School Board Meeting - September 22, 2025

001I call to order the York County regular schoolboard meeting for September 22nd, 2025. Good evening everyone and welcome to tonight's schoolboard meeting. We appreciate your presence and your engagement in the work we do together for our students, our staff, and our community. Our focus remains on creating opportunities for every student to learn, grow, and thrive. and we thank you for your continued support as we move forward in that mission. And with that, I would now like to share with you the YCSD mission statement. The mission of the York County School Division is to ensure every student is valued, supported, and challenged through learning experiences which prepare them for a successful future. Would you now please join me in a moment of silence? Now, I will share some information about our pledge leader, Anna Marie Hunt,

002a second grader at TAB Elementary. Anna Marie is a joyful and dedicated second grader at Tab Elementary who truly loves school. Her classroom teacher, Miss Cole, says Anna Marie's favorite subject is reading, and she's always on task setting a wonderful example for her classmates. A natural classroom leader, Anamarie participates actively in every lesson and brings a positive energy in all that she does. At home, Anna Marie's create creativity shines even brighter. She enjoys writing imaginative stories and illustrating them with colorful pictures. Whether she's painting, drawing, or crafting something new, her artistic spirit is always at work. When she's not creating, you'll find her outside playing, riding her bike, and enjoying the fresh air. An Anna Marie shows her roar every day. Please stand as Anna Marie leads us in our pledge. I pledge allegiance to

003the 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. We will now recognize our seniors of the month for each school. When your name is announced, please stand along with your family members while we hear about your accomplishments. We'll start with Brutin High School. >> All right. Batia Sarah Darion. There you go. And you guys got to stand up, too. She and her family are here. Brutin High School is proud to recognize Batia Seridarian as September senior of the month. This year, BAIA has uh serves as our student council associ association president. She is also a dedicated student in the school of the arts. Throughout her high school journey at Ruten High, BA has been actively involved in

004several organizations including the Panther Achievement Leaders, Key Club, Ro Kappa National Social Studies Honor Society, there we go, and International Thespian Society. In addition to her uh school year commitments, Bacha was selected to participate in the prestigious summer residential Governor's School for Dance, showcasing her talent and passion for the arts. Batia has always been deeply passionate about the arts. In her sophomore year, sophomore year now, she showcased her talent by competing in a Virginia history day level day state level competition. Her compelling performance piece on Martha Graham earned her a spot at the national level, highlighting both her creativity and dedication to historical storytelling. Congratulations, VA. [Applause] >> We'll next hear from Grafton High School. >> Yes. I would like to invite Taylor Secret and her parents Aaron Sherry Secrets to stand up, please. Very

005good. Also, Mr. Gavin as a principal. Just want to recognize him for all the bravery today. Thank you. Uh we are proud to recognize Taylor Secret as the Grafton High School senior of the month. Taylor is a hardworking student who consistently challenges herself academically while balancing a full student athlete schedule. She she has earned highest academic honors from the 9th through 11th grade. On the field, Taylor has played varsity field hockey all four years and now serves as a team captain, a role that allows her to mentor younger players, which is what she does best. Outside of school, she volunteers at Waters Edge Church, helping pack meals for the community. She also serves as a freshman mentor and helped launch G uh Grafton High School crew team supporting a positive and supportive school culture. Taylor

006has committed to play field hockey at Lynburg University where she plans to major in a biomed field. Graphin High is very proud of her and thrilled to celebrate with her with this award. Thank you. [Applause] Mr. Richardson will present the Tab High School senior of the month. >> Yeah. Uh, Saneha Shaw and her parents can stand up. Perfect. Tab High School is honored to announce Shaneha as September senior of the month. Saneha epitomizes the quality qualities of a well-rounded, compassionate student and leader. She exhibits the very best as a TAB Tiger through her academic performance and her service to community. In addition to an impressive academic resume at TAB, Saneha has been a student at New Horizon's Governor School for Science and Technology where she is pursuing a rigorous engineering strand. As part of her

007academic pursuits, she seeks and appreciates constructive feedback from her instructors, mentors, and other members of TAB and Governor School faculties. She has consistently shown herself to be an acade academically curious student and she is both personable and a risktaker. Not at all anxious about participating during classes or shifting outside her comfort zone as needed. Beyond the classrooms, SHA has been a dedicated member of TAB student council association serving this year as secretary of the executive board and both leading and supporting the numerous activities of SCA that benefit all TAB students. Saneha has is hoping to attend John's Hopkins University and plans to major in nursing and as she pursues medical school in her near near future. So congratulations to you. Good job. [Applause] Right. I have the pleasure of announcing the uh York High School

008senior of the month, Jacob Corbett. Would Jacob and his family please stand. York High School is pleased to recognize Jacob Corbett as our September senior of the month. As senior class president, a dedicated YHS band member and Eagle Scout, Jacob embodies leadership, scholarship, and service. His dedication to academics is evident through his membership in several honor societies along with being on track to graduate as part of the YCSD honors program with the highest academic achievements. Beyond his academic accomplishments, Jacob is an active member of the St. Joonavar Catholic Church, Knights of Columbus, and has contributed over 300 hours of community service. His outstanding contributions have not gone unnoticed as he was awarded the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 8252 Scout of the Year and Knights of Columbus Catholic Young Man of the Year, which further

009highlights his dedication to our community and his leadership abilities. Jacob is very well liked by our staff and his classmates for his integrity, steady work ethic, and ability to lead by example. His hard work and dedication are inspiring and he truly embodies the spirit of York High School. Jacob has made a lasting and positive impact on our school and we can't wait to see all the great things he will achieve in the future. Congratulations. [Applause] Okay. Um Dr. Shander, do you want to step down for the recognitions? I will ask Miss Beth Welch, Tab Elementary principal, to step forward while information is shared about the student service award recipient for Tab Elementary. >> So, is Rhett Schwarz here? He may not have made it up. There he is. Come on forward. Okay, so Rhett is

010a dynamic fifth grade student at Tab Elementary who stays both busy in and out of the classroom. He is a natural leader and a dependable classroom helper, always modeling roar expectations and setting a positive example for his peers. Learning comes easily to Rhett and he genuinely enjoys it, especially when he gets a chance to dive into non-fiction books. His mom has shared that he loves to factch checkck his family with the knowledge he gains from reading. Outside of school, Rhett continues to shine. On Tuesday evenings, he volunteers with his family at a local food pantry, helping distribute food to those in need. On Sundays, he serves as an activity leader for his boys group at church, showing his commitment to helping others and building community. Rhett is also an avid athlete who rotates through different

011sports each season, always eager to stay active and to try something new. Rhett's enthusiasm, leadership, and heart for service make him a stu standout student and a role model for Tab Elementary. We're proud to have him in our school community. Congratulations, Rhett. [Applause] The volunteer of the month for Tab Elementary is Miss Linda Kibler. Mr. Richardson, will you tell us about Yibler? [Applause] So, Linda Kibler retired from Tab Elementary School as a parah, but continues to give generously of her time through volunteering. When Miss Carter came to became the art teacher, she immediately offered to help with the art club, and for the past 10 years, she's been at nearly every meeting. For the past three years, she's also supported our weekly sketch club without hesitation. Linda is a talented artist herself, creating beautiful jewelry

012and crocheted pieces. Her insights into balance, color, and pattern are invaluable to our students. She helps execute plans, preps materials, and labels artwork for our annual art night. Alongside her volunteers, I call her the school fairies. She spends hours hanging student art throughout the halls. She also helps prepare the classroom at the start and end of each year. I truly couldn't do as much without her. Linda quietly enriches our art program in ways students may never realize and we are so fortunate to have her. Congratulations, Miss Keep. Okay. Would Mr. Steven Gavin, Grafton High School principal, please step forward and remain upfront while information is shared for both the student service award recipient and the volunteer of the month for Grafton High School. The student service award recipient this month for Grafton High is Ruby

013Jones. Mr. Pyovich will share about Ruby as she comes up front. [Applause] >> Ruby Jones, a senior at Grafton High School, is the embodiment of Clipper Pride. Selfless, dedicated, and deeply compassionate. Her commitment to serving others and uplifting the school community makes her a standout leader and a deserving recipient of the student service of the year award. Ruby has been a pillar of the Grafton marching band, serving as a section leader during the 23 and 24 season and now leading a drum major for the 25 season. Her leadership extends f far beyond titles. She's the first to arrive, the last to leave, and always ready to help. From setting up fields and preparing the performances to volunteering for extra extra task, Ruby dedication is unmatched. She spent much of her summer mentoring younger band students,

014ensuring they felt welcomed, supported, and confident. Her compassion and willingness to serve make her a role model to all students. Ruby leads not just with words, but through consistent action and care for others. Ruby Jones truly represents what it means to be a Clipper. Her impact on Grafton High School will be felt for years to come. Congratulations, Ruby. >> The volunteer of the month for Grafton High School is Miss Jamie Mack. Miss M, would you please join uh Dr. Shander and Mr. Gavin up front? [Applause] Grafton High School proudly recognizes Jamie Map as our volunteer of the year. Jaime's dedication and tireless service have made her lasting impact on our school community. Since her children became Graten High School students, she has generously shared her time, energy, and creativity to support our faculty, students, and

015families. She currently serves as vice president of the PTSA and a chair of the senior sendoff, manages PTSA social media, and actively contributes to the booster club for tennis and track. Her past role includes chair of PTSA membership and red and blue crew. This summer, Jamie went above and beyond by coordinating the parent side of the band camp, spending longer hot days ensuring students were wellfed and cared for. Her leadership and willingness to jump in whatever needed make her an incredible part of the Grafton family. Jaime brings positivity to every project, helping create a welcoming and supportive environment. Whether it is part of her role or not, Jaime always steps up to make sure Grafton has what it needs. Her selflessness and commitment are truly inspiring. Thank you, Jamie, for the incredible dedication and to

016many ways you support Grafton High. We are so grateful for you. Congratulations. [Applause] Congratulations to all our award recipients. At this time, we'll have the York Foundation for Public Education presentation. Mr. Schaefer, would you tell us about that? >> Thank you. >> I'd like to invite Miss Bonnie Gray up, York Foundation for Public Education Liaison uh to assist Dr. Shandoor as he presents gifts to each of our award recipients. Please come up front when you hear your name called. Congratulations to Anamarie Hunt, a second grader from Tav Elementary School, for reciting the pledge of allegiance at tonight's schoolboard meeting. We'd also like to recognize tonight's student service award recipients, Rhett Schwarz from Tab Elementary School and and Ruby Jones from Grafton High School. [Applause] We also congratulate our seniors of the month for this month.

017Bata Saridarian from Brutin High School. Taylor Secretress from Grafton High School. [Applause] Saneha Shaw from Tab High School. and Jacob Corbett from York High School. [Applause] Special gifts from Cookie Text and Edible Tweet are being presented on behalf of the York Foundation for Public Education in partnership with her donor Gene Fioa of Cookie Text and Edible Tweet. A Sweet Frog gift card is also being donated by Derek Mayhan from Sweet Frog. Join me in congratulating all our award recipients. [Applause] Okay. All right. Okay. All right. At this time, we will proceed to our grant awards. Dr. Shandor. >> Thank you, Miss Goodwin. Good evening, board members. I want to let's see I'm going to invite Dr. Vikica Stevenson to the podium. She's going to present several grants recently awarded to the school division. >> Dr.

018Stevenson. >> Good evening, Madam Chair, members of the board, and Dr. Shandor. Tonight, we are excited to celebrate the York County School Division's recent success in securing five grant awards that will bring meaningful support to our students, staff, and schools. We are proud to present the ceremonial checks for these grants. First, the community schools grant in the amount of $25,862 will support targeted initiatives at McGrder Elementary designed to improve student attendance and strengthen family engagement. The check for this grant will be received by Dr. Shandoor and Miss Lisa Rufier, McGrder Elementary principal. Thank you. Next, the Department of Defense Impact Aid for Children with Severe Disabilities Grant provides a reimbursement grant of $44,33 to help division address the diverse academic, social, emotional, and behavioral needs of students with severe disabilities, providing resources and services to

019enhance their educational experience. The check for this grant will be received by Dr. Shandoor and Dr. Skinner. Congratulations. >> Okay. All right. Our third award, the Virginia Department of Criminal and Justice Services School Safety Personnel Grant totals $126,020. This funding will provide two full-time positions dedicated to enhancing school safety and ensuring a secure learning environment for all students. The check for this grant will be received by Dr. Shander and Dr. Carol. Thank you. [Applause] Okay, the fourth award is the Virginia Department of Education K12 Innovation Grant in the amount of $50,000. This grant will provide students enrolled in selected career and technical education courses with opportunities to engage in school-based enterprise activities. Funding will support a pop-up trailer and instructional resources to implement and enhance these hands-on learning experiences. The check for this grant will

020be received by Dr. Shandor and Dr. Skinner tonight. Nice. Thank you. And this one's fresh off the press. We just got it Friday. Uh, the Virginia Department of Education School Security Equipment Grant is providing $250,000 to support the purchase and installation of the Valcom public address system and integrated lockdown notification system at York High School. The check for this grant will be received by Dr. Shander and Dr. Carol. Thank you. Altogether, the York County School Division is receiving $856,185 in grant funding tonight. These resources represent a strong investment in our students and schools, and we are so grateful for the continued support from our community partners at the state and federal agencies that we work with. So, congratulations to all involved in securing these grants, and thank you for joining us in celebrating this achievement.

021Good night. Fantastic. All right, we will move into our accent on academics. Dr. Shandor. >> Yes, thank you, Miss Goodwin. Tonight, we'll hear about the TAB Elementary Maritime STEM Club where students take part in in hands-on maritime themed STEM activities. This program supports our strategic plan by preparing future ready graduates and connecting classroom learning to real world real world experiences. Now, I'll present Miss Beth Welch, principal at Tab Elementary School. Good evening, Madame Chair, boards, members of the board, Dr. Shandor. I am Beth Welch, principal of TAB Elementary School. Tonight, we are excited to present STEM set sail from maritime learning, highlighting how our school engages students in hands-on maritime theme STEM experiences. These activities spark curiosity, develop problem solving skills, and connect classroom learning to realworld applications. Our after-school maritime STEM club was launched

022during the 202425 school year through funding from the DODIA militaryconnected academic support programs grant. This grant supports military connected students in exploring careers within environmental and maritime science pathways. The program aligns with the division's strategic plan priority of future ready graduates, helping students develop collaboration, problem solving, and adaptability skills that prepare them for future education, careers, and life. The Maritime STEM Club exemplifies the future ready graduates focus area of engaging educational experiences. Students tackle real world challenges related to our local maritime community, collaborate with peers, and apply critical thinking skills. These experiences extend learning beyond the classroom and help students understand how today's learning connects to future STEM opportunities. Having shared an overview of the goals and impacts of our maritime STEM club, we would like to provide a visual perspective of the program in

023action. This video showcases the STEM learning experiences our students engaged in along with their reflections of what the program has meant to them. You will also hear from our teacher sponsor who was who has guided and supported students throughout this enriching experience. [Music] Since transitioning out of the classroom and into my role as an ESL teacher about 5 years ago, I knew I really wanted to create a club that further connects the students to bring them together and all of their different cultures and backgrounds and experiences to really highlight their individualities. So when I went to the students, I did ask them what they were interested in and I kind of used some of what their feedback was to drive my weekly theme. >> The best and fun part of maritime for me is we

024got to use robots and then we got to lead them around the world map. The most fun part of the maritime sun club for me was that we would always create things and then at the end we would test them and I would like when we would like create things. Um we would always like make them and then we'd leave them for like a couple days and the next time we have a club we would test them out. >> Oh, it was so fun to watch them every single week here in the club. Their excitement of having to problem solve and work together. Seeing students from different cultures and different backgrounds and different grade levels working together to solve the problems and then watching their creation come to life and then learning about how the

025same thing they're doing here in school in this club is happening in the real world. >> It helped me think about problem solving like if I was on an actual ship, what would happen to me and how would I solve those problems? The students were able to see the different tools, decision making processes and choices throughout this learning experience. It was like we would always come up with like ideas and it would like help me because like every time like she says we would do something uh she my friend she would like give ideas to me and we would always create something. I enjoy about building like we built together and work together. >> Throughout the weeks, we were able to showcase both onshore and offshore maritime career pathway opportunities. And it was really neat

026for the kids to see that there are so many careers out there waiting for them both right here in our backyard and globally as well. I want to be a captain of a ship because like it sounds like fun and like I can know about like things about ships. Well, I'm really interested in science and would like to work at NASA, but I'd also consider being a sailor maybe one day. It is now my pleasure to introduce Mrs. Heather Emerson, our English as a second language teacher, who is the dedicated sponsor of our maritime STEM club. Her passion for hands-on learning and her commitment to guiding students through innovative real world STEM experiences has been instrument instrumental in making this program a success. There you go. Good evening. My name is Heather Emerson and I

027am proud to serve as the teacher sponsor of the TAB Elementary Maritime STEM Club. Beyond what you saw in the video, this program also reflects the division's strategic plan priority of collective commitment. As students, staff, families, and community members work together to support student success. Our community partners and parents contributed as guest speakers sharing expertise in maritime career pathways that guided students exploration of STEM projects. For example, a TAP parent who is a marine and technical chief engineer connected his career to our students wind turbine build challenge providing a global perspective. The collaboration and support from our community have allowed students to move beyond STEM challenges to connect directly with careers held by individuals in their own community, making the possibilities for their future learning and careers more tangible and attainable. I am excited to

028introduce two of our students, Willie Woo and Emma Blina, who will share their perspectives on what they have learned and experienced through this program. Good evening. My name is Willy Woo and I am now in sixth grade at Tab Medal. Last year when I was in fifth grade, I was part of maritime STEM club. My favorite challenge was the ship building and work boat races. I really enjoy this challenge because we got to design and build a model boat and then test it in the water. We learned about the dead rice boat which is special to the Chesape Bay and how fishermen and other worker use it in their jobs. This challenge showed me how STEM connects to real careers in our own community. I learned that people can work the water as boat builders,

029engineers, and fishermen. And their work helped the economy and our way of life. It was exciting to see how what we build in STEM connects to jobs people actually do every day. And that's why this was my favorite challenge. [Applause] Good evening. My name is Emma Balina and I'm a fourth grader student at Tab Elementary. My favorite challenge in the Maritime STEM club was maritime navigation with Ozobots. In this challenge, we use small robots to model ships moving along major trade routes. We learned about ports around the world like the English Channel and how goods are shipped and shared globally. I discovered how important maritime trade is and how it connects us to the world around us. This challenge was my favorite because I could see how robotics and coding connected to real jobs like

030working in ship working in ports shipping and logistics. It showed me that STEM is not just about technology in the classroom, but also about careers that keep the world moving every single day. Being part of this challenge helped me see that one day I could be part of those careers, too. [Applause] This concludes our presentation. We welcome your comments and questions. So, I have a question for each of you. Did this um experience in the club, did it inspire you to want to get involved in a trade, something like this, get involved with the ship, ships or being on the water or anything like that? >> First, I go first. Well, I I wasn't interested in maritime before this, but it did really teach me about it. And now I think that it would be

031fun to be a sailor or a sailor across the sea. >> Okay. >> So, how cool are those robots? >> Very cool. >> Really cool. >> So, you made them work and go from point A to point B. It's like follow the trace the line. >> Yes. >> So, how does that translate into like using it with the ships? >> Well, we pretended that the Ozobots would be ships that were crossing around the world and they would go to different ports. >> Good. So, what what's the biggest port that you remember? >> The English Channel. >> English Channel. All right. That's nice. So, question for you, young man. Do you want to be a pirate or do you want to be like Is it a pirate or something else? >> I would rather to be

032a boat builder to build boats and know about how boats work and how many hours and minutes did it cost to travel around the world. >> That's wonderful. So you want to build the fast boats or big boats? Just like regular boats. >> Regular boats. >> Like regular boat. >> Go fishing. That's right. That's right. Thank you. >> It's just a great program. I hope you continue it and um it looks like you had a lot of participation. So hopefully it continues to grow. So good job. Thank you. >> Thank you very much. >> All right. The board is now going to take a short recess to meet with award recipients and their families. >> I don't think it's it's not on the agenda. Where? Hold on. Where is it? >> All right. Excuse me.

033We will now go into citizens. Excuse me. Comments of citizens this evening. You will have two or Do we have two opportunities to speak tonight? >> We have uh board committee updates. >> Did I skip? I'm sorry. I apologize. I'm ahead of myself. >> Yeah. Unfinished business. And then Yeah. >> Oh, yes, I did. I got ahead. Okay. So, we are going to do our committee updates this evening. Um we'll start with Mr. Richardson >> and nothing to report because we're going to have a report from WHRO on the impact statement. So that'll cover that. We're having a meeting in October for uh for our next WHRO. So I'll have a report after that. >> All right. So we'll go to Mr. Schaeer. >> Yes. And I'm going to unabashedly uh plug the York Foundation

034for Public Education. Uh we are in need of members to help give out the the grants and the scholarships uh that we go through all year and get. And last year was $80,000 of scholarships and uh and a ton of grants. I know we went through a lot, but we're in desperate need of having some more people join us. Uh if you're a retired teacher, retired school uh administrator, that would be great. If you're just a regular person just uh wanting to help out, give back to your community, this is a perfect way to do it because you'll be taking care of not only uh the community, but you'll be taking care of the schools, okay, which build the community. So, if anyone would like to uh to join with the York Foundation for Public

035Education, be in touch with Bonnie Gray. She was up here earlier and she will get you set up. She can tell you everything that you need to know and we'll get you rolling. Okay. Thank you. >> All right, Mr. Povich. >> Yes. Uh New Horizon uh had a really great kickoff and start of the year. So far, everything is doing really well. Uh York County is one of the large has one of the largest uh student population in the New Horizons. Uh we did have a board meeting uh last month and uh on that one I did get reelected for the chair for the committee. Um, we gonna there's a several things happening right now that we're trying to work on which I'm going to update you guys as it comes in. Uh, on CTE,

036we did not have any meetings yet. It's coming up on October 28th. That's our first meeting, but we do have applications for the students for the advisory committee that we're going to be reviewing tonight at the close session. So, with that, I'll conclude my report. >> Thank you. >> You're welcome. Okay. And I'll give you a brief Gak uh updates gifted education. Um our committee meeting will be tomorrow evening at 6:30 and this will be the first committee meeting for this uh 2025 2026 school year. Um I do have some updates from the committee's review of our local plan for gifted education. Uh last school year we had 460 new gifted referrals which is really a nice increase from the previous year we had 416. Our total population of gifted students divisionwide for 2024 2025

037was 8.3%. So overall the percentage of YCSD students identified as gifted uh has shown a small uh but steady increase over the last four years. So um I'll have more information to share after I've had my committee meeting and I'll bring that to you um next time. Okay. All right. So, um, unfortunately, we were going to have WHRO, uh, here tonight, but, um, the reps are unable to be here this evening. So, we look forward to hearing from them at a later date. Now, we'll go on to the comments by citizens. Okay. This evening, you will have two opportunities to speak. No. Okay. One, we'll scratch it. >> The first one then in the meeting. >> Oh, okay. That's what that I wasn't sure what that was meaning. Um before I open for public comments,

038I'll share some remarks. The school board provides public comment periods for the public to comment on matters related to the b the business or duties of the school board and school division. Schoolboard policy KDBDH governs these public comment periods. I would encourage citizens to review this policy prior to speaking before the board. Briefly, the school board expects speakers to refrain from any excuse me uh speech or conduct that is a clear violation of the law, such as abusive or threatening language that incites criminal behavior or that creates an actual disruption to the meeting. We ask speakers direct their comments to the school board and not to members of the audience. Violations of the school board policy KDBDH may result in a warning or termination of a speaker's time by the chair. This sanction is immediately

039appealable to the whole board at the speaker's option. Each each speaker may speak for up to three minutes. Speakers will present their comments at the podium. A timer is visible to speakers from the podium and speakers should conclude their remarks when the red light comes on. The timer will begin after you state your name and the district or area of residence. I now open the public participation for comments of citizens. Okay. Our first speaker this evening is Pam Pushau. Good evening. Uh my name is Pam Pusho. I reside in district 4. Tonight is Roshashana which begins the 10 days of repentance and ends with Yam Kapor, the day of atonement. As a Jew, Jesus celebrated these highest of holy days. You would never consider holding a meeting on an important Christian holiday. I was told

040rescheduling would be inconvenient. Discrimination is alive and well in York County, and this is just another example. Tonight, you will decide McGrder's fate. The survey lacked any explanation of who John B. McGrder was his personal history and how and when the naming of the school came about. If you had at least the participants would have been aware he was a traitor to the US, kill US troops, burn down Hampton to prevent contraband slaves from living there, vehemently supported slavery, and after the war escaped to Mexico where he became a citizen and fought in their military. The housing area of McGrder was named after John McGrder. The original school was named in the Jim Crow era to honor McGreder. York County schools were not fully integrated until 1967. In Virginia, schools named after black leaders were

041renamed to honor mostly Confederate soldiers. This was a slap in the face of black children and their families who now had to acknowledge as heroes those who fought to keep them enslaved. It I would be surprised if he chose to consider the feelings of the black community and do what is right because it is the right thing to do and not just because it's popular. Bigotry or inclusion, that is your choice. Teachers in Virginia are now being fired for expressing opinions that offend Governor Yncan's administration, not in the classroom, but on social media. This goes against our First Amendment right to freedom of expression. You don't have to agree with the teachers, but censorship by the government is unacceptable. Students are discussing the death of Charlie Kirk, reactions by the White House, and public comments

042with differing opinions. Most are rightfully calling for the end to violence. This does not mean many did not find his speech reprehensible. Kirkus spouse bigotry called the Civil Rights Act a mistake. Women needed to get pregnant at an earlier age and to prolifically reproduce. Women should be subservient to men. Immigrants were diluting the blood of white Christians. He said that gun deaths were worth it to protect second amendment rights. Kirk denigrated LGBTQ people. And now Trump is calling for all transgender people, calling all transgender people a terrorist group because the shooter was in love with a transgender person who had absolutely nothing to do with the shooting. Always find some minority to blame. Spread the hate and call for more violence. Teachers are now paying the price for not sucking up to the MAGA mindset.

043Yncan did not chastise Trump for pardoning insurrectionists who caused the death of five injured 140 law enforcement officers and calls for the death of Mike Pence. Trump has spread vicious hate about any judge who ruled against him. He tells his followers to lie after lie so he can condone violence with impunity. Trump, the extortionist, does not want free speech. He can't sell it to enrich himself. This board will not even ask ask our legislators to introduce legislation to stop easy access to firearms, assault style rifles, and extended magazines. Violence is never okay when it is in force. Is your political views? I truly fear. >> Thank you. >> Who this board will hire to replace Dr. Shandor. >> Okay. Our next speaker is Megan Rimmer. Hi, my name is Megan Rimemer, District 3. I currently

044have three children enrolled in York County schools. I'm concerned about the decision to place York County teachers on leave over personal social media posts. Teachers, like all citizens, have first amendment rights to express themselves outside of their job. Courts including the US Supreme Court in Pickering versus the Board of Education and the Virginia Supreme Court in Flaming versus West Point School Board have made clear that public school employees do not lose their free speech rights when acting as private citizens on matters of public concern. The post I saw circulating explicitly rejected violence and fall well within protected speech. Virginia law lists specific reasons for disciplining teachers and private non-violent political expression is not one of them. Allowing this to stand sets a chilling precedent that threatens not just teachers but all of us. When government

045punishes citizens for speech outside of their job, it sends the message that free speech only applies when people agree with you. That is the opposite of what the first amendment amendment protects. York County students deserve teachers who feel respected, supported, and free to be themselves as private citizens. Silencing them for personal views undermines the values we say we want to teach students. critical thinking, open dialogue, and respect for diverse opinions. Teachers should be judged by how they perform in the classroom, how they educate, inspire, and care for their students, not by the opinions expressed outside of school that have nothing to do with their ability to teach. I urge the school board to resolve this matter fairly and quickly, and to affirm that our educators will not be punished for exercising their constitutional rights. By

046doing so, you protect not only the rights of teachers, but also the integrity of the learning environment for every student in York County. Thank you. >> Thank you. >> Okay. Our next speaker is Lennon Fowler. >> Hi, my name is Lennon Fowler, district 3, and I'm a freshman at York High. I wanted to speak tonight because I care about my teachers and what what's fair. We're taught that free speech is one of our most important rights on Americans. The First Amendment means we're allowed to share our opinions and even if people don't agree. But when teachers can't lose their job over posts on their social media, it feels like free speech only counts if everyone likes what you say. That's not the message students should be getting. Teachers should be judged by how they treat

047us in class, not by opinions they share outside of school. If adults are allowed to are scared to speak up, why students ever believe our voice matters? Thank you. >> Thank you. >> Okay, our next speaker is Easter Dani. >> Danny should have put my glasses on. I could have That's okay. Everybody screws that one up. At least you got the first part right. People get that part wrong, too. All right. Um, hi, my name is Easter Danji. Um, I'm from district two. Um, so I did want to say yes, I'm a parent. I have two kids that are in the school district. Um, I'm a card carrying PTA and PTSA member. Um, and notice I want to emphasize the parent teacher piece. Um, because it is a collaboration. It's a partnership. Um I was

048actually at the last uh special board meeting and one of the topics addressed was uh workforce attraction and that is important to me. It's very important. Um one aspect of that that wasn't talked about um was um having a good environment for the teachers to be in. Um and I feel like uh right now it's not a great environment. Um, and actually I I think it's it's it's interesting that tonight uh one of the action items is a proclamation on bullying because that is exactly what our teachers are facing. It's cyber bullying. Um you have people especially anonymous people in groups on Facebook a social media platform by the way that very few teens actually use like less than 20%. So this is adults. This is adults acting badly. They're um putting their names out

049there, saying things like they should be fired. Um you know, how can they say these silly, idiotic things, which is, by the way, their opinion, and they're okay to express that opinion. That's fine. That's called the First Amendment, like some of our other speakers have said before me and very eloquently, I might add. Um but uh this is a problem and it's a problem when um you have the state of Virginia um basically coming out and saying that quote celebrating or condoning political violence is unacceptable and has absolutely no place in public schools. So what do you mean by celebrating or condoning? Because I think a lot of people have a very expansive definition of that. I think it seems like that celebrating and condoning that piece is basically if you don't agree with it,

050if you don't feel the same way that I feel about his death, that somehow translates to celebrating and condoning. And that's wrong because even even when someone's grieving a person, people express grief even in different ways. And and that's just not right. teachers were condemned during COVID um after initially being celebrated. This is bad that we have basically the teachers aren't getting the support. Um you know it's the loud people, the anonymous people posting to the school board to the superintendent that are getting the the word on these things. And this is scary at a time when the federal government is requiring civil servants to say what order they like best. >> Thank you. >> Okay, our next speaker is Sam Ray. >> Good evening, chair, members of the board, and members of the community.

051My name is Sam Ray. I'm a resident of district 3 and I serve as the co-chair of the York James City Williamsburg NAACP education committee. Tonight I stand before you not just supporting renaming McGruda Elementary but to ask you to live up to the values this division has committed to. York County's mission is clear to ensure every student is valued, supported, and challenged through learning experiences which prepare them for a successful future. But how do we say every student is valued when we ask black children to attend a school named after a Confederate general? How can we say that they are supported when their school identity is tied to a legacy of oppression? A name is not neutral. A name sends a message. And right now that message is that comfort of the majority matters

052more than the dignity of the stu of students of color. You've seen the community survey. You know that the majority opposes the name change. But leadership isn't about following polls. It's about doing what's right, especially when it's not popular. You've also shared a cost estimate meant to suggest that renaming is too expensive. But that includes a $25,000 $25,000 to replace a sign that was already scheduled for replacement. That is not the cost of change. its regular maintenance and being used to pad the numbers. More importantly, a recent federal ruling in Shannondoa County found that forcing students to attend schools named after Confederate generals made them quote mobile billboards for a message they did not choose. That ruling confirmed what many students already feel that it's not just about history, it's about harm. We are asking

053black students to wear clothing, carry transcripts, and build identities tied to a man who fought to keep their their ancestors enslaved. That is not valuing them. That is not supporting them. That is not preparing them for a successful future. So tonight, I ask that you stop hiding behind inflated numbers, profile, inflated numbers, public opinion, or a claim that the school is named after an area, not a man. We all know the name McGruda didn't end up on that building by accident. It honors a Confederate general, and no amount of spend changes what the name represents to the children who bear it. Show them that they are valued. Show them that they are supported. and give them a future that that begins in a school that honors their worth, not a painful past. Rename McGruda Elementary

054School. Please do what is right. Thank you. >> Thank you. >> All right. Our next speaker is Jordan Ler. Good evening. My name is Jordan Lasser and I'm a resident of York County. Some citizens have said that they don't want their history erased. However, McGreder Elementary School nor York County School is teaching the students about who General McGreder was. The school's name is 105 years old. And yet there has been nothing or there hasn't been any display um of of the school or the area to honor to honor any of the predominantly black communities that York administrators say the school was named for. In the 50th Reunion Daily Press article, there is no mention of honoring black residents nor interviews given by them. No school board in 1920 through 1960 would have named a segregated

055whitesonly school after a predominantly black community. If you're attempting to educate the public, be transparent. There was a there was a school named after Frederick Douglas for black children that was renamed McGrder McGrder Annex because white parents did not want their children to attend a school named after a black man. There's a lack of there is a lack of transparency when you don't tell the citizens the cost before or on the survey and especially when you don't tell them that there is 25K that was already approved for signage and there isn't a cost associated with changing the name. Thank you. >> Thank you. Our next speaker is um Melissa Shandor. Got to put my glasses on. I didn't make my phone big enough. Um, so I'm Melissa Shandor. Um, yes, I am fix wife and

056I am from the TAB district. Um, different than what some people are speaking about tonight. Uh, I wanted to come speak as this is my husband's last board meeting sitting up there as a superintendent. Tonight I want to speak about two words. Fault and all. As a society, we always want to know whose fault it is. But by definition, fault is faulty. Too many people want to assign it and not enough people are willing to accept it. It's admirable to fight for something you are passionate about. But too often people are just looking for someone to blame. The truth is fighting to be right isn't the same as fighting for rights. I have watched numerous people stand in front of this board and demand them to do something. They demand answers. They demand accountability. They

057demand that their needs are met. What they don't realize is that the school leadership may not be able to share certain details with you. And sometimes the answer is no, whether you agree or not, because there are bigger things at play. On to my second word, all. If you want to know why Vic has found success and you would like York County to continue to be a top performing district, the answer can be found in the word all. Vic's guiding principle has not changed in the 20 plus years that I have known him. Is this what's best for all kids? Kids of all races, kids of all socioeconomic levels, and at all learning levels. This has meant he has had to say no and hold people accountable. And on the days when he was attacked

058in person, online, and even receive threats, he was able to keep pressing on because of all kids, just a quick trip to a school to see the kids, and he was ready to face whatever was in front of him. He could have taken the easy route when he was fighting for more funding or dealing with difficult situations, but if you know Vic, he is not an easy route sort of person. And because of this, he took a school system that was performing well and found a way to make it even better. He focused on minorities and ESL students, economically disadvantaged students, and students with disabilities. He saw the kids in wheelchairs and our transgender students and the kids who didn't have any lunch money. It's amazing to see what can happen when everyone is seen.

059I will not miss some of the ridiculous comments on social media and the endless nights that you were pulled away from our family. But I take immense pride and knowing that despite everything you had to deal with, you did not waver. No one could make you be complacent. For the board members who will be deciding on who the next superintendent is, I believe with my heart that you will make the best decision. You have seen what a passionate educator is and there's no doubt you will look for this in whoever you choose. And for those in the community who have said some unkind things, please remember that the next superintendent may also be a husband and a father or a mother in addition to the division leader. Please choose your word kindly. And thank you

060to all of you in this room that have worked side by side with him for all these years. I appreciate you. >> Thank you. [Applause] Okay, our next speaker is Samuel Yur Yuri. >> Yuri Yuri. Good evening. My name is Sam Yur from district 4. The subject of McGrder Elementary's na name was brought up five years ago the summer of 2022 uh 2020. Seemingly every opportunity has been made to minimize or squatchch the truth. school was originally named Fort McGrder School. Fort McGrder is a name connected to the military and by extension General McGrder. The connection to quote the honoring of predominantly black community that the York County administrators say the school was named after is not realistic. It should be reiterated that no school board in 1920 nor 1951 would have named a segregated

061whitesonly school after a predominantly black community. Your transparency efforts fall short when you don't teach who McGrder was. Frederick Douglas School for Black Children was renamed McGrder Annex. Why? It later became Griffin Yates. James Weldon Johnson School was named changed. Then the public se survey there. The Confederate monument and the school are both on Pinnaman Road. Uh I don't know exactly how far away they are from each other, but they're both on the same road. Between when this was first brought up and now, the monument has been firmly reattached to its Confederate roots by its movement onto private property and its rededication on May of 2022. Is this really an issue of preserving history? It is about perpetuating hate and keeping the vestages of a systemic inferiority in place from 1619 to 1964, which is

062roughly 345 years prior to the beginning of the civil rights movement. This is the context in which the NAACP, which is the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, was founded. The majority of people have roughly a thimble's worth of black history, and it's diminishing every day. Most blacks have a bucket full, again, diminishing every day. Neither is enough to garner the respect that is deserved. This is not about giving the libs a win. It's not a case of optics. It's about writing a social, moral, and ethical wrong. We are heralding treason and the worst system of oppression in our history. Please do not talk to me about public opinion polling because it it wasn't being used in the past. I admit I tried to use it, but most people don't have any idea

063what it is to walk in the shoes of marginalized people. They have no empathy or sympathy on how it feels. I know how it feels. In ninth grade, I went to Booker T. Washington High School in Norfol, Virginia. In the midst of busing, 88% to 90% black. If you know Norfol, I live near Military Circle, which is in Popular Halls, way down and closer to Lake Taylor. In 10th grade, we moved to 10 to Fairfax County where I went to Robert E. Lee High School. I was initially the only black male in the class. Did I like the school name? No, I did not. Was the history behind that school school name hidden? No, it was not. The faculty and staff loved me and I loved them. We just had our 50th school reunion and

064I was provided opportunities I would never have had any place else. It prepared me well to attend William and Mary with eight of my classmates, five of which were at the reunion. The school was first designated Franconia Springfield High until its n name was finalized. Robert Lee was originally named Leeh High School, named after election district and a famous decrease uh deceased America. >> Thank you. Our next speaker is Miss Danielle Francis. Nice meeting you. Denil, sorry if I didn't say that correctly. Good evening, Dr. Shandor. Madame Chair, board members, my name is Denil Francis, District 2. I'd like to speak tonight about the legacy Dr. Shandor will leave our family. By the time my child was four years old, I had a list of how special education would or already was failing him. We

065had removed him from York County School Division to a private placement and we were transitioning him back to York County schools. Dr. Shandoor was the new superintendent. I met with him and I think it was Miss Bonnie to discuss concerns. I had read Dr. Shandoor's background, wanting to be hopeful yet scared, he knew enough to say all the right things to shoe me out the door. We spoke about inclusion, intersectionality, safety, meaningful education, and access to services. It was a long meeting. Dr. Shandor made some promises. Promises to really look at our special education. And to a specific concern, he said, "I can change that." 11 years later, I'd like to report that Dr. Shandoor was true to his word. Our special education is better. It's more available across the division. IPOP grew in ways

066I had hoped existed when my child had been in it. Attention is being given to critical services like occupational and speech therapy. And to the change he said he could make, well, we now have some unified sports events. Is it perfect? Absolutely not. And that's a larger concern. But Dr. Shandor heard my concerns and he kept his word. And that is a ripple of goodness in a hard world that can never be undone. Dr. Shandor's commitment to the safety and education of all students has been deeply appreciated. I've never once questioned whether a political, religious group, an an agenda advancing third party were manipulating him. His focus is obvious and how my child talks about him. Dr. Shandor is coming to our school musical. Oh, let me show you the selfie Dr. Shandor and I

067took at Bailey Field or my kid's hysterical laughter over the time Dr. Shandor was inside a panther costume. Dr. Shandor's commitment is obvious in the light in his face when he talks about the last book he read at an elementary school or the unified events or about the golf simulator with the AP statistics students. In a world that has felt increasingly unsafe to many of us and especially to our most vulnerable students, Dr. Shandoor has prioritized all students. At a time when words have become cruel weapons, Dr. Shandor's words have remained inclusive and good. That is a most honorable legacy. Thank you. >> Thank you. Okay. Our next speaker is Ashanti Watts. Good evening. Sorry I'm not dressed up. I I'm a fifth grade school teacher and went to a field trip and now I'm

068here today after I've had my back to school being a teacher for an hour and now I'm here. So sorry about that. My name is Ashant T. Was I'm from District 4. This message is for you, Mr. James Ergerson. Thank you for your time too as well. Um today over half of the schools um over half of Grafton High School was not there at school today due to an incident where they students were scared to come to school because someone had threatened the schools. On um December 2021, three students were arrested for threats to shooting and bombs and burning the school. In October of October 10th, my daughter was also involved in a pepper spray incident on the bus as well as in May of 2025. She was also in the same classroom with a

069person who had a pistol wrapped in a bag that was around his neck this year. So this is her second incident with the school. What I found in doing my own research is that Hampton, Newport News, Norol, and Portsmouth have metal detectors inside of their schools. Chesapeake has a pilot program AI based weapon detector like Greenbryer and Intermediate, Jolof Middle, and Oscar Smith High School without traditional metal detectors. Virginia Beach does random checks with hand wands in York County, Williamsburg, um York County, Williamsburg County, and James City County have absolutely none. If someone wanted to come into the school, it doesn't matter how many police officers that you put inside of the schools, they can come in there and put their guns inside of their bags. They don't have to carry an AK. They can

070put them in their bags and come into the schools and shoot. The students do not feel safe. As you can see, you sent the email out to these to the uh to the uh the teachers, and we all know what's going on. The lady that was here today, her name was Ruby. She won a volunteer award. She went home early. She didn't even stay because she was afraid of what was going on. And um September of this year and um Thursday of this week, we have a student at Grafton High School who recently passed away. Not only are you missing school for students today, you're going to miss students who are going to not be here on Wednesday due to a wake as well as on a Thursday due to a funeral and won't be

071here on Friday. You're going to see a reduction with students and it's going to continue to grow. How would you feel that lady um the little girl, her name was Anna Marie, she loves reading, she loves writing, she does imaginative story and artistic spirit, but she what happens when she gets shot and killed, when she can't ride her bike? When she can't get her license? When she can't go to prom? and she can't get married and she can't follow and see her family grow. It's a shame. Now, you guys have received grant money from federal and state at $856,000. But I'm waiting to see a sign so that somebody can come there and give us a sign to show us the money that you have that you have created for the safety of our children.

072The safety of our children is what we owe to them. And if you want to know my credentials, I am a 1998 graduate of TAB High School. I teach kindergarten through college. all types of helping students with IEPs, 504 online, dual enrollment, face toface, and I'm currently a fifth grade teacher. I have 20 years experience in sales and marketing, three years in branch uh manage branch manager at a bank. I'm a mother of three. I'm 45 years old. And this is what I want for my students. I want an education that could be free of violence. >> Thank you very much. All right, our next speaker is David Seagull. >> Sorry for the hat. I came straight from practice. Um, good evening board members and administration. Uh, I'm David Seagull from Tab District. Um, and

073I'm following up on the future of Lacrosse and York County schools. First, uh, thank you to the school board for your continued interest in adding lacrosse. Unfortunately, there appears to be an administration, uh, delay, and I'm trying to understand why. At the September 8 work session, we were shown an eight-step process for adding a sport, more detailed than we were told back in February. We uh, learned our proposal was stuck in step four, uh, but can't find this process published anywhere. Where is the document? Uh, and does each step have objective criteria? It does not feel this way. It feels arbitrary and easily manipulated. We're told uh we're stuck in step four. It's because we lack viable local competition. But the what defines local? Is it mileage? Is it region? Is it district? Here are

074the facts. There are 21 schools within 35 miles that have Boys and Girls Lacrosse active right now. Not even counting in Williamsburg, James City County, which we know will go VHSL when we do. When esports was added in 2023, there were three schools in the entire state competing in esports in 22. So, uh, why did that qualify as viable and the cross doesn't? We requested a meeting with administration in August to discuss this exact conversation, uh, but were denied access. We did uh got no follow-up. We'll get back to you. Let me be clear, viable competition does exist and it's growing. Uh our first year at TAB, if we were go to VHSL would be a schedule that looks like this. Home and away, York and T uh York and uh Grafton, that's four games.

075Six games against Virginia Beach VHSL schools. That's three home games, three away games. That means we would leave the county three times on buses. Okay, that's 10 games. That's more games than we play right now in our current HRLax league. Uh with only three, as I said, only three strips outside. Add a game from nine nearby private schools that play, uh we' now be at 11 or 12 games. Add in one Richmond game, a home in away, now we're up to 12, 13, 14 games. Uh you can see then when Williams, James, Williamsburg, James City County adds uh their VHSL program, that's six more games. We could be up to 20 games in one year. So viable local comp uh competition I don't understand. Okay. Lacrosse has been a VHS sport since 2023 since 2013

076with 75 teams at that time. We're up to 115 boys and girls across the entire state and growing. So again uh looking for why we're stuck at viability local lacrosse stuck. We're ready to work together but we can't find uh no one who meets us at the gates. I'd much rather be in the room where it happens. Thank you Mr. Hamilton's play, but uh right now I'm here expressing my frustration with why we're stuck at step four. Uh thank you very much for your time. >> Thank you. >> We have Riley >> Edens. >> Yes. >> Dylan Jacobs and Emmy Rogers. >> Yes. Okay. All right. Good evening, members of the board. My name is Riley Eekens and I play lacrosse for Grafton High School and I'm currently a senior enrolled at Grafton. I've been

077playing for three years and last season I was proud to serve as one of the captains of my team. Being a captain taught me leadership, responsibility, and how to push myself and others to work harder. That's what makes tonight so important to me because even though lacrosse teaches us all of the thing all of these skills, our sport doesn't get the same recognition as other athletes at Grafton. Right now, lacrosse players don't get announced and respected like other VHSL sports. We don't get to wear our school jersey and VHSL competition and we don't have the same visibility for college recruiting like other athletes do. And yet, we practice just as hard even in the off seasons. We compete just as hard and we care just as much as representing our school. Lacrosse deserves to be

078treated with the same level of support, respect, and pride as every other VHSL team at Grafton and in WJCC. Recognizing it as a VHSL sport isn't just about equality. It's about giving dedicated athletes the chance to fully represent their school community. Also, it is shocking that Grafton was built 29 years ago and Grafton High School lacrosse has been a club for 18 years and usually it takes three to four years to make a sport via HSL. But now I would like to introduce my teammate Dylan. Hello, I'm Dylan Jacobs and I also play lacrosse for Grafton High School. I'm currently a senior enrolled there and I've been playing for a year. I also have played field hockey at Grafton as a VHL sport. Having that experience showed me the huge difference in school support and

079spirit between the VHSL sports and the HRLAX. Families who want to play through HRLAX must pay hundreds of dollars in fees, travel costs, and equipment, which makes the sport less accessible for those who cannot afford those things listed. VHSL sports at Grafton have lower costs because the school system supports them, which makes it possible for students to play. We have games that range out for more than an hour away from Grafton, and a bus would be an amazing use for that team. making lacrosse VHSL. By making lacrosse VHSL, you're not only supporting fairness among sports, but you're also making it possible for more athletes to represent Grafton and VHSL in a meaningful way. Lastly, I'd like to introduce my teammate, Emmy. Hi, I'm Emmy Rogers and I also play for I also play lacrosse for

080Grafton High School and am currently a freshman enrolled there. I've played a season through a club team and even in that short time I saw how much harder it is for lacrosse players to feel included compared to VHSL athletes. Right now lacrosse players are kind of on the outside looking in. But we know the demand is here. Lacrosse is one of the fastest growing sports in the country and Grafton students want the chance to play for their school, not just a club. When athletes wear their school jerseys and represent Grafton at games, pep rallies, and championships, it brings pride to the entire student body. We respectfully ask the board to support us and make lacrosse a VHSL sport. Thank you for your time for Thank you for your time and for listening to us to

081our voices tonight as people, a team, and a community. >> Thank you. >> Okay, next speaker is Mark Forest. [Music] Uh, good evening board members and administrators. My name is Mark Forest, live in district 5, currently serving as the president of TAP TAB lacrosse booster club and I'm the assistant coach for the TAB girls lacrosse club. First off, I want to thank Dr. Shandor for his 14 years as tenure as superintendent and all he has done to make YCSD one of the top school divisions in the state. Appreciate it. I'm here tonight to advocate on behalf of the approximately 150 boys and girls club lacrosse players that play at Grafton Tab York Brutin and Brutin High School. Currently Brutin does not have an independent uh boys or girls lacrosse program. However, there are several Brutin

082students that play on club teams in Williamsburg due to their close proximity. The other three schools all have thriving, robust boys, girls lacrosse programs. As many of you know, lacrosse has been stuck as a club sport in York County for 18 years. In a recent work session, Dr. Shannon Butler presented YCSD's eight-step process to becoming a VHSL sport. On behalf of the lacrosse community here in York County, I'd like to present the school board and administrators tonight with a binder that addresses and answers where we as the coaches, program managers, players, and parents feel we are with this eight-step process in regards to adding lacrosse as a VHSL sport. Have one for Dr. Shandor and Dr. Carol and also one for Dr. Butler as well. In this report, you'll find out the past 18 years,

083we have very successfully administered spring lacrosse seasons for the high school club programs as they participate in the Hampton Roads Lacrosse League. You'll also find how the sport has grown both in numbers of players and popularity with students and spectators. As an example, last Friday, Tab High School had a a student club fair. Our boys lacrosse team drew interest from 10 new lacrosse players to help replace the nine that just graduated last year. Our girls lacrosse club signed up an extraordinary amount of new players, bringing their um expected roster for this year from 25 players last year up to 36 players. For many of these young men and women, this is the only sport they will play in high school, and it's not BHSL. It's not recognized. Again, I'm here to advocate on behalf of

084these student athletes. This is about these kids and opportunities they're missing out on, not having the sport be allowed to participate in the Virginia High School League. We've been told our current proposal is on hold during to during due to there being no local competition. However, all of the teams we play are both local and the majority are in the Bay Rivers District. Please take time to review our response contained in this binder. Hear what we are saying. This is important to so many of these players both past and present. I ask that you accelerate your efforts and engage in the process to reach out to the other school districts, make the connections to either go together as the Bay Rivers District or let YCSD lead the way, starting VHSL on our own and playing

085the other VHSL teams for Virginia Beach at Richmond who are telling us they so so badly want more local competition. Thank you for your time and all you do for our students. >> Thank you. Okay, our last speaker is Jimmy Johnson. >> Hi, good evening. My name is Jim Johnson. I'm in the Grafton district. Thank you for the opportunity to speak tonight. I am the uh head coach of the Grafton boys lacrosse team. This will be my 10th year coaching the team and I've also had the privilege of coaching with the Youth Lacrosse League for several years. Additionally, I've partnered with USA Lacrosse to run free clinics for first-time players ages six through 15. These clinics have consistently maxed out with over 200 boys and girls attending each session. I share this background not only

086as a coach, but as someone who has deeply invested in the local come across community. Over the years, I've witnessed the growth of lacrosse in our area and yet has still not been recognized as official VHSL school sport in York County. While we've made tremendous progress, it hasn't come without challenges. Lacrosse has consistently faced hurdles. How to cover the costs? Where will we play? Whether there are enough players, how will we get the games? And the list goes on. Year after year, these questions are raised and year after year, players, parents, and coaches have worked tirelessly to find solutions. Yet, we continue to revisit the same concerns at the school level. These questions reflect the need for a sustained strategic effort to ensure that Lacrosse has the opportunity to thrive and grow here in York

087County at the school level. We need to ask ourselves, how can we as a community and how can you as the board better support this sport that so many have already given so much time and effort to? The answers have always been available. But as someone who's been here for as long as I have, it often feels like those answers go unheard. Please help give these students the opportunity to officially represent the schools they wear so proudly on their jerseys. I've had the privilege to watch countless young men and women pour their heart and soul into lacrosse. And when I walk into the school gyms and see photos of teams, champions, all-Americans, and academic achievers, I am reminded that there are lacrosse players who have achieved the same awards and work just as hard to

088wear the school colors, but their efforts are overlooked because they are not part of a VHSL sport. These students deserve to be included. I'm asking for your partnership, your advocacy, and an open dialogue so that we can work together to ensure that lacrosse becomes an official VHSL sport in our schools for the years to come. Thank you for your time and consideration. >> Thank you. >> Is there anybody who wanted to speak that did not sign up to speak? Okay. All right. I now close the public participation for Commons of Citizens. We will now open up the public hearing on proposed schoolboard. Oh, we already did that, didn't we? >> The salaries. I think we did that. >> We did that already. I don't know why it's on. >> Yeah, that was at a previous

089meeting. So, we can skip that. >> All right. So, we'll move on now to financial matters. I'll ask Mr. Richardson to discuss financial matters. >> Thank you, Madam Chair. Um, so we have claims certified for payment for the month of August 2025. of instructional related expenditures totaled approximately $194,955 and included payments to Hton Mufflin and Hardcourt Publishing of 113,100 for uh testing materials and instructional book textbooks. Um plan B academy 44,655 for tuition and the FIASON uh center 37,200 for tuition as well. So payments for technology related items total approximately 683,450 and included payments to CDW for $500,950 for replacement computers and miscellaneous computer supplies. Uh Cox Communication 20,100 Kronos 64,100 uh that was for license renewal for time and attendance system. Uh the Cox Communication was for divisionwide internet services. Uh, SHI communications was

090replacement of Tab High School and York Middle School Valcom systems that was $49,800. And SHI International for license renewal for maintenance connection system 18,800. VA business systems for divisionwide copier fleet 29,700. Payments for transportation totaled approximately 15,000 and included payments to uh McCarthy Tire Service for $15,000 for supplies for transportation. Payments related to CIP projects uh totaled approximately 1,73,700 and included payments to Centennial Contractors $414,500 for the renovations at TAB High School Auditorium, York High Bathroom and Athletic Storage Rooms. Mid-Atlantic Installers 395,600 for sound and lighting for York High, York Middle, Tab High, and Brutin High auditoriums and RRMM Architects 114,700 for the Tab High School project and Simpson Unlimited uh 148,900 for the Brutin High School roof project and the Matthews Group 56,300 for the York High School auditorium renovation. Payments for administration totaled

091approximately 795,000 and included payments to the majority of that was for VRSA uh to reimburse schools for the AP fee and that was 699,350. Uh the list of all these can be found on online on board docs as well. Uh payments for operations and maintenance totaled 322,215 and included payments uh for fire system inspections 31,100 license renewal for Mosaic Cloud 17,900 and custodial maintenance supplies 36,000 cable wire installation for fire and security systems 2975 rental for mobile classrooms 62,200 custodial bathroom supplies 53,400 Solid waste disposable disposal services 10,990 and painting of Mount Vernon Elementary and Bethl Manor Elementary $91,000 and to the treasur of York County 16,650 for the sewage utilities for the division. payments related to nutrition uh totaled approximately 146,100 and included payments to Alto Hartley for food service equipment of 88,300 and

092Sedexo 57,800 for food service operations and the significant changes relating to the operating budget. Uh the state revenue in August of 2025 is approximately $1.3 million higher than in August of 24. The increase is primarily driven by higher student enrollment, additional special education funding, and expand uh expanded funding for support positions. For expenditures, total operating expenditures for August 25 is approximately 432,000 less than the previous August in 2024. In August of 2024, the school division was spending down the remaining of its federal ESSER funds and a significant payment was made for textbook purchases which cause that uh the expenditures to uh be less. Uh significant changes relating to food service budget. There's no significant changes in that. And resolution 25-55 requires the board's approval authorizing procurements of more than 100,000 and change orders greater than

09350,000. There are four items on the resolution totaling $327,000. The details of which again can be viewed on board docs. So with that, Madam Chair, I now move to approve financial matters as listed. >> Second. >> All right, Miss Howard, a motion was made by Mr. Richardson and seconded by Mr. Pyovich to approve financial matters as listed. Mr. Richardson, >> yes. >> Mr. Schaefer, >> yes. >> Mr. Pyovich, >> yes. >> And Mrs. Goodwin. >> Yes. The motion passed 4 to zero. >> All right. I will read the consent calendar. I have approval of personnel actions. Approval of minutes from a regular meeting on August 25th, 2025. A special meeting on September 2nd, 2025. A special meeting on September 5th, 2025. A work session on September 8th, 2025. A special meeting on September 8th, 2025.

094And a special meeting on September 16th, 2025. Approval of donations in the amount of $12,73255. Approval of a lease agreement between the county the county school board of York County Virginia and Tablakes Home Association. Approval of a lease agreement between York County, excuse me, county school board of York County, Virginia and Girl Scout Council of Colonial Coast. Approval of consent calendar as listed. Madam Chair, I would like to make a motion to approve the consent calendar as listed. >> I'll second. >> Okay, Miss Howard, >> a motion was made by Mr. Pyovich and seconded by Mr. Richardson to approve the consent calendar as listed. Mr. Pyovich, >> yes. >> Mr. Schaefer, >> yes. >> Mr. Richardson, >> yes. >> And Mrs. Goodwin, >> yes. >> Motion passed four to zero. We now have a consideration

095of approval for a proclamation for bullying prevention awareness month of October in October 2025. Was there any discussion? Okay. Can I please have a motion and a second? >> Yes. I would like to make the motion for the approval proclamation for bullying prevention awareness month for October 2025. >> I'll second. >> Okay. Miss Howard? A motion was made by Mr. Pyovich and seconded by Mr. Schaefer to approve a proclamation for bullying prevention awareness month October 2025. Mr. Pyovich. >> Yes. >> Mr. Schaefer. >> Yes. >> Mr. Richardson. >> Yes. >> Mrs. Goodwin. >> Yes. Motion pass four to zero. Okay. We have consideration of approval of the request to rename McGreder Elementary. Do we have a first and a second? >> Is there any discussion? Uh I don't >> typically it's make it first and

096second and then discuss. >> I'll make the motion to uh to approve the uh recommendation of the request to rename McGreder Elementary School from McGreder. I believe the renaming was going to be to Brutin. Is that how the motion was? I believe so. >> So So you're making the first >> I'll make the first. I'll second. >> Do any discussion? I'd just like to say that uh McGrder is in uh my district, district one, and uh this came up uh almost six years ago. Um, and at the time I got in contact with Barbara Haywood who had been here for 30 years on in my seat and uh and I said, "Barara, I know as outspoken as you are that you wouldn't let this slide if it was named for uh James Bankhead McGrder." And

097she said, "That's right, Mark. I wouldn't." and she said, "But but in your county, we name it for uh areas." Uh and she went on to tell me about the village of McGrder and all this uh and how it was named for a place, not a person. Well, since then, uh, there has been things come up, I think resurfaced articles from 1951 and 54 from the daily press, uh, where it was clearly stated that it was, uh, it was named for the General McGrder. And so with that history going through it, uh it's like it has changed from a place to a person. And we don't name uh schools for people in York County. >> That's my discussion. >> Miss Howard, is that anybody else? Okay. Miss Howard, >> a motion was made by Mr.

098Richardson and seconded by Mr. Schaefer to approve the request to rename McGrder Elementary School. Mr. Schaefer, >> yes. >> Mr. Richardson, >> no. >> Mr. Pyovich, >> no. >> And Mrs. Goodwin? >> No. >> The motion failed. Three. One, two, three. All right. We do not have any policy discussion. Um policy first reading with no voting. Dr. Shander, do you have any comments? >> Yes, Miss Goodwin. Thank you. Um I'm going to ask Dr. Skinner if she'll please come up and go over the revisions. >> Good evening. This will be very uh quick. There are no revisions. >> Thank you for your thorough review. >> Yes. All right. So, that would move us to >> Excuse me, I don't have my gun. That would move us to the report of the superintendent. But before we

099do that, I have something to say. in my paper. I worked hard on this. So, as you already know, Dr. Shandor is retiring, and tonight is his last board meeting as our superintendent. While I haven't known him as long as many of you, in my 21 months on the board, I've had the privilege of seeing firsthand what an incredible leader he is. Dr. Shandor has poured endless hours into making sure our kids felt safe, our schools were fully staffed, our teachers felt supported, and that the vision and mission of the this division were always moving forward. He even carved out time to read to students, checked on kids who needed some extra encouraging words, and helped this board chair when she had a flat tire. When three of us joined the board, those first months

100were anything but easy. >> Amen. >> But through it all, Dr. Shander led with such integrity and professionalism. He made sure we were never left in the dark, connecting us with our schools, keeping us updated every single day, and opening doors for us to truly understand what makes YCSD such a special place for students, families, and staff. Personally, I never once had to worry about whether I had the information I needed. He was always there, ready to answer a question or offer guidance. What what has impressed me most as much as his leadership is his ability to see and nurture leadership in others. He's constantly looked for ways to grow and empower people, ensuring strength at every level of the division. And beyond all of that, he's simply fun to be around. Even in the

101toughest of times, he has a way of making people laugh and reminding us not to lose sight of what really matters. Dr. Shandor, it's been such an honor to work alongside you. On behalf of the board, I want to thank you deeply for your service, your dedication, and your heart for this division. My hope for you is that the years ahead are filled with great golf, long days at the beach, and plenty of cherished time with your family. You have more than earn it. Earned it. And you will be missed. [Applause] >> Thank you. I think it's time for the superintendent report. I'll make this really quick. All right. Um, thank you, Miss Goodwin. I appreciate your words. Um, as we approach the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution, uh, the Virginia Department of Education

102has launched BA250. It's an initiative commemorating the Revolution, Revolutionary War, and the birth of American independence. With Yorktown serving as the site of the war's decisive victory, YCSD is uniquely positioned to bring this history to life for our students. Throughout the 2526 school year, our schools will use resources from the American 250 250 commission to provide a wide range of opportunities for students to explore the history, culture, and civic lessons of the revolutionary era. Each of our schools are planning unique ways to integrate VDOE uh provided instructional materials, encourage crosscurricular projects, and engage students in hands-on activities and events where they uh will research, create, and showcase their learning. All right, so this is my last schoolboard meeting. Man, that went fast, right, Dr. Carol? Went really quick. That's a joke. Um, so this is

103my last schoolboard meeting. I wanted to just take just a few minutes and thank a few people for their support. Uh first and foremost, my wife Melissa. Her support during the last 11 years as superintendent has been remarkable. It's not I'm not easy to be around, if you can imagine that. Uh at times uh her patience, her patience and perspective has been incredibly valuable to me uh to do this job. again, her sacrifices and dedication. Excuse me. Um, to our family, honestly, I don't have words to describe how grateful and blessed I am. All three of my kids have had to deal with hearing that their dad did something or said something for over the last 11 years. He called a snow day and it didn't snow. Um, each of them have handled this stuff

104really well. It's never been easy. Um, it's not easy being the superintendent's kids. I thank you, Lena, VJ, and Kane for your patience and your understanding. I also want to thank my good friend Sandy Ford, who I know she's watching because she just texted me, and um Nicole Howard for their support and they for providing me uh peanut M&M's when I need them. Uh and for constantly scheduling me into schools on days where they know I need to be around uh teachers and and kids. Um, some just some quick thank yous to Carl James, Stephanie Guy, uh, Dennis Jarrett. They were my original OG cabinet uh, back in 2014. And the current cabinet members, uh, Jim Carroll, Bill Bowen, Candy Skinner, Dave Wrights, Katherryn Goff, Michelle Huffedler, and Tony Vladu, who left here a few

105years ago and is now leading Gloucester Schools. I respect each one of you. We have been through some some stuff together. Uh but more importantly, we've done great work to improve outcomes for kids and improve our culture to attract the best people in the area to YCSD. Our executive team, principles, assistant principles, teachers, I appre appreciate your dedication to always doing what's best for kids. Um all of our SBO staff, IT, finance, HR, transportation, maintenance, front office staff, nurses, social workers, uh psychologists, behavior people, and anyone else I may have missed. Thank you for all you do for kids. All the people I mentioned, uh, they do not hear thank you enough. Also, Sheriff Montgomery, Major West, and and my main man, Captain, uh, Chris Ward, who's in the back. Thank you so much for

106your support for the last 11 years. The relationships are are certainly a model across the state. I want to thank Neil Morgan and Mark Bellamy. Both of them were York County administrators during my tenure. I also want to thank um the board of supervisors that I've worked with uh through or since 2014. Um thank you all for your support. I also want to uh thank um one of the best in the business, Miss Melanie Barry. Um our board attorney. Um she's been amazing sounding board for me. I'm sure your ears will have a rest uh in the coming weeks. Um you've been an amazing resource for me. I really appreciate you, Melanie. um to my uh my to our web master Jason Short. Um he is sort of behind the scenes, but he is offices

107across from mine and he's done an amazing job uh in the communications department. He's also been my personal tech support person for 11 years. So, um he's always said he has job security. I guess we'll see in a couple weeks. Uh finally, thanks to the 2014 school board for taking a chance on a firsttime superintendent. I appreciate um all the support of um the board uh Mr. Higin Bothotham, I'm sorry, Brett Higin Bothotham, Laurel Geraltz, Sean Matt, Jimmy, and Mark. Um you guys had it really easy. You were blessed with a fire uh at the Grafton complex and then the pandemic. You guys had a really easy time, but I really appreciate all of your time. Kim and Zoran, thank you so much for your support, your visibility in our schools, and your care to

108do what's best for kids. I know our team appreciates both of you. Thank you for letting me acknowledge all these people. Um, none of us can do this job alone. It takes everyone on the team to show up every day and do their best for kids. Dr. Carol, you have the confidence of the board. You have the confidence of the team. We all support you. I wish you the best and I know you'll do well. This concludes the superintendent's report. Thank you. >> All right. Once again, um, is there anybody that wished to speak that did not sign up to speak or wants to speak? Okay. Thank you everyone for your input and for being here this evening. We have a work session here at York Hall on October 13th at 6 PM. We do

109have a close session this evening. Can I please have a board member make a motion to take us into close session? >> I move that York County School Board uh convene in close session perspective of Virginia Code 2.2. 52-3711 A1 of the Virginia Freedom Information Act for consideration and discussion regarding specific candidates for appointment to the following advisory committee. The career and technical education advisory committee as matters addressed in close session are confidential. No minutes or recordings are permitted. >> Second, >> Miss Howard, >> a motion was made by Mr. Schaefer and seconded by Mr. Pyovich to approve the York County School Board to meet in close session as stated. Mr. Richardson, >> yes. >> Mr. Schaefer, >> yes. >> Mr. Pyovich, >> yes. >> And Mrs. Goodwin, >> yes. >> Motion passed four to

110zero. You're in close session.