbursement um as a school district for certain technological advancements in our district. So we apply to the federal government to receive that 80% reimbursement on these upgrades. >> Thank you. >> Any additional questions, trustees? Student board reps? All right, hearing none. Board secretary, would you please call for the vote? >> Yes. Uh Trustee Ward, about myself, yes. Trustee Holloway? >> Yes. >> Trustee Johnson? >> Yes. >> Trustee Anderson? >> Yes. >> Trustee Bell? >> Yes. >> Unanimous. >> Motion carried. All right, trustees, is there a motion to open and approve report 6479? >> So moved. >> Support. Y'all keep leaving
063them hanging. It's It's supported. Are there any questions? >> Board President, um which one is um >> This is the um bid pack number 48 for a university K-12 renovation using bond funds, the addition. >> bond money? Which one is >> No, it's for all of the subcontracts. Report 6479. >> Who is Barton Malow? >> Mhm. Barton Malow did the final recommendation for all of the subcontractors. And then they itemized them all like all of them. Which this is the recommendation. >> That's in here. Thank you. >> No problem. Any additional questions? Board President, I do want to note for the community that this all of these bids came in a million dollars under budget. All of these combined came in a million dollars under budget. Any additional questions? All right, Board Secretary, please call
064for the vote. >> Absolutely. Trustee Belk? >> Yes. >> Trustee Anderson? >> Yes. >> Trustee Holloway? >> Um Yes, with the explanation. >> Okay. >> Um even though I had a plethora of questions, Dr. Green was uh she obliged me in answering them, but I still have further concerns, so I'll take that up at a at a different time. >> Okay. Understood. >> Mhm. Trustee Johnson? >> Yes. >> Myself, yes. Unanimous. >> Motion carried. Trustees, is there a motion to open and approve report 6483? That's for the environmental consult. Oh, >> 22 consult. >> Oh, I missed one. Report 6482, building en- Okay, envelope commissioning award recommendation with bond funds. >> So moved. >> Support. >> It's been motioned and supported. Trustees, are there any questions regarding report 6482? >> Through the chair, this is
065not so much as a question, but I just want to ask Dr. Green, can you explain what the envelope commissioning is so that people will know exactly what it was because I had no idea what it was. >> Yes, and I'm glad you lifted that, uh Trustee Anderson. So, this is basically quality control to ensure that the foundation of the building is solid, the walls, the windows, the doors, the frames, the roof, all of those things. So, this is ensuring checks and balance um with the contractors that we're hiring to do the work to ensure that it is done with high quality. >> And this is for all of our properties that have been worked on for the bond. >> Um this one is specific to that of University because they're putting up new walls.
066So, the other buildings were more of renovations. This is the new build, so we had to um consider professional services for the new build. >> Thank you for clarifying that. We had eight pages of questions. I think we all think we construction workers now. Any additional questions? I didn't listen. Architects, engineers, construction. >> Do it all. >> We had a ton of questions, but thank you for clarifying that for our community as well. Um board secretary, please call for the vote. >> Trustee Bell? >> Yes. >> Myself, yes. Trustee Johnson? >> Yes. >> Trustee Holloway? >> Yes. >> Trustee Anderson? >> Yes. >> Unanimous. >> Motion carried. Trustees, is there a motion to open and approve report 6483, which is the environmental consulting services, Arch Environmental Group, amendment number four with bond funds? >> So
067moved. >> Support. >> It's been moved and supported. Trustees, are there any questions? >> Um what to the chair. Uh for the environmental services, is that the one that's like helping with the electric buses, or is that somebody else? >> No, this is um a company that comes in to remove asbestos from buildings that existed. So, they do abatement work throughout the district. >> Good question. Any additional questions? >> Through the chair, um I just want uh Dr. Green to explain cuz she she did explain it when we got our materials initially what why we are at amendment number four. >> So, as we continue to move throughout the district with each additional project, we amend the prior contracts to ensure that we are doing the new work. We don't give blanket contracts for all
068of the mine work. We put out specific bid packs as we go throughout the process and as we identify areas that need addressing, we come back to the board of trustees for the additional amendments. Also, it's important to note that through this work, not only do they do the abatement, but they also monitor the air quality to ensure that our environments are safe for our scholars. Thank you. >> Chair. >> Yes. >> Um Dr. Green, is it also fair to say that as we do the construction of some of the existing buildings and we uncover new um areas that have asbestos, is this also part of why we have the additional amendments? >> So, amendments will come to you throughout the projects, but part of the pre-work that we do is identify those areas that
069will have asbestos and need to be abated on the front end so that we don't have any surprises. Now, there could be some surprises along the way, but the pre-work is extremely important to ensure that we keep those surprises to a minimum. >> Thank you. Any additional questions? >> Um sorry. Is this just for University or is it like for every building that this specific admit like not a specific admit, but like what this is funding is for? >> Um this particular one is for University K-12. And this is going to start the day after the scholars leave, so they will be coming in. They're the first group that goes into a building to ensure that once they start addressing the floors and the roofs and the ceilings that it's properly abated before they start
070building new. Yes, Paris. >> Well, I remember earlier in the year that there was like another issue with the South O'Riley T building, but that was like plumbing-wise, I believe. Um so, is this the only building like University, is this the only building with this specific issue like the uh best >> No, actually the old house has already been completely abated at Southfield A&T. So, we closed off the wing of the old house. So, we've already taken care of that portion of the building. So, we're moving throughout the district one building at a time. Brick by brick. >> Thank you. >> Wait, so the if you're moving through one district, so you're going to do this with multiple different buildings or is it >> At the end of the summer, we'll have five buildings complete,
071Cheaty. Every building in Southfield public schools is receiving renovation and or additions. All right. Good questions. >> Dr. Green, I just want to clarify you said this was for University but it looks like we really identify University and Thompson as a separate project. >> You are correct. This is the additional piece at Thompson as well. Thank you for that clarification. And Thompson will be finished at the end of the summer. >> Any additional questions? >> Do we know when University is going to be finished? >> Three years. >> No, for Oh, for the addition to >> Oh, no, the abatement. You won't be able to go on that campus for the next 3 years. Once it becomes an active construction site, thank you for lifting that for all of our community. Once it becomes an
072active construction site, no one will be allowed on that campus without the approval of the construction team, meaning no one that is not an active contractor or subcontractor will be afforded an opportunity to go on that campus. So, for the next 3 years, 3 months, and 29 days, no one will be allowed on that campus. Okay? >> Who's counting? >> I am. Truly, I am. >> Any additional questions? >> Has activity started? >> Yes. >> Will Secretary please call for the vote. >> Trustee Belk. >> Yes. >> Myself, yes. Trustee Johnson. >> Yes. >> Trustee Holloway. >> Yes, with another explanation. >> Okay. >> With this one, I had a plethora of questions and concerns. Dr. Green addressed them all. But going forward forward with other contracts, I would like a better explanation of That's
073my questions. >> Yes, ma'am. >> And my concern, mostly my concerns. You answered the question. Mostly my concern. Yes, ma'am. >> And I'll just request that the office of the superintendent add this to our next special board meeting. >> Yes, ma'am. >> So that we'll have clarity amongst the entire board so that we'll have no issues. >> Yep. >> You're welcome. >> Trustee Anderson. >> Yes. >> Unanimous. >> Motion carried. >> Thank you. >> Trustees, we are almost there. Is there a motion to open and open and approve for 6486? This is our personnel action report. >> So moved. >> Support. >> It's been moved and supported. Do we have any questions? >> I don't want to get to it. >> It's in here. >> It's only three. >> Short and sweet. >> Oh. It's
074only three. Thank you. I just want to lift um number two to the trustees. >> Mhm. >> Yes. >> Very well deserved. >> Sure. >> Um >> Absolutely. >> And number three. Oh, I see what the action item is. >> Mhm. >> Any additional questions? All right, hearing none. Board secretary, please call for the vote. Trustee this is the the reason why you guys don't have it is because it's personnel. And when it's that's why we use numbers cuz we can't call everyone's name. Just wanted to make sure I clarified it. >> Trustee Anderson? >> Yes. >> Trustee Bates? >> Yes. >> Trustee Holloway? >> Yes. >> Trustee Johnson? >> Yes. >> Myself, yes. Unanimous? >> Motion carried. >> Thank you. >> Information items. >> Dr. Green. Thank you, Board President. Report 6487 is bid
075pack 46. This is Kennedy Learning Center. So Trustee to your earlier question, are we moving around the district? Yes, we are. So the next bid pack that we will discuss is that for the boiler replacement at Kennedy Learning Center to ensure that they have proper heating, ventilation, and air conditioning, also known as HVAC. Oh, I hear applause back there. So that is the information item. Again, bond funds will be utilized for this work. Um we don't have a swing space for these scholars, so we're working with the team within the school to ensure that we can swing them around the building while they're working on the specific side that has the um HVAC, the boiler rooms. We will move the scholars to the other side of the building, and that will be done in the
076summer months. That program is a year-round program, so there are very small windows where we can go in and actually do the work, and a lot of it will take place over the weekends because um you may recall that the school district only does 4 days per week in the summer. So Friday, Saturdays, and Sundays will be the optimal time to do this work when the scholars are not on the campus. Any questions, trustees? No? Okay. The next item is report 6488. This is DTE, and this is the method of providing permanent electrical services. Um as you are aware, we have to run new electrical systems on that campus before we erect the new, um, structure. So, this is going to come out of the bond funds from the 20 22 bond to make sure
077that we have proper electrical on that campus before we can put up the new building. 20, yeah, November 2022 is when it was approved. >> Okay, thanks. >> You fixing it? Okay, very good. All right. And then you have the financial report and the monthly bill disbursement. >> All right. Thank you, Dr. Green. Um, trustees, do we have any questions regarding the financial report or monthly bill disbursements? In the absence of Trustee Denson, I did review, um, all of the reporting. Think I'm kind of used to doing that. Um, so I don't have any questions. I did want to lift though, um, just for our community that the teacher, I think it's called the 27 AL bonus. >> 27 AL bonus. >> 27 AL grant bonus. A teach- teacher bonus. That's what you Okay, teacher
078>> It's actually an educator bonus, so anyone that's classified as an educator within the district with the exception of the executive team. >> Okay. That bonus will be received in June. So, I wanted to make sure that I stated that since I was giving the financial report and monthly bill disbursement. I didn't see anything, um, that was worth noting. Everything looks perfectly fine and Mark Ingram's team is doing an excellent job, um, as far as the finances. And that concludes the financial report for today. For this month. Um, public participation. If you wish to address the board regarding a school-related issue that has not yet been resolved by school administration, please submit a comment card immediately. Comments are limited to 3 minutes per individual and as a matter of fairness, speakers with complaints against individuals
079are asked not to mention any persons by name. Complaints concerning employees pursuant to board policy 9130 should be brought to the attention of the school principals or other administrators before coming to the Board of Education. Your cooperation is appreciated. >> Ms. Foster, zero. >> Okay. For the good of the order. >> I have something more, President. Um, I would be remiss if I didn't lift on behalf of Ms. Paula Laitsy that May is Mental Health Month and if anyone is um struggling and or need additional supports, Ms. Laitsy and her team are available to you and for you. Um, she has a plethora of resources and her contact information is on our district website. >> Thank you. Anything else, trustees, for the good of the order? >> Through the chair. >> Yes. >> Um, I
080didn't want to do my full report out at the beginning. Uh, so this is my report from the NSBA conference, if that's okay. Uh, I recently had the opportunity to attend the National School Boards Association Conference in San Antonio and I wanted to briefly report back on my experience there. And to highlight a few um sessions that I went to. So, first, I went to a session uh or one I want to highlight is about student board representatives specifically. One of the biggest takeaways with that was that there's a wide range across the country in terms of what student representation actually looks like. In some states, like New York, student representation is now mandated by the state. So, a lot of districts are still figuring it out. But then you have districts like Montgomery County,
081Maryland, which has had a student board rep since the 1970s. And that district is treated like a part-time job. The student board reps receive a salary and the role is very structured. What What really stood out to me is that in Montgomery County, which is a district of about 150,000 students, so very different, uh the student board reps have to run for the position. There's a primary and the general election, and students from kindergarten through 12th grade vote for who represents them at the table. The student speaker shared that she visited over 80 school campuses during her campaign. So, again, there's a huge range nationally. Some school board members can vote on everything. Some have limitations, especially around personnel matters, and some don't vote at all. But, across the board, the most successful districts are
082not treating student representation as symbolic. They're treating students as real partners. Um They shared that student board reps regularly contribute in ways that shape conversations and even cause boards to pause and rethink decisions in real time. And that requires intentional relationship building. For me, this really made me reflect on where we are as a district. We've had student board reps for a while now, and it feels like we're continuously leveling up what that experience looks like. And I think we should continue to build on that. One thing I found especially powerful was the idea of using this as a way to train young people to uh to participate in democracy. The idea that students are voting throughout their school careers to choose their representatives is real civic engagement. And I think there's something really strong
083there that we could look into as a community and as a district. That's all I'll share for now. >> Okay. Thank you. >> Thank you, Trustee Johnson. >> Trustee Werdegar. >> All right. You can give yourself You can especially hold that one. >> Good evening, everyone. So, as a board, we definitely like to recognize each other, um as well as our superintendent. Um Dr. Green, we'll start with Dr. Green first. Tomorrow is her birthday. So, we want to make sure We appreciate Dr. Green and all the work and everything that she brings to the district. Um we are excited to have her as a plus one to the board. Dr. Green, I hope you enjoy your day, your week, your month. >> Thank you. >> You're very welcome. >> And Trustee Johnson, we're definitely leveling
084up because last year was on my birthday and we were here until 11:00 at night. >> We also have another um birthday that we'll be celebrating. Unfortunately, it will not be with us um in-house here, but our Trustee Imani Johnson will be celebrating his month this as well this year. >> Or this month. >> Next week. >> So, we wanted to celebrate him as well with this small token of our appreciation. Um we also have another uh which she is not here. She's at a conference is our Trustee um Denton. So, she has a birthday month. May is a busy month for us. Um so, we'll be celebrating her upon her return. Enjoy your day. You're very welcome. >> Thank you, Trustee. We're doing well. Will you? Okay, I won't say that over the microphone.
085Future meetings. Uh February May the 22nd I mean ooh Friday >> Trying to get to the summer. >> Friday May the 22nd through Monday May the 25th Memorial Day recess no school. Um May the 26th special board meeting and study session. Uh Friday June the 5th is graduation day. We have two graduations same day 10:00 a.m. and then 2:00 p.m. for university. Um Tuesday June 9th we have our regular board meeting. Thursday is Thursday June 11th is students last day of school. And then on the 23rd we have a special board meeting and study session at 6:00 p.m. Um meeting adjourned at 8:00 8:25. >> This is the best birthday gift ever.