001Call to call to order this uh the meeting the monthly meeting of uh Board of Education. It's April 2026. Uh would like to welcome you first of all. Glad to see all of you here. Uh encourage you to please silence your cell phones and other devices that may make noise in our during our session. Uh we're going to have a moment of silence followed by the pledge led by students from Northside Middle School, Gary Foster and Takaya Saunders. So, let's have a moment of silence, please. Thank you. Gary and Takaya. 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. Well, we're back after many in this room have enjoyed a week off and
002uh I heard from some had a kind of a tough day getting back in the groove yesterday, but we're glad you're here. At this time we will hear from four of our school principals who have brought special guests they would like to introduce. And we'll start off with our host from last night, Northside Middle School, Dr. Alma Munte. All right. Good afternoon, everyone. Um I have three wonderful members of our school. I'll start off talking about Gary Foster. He is a sixth grader at Northside Middle School, comes from a beautiful military family. His mother served for 4 years in the army. His father served for 4 years in the Marines. And Gary, his favorite subject is math. His math teacher really describes him to he really enjoys asking a lot of questions. He doesn't just
003sit there and take in the information, but he loves to ask questions. He's eager to learn and he is interested in playing basketball next year. So, we're excited about that and he's thinking about football as well. And he's a wonderful student um in our school. His teachers always describe him as just a pleasant uh eager to learn student and uh we're excited to let you all get to know him. Next we have Takaya Sanders. They call her TK. Uh Takaya is a student athlete. She's involved in track, soccer. She's on the cheer competition team. Uh she's also in FCCLA and she just was notified that she's moved on from state to nationals, so she'll be competing in nationals. And we're very proud of her. She is a dynamic student, excellent in all that she does.
004She's pleasant, uh cheerful and she loves to talk and share about her life and we are proud of Takaya. Uh next we have Ms. Seward. Uh Ms. Melissa Seward is our teacher of the year for Northside Middle School and rightfully so. Uh Ms. Seward has been teaching for 30 years, 15 at Northside Middle School and um she does an excellent job in her classroom. If you go in there, you'll see that it is very well organized, uh clearly laid out, but not only that, she is a dynamic to dynamic educator to all of our teachers. She leads her team. She's a department chair. She's on all of the teams that you can think of at the school level and does a fantastic job. Her students often try to sneak down the hallway to give her
005a hug, her former students, cuz they love her so much. We have to tell them to go back to their class, but uh but she's a great educator and we are honored to represent her today. And from King's Chapel Elementary School, we have Ms. Shelley Shewcut. Good afternoon, everyone. I am proud to be here with two of our outstanding fifth grade students who are also um members of the military. Their families are. Um the first person I have with me is Stevie Harden. And Stevie's mom currently serves in the Air Force and her dad was a combat soldier in the army. Stevie's teachers talked about how much she lights up a room with her smile and you can see that. Every day at school she's always walking around with a smile. One of the things
006that you may not know about Stevie is that she is a great joke teller. So, I'm going to let her tell her joke that she told us on the way over today. Did you know there are more airplanes in the ocean than submarines in the sky? >> [laughter] >> It took me a minute to on the drive. Um Stevie hopes to one day uh be a fashion designer and I know that she's going to be able to do that because she works hard and she has big dreams. We also have Benjamin Lee here with me. He goes by Ben. Um his dad is here with us, Colonel Lee, as well. Thank you, Colonel Lee, for being here. Um Ben is one of those students that always does what's right. Um in everything he does, he
007makes the right choice. Um and he demonstrates all of the things that make a King's Chapel Cougar outstanding. On the way over I was talking to him about what he wanted to be and he was like, "Well, a scientist." And I was like, "Okay, that's really big. What kind of scientist?" And he's like, "I think I want to study aerodynamics." And I was like, "Wow, okay." Also big dreams um and we love that that he's got big dreams. Both of these students have the had the opportunity to also live in Japan. So, that's something unique about the two of them. Um So, I also have with me Kelly Barnes um who is a fourth grade teacher at King's Chapel. And Kelly helps her students every day in so many incredible ways. Uh one of the
008things that she does is she fosters a real true love of reading. Um in her classroom what she does has a lasting impact. It's not just for their fourth grade year, it's for years to come. To her students, she's more than a teacher. She's Mama Barnes. Truly Mama Barnes. She is a steady, caring presence who makes students feel safe, valued, and known. But what makes her truly exceptional are the countless small things that she does every day for her students. Those moments might seem very small like a check-in or um telling a student it's going to be okay. Giving them a hug. They're actually really big things and they matter for kids. What she does every day, she builds confidence. She creates belonging in her classroom. And she changes the way that students see themselves.
009The same care extends to all of the faculty as well. I can't tell you how many times she puts treats on my desk. She keeps me with a sugared up with sour patch and and cookies and I love that about her. But she is truly that colleague who shows support to others. She brings a a joy to the classroom. And she quietly makes our school a better place each and every day. Good afternoon. I have with me uh this month we we show support to our appreciation for our military children and recognize their strength and sacrifices. So, I brought with me some outstanding Miller Rockets who came to Houston County through military service and they record they represent each end of their educational journey. Uh one at the beginning of her educational journey and the
010other at the end as he's preparing to leave elementary and go to middle school. So, [snorts] first I have Miss Tinsley Miller. She's with me today. She's a kindergartner. Uh her teacher said she is a bright student. She loves to play at recess and she loves learning. She said she especially loves writing when she does her U-fly. She said that is her favorite time of the day. So, I thought that was excellent. Her mother is a retired uh Army National Guard member who served in Kuwait, Iraq, and Guantanamo Bay. After completing her service, she chose to stay in Houston County rather than return to Alabama. She said the reason why is because it is so peaceful in this community and she values the people and the schools in Houston County. So, I thought that was
011good. Next, I'd like to recognize an amazing Miller Rocket. He is our fifth grader at the end of his elementary career. He is Carter Campos. Carter comes from a proud military family. Uh both his grandparents uh served in the military and his great-grandfather was a retired um Army Air Force was retired Air Force. Because of his military background, Carter wants to start a military uh group for students so that they can connect and support one another. Carter has been in uh at Miller since his pre-K since he was in pre-K. So, we are surely going to miss him. He's won our school spelling bee. He's represented Miller for our oratorical contest. Uh he's on the academic bowl. He enjoys drawing. He likes to read. He plays video games and his teachers describe him as a
012very bright student and they can't wait to see his accomplishments for the future. You know, both of these students may have been brought here because of military, but it is our community and our school family that have made them decide to stay. They chose to stay. Last but not least, I have with me Miss Jasmine Griffin. She is Miller's Teacher of the Year. She was selected by her colleagues because of her dedication and her hard work. Miss Griffin is a EIP teacher and she is a valued member of Miller Elementary team. She helps provide students with extra support. Uh she helps them succeed and she collaborates closely with colleagues. She is very helpful and she's dedicated to instruction and the needs of our students. Uh she is dedicated to student growth and teamwork and is
013evident each day in what she does. Miss Griffin is also a Houston County parent. Her daughter Summer is a freshman at Warner Robins High. We're proud of Miss Griffin and how great and we're grateful of the work she does at Miller Elementary. Thank you. >> [applause] >> Thank you, Dr. Brock. And finally, we have Veterans High School with Principal Dr. Amy Barber. Good afternoon. Thank you for the opportunity to represent Veterans High School and to be able to showcase some of our best and brightest and some Warhawks who we truly value at the V. I'm going to start with our Teacher of the Year. Our 2025 Teacher of the Year is Shawn White. He was also a top 10 finalist last year. Um he has been with Houston County for 5 years, but he's in
014his 29th year of teaching. Um when he came to the Warhawk family, um he has been non-stop since he joined us. Um first of all, the most remarkable thing or the first thing his students would say is he's a big Georgia fan. All you got to do is walk in his room cuz I don't know that anybody's got a more decorated, perfect, organized room than Mr. White. Um but he has managed to teach a wide variety of math while he was with us. Um because of the master schedule and what he teaches when, he's had some kids for two, three, four years at a time. Um they love his class. Um he takes a course and a content that is very difficult for lots and lots of students and they go in with a block
015and he removes that block. Um he really makes learning accessible. Um he makes growth possible regardless of their performance level. Um he's taken on multiple different preps including AP this year. Um and he had a good deal of trepidation to begin with. Uh but a second AP. But he's done a phenomenal job. Um his peers would tell you that he's one of the bright spots at Veterans High School. Now, that being said, we're a little sad uh cuz next year he's going to the Houston Accelerated Scholars Program. Um it's a awesome opportunity for him to continue to grow and learn in this stage of his career. Um it's definitely a benefit for our district as a whole um for him to be able to touch lives outside of Veterans High School, but he will surely
016be missed, but we're still going to claim him for a while. Um our two students that we brought, um I take a great deal of personal and professional pride in coming in April. Um many of you know, and I say this every year, that I'm a military spouse. Um my husband is in his 30th year of active duty service. Um he is a colonel and currently at in Montgomery at Maxwell Air Force Base at the Leadership Center. Um and then he's going to take group command at Shaw next year um for the end, I hope, of his service. I don't know. I don't know. He keeps getting really good opportunities. Um but what we have done as a family is chosen to stay in Houston County. Um we came here when our oldest, who is
017now 24, was 3 and our youngest was born my first year teaching at Houston County High School. Um and this district has done a lot for me personally and professionally, but also our family. Um because of his service, he's come and gone several times. Went to Korea, went to Germany, went to Texas. But because of when he moved, when he moved, it made more sense for us to stay here. Um and what this district did for my children and for me professionally is unmatched. Um and I cannot say that loudly enough. Um and you see that in the students we have here. Both of these young men are seniors. Um they came at different times in their high school career through military service with their families. Um and they show also what our district does
018and what our school does to support those students. The first student I have here is Drew Pesky. Drew is a senior. Um his father is Colonel Jeffrey Pesky. He's in his 32nd year of service and he's a director of contracting at the Robins Air Force Base Sustainment Center. Drew's moved seven times in his school life and changed schools four times as a result of his dad's service. Um he came to Veterans as a freshman and so he's had the pleasure and the the luck of not having to move during those formative years. Middle school and high school very often are very hard times for students to move. Um but he's found his place. He's become very involved in our school through media support services. Um he's very active in our ROTC program. Um he was
019part of the beginning of our engaged program which has a lot to do with civic engagement. They went to state competition and his team placed at state competition. Um and he's really found a place to pour in and to return at Veterans High School. He's part of our Warhawk Welcome Team. So, he's one of the upperclassmen who help support students when they transition into our school and really welcome them and and let them know that they find a place with us. Um his intent is to go to UGA next year where he plans to double major in international affairs and foreign policy. He hopes to have a minor in a language. His intent, hopefully beyond that, is to serve either at the State Department or the FBI or the CIA. Um what you see in
020Drew is somebody who came as a freshman and really has taken um a liking to our school and our community and has been successful. Our second senior, uh Gavin Owens, has a little bit of a different experience. Um also a military dependent, he came to us as a junior. Um not an easy time to move uh as a high schooler. Um both of his parents uh serve. His mother, Colonel Taisha Owens, is in her 24th year of service. She's the manpower, personnel, and services member in the Air Force Reserve Command. And his father, Colonel Christopher Owens, is also in his 24th year of service. He works in strategic plans, requirements, and programs for the Air Force Reserve Command. He has moved five times in his schooling career and changed schools eight times during that time.
021Um when he came as a junior, he came with two younger siblings. We joked at lunch even that his sister, Madeleine, has had the lucky time cuz when she's moved, she's moved on gate years where it was easy to move. Um, but both of his siblings are Warhawks now. You would never know they've ever been anywhere else. Um, they've really poured into our school. They feel at home. They welcome other people in. Um, and even his youngest brother, uh, Donovan, when he came this year, I kind of joked and I said, "They've they've laid the path for you. They've made it really easy for you to come." Um, because they've gotten accustomed to the place. They embraced us. Um, and hopefully we embraced them to where they felt they were part of our family. Um,
022his intent is to go to Georgia State for audio and music production. Um, he's very very active in our band. He was a section leader this year. He also works with our media support services. He's part of our Chief Chick-fil-A Leader Academy. Um, Gavin has a bright smile, bright inviting smile. Um, and both of these young men are examples of what resiliency is and adaptability, um, and embracing the opportunities they have. Um, and I think that that's a direct correlation to what our district does in partnership with our base. I'm very thankful that we have that opportunity here. Thank you to the board. Thank you to the base for what you do to support our schools and our students. >> [applause] >> Thank you to all our principals. We always enjoy hearing what's happening in
023our schools. Thank you for Thank you all for being here and sharing with us today. And I'll turn it over to Dr. Rogers for recognition of our other visitors. Good afternoon. How's everyone? I love this crowd. Look at the support for Houston County in public education. Thank you all for being here. And at this time, I'd like to invite Colonel Sherri Graham to join us up front. Let's hear it for Colonel Graham. >> [applause] >> So, April, as you know, is recognized as our month of the military child, a time set aside to honor the strength, the resilience, and sacrifices of these students, some we've just heard about, whose lives are shaped by the military service. These students navigate frequent moves, new schools, and time away from loved ones. And they do so with a
024level of strength that inspires all of us. You'll notice many of us are wearing purple today, and it looks good, by the way, guys. And it's our show of of support to the military. Purple represents all the branches of the military coming together. It's a simple but meaningful way for us to say, "We see you, and we appreciate you." If you are a military child, part of a military family, are currently serving, or have served in the past, would you please stand so we could recognize you at this time? >> [applause] [applause] >> Thank you all. I mean, the difference you have made, we are grateful for you, and I appreciate everyone joining us today. And at this time, I'd like to turn it over and let you say a few words. Yes, thank you
025so much. I just want to give y'all a few statistics about some of our military children. I don't not sure if y'all realize that on average military kids will move about nine times from K through 12, and that's just an average, but it's not unheard of that some of these children will move up to 12 times K through 12. Um, in my 24th year of service, I have three daughters, 10, 12, and 14, and my 14-year-old is on her 10th move, about to be number 11 this summer. So, the resilience, as y'all speak of, and um, you know, the hardships that they go through, they're real, and it makes them stronger, independent, and um, better members of society. I will say that Houston County and being in this, uh, area, Robins Air Force Base, uh,
026Perry, Warner Robins area, we have had the most embracing experience here with the community and shown from the schools and and and from which y'all have poured into our installation and to our families. And I want to thank you on behalf of Robins Air Force Base for doing that because it it it takes a lot to make our family a part of yours. It's a testament by some of our schools being, um, four of them, I believe, were flagship schools awarded by bringing the total military flagships awarded by Houston County bringing the total to 14 in this past year, which is again a testament to y'all. Uh, they always say in the Air Force, you can either have a good school, a good commute, or a nice house. And I will tell you, I have
027lived in a lot of small houses and driven a lot of long distances just so that my children could have a a great place to go to school. I am fortunate that, um, this area has given us all three for the first time, I think, in my 24 career. So, I appreciate that from my family to yours, and on behalf of Robins, thank you all very much. >> [applause] >> You know, this is my 11th year at the board office, and our relationship and partnership with the base has just grown stronger every year, and it's going to continue. We're here for you guys. You're an important part of this community. Just know you have our support. We thank you for signing that proclamation, and we're excited about the future. All right, at this time, if
028Dr. Andrew will, uh, join me. Are you ready, guys? We have lots of recognition. Are you ready? I'll make sure you're awake, cuz if you look at this side of room, we have a lot of students here. So, let's do it. All right, first of all, last month, we recognized many of our students who were selected for the All-State Band, and today we're honored to have the remainder of the participants with us. We will begin by recognizing our students from Houston County High. Come on down. >> [applause] >> All right, well, good morning, everyone. Uh, my name is Dylan Watkins. I am the director of bands over at Houston County High School. Uh, these four gentlemen up here are our appointees for the All-State Band this year. Uh, just a little bit about them. We
029have, uh, Mr. Jacob Jasper. He is a sophomore, and he was first chair principal percussionist this year. Uh, this was his first time being appointed to the All-State Bands. Uh, next to him is Mr. Roman Smith. Roman is a senior clarinet player. Uh, he was a third chair clarinet player in the band this year. This was his third year being appointed to the bands. Uh, next to him is Mr. Randall Lopez. Randall is an alto sax player, uh, extraordinaire, and uh, he was fourth chair alto this year. This was his third year as well being appointed to the bands. And next to him is Mr. Drew Bragg. Uh, Drew is actually a double awardee this year. Uh, Drew is a member of the All-State Jazz Band, which performed back in January. Uh, was a second
030chair tenor player there, and was a first chair alto player with the All-State Concert Band. So, those are our All-State Band nominees this year. >> [applause] >> And next we have Bonaire Middle School. Let's hear it for them. Good afternoon. Um, I am Leah Williams. I'm the director of bands at Bonaire Middle School, and it is my privilege to introduce Mr. Caleb Eddy today. He is a member of our eighth grade symphonic band, our eighth grade or seventh eighth grade advanced concert band. He is a two-year member of the district honor band and the South Georgia region honor band. He's in our jazz band. He's in our pep band. If it's band, Caleb is there. And and we are just so proud of him for, uh, achieving the All-State level this year. Um, it is
031just such such an incredible achievement that he has made, and we are very very proud of him at Bonaire Middle School. >> [applause] [applause] >> You may have noticed Bonaire Middle School's color, right? That purple goes right along with today. At this time, we'll hear from Feagin Mill Middle School. >> [applause] >> Good afternoon, every noon, everybody. I'm Trey English, band director at Feagin Mill Middle School, and I have three of our amazing band students in front of you. Mr. Gabriel Hillard, he was third chair tuba in the All-State band. Mr. Theo She was fourth chair percussion in the All-State band, and Miss Emily Clark was third chair bass clarinet in the All-State band. Um similarly to most of the middle school All-State students, they're involved in every aspect of the band program. So, these
032three have been involved in pep band and um honor band uh district region All-State honor bands. Um they all three take two band classes every single day. Um it's like like Miss Williams said, if it's in band if it's band-related, they're there. Um they are some of the most dedicated students that I've had the the privilege of working with. They're all in eighth grade. Super sad to lose them to Hoco, but really be glad to be giving them to Hoco. Um Thank you so much. >> [applause] >> And now, would Mossy Creek Middle School, please come forward? Uh good afternoon. My name is Terry Bragg. Uh I'm the band director at Mossy Creek Middle School. Um also the father of Drew Bragg. A lot of people know me that way, and um these two guys
033that I'm standing right next to um like to tell you about them. This is Eli Williams and Ryan Kirk. Uh they are both percussionists in the All-State band. Um Eli uh was with me in sixth grade, and uh then home-schooled in seventh grade, came back, uh and I'm so glad that he came back to school. Uh he brought his amazing talent with him. Um and he plays drums in the jazz band, and he is first chair percussionist in the Georgia All-State band. >> [applause] >> And this next young man is Ryan Kirk. And Ryan's kind of our Renaissance guy. Um he is in the academic team. Um he is in track at Houston County High School. Um as an eighth grader, uh he plays travel um soccer. He just he's so athletic and musically inclined.
034Such a talented young man, and uh parents should all raise two fine ones. Uh thank you for allowing me to be part of their middle school experience. I'm so proud of these young men. >> [applause] [applause] >> And finally, Perry Middle School. >> [applause] >> Hey, my name's Ashley Godby. I teach band at Perry Middle School, and this is Owen Smith. He's a percussionist, and this year he was selected as fifth chair percussionist for the All-State band. Um he's involved in our symphonic band. He was also our center snare player. Um I'd also like to mention that he auditioned for an international band and will be performing in New York this summer. >> [applause] >> Super sad that he's moving on to high school, but I'm excited to see what he does in the future.
035>> [applause] [applause] >> All right, and at this time, would Houston County High School, please come forward to introduce their student selected for All-State art? Let's hear it for Houston County. >> [applause] >> Good afternoon, everyone. Our extremely talented art teacher, Dr. Catherine Wyatt, could not be here this afternoon, so I'm standing in as pseudo art teacher today. Uh Principals wear all the hats, right? Uh so, just a little bit of information about All-State art. There were only 50 pieces selected out of all classifications for the entire state of Georgia. Uh Katie's pieces were one of those. That gave her the opportunity, uh having been submitted by Dr. Wyatt, to have her art displayed at Piedmont University, where her and several other students went and participated in art workshops as part of the All-State art
036symposium at Piedmont U. So, uh incredibly talented. You can see some work up there. Uh just extremely proud of Katie and and Dr. Wyatt and the the caliber of art students that she's putting out. Katie being one of the elite uh that she's had the privilege of of working with, and we look forward to a very very bright artistic future out of Katie. >> [applause] [applause] >> FBLA is a student organization that prepares students to become community-minded business leaders. Today, we celebrate students from Veterans High School who took top honors at the state FBLA conference. Would you please come forward? >> [applause] >> Good afternoon. I'm Tammy Love, one of the advisors at Veterans. This is Tobias Shiffling, he's our other advisor. These two young ladies, uh Symphony House and Elena Martin, uh have placed
037in the top 10 in their events. Y'all, if I miss out, help me out. So, Elena placed first in intro to information technology and second in retail and merchandising. Symphony House placed first in retail and merchandising and second third in intro to business concepts. They will both advance to nationals to nationals in San Antonio, Texas this summer. >> [applause] [applause] >> Tell you what, great things are happening in Houston County. Y'all agree? And it's well-rounded, too. I love it. All right, SkillsUSA is a career and technical student organization that empowers students to become career-ready leaders. Will the Houston County Call I'm sorry, will the Houston College and Career Academy come forward to introduce us to your state award-winning students? Let's hear it for them, guys. >> [applause] >> Hello. Good afternoon. Um I'm Miss Hollingshed
038from the Houston College and Career Academy, one of the SkillsUSA advisors as well as the AB Tech and film instructor. Um today, I have with me with AB Tech is Shermaine Lathers, a senior at Veterans High School. We have Elena Coley, a senior at Hoco. Um we also have Mikailey Carter, a junior at Perry High School, and Destiny Broughton, a senior at Veterans High School. So, the single script video competition is one that we did take state um honors in a couple of years ago. The students are challenged to take a script that was written by SkillsUSA, plan the entire script, film it, edit it, and submit it. Um and this year, we did take place uh take the gold place home. Um we'd also like to say thank you to Perry High School for
039opening your doors and letting us film for an entire week. Uh really really appreciate that. Congratulations. >> [applause] >> Hello, I'm Christy Norris. I'm the fine furniture and cabinet making instructor at HCCA. Um, I have brought with me today Michael Sanders from Warner Robins High School, Landon Salinas from Veterans, Jaylen White from Perry, Chanel Laxen from Warner Robins and Trista Swanner from Hoco. Um, together they built a beautiful entryway table and it was an honor to take them to the state competition. Um, but it was such a joy when we won state. >> [applause] >> Well, as you can see today, our district excels in many areas and one of those is our agriculture education program. Would Veterans High School come forward to introduce your students? >> [applause] >> So, uh Allie and I, this
040is Allie Corzine, everybody, and Allie and I was were trying to count how many times she has stood before you as a state champion in the FFA and this is her eighth time. Eight times. All right. Um This is the kind of kid that makes you look good. Yeah, I'm just telling you. Like this is we we are so proud of her. Uh, she was awarded the uh state market hog senior record book championship this year and I know that thing's kind of it's about a 12-page document that you have to fill out uh uh when I saw it right before I turned it in, I was like, "Oof." I don't know who's going to beat this thing. I mean, it it it looked good and certainly she was the state champ. And I'm thinking
041I hope this isn't the last time she stands up in front of y'all. We got one more shot at it and uh uh hopefully uh maybe this summer or early fall we're we're going to be back up here again. So, everybody, Allie Corzine. >> [applause] [applause] >> Y'ALL, IT'S PRETTY COOL ALLIE WAS A STUDENT AT MY elementary school back when I was principal. So, it's been fun to watch her and now we get to stand together in this way. As you know, all of our high schools complete compete in either a 4A or 5A GHSA classification. Today in the room we have both the 4A and 5A state literary champions. We will begin with our 5A school, Houston County High School. >> [applause] >> Good afternoon. My name is Melanie Davis. I'm the co-coach and
042English teacher at Houston County High School of the literary team. It's an honor to celebrate a group of students whose dedication and talent have earned them a fourth consecutive state championship for Houston County High School. >> [applause] >> What's more impressive is how they got there. During our region competition, we were the only school to place in every single event. We took six first place winners to the state championship and then resulted in scoring the most points in all of those events to win the competition. As coaches, Mr. Smith and I are incredibly proud of what they've achieved, but prouder of how they've achieved it. They've spent hours singing, reading, writing, and practicing. They've supported one another, conquered many challenges, and represented our school with integrity and excellence while growing as thinkers and communicators with
043skills that will serve them far beyond this competition. Thank you to our administration, colleagues, and families whose encouragement makes everything our students do possible. Most of all to our students, this honor is well earned. You've set a standard that will inspire others and it is a privilege to work with you. >> [applause] >> Um To introduce our students from uh uh Laura Ryan, Claire Jefferson, uh Amari Saunders, Lily Kenny, uh Trip Smith, uh Spencer Voskul, Eli O uh Josh Cho, uh Eli Otum, uh Steel Stout, and Aiden Hayes. >> [applause] >> And finally, Perry High School, our 4A champions. Let's hear it for them. >> [applause] >> Uh it is I'm Joe Sandifer. It's amazing to be back here again. Um, I am a a proud product of Houston County Schools. I graduated in 1991.
044That is not that long ago. And I performed on this stage in this space in 1990. This used to be a performing arts center. So, that was a couple years ago, but I am more than thrilled to be here today to to see all these faces. These kids in literary, we don't really think about it. Football is together all year round. One act is together all year, but literary really comes together at the end. We're all doing our own thing. So, these kids all come together. They all give it 100%. This year at region, every single contestant placed and contributed points to our win. We took seven competitors to state. Competitors like we have trio is three, you're not. So, uh seven events to state. At state, every single person scored in the top four
045and contributed to our overall high score. And we have five state champions including in addition to our overall state championship. So, we are beyond proud of these kids. And uh Miss Custer is our English representative. She's the our essay and um extemporaneous speaking. She's going to introduce all their names. Hi y'all, I'm Suzy Custer. So, here with us we have um Payton Balflower and Sarah Golden. They are our literary analysis and argumentative essay uh state champions. Um, over here we have the three girls in our trio. We have Sarah Mazanek, Kylie Peterson, and Alyssa Peterfer. Um, they won state champion in trio. Then we have um Andrew Battle who was our boys solo representative. He got third third place. Um, and we have Jazz Harris here. You were the humorous interpretation um and she placed
046fourth. And then we have Dawkins Ennis who was our um dramatic interpretation. He came home with a state champion in that and then uh Dawkins and Jack um Etalson competed together for duo interpretation and we're also state champions in that. >> [applause] [applause] >> Uh we recently held our county-wide oratorical competition, and today we're honoring our winners. Would Dr. Alethia Calhoun please join me as well as our top three students. Come on up. Okay, so our third-place winner is Ella Winnett from Matt Arthur Elementary School. >> [applause] >> Our second-place winner is Kendall Vander Zee from Morningside Elementary. >> [applause] >> Are you ready? And our first-place winner is Landon Rios from Shirley Hills Elementary. >> [applause] >> And in just a moment, we're going to close the recognition portion by actually hearing Landon's speech.
047So this time let us take a picture and then we will hear his speech. Have you ever been in a place where you felt like you truly belonged? A place where people accepted you, trusted you, and expected you to do your part? For me, that place is my basketball team. When I first joined the team, I was nervous. I didn't know anyone, and I wasn't sure where I fit in. But as the season went on, something changed. My teammates became my friends, and my coaches believed in me. I learned that being part of a team isn't just about scoring a bunch of points. It's about responsibility, respect, and being willing to work with others. Amy Poehler once said, "Find a group of people who challenge you and inspire you. Spend a lot of time with
048them, and it will change your life forever." On my basketball team, everyone has a role. Some players score, some defend, and some encourage others from the bench. No matter the role, each one matters. If someone doesn't show up and do their job, it affects the whole team. This experience has helped me see what we've learned in social studies about citizenship. One important historical fact is that when the United States was first founded, the leaders wanted to come together and create a country where everyone felt like they belonged. That's why the Constitution was written, to set rules, protect rights, and help everyone live together as one nation. Another important idea about belonging comes from the Declaration of Independence, which says all people that are created equally deserves to have the right to life, liberty, and the
049pursuit of happiness. This quote reminds us that everyone deserves to feel valued and included, no matter who they are or where they come from. Just like on my basketball team, citizens of the United States have rights, but they also have responsibilities. Citizens are expected to follow laws, respect others, and help their communities grow stronger. I mean, think of it like this. Everything we do in basketball has a relationship to the rules we have to follow out in the United States of America. For example, if we don't follow a rule on the basketball court, we get a violation, similar to getting in trouble for breaking a law out in the United States of America. When others feel valued and included, they are more likely to participate and care about their country. My basketball team has shown
050me that belonging doesn't just happen. You earn it by being responsible, respectful, and being willing to work with others. But that lesson goes beyond the court. It applies me in good citizen of the United States of America. When we treat each other like teammates, support one another, and take responsibility for our actions, we have to create a country where everyone feels like they belong. Plus, could anything be better than finding a place where you truly belong? Thank you. >> [applause] [applause] >> Thank you. Thank you all. All right. At this time, we need to begin our the business portion, and then we will begin by adopting the agenda. Mr. Crockett. Mr. Chairman, I move we adopt the agenda as printed. Second. We have a motion by Mr. Crockett, seconded by Mr. Nichols, to adopt the
051agenda. All in favor, raise your hand. Motion passes passes 6-0. And now the minutes from our previous meeting. Mr. Crockett. Mr. Chairman, I move we approve the minutes from the previous meeting. Second. We have a motion by Mr. Crockett, seconded by Ms. Johnson. Uh are there any comments or corrections? Hearing none, all in favor raise your hand. Motion passes 6-0. This time we uh are going to have our board member comments led off by uh Mr. Nichols. So before I I start my comments, I want to say thank you very much to our armed forces uh members, our Air Force, um and any one else who is in any other branch. Um my my stepfather worked out on Robins Air Force Base for about 43 years, and I've had many friends and family that have
052worked out there for many years also. There's a little uh uh saying that's uh in Warner Robins, Georgia. It started by a doctor many years ago, and it was approved, and it went on, and it got rubber-stamped, and it's called EDMG AFD. And for many of you who don't know what that means, that means every day and at first it meant every day in Middle Georgia is Air Force Appreciation Day. And then it was changed to encompass all branches to be every day in Middle Georgia is Armed Forces Appreciation Day. Thank you very much to all our armed forces. Thank you for all you do. We thank you in Warner Robins, Georgia cuz you keep my family safe, and we you keep the rest of the family safe too. So thank you very much. I
053love Houston County. 61 years has given me, John Nichols, a full perspective on what that means. When I was younger, it was I love you for what I can get out of you or what you can do for me. Along with just loving. As I grew older, children, community, church, children's friends, friends, co-workers, my eyes began to open what the Bible says in Deuteronomy 6:5 and Mark 12:30-31. You shall love love the God let you shall love God, and you shall love your neighbor as yourself. School lit that love, and it has grown to where I understand that I I love you because I love me. I believe this has been what I have watched lived out through my time in this Houston County School District. Teachers, principals, custodial workers, cafeteria workers, coaches, and fellow
054students. We all want to grow, learn, and try to be the best that we can be. Thank you, my fellow board members, faculty, and staff, students, parents, and supporters for sharing your love to me as I reciprocate. You are who I love and serve. I pray we all strive to love our neighbor as ourselves. Thank you, Mr. Nichols. Uh before we move on, are there any other comments board members would like to make? Okay. I guess it's time for our superintendent's report. Dr. Rogers. It's me again, guys. All right. We were recently notified by the Georgia Department of Education that Langston Road Primary School has been named a 2026 Military Flagship School. This award honors schools that provide a supportive environment for military students and families, and we're waiting to hear from Superintendent Woods when
055he will visit and present them with their banner. But we expect that ceremony to be very soon. This brings the total number of Houston County Military Flagship Schools to 15. Very, very proud of that. >> [applause] >> It's an honor to announce that at this board meeting as well. Uh Gifted Students and Teacher of the Year. Last month we celebrated Gifted Education Month, and we had the opportunity to make several surprise announcements in our schools. Congratulations to Peaches Tinkersley from Matt Arthur Elementary for being named the 2026 Houston County Gifted Teacher of the Year. Two gifted students also received statewide recognition. Annie White from Veterans High was named the recipient of the 2026 Distinguished Gifted Teen Award, and Riley Brown from Hilltop Elementary received the 2026 Distinguished Elementary Gifted Student by the Georgia Association. for
056gifted children. Guys, April is school library month. Our media centers are often referred to as the heart of our schools, and we are grateful for our district's hardworking media specialist. Brett Calloway from Pearl Stephens Elementary was named our district's media specialist of the year, and her name will be submitted for consideration for the state award. Congratulations to Mrs. Calloway. Summer feeding program, you know, this this is one of those things that touch your heart, guys, that we love doing for this community. The Houston County School Nutrition Program will once again offer its annual summer feeding program in cooperation with the Georgia Department of Education. Meals will be offered free of charge to children 18 and under from May 26 to July 24th. Organizations that offer summer programs for children may be eligible to participate in
057this program and receive meals for their participants at no charge. This is a great service that we are able to offer, and we encourage our community to apply before May 1st. Details on how to apply can be found on our website. Also, we have some special events and dates in the month of April. In addition to celebrating the month of the military child, this month we also recognize autism awareness month and occupational therapy month. Other special dates are our paraprofessional appreciation day, and guys, we need our parapros. That was on April 1st. National School Library Day was on April 4th. This week is our assistant principals week, and we thank our APs for all they do. Our high school proms will be on April 18th. We have National Library Week on April 19th through the
05825th. National Public School Volunteer Week is April 20th through the 24th, and we thank those who volunteer in our schools. And our administrative professionals day is on April 22nd. And I ask all leaders in the room not to forget your administrative professionals. Finally, on May 7th, we will hold our annual retirement banquet at the Miller Murphy Howard building of the Georgia National Fairgrounds. Thank you, and I turn it over to you, chair. Thank you. At this time, we'll take a short intermission for our students to return to schools. So, um an intermission. Are we ready? All right, we will continue now if uh we can move along. Uh last night we uh received the department reports, and I'd like to give opportunity for any comments or questions. >> [snorts] >> But, um we would like
059to say we thank each department for preparing these. We know it's some takes some effort, and it's enjoyable to read and helps us stay up on things, and we appreciate it. So, thank you very much. All right, new bus- new business. Our first item is an appointment for post five Board of Education vacancy. And so, at this time I would entertain a motion. Yes, Mr. Ivory. Mr. Chairman, I'd like to make a motion that we appoint Ms. Tanya Duncan for our post five. Okay. We have a We have a motion. Do we have a second? Second. Okay, thank you. We have a motion and a second uh to um for Ms. Tanya Duncan for to fill that post. And so, at this Is there any discussion? Any more comments? Open it up. All right, this
060time we will um we will vote. All those in favor of Ms. Tanya Duncan uh for this or for in favor of this motion, would you raise your hand, please? All opposed? Okay, we have two for and a and and four uh against, so the the motion fails. Do we have another motion? Yes, sir. I'd like to make a motion to appoint Angel Brown. Okay. Do we have a second? Second. Okay, we have a motion and a second uh for Ms. Angel Brown as to fill the post of of post five. Um all those in favor of the motion, please raise your hand. All those opposed? Like sign. Okay, the the vote is four in favor, two opposed. The motion carries. Um and and um so, we welcome Angel Brown to post five uh representative
061or member. Okay, thank you very much. Appreciate all that's done. Um next we have a lengthy resolution. Mr. Nichols. Thank you. Thank you, uh Mr. Chairman. So, I make a motion that we approve uh the resolution, and I'm going to read it, and it explains what that resolution is in the approval. For the approval, execution, and delivery of a bond purchase agreement providing for the sale of 30 million dollars Houston County School District, Georgia, uh general obligation sales tax bonds, series 2026. The naming of an authenticating agent, bond registrar, and paying agent for said bonds. The adoption of a form to which said bonds shall adhere. The preparation of a tax digest and the recommendation to the Board of Commissioners of Houston County of the levy of a tax sufficient to pay the principal of
062and interest on said bonds. The approval, execution, and delivery of a continuing disclosure certificate and official statement relating to said bonds. The execution and delivery of said bonds and for other related purposes. Okay, we have a motion. Do we have a second? Second. Okay. We have a motion by Mr. Nichols, a second by Mr. Crockett uh to approve the 2026 bond resolution as stated. Let me just add one thing and I apologize. Um the the summary fails to say that the levy of the property tax is only if sales tax would not cover the principal and interest payments. And as Mr. Owens told you last night, you've got five times as much sales tax as you do a payment. And I I apologize that summary did not make that point. Okay. Thank you. Do I
063need to caveat that? >> No, sir. It's in the resolution, but I Thank you. >> felt like from the public they needed to know that. Okay. Thank you. Any other comments or discussion? All right. All in favor of the this motion, raise your hand, please. Motion carries 6-0. Next, we have our financial reports. Mr. Crockett. Mr. Chairman, I move we approve the February 2026 financial reports as presented. Second. Okay. We have a motion by Mr. Crockett and a second by Ms. Johnson to approve the financial reports for February as presented. Any comments or discussion? Hearing none, all in favor, raise your hand. Motion carries 6-0. And now our purchasing report, Ms. Johnson. Yes, sir. I make a motion that we approve the purchasing report for April. Um the financial impact to the general fund is
064$138,098.47. Um the general fund e-rate impact is $2,235,224.22 for a total financial impact of $2,373,322.69. Do we have a second? Second. Okay. We have a motion by Ms. Johnson and a second by Mr. Crockett to approve the purchasing report as stated. All in fa- Is there discussion? Give you time. All right. All in favor, raise your hand. Motion passes 6-0. Personnel reports. Mr. Ivory. Mr. Chairman, I make a motion that we approve the personnel report personnel reports as presented. Second. We have a motion by Mr. Ivory, second by Ms. Johnson to approve the personnel reports as presented. Any discussion? All in favor, raise your hand. Motion carries 6-0. We have two other additions under personnel, Ms. Johnson. Yes, sir. I'd like to make a motion to approve the superintendent superintendent's recommendation of Mrs. Jessica Teemer
065for the position of principal of Pearl Stephens Elementary School. Second. Okay. We have a motion by Ms. Johnson, second by Mr. Ivory uh to approve the superintendent's recommendation for Ms. Jessica Jessica Teemer for the position of principal of Pearl Stephens Elementary School. Any discussion? Okay. All in favor, raise your hand. Motion carries 6-0. Mr. Jackson. Yes, uh Mr. Chairman, I'd like to make a motion to approve the superintendent's recommendation for Ms. Regina Spencer for the position of assistant principal of discipline split between C.B. Watson and Pearl Stephens Elementary. Second. Okay. We have a motion by Mr. Jackson, second by Mr. Crockett to accept the or to approve the superintendent's recommendation for Ms. Regina Spencer for the position of assistant principal of discipline split between C.B. Watson Primary and Pearl Stephens Elementary Schools. Any discussion? Okay.
066Hearing none, all in favor, raise your hand, please. Motion carries 6-0. Moving on with our agenda. Uh I think it's Mr. Nichols. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I make a motion that we approve policy the revision to policy IFBG revision of April 2026 um based on House Bill or Senate Bill 351 to include social media guidelines. Okay. We have a motion. Do we have a second? Second. We have a motion by Mr. Nichols, second by Ms. Johnson to approve the policy IFBG revision that deals with internet acceptable use. Is there any discussion? All in favor, raise your hand. Motion carries 6-0. Mr. Ivory. Yes, sir. Mr. Chairman, I'd like to make a motion to approve the academic calendar for 2027-2028, the school calendar. And you all will be happy to know that uh thank you, Dr.
067Brown. Uh we'll start school in August instead of the end of July. Second. We have a motion by Mr. Ivory, second by Mr. Nichols to approve the 2027-2028 school calendar. Is there any further discussion? How do we start school in September back when I was in school? [laughter] That's what I want to know. Many moons ago. We did not get very many breaks. All right. All in favor, raise your hand. Motion carries 6-0. All right. Moving along. Item H, Mr. Crockett. Mr. Chairman, I move we approve the certificate of completion of the Tucker Elementary School renovation capital outlay project. Okay. We have a second? Second. Okay. It's a motion by Mr. Crockett, second by Ms. Johnson to approve the certificate of completion for capital outlay projects Tucker Elementary. Is there any discussion? Always good to
068have a project behind us. All in favor, raise your hand. Motion carries 6-0. And our final bit of business, Mr. Nichols. Sorry. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I make a motion that we approve the um request for Georgia Department of Education assistance to Houston County School District's five-year local facilities plan as presented. Second. We have a motion by Mr. Nichols, second by Mr. Crockett to approve the resolution to request GADOE assistance in development of the five-year local facilities plan. Is there any discussion? All in favor, raise your hand. Motion carries 6-0. At this time, we have a person, I believe, that wants to address the board. Uh Mr. John Schindler. Are you here? Come come and speak to us. We'll give you plenty time. Would would remind you that we ask you to keep your comments
069to 5 minutes and I will be the timekeeper. I know I have a comment on the tax. I don't have an axe to grind. Thank you. I'm going to end 26 years of education. This afternoon, I'm going to resign as substitute. My name is Mr. Schindler. I'm a retired soldier. I'm a retired teacher. And as I said, in a couple of minutes, a retired substitute. It was good to be here this afternoon to see all those wonderful accolades. Really marvelous achievements and I was fortunate to work among some of those students in a sub capacity, but um it's good to see. I'm here because I believe in education. So, some of the remarks may come across as wet blanket, but bear with me. Happily, no one has prevented me from speaking today as happened just
070over a year ago. My lawyer told me it wasn't worth suing over, so I got an apology from the previous administration. I trust my remarks won't be deleted from the public record, either as they were over a year ago. This is an open public meeting under Georgia law. You have no need or right to know what someone's going to address before they come up here. You're not going to respond, anyway. I think that needs to be looked at. How many other people are intimidated from coming up here? Overall, it's a fine district with extremely dedicated teachers at all levels and some really marvelous academic achievements. My three concerns are perceived top-heavy administration, overall failure of the cell phone policy, which no one seems to know, and questionable laptop learning. There are 91 vice principal slots
071at about 60,000 per in this district. 91 vice principals. Five of the six PK through two schools have two principals each, one for discipline. Are our our little ones that disruptive? You trim some of those by attrition and you have money for new school buses. Cell phone ban policy differs and is enforced definitely enforced differently at all five high schools and I don't know why that is. It's the single biggest obstacle to learning. My last area, laptop learning. It's the current paradigm in this district. District went all in on it and I don't think it's working. It's been tried. I don't think it's working. On the surface, it appears to avoid implementing the seven learning styles. Third grade reading proficiency is 51%. Fifth grade is 65, eighth grade is 66. Seniors ready for college are
07268%. All that data is from your own website. But this district emphasizes its grad rate over there. And I'm not sure what the quality is. I talked with students, they're wearing 20-lb backpacks from class to class full of books. The only thing they pull out is their laptop. >> [snorts] >> They lament the lack of field trips. High school rooms are devoid of maps, globes, dictionaries, thesauruses, and other tools that they used to need. Well, that stuff's online now. I guess it's okay, but I don't think so. If laptop learning is so terrific, why the low proficiency levels? Why is 17% chronic absentee rate? 17 of every 100 students. And some of these numbers are above the Georgia standards, the Georgia achievement levels. This district looks good in some of those categories. Why do colleges
073and universities have remedial English and math courses for recent high school graduates? My grandparents, turn of the 20th century, eighth grade education was much more in-depth than what we're providing today. I have two sentences left. Something's wrong somewhere. It's vastly time to lower the emphasis and reliance upon laptops almost completely and return to actual teaching. Need to find a balance in there. But all the students do all the classes have covered laptop, laptop, laptop. Some of you need, I think, to go visit these campuses. Talk to the students. Let them show you. Listen to what they have to say. Again, it's been a good district. It is a good district. And I am really heartbroken to give up my badge and end my time in education because it's been terrific. I just can't support your
074system. I can't do it. Again, the previous administration is responsible for some of their I will say it, moronic behavior. Your Your administration has not. I thank you for your time. Thank you, Mr. Winder. Thank you for your service to our country and to our city. >> chair available? I'm just kidding. Thank you. >> [clears throat] >> All right. Do we have any business for executive session? No, sir. Okay. That appears to conclude our business for today. I would entertain a motion to adjourn. >> Motion. Second. I have a motion and a second to adjourn. All in favor, raise your hand. Motion passed 6-0. We are adjourned. Thank you.