001[Music] Chocolate rain. [Music] Can't [Music] believe [Music] Heat. Heat. [Music] You got a [Music] chicken. Got a chicken ring. [Music] You are happy. [Music] Chopping [Music] It rain. [Music] You are real. [Music] You [Music] are me. Heat. [Music] Heat. Feel me? Feel me? [Music] Heat. Heat. N. [Music] Make [Music] it rain. [Music] You are free. [Music] Chocolate ring. [Music] You are happy. [Music] I love you. [Music] Happy ring. [Music] Choose office. Well, you never know till you ask. You have to ask. Check. Check. I got over here. You still have Check, check, check, check, check, check. Still can't hear me. You can see it on the You can see it on the rack, but you can't hear me still. Barely adjusted at all. Check, check, check. Still nothing. It was just working. She's still at
0025:30. I didn't transition. Did all of our mics go down? I think they did. Check. Check. Check. Check check check check check check check check. Okay, it's still feeding back, man. I'm not even check check. Okay, check. Check. Check. You can make that. I like it. Good evening. I'm James Nihoff. I'm the hearing officer. I'd like to call to order this Nelson County Schools local public hearing. This is June the 9th, 2025 and it beginning at 5:30 p.m. I'd like for you to stand and join me in the pledge of allegiance. I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for it stands one nation under God indivisible with liberty and justice for all. Thank you. And you may be seated. There's some formality required in this process.
003So I will read to you from the slide for that purpose. Pursuant to 702 K4180 implementation guidelines for Kentucky schools facilities planning in in the manual. This local board hearing is convened. This public hearing was advertised in the Kentucky standard on Sunday, May 25th, 2025. The district facility plan has been available online and at the central office per k 4180 appropriate guidelines may be set by the public hearing officer. The guidelines are set as follows. The hearing is being recorded and we ask that members of the audience are respectful of the speaker to ensure all comments can be heard within the recording. Secondly, the hearing is not a question and answer session, but is for the purpose of documenting testimony regarding the district facility plan that that was approved on May 20th, 2025 by the
004Nelson County Board of Education. Third, I will provide an overview of the district facility plan in advance of testimony. Fourth, during testimony, individuals will be given three minutes to share their testimony to be consistent with the Nelson County Board of Education practices. Testimony submitted digitally will be read into the record. The local board of education has submitted the proposed draft of the facility plan to the Department of Education. This accepted proposed draft facility plan is to be reviewed tonight in the local board public hearing. Copies are provided at the podium in the back for anyone who would like a copy. If you did not receive that, you feel free to step up and receive one of those. So, um, I'd like to provide you with that summary at this time. So, I will, um, I'll
005read that to you. The district facility plan project summary is as follows. Number one, Nelson County High School transitions to Nelson County Middle High School, middle high school. That includes transition to the facility to a 6th to 12th grade center. Demolition of the 1969 section west of the main hall. That's 59,735 square ft. New construction of 48,152 square ft which will be dedicated to high school and middle school classrooms, science labs, art resource and FMD rooms. Those are special education specific rooms. Family resource resource youth service center, cafeteria/kitchen expansion, media center, and an administrative suite. Renovations include the 1969 to 2007 sections, selective renovations of systems in those areas that are over 15 years old. Renovations also include ADA, Americans with Disabilities Act, life safety upgrades, new high school and middle school secure vestibules for
006entries and exits, site development, that is parking, outdoor learning areas, and an alumni garden. And also renovations include athletic additions, some to the indoor facilities, some the cross country course, and relocation of baseball and softball fields. Item number two regards Thomas Nelson Middle and High School. This facility will transition to a 6th through 12th grade center, new construction of approximately 27,925 square ft. Inside that new construction will be standard and resource classrooms, special education classrooms, a secure vestibule, administration, gym, common space and some site development that will go along with that um for the for the um geography there. Third, the third bullet there is renovation of building sections that are greater than 15 years old for finishes and and heating and ventilation. And the fourth part there is athletic edition, a new shared fieldhouse
007and support facilities. The third area in the summary is the old Kentucky home middle school transitions. This facility will be repurposed for career and technical education. Programs will include media arts, interactive media, graphic design, family and consumer science, and pathway to careers. Will ren uh this plan calls for renovation of 14,650 square feet. This has been reviewed and supported by the office of career and technical education at the Department of Education. The fourth area or priority is Bloomfield Middle School. Re this school will be repurposed primarily for CTE career and technical education programs. The targeted programs for that facility include heavy equipment and diesel mechanics. And uh this is an approximate 10,000 square foot renovation. The fifth priority is at the New Haven School classroom expansion and connection for flexible learning, administrative and front office
008area renovation of 2400 square ft and an an additional 260 square ft. Also at New Haven, there will be some ADA and life safety upgrades. Then there will be listed under discretionary items outdoor classroom and a student entrance canopy and then some athletic and playground renovations projected to be done. And the seventh priority is at Cox's Creek Elementary School. There will be classroom pairing renovations to create more flexible spaces, front entrance and meeting space renovation of approximately 1,150 square ft. And there will be ADA and life safety upgrades uh accompanied by a new canopy for the student bus hub. And then there will be athletic and playground renovations. We also have several written submitted by email or letter or handd delivered um testimony. So uh in just a moment I will start reading those. Uh
009we will subject those to the time limit as well that has been placed for public input. So, I'll I'll read in my normal fashion and if we hit the three minute mark, then Kristen will uh she will stop me. Okay, we're ready. Please accept this email to show my support for the recent appro recently approved district facility plan, the community campus plan. My family is excited about the opportunities this will provide our five children in Nelson County Public Schools as well as a New Haven community as a whole. The community approach eliminates the current transition from OKH to Thomas Nelson and would allow our kids to be on the same campus. The community plan campus plan also eliminates the unnecessary travel for sports collaboration and other school activities. This is from Jeff Parish at 2621
010New Hope Road, New Haven, Kentucky. The next one begins, uh, "Dear Nelson County Board of Education members, I'm writing to express my full support for the current district facility plan recently approved by the local planning committee. I firmly believe this plan represents what is best for all students in Nelson County Schools. It reflects a thoughtful, forward-looking approach that prioritizes student needs, enhances learning environments, and ensures equitable access to quality facilities across the district. Thank you for your leadership and continued dedication to the future of our schools and community. That is from Rebecca Maguire. die. Dear members of the Nelson County Board of Education, I'm writing to express my strong support for the Nelson County School District facility plan, especially its focus on creating more aligned and intentional learning communities for students in grade 6 through
01112. As students move from middle to high school, it is critical that they experience a sense of continuity both in relationships and in opportunities. The proposed facility changes will help establish stronger 6 through 12 communities where students can build lasting connections with peers and educators while also engaging earlier in meaningful college and career pathways. Bringing grades 6 through 12 into more co cohesive learning environments will foster mentorship, increase belonging, and give students a clearer trajectory toward their futures. I commend the district for recognizing this need and taking steps to reimagine how our schools can better serve all learners. Thank you for your leadership and vision. That is from Gretchen Boone. I am sending this email due to a death in my family. I cannot attend this meeting, but I want to let you know that
012I'm in favor of the DFP that was presented to the board. I feel this will benefit all students of Nelson County. I also feel this is something that should have been done two years ago, but due to unfortunate circumstances, it was not. It's time to do what is right for the students of Nelson County School System. Cindy Mitchell. I'm writing to share my strong support for the district facilities plan recently approved by the local planning committee and to encourage the board to move forward without delay. Learning has changed and continues to change. The way we educate students today is vastly different than it was even a decade ago. To truly prepare our students for the future, we must ensure our f our facilities match the demand of modern teaching and learning. That means investing in
013flexible, functional, and future ready learning environments. Our district cannot afford to be held back by indecision or outdated thinking. The current facility plan is not just a construction project is it is a necessary step forward in meeting the invol evolving needs of students and staff. Continuing to delay action only creates more confusion, instability, and missed opportunities. It's time for our board to fully understand and support this progress. Our students and educators deserve more than aging buildings and uncertainty. They deserve schools that reflect our commitment to their growth and success. Andrea Newton to whom it may concern. As a diverse learning leader with the district, I fully support the proposed district facility plan, specifically the implementation of the 6 through 12 model. As an educational as an educator dedicated to serving students with diverse learning needs,
014I have witnessed firsthand the positive impact of structural alignment and intentional collaboration on student outcomes. The 6 through2 model presents a unique opportunity to enhance continuity in both academic instruction and behavioral support services for students who receive special education. This alignment allows for more seamless transition between grade levels, greater consistency and individualized support and more cohesive communication among educators, support staff and families. From a professional standpoint, this plan encourages deeper collaboration among collaborate educators in enabling the development of unified instructional practices and more coordinated support systems that benefit all learners. It is a model that reflects a commitment to long-term academic achievement, inclusivity, and community strength. I firmly believe that the proposed facility plan represents a forwardthinking and student centered approach to education. It is a step in the right direction for our district and
015one that I am proud to stand behind. Thank Thank you for your time, leadership, and commitment to the success of all students. That's from Justin Gagy. I am writing to express my full support for the district facility plan recently drafted by the local planning committee. Although I am unable to attend the public forum scheduled for June 9th due to travel, I respect I respectfully request that this email be read aloud and entered into the official official record. I commend the LPC for developing a thoughtful and forward-thinking plan that addresses our district's most pressing facility needs. After years of uncertainty, it is encouraging to see a plan that is not only strategic in its structure, but also responsive to the demands of parents, educators, and community members, many of whom have been asking for a clear
016path forward since 2023. While I understand that two board members voted no to approve this plan, I'm not surprised given their opposition to this effort dating back to 2021. Unfortunately, that resistance has contributed to delays and significant financial losses costing taxpayers millions. In contrast, the momentum created by the two newly elected board members has brought fresh energy and progress to the conversation, something our district has desperately needed. As a mother of a preschooler, I'm excited and hopeful for the opportunities that this plan represents, not just for my child, but for all current and future students in our district. The district facility plan brings about logical and realistic changes, and I believe these changes will greatly strengthen the long-term success and stability of our schools. Thank you for your time and service to our community, and
017I look forward to moving the district forward. That's from Jessica Hogue in Cox's Creek. To whom it may concern, I'm writing this letter in support of Nelson County Schools District Facility Plan. I fully support the idea of of existing middle school facilities becoming transitional facilities to support the expansion of career and technical education. Specifically, Bloomfield Middle School transitioning to the buildup center to support the heavy equipment construction trades and diesel mechanics. That's from Michael Imbry, the administrator of the local union um international union of operating engineers local 181. Dear members of the LPC, thank you for the opportunity to speak with you about the expo exciting and transformative potential of micro schools, particularly when paired with CTE in in shaping the future of education within our community. As Victor Hugo once said, there's nothing more
018powerful than an idea whose time has come. Micro schools embody this truth. They offer a refreshing and muchneeded evolution of the traditional education model. One that brings people brings together people, place, and purpose in meaningful ways. These small focused learning environments foster personalized learning pathways connecting academic achievement with real world application and local relevance. When integrated with highquality CTE programming, micro schools become even more impactful. They not only build strong academic foundations but also deliver practical career aligned skills. This powerful combination ensures education remains relevant, engaging, and connected to the workforce. Supported by strong advisory councils and local industry partners, students are prepared to contribute meaningfully to both the economy and their communities. of purpose-driven learners as purpose-driven learners and skilled professionals. By engra embracing micro schools grounded in thoughtful decision and workforce integration, we
019have the opportunity to enhance educational outcomes and create environments where students thrive both intellectually and practically. This model brings unity to our community's goals, enabling each student to pursue success through individualized support and meaningful purpose. In short, micro schools offer a dynamic path forward, blending innovation, personalization, and career readiness. They empower students not only to succeed academically, but to graduate as confident, skilled contributors to our society. Thank you for considering this vision for the future of our school facilities. Together, we can champion innovative approaches to meet the evolving needs of today's learners and build a stronger, more connected community. That's from Scott Thompson. He's an instructor in heavy equipment sciences and entry level driver training. As the director of transportation for Nelson County Schools, I am writing to formally express my support for the proposed
020district district facility plan currently under public review. I have been actively involved in the facility planning process, particularly providing input on how each proposed option would impact student transportation across the county. Throughout this process, I have prioritized identifying strategies that maximize efficiency, improve student safety, and provide greater flexibility in route planning. After analyzing all the plans presented by the LPC, I'm confident that that the selected plan represents the most effective option to enhance transportation operations for the greatest number of students we serve. This plan will allow us to better align our routes with school location, reduce travel times for many of our students, and create more consistency in pickup and drop off schedules. Most importantly, it provides the flexibility needed to adjust and optimize transportation services as our student population and community needs evolve. From
021a transportation perspective, this plan is not only practical and sustainable, but it is also student centered. It positions us to uphold our commitment to safe, reliable, and equitable transportation for all students. Thank you for the opportunity to contribute to this important process. I respectfully ask that this letter be included in the public record of the district facility plan and considered as a part of the overall review process. That's from Devin O'Brien, the district's director of transportation. To whom it may concern, my name is Missy Bobblet and I have lived in Nelson County for 57 years. My husband is Gary Bobblet and he has lived here his entire life. We both graduated from Nelson County High School, as did both of our sons and two of our granddaughters. We currently have four grandchildren who attend schools
022in the district. When our children were in schools, we were actively involved and volunteered in different activities. I served on several committees throughout the years, and I understand and appreciate the time and effort it takes to be involved. Having said that, I also want to express how grateful I am that we had that opportunity. Once the boys graduated, we moved on with life and really did not pay much attention to the things that were school related. We we had a school board to handle that. Then our youngest son, Kyle, was hired as a teacher in the system. So naturally, we began paying more attention to what was going on. When the first committee was assembled to address the needs of the district and forums were held throughout the county, we attended several of them. In
023the beginning, there was a lot of anger and misinformation about the proposed changes. I totally get that. Change is hard and fear is the main reason. A few years ago, my grandson asked me a question and I told him I didn't know. He said, "But mama, don't you want to learn?" Unfortunately, too often we don't take time to learn. Through the forums, the public got the opportunity to ask questions and answers were provided and changes were made as needed. Not everyone was getting everything they wanted, but the needs of the majority of our students were being met to the best of the district's ability. Once people learned how the changes would be implemented and how they would be paid for, there was an overwhelming acceptance of the plan. The people learned the truth and overcame
024their fear of change. The board approved the plan and bids were approved and we were on our way. Unfortunately, when new board members were elected, they refused to fund the project. Months of work by committee members, architects, contractors, and countless others were simply ignored. The outcry from the community by informed citizens was ignor ignored. What resulted was multiple lawsuits and the departure of many families and employees who chose not to be ignored by the board. Fortunately, the people who felt they had been ignored chose to take a stand and vote for candidates that would listen to them. So, that is where we are today. With the work of a new facility planning committee and more public forums under our belt, we have a new plan that mirrors the original plan. We can't go back into
025the past and undo the damage that has been done, but we ask you to please help us move forward into the future by funding the present plan. Missy Bobblet lives at 832 Tom Greer Road, Bardstown, Kentucky. Thank you. I appreciate that. You noticed I was needing it. I like to talk, but I usually don't talk this much. I fully and unconditionally and in fact enthusiastically support the district facilities plan. I am thrilled that it provides more equitable opportunities for all students in 6 through 12, not just students who happen to go to one school that currently has more opportunities. I'm so excited for the future after the DFP passes to see what goodness will come from all 6 through 12 students having equal opportunities. That is from Suzanne Height. I am writing to express my
026strong support for the district facilities plan recently approved by the local planning committee and to urge the Nelson County Board of Education to take action without further delay. This project is getting more expensive by the day. With inflation and rising construction costs, every month of inaction adds to the financial burden. Money that could be going directly toward improving the learning environment for our students. The majority of the funding for this project is already available thanks to the additional revenue generated by the nickel tax. So why the hesitation? The longer we wait, the less we will be able to accomplish with the resources we already have. Our students cannot afford continued delays. They deserve safe, modern, and equitable schools now, not years from now. I encourage the board to act with urgency and move this plan
027forward for the sake of our entire community. That is from Donald Dye. I am a parent with three students in Nelson County. Two at Thomas Nelson and one heading to OKH Middle from New Haven. I think the best plan would be plan one or two, which keeps both high schools open and provides a middle school feeder system to each high school. That's from Stephanie Johnson in New Haven. I will be out of town for Monday's hearing, but would like to have my comment documented and presented at the hearing if possible. In the frisky world, the family resource and youth services center world, relationships are everything. We have strong consistent feeder patterns. When we have strong consistent feeder patterns, like what we had between New Haven and Thomas Nelson in the previous years, it makes a
028big difference, especially for our families who may need a little extra support along the way. When our centers are aligned and working together, we're able to connect with students and families early and stay with them throughout their school journey. That consistency builds trust. It means we're not starting from scratch every time a student changes schools. We already know the family. We know what's worked, what hasn't, and how to best support them when moving forward. That kind of continuity matters. It helps ensure no one falls through the cracks or gets overlooked, especially during transitions. We're able to keep that support steady and strong all the way from elementary to high school. And for a lot of our families, that steady presence can be lifechanging. That is from Amanda Jones. She's a family resource and youth services
029coordinator in the district. I am writing to support the Nelson County School District facility plan and its vision to establish two 6 through 12 campuses as a way to strengthen student access to college and career pathways. As we look to the future of education, it's clear that early exposure to career exploration, dual credit, and pathway experiences is critical to preparing students for success beyond high school. By creating two distinct distinct 6 through 12 campuses, we can provide more focused and equitable access to these opportunities while also building tighter knit learning communities that support long-term relationships between students, staff, and families. This model not only enhances academic career and career readiness, but also creates the conditions for deeper engagement and belonging, especially during the critical middle and high school years. I fully support this strategic move
030and appreciate the district's commitment to designing schools that reflect the future our students deserve. That's from Jenny Haycraft. I support the community campus plan and the current DFP. I have five kids in Nelson County Public Schools. Once in place, our children would have one less hard transition. They would be on the same campus again as their siblings and they and the same location that they already have to play sports. They could walk to the fieldhouse for weights. They could walk to practice. They can get a ride with siblings that drive when needed. They would not have busing during the day for higher level classes or collabs. It would logistically make our lives so much easier having kids in one one less place and shuffling them around all day every day for school activities and appointments.
031It would streamline things for us. I only wish it could have been put in place sooner. This is from Melissa Parish on New H New Hope Road in New Haven. I am writing to voice my strong support for the district facilities plan recently approved by the local planning committee. It is time we put students first. For too long, our district has operated with within outdated structures that no longer serve the best interest of learners. This plan provides an opportunity to correct that by addressing longstanding issues, particularly our feeder patterns, which have created unnecessary divisions and inconsistencies across the district. By moving forward with this plan, we are not just building buildings. We are taking a critical step towards a more unified, equitable, and student centered future for Nelson County Schools. I commend the leadership and
032vision it represents, and I am hopeful it will lead to meaningful, lasting change for our community. That is from E. Carol Maguire. I am writing to express my strong support for the Nelson County Schools District Facility Plan. This comprehensive plan reflects a clear vision for providing highquality learning environments that meet the evolving needs of students, educators, and community. Investing in our school facilities is essential to ensure every student has access to safe, modern, and inspiring spaces that foster academic excellence and personal growth. The proposed upgrades and improvements demonstrate a thoughtful approach to both current changes and future opportunities aligned with our shared commitment to educational success. I fully endorse the efforts outlined in the facility plan and encourage continued collaboration to bring this vision to life for the benefit of all Nelson County students. Good
033afternoon. I'm Aaron Cook, currently a special education teacher, sitebased decisionmaking council member, and teacher representative of the local planning committee. The current district facility plan is essential for the growth of each of the kids that we interact with each day. It enhances the ability to build relationships. It creates opportunities and it creates a stronger, more connected educational experience for every student who walks through our doors. First, let's talk about continuity. Transitioning from middle school to high school is one of the biggest shifts in a student's academic career. Yet, by sharing a campus, we give our students a smoother transition. They can begin to see what's ahead, build relationships with peers that they will go to school with throughout their high school career, and feel a strong sense of belonging that to that school before they
034reach the education stage. This also creates more educational avenues for students. Middle school students have the opportunity they have never had before with advanced learning and have access to high school courses or electives. Next, we have a sense of belonging. Staff across both schools can collaborate more easily, align educational goals, and create consistent expectations. Events, clubs, and activities can be more inclusive, drawing students of all ages together in a shared purpose. Instead of having to go from a school from a school where half the school is going to one place and another half is going somewhere else, this allows students to feel like this place is theirs and they belong to this community. Lastly, let's think about our families. Siblings can attend school in one place. Community table meetings, school events, and picking up their
035kids become more attainable be for parents. Of course, there will be challenges, but when we approach this with care, communication, and a shared vision, the benefits far outweigh the obstacles. We have a chance to build something powerful, a campus where students grow, not just academically, but socially and emotional. socially and emotionally and supported every step of the way. In conclusion, I am writing in full support of the district facility plan as a special education teacher, sitebased decisionmaking member, and teacher representative of the local planning committee. This model will provide smoother transitions, stronger feeder patterns, extensive learning opportunities, and stronger support systems for students. It provides inclusivity and long-term success for all learners while also using our resources more effectively. This plan is a step forward for the future of our district and the students we
036serve every day. Aaron Cook. I'm writing to express my strong support for the Nelson County School District facility plan, especially its focus on creating more aligned and intentional learning communities for students in grades 6 through 12. As students move from middle to high school, it is critical that they experience a sense of continuity both in relationships and in opportunities. The proposed facility changes will help establish stronger 6 through 12 communities where students can build lasting connections with peers and educators while also engaging earlier in meaningful college and career pathways. Bringing grades 6 through 12 into more cohesive learning environments will foster mentorship, increase belonging, and give students a clear trajectory toward their futures. I commend the district for recognizing this need and taking steps to a to reimagine how our schools can better serve all
037learners. Thank you for your leadership and vision. Jessica Newton Maguire. Thank you for the opportunity to voice my opinion today. My name is Haley Bogs and I currently serve as a science department leader and chemistry teacher at Thomas Nelson High School. I'm here to endorse the district facility plan. Let me just take a pause and say about half of a word on the right side of every line is cut off. So, I'm going to guess a little bit on these words and if I don't know what the word might be, I will tell you that. Do you want me to pull it up on my email? If you would. Yep. This is from Haley Bogs. I did receive three more while we were sitting here. As an educator and leader in the science department, I
038am deeply invested in the academic success and overall development of our students. The 6 through 12 model provides a unique and meaningful opportunity to strengthen the continuum of learning, particularly in core content areas. This model will allow us to offer early access to advanced coursework, give students more time to build foundational skills, and create a stronger pipeline towards college and career readiness. From an academic standpoint, I am especially excited about the possibility of more students having the opportunity to participate in higher level science courses, including AP and dual credit classes. With greater alignment between middle and high school programming, we will be able to scaffold learning more effectively, introduce lab-based and inquirydriven instruction earlier, and cultivate student interest in STEM, science, technology, and engineering fields before they reach high school. Through the past two summers
039of participating in leadership pathways, I have seen how essential collaboration between middle and high school teachers truly is. The 6 through 12 model will make this collaboration more seamless and impactful. Beyond academics, the 6 through 12 model offers significant benefits in terms of extracurricular and athletic involvement. Students will have increased access to mentorship, team building, and leadership development through sports and other activities. These opportunities are often critical to student engagement, confidence, and school pride. My husband currently coaches both the high school and middle school girls soccer teams, and I see firsthand how having both programs on the same campus would enhance team development, streamline communication, and ultimately benefit the athletes. I believe many other extracurricular programs would experience similar growth. I truly believe that this model supports the whole student academically, socially, and emotionally. It
040is a step forward for our district and strategic investment in our students futures. Thank you again for your time and consideration. I urge you to support this facility plan and help us create more opportunities for all students. Haley Bogs on Mark's Lane and Barkstown. Thank you, Kristen. I'm writing to voice my full support for the Nelson County School District facility plan. This plan represents a forwardthinking investment in the future of our schools and the success of our students. Modern, well-maintained facilities are a critical part of creating learning environments where students can thrive. The priorities outlined in the plan not only address current infrastructure needs, but also lay the foundation for innovative learning experiences in the years to come. I appreciate the district's commitment to thoughtful planning and community engagement throughout the process. I stand behind
041this plan and I'm confident it will have a lasting positive impact on our schools and community. That is from Jennifer Vito. I am a teacher, parent, and resident of district 4. I want to voice my support for the 6 through 12 model with two high schools. The model is financially responsible, provides consistency for students, and clear feeder patterns. In addition, this model allows for additional academic and extracurricular opportunities for our middle school students. Please consider my voice when voting on the district facility plans. Cindy Willis from Deetszville Road and Cox's Creek. I am writing to express my strong support for the decision to move forward with the two United 6 through 12 campuses in the district facility plan. This model offers clear benefits for both students and families. greater access to academic and extracurricular opportunities,
042stronger continuity and relationships, more efficient transportation, and smarter use of resources. Keeping siblings together and reducing transitions will have a meaningful impact on student success and family engagement. Thank you for your thoughtful work and commitment to the future of Nelson County students. I'm excited to see this vision take shape. That's from Von Tishner, Sullivan Lane, Barnsttown. I'm writing to urge the Nelson County Board of Education to take swift action in moving forward with the district facilities plan recently approved by the local planning committee. Our students deserve better. It's time for the board to act in the best interest of the young people in our community by implementing a plan that addresses outdated infrastructure, corrects inefficient feeder patterns, and invests in modern equitable learning environments. Delays in indecision only continue to waste valuable resources that could
043and should be used to improve the educational experience for every student in Nelson County. We can't afford to maintain the status quo any longer. I support the current facilities plan and ask that our leadership prioritize what truly matters, our students and their future. This is from Tashawn Curtis Cecil. Okay, so we have some additional ones that have come in. Okay. All right. I would like to state my approval for the DFP. I believe it is in the best interest for the children of Nelson County. Monica Streni, Sunfish Creek Drive, BStown. I am writing in regards to the DFP being voted on this evening. I have two children in the Nelson County School District and am in favor of the plan. Lynwood Streki at the same address, Sunfish Creek. My name is Sarah Bobblet and I'm
044a parent of three students in the Nelson County School District. Two are enrolled in fourth and fifth grade at Foster Heights, and my oldest is a seventh grader at OKH Middle. While we are very pleased with the schools they currently attend, my focus is on the middle school situation within our school system. While our oldest is doing well in school, I know that his experience could be much different with the approved district facility plan that the current local planning committee presented. I'm very much in favor of the plan that was presented by the LPC because it provides equal access and opportunity to all students in our school district regardless of where they live. It also creates a true feeder pattern. Excuse me. It also creates a true feeder to both of our high schools so
045students will know where they will attend school as early as the sixth grade. The last few years have been confusing to the public and it is reassuring to know that we have a schoolboard majority now that takes the time to understand the data and needs of our greatest assets, our students. Thank you to the LPC for the time, commitment, and energy in reviewing the plans that will work best for our community. Thank you to the board members that voted for this plan as it is evident that you have the best interests of students in mind. It is time to move forward. And that is from Sarah Baba. That concludes the written testimony that we needed to read into the record. And thank you for your patience during that. I'm sure it was riveting to listen
046to me read. We have four people signed in. The first person is Amy Durban. Amy, if you would step up to the mic and state your name and address at the beginning. Amy Durban, Coxus Creek, Kentucky. My name is Amy Durban. I'm a proud employee of this district, a mother and a grandmother to future students who will one day walk the halls of our schools. I'm here to voice my full support for the district facility plan as voted on by both the local planning committee and the board of education. I'm grateful to be a part of a district that doesn't just react to the present, but plans boldly for the future. The plan reflects a thoughtful commitment to all children regardless of their learning needs, backgrounds, or zip codes. It's a step forward toward equity,
047opportunity, and long-term growth for our students and our community. Thank you. Thank you, Mr. Durban. Next, we have Casey Van Vanvetor. And Casey, if you would just state your name and where you live. Okay. Um, Casey Vanvtor in Chaplain, Kentucky. Thank you again for the chance to speak. I want to express my strong support for the plan in which the LPC and board voted on. First, the effort to create a seamless transition from grades 6 through 12 is a critical step forward. This structure not only supports academic growth, but it also strengthens relationships, stability, and long-term success for students throughout these formative years. Second, I fully support the decision to repurpose transitional buildings into career and technical education centers. These spaces have the potential to open doors for students, offering hands-on training, real world skills,
048and career pathways that align with the needs of our local economy. It's a smart future focused move that honors the value of every student. Recently, I had the opportunity to attend a session on the buildup program and was especially impressed by the micro school concept. This model provides students with purpose-driven learning while integrating their core academic schedules and career and technical education. Together, these elements offer a more meaningful and well-rounded educational experience, preparing, better preparing students for life after graduation. These recommendations reflect a district that's thinking ahead, responding to the needs of its students, and working toward meaningful progress. I appreciate the work that's gone into this plan, and encourage your continued support to bring it to life. Thank you. Thank you, Casey. Next, we have Jamie Miracle. Jamie, you've heard the instructions. Just state
049your name and the community. Jamie Miracle, Coxus Creek, Kentucky. I am here tonight to express my support for the LPC plan for the DFP. And I um as a parent, I have spoke several times about that, but as tonight, I want to talk as a taxpayer and a community member. Um, I expect our elected officials to build toward a future for Nelson County and I expect the decisions to be guided by a clear vision for growth and not a wait and see philosophy. And Nelson County is already moving forward. Major projects are under underway from the muchneeded southwest connector that will spur development on the west side of our town to the new indoor recreation aquatic center. We're even getting a Chick-fil-A. Um, so I have the same same expectations for our local school district.
050Um, I'm one of the pe I'm a person that's never going to complain about my tax dollars going to our public schools because public education is public good and investing in strong schools builds a more informed, capable, equitable, and resilient society and not just for today's children but for the future generations to come. Uh our school system must be preparing students to live in the world that they will live in, not in the one that we remember. The world has changed and will continue to change and nostalgia nostalgia cannot should not guide policy. Our responsibility is to equip students with the skills and opportunities they need to thrive in the future, not the past. And that means investing our tax dollars in a clear vision for the future of our schools. The world is evolving
051rapidly. Advancements in things like artificial intelligence and emerging technologies will shape every industry and our students would be better prepared for the future workforce if they all learn how to write and code rather than in cursive. The skills that they will carry them forward critical thinking, adaptability, digital literacy, collaboration require modern schools, modern facilities, and modern learning environments. I support this district facility plan because I believe in planting trees even if I will never sit in their shade. A bold forwardinking plan is the most responsible use of our community's resources and the best gift we can give our students. Thank you Jamie. Next is Deborah Bo. Please correct me. I I I've forgotten the pronunciation. Deborah Bohvski from Bloomfield, Kentucky. So, what a difference four years makes. Back in 2021 when we had the public
052hearing, it was quite a different tone and it was full of community members who spoke. I believe it was 21 community members, over 30 emails, and dozens more were sent directly to the Department of Education. Today I wrote down everybody who spoke with the exception I think between after 17 you didn't give the name or if you did it was really fast doesn't matter today the vast majority are staff members of the district or wellconnected to staff members with just a handful of community members that's a little disheartening and unfortunately I think I know the reason why because so Many have personally come up to me and told me, "What's the point of saying anything?" Because our voices go unheard. Basically, after the pardon of the superintendent from Robin Mciny last year, the community pretty
053much checked out. I can't blame them. Whenever we had written to KDE for various things, we were always told, well, take it up with your board members. They are your elected officials and they are your voice. Well, our voice was taken away last year when the unprecedented 41 vote was overturned. That's just a little history. Um, obviously this plan is going to move forward, but I have a few suggestions. Please put the schools on the same schedule. When my son was a junior, because the class schedules didn't align with the multiple schools, he had an hour and 40 minutes between classes. He went to his buddy's house and took a nap. Sometimes he'd come back to school, sometime he didn't. It was postcoid. Attendance was a little bit up in the air. I mean, come
054on. He's a good kid. He's He's on his way to becoming a pilot. He made it through. But there's other kids, they have an hour and 40 minutes in between. They're going to fall from the crack between the cracks. So, please, when we have all these schools and we're supposed to be equitable, let's truly make them equitable. Same classes, same time period. We're going to have five, maybe six. I'm not sure if Burnheim is still a CT facility. That's We're going to have more CTE facilities than elementary schools. Make sure there's good planning and we're not just busing kids back and forth. Yes, we get reimbursed, but that's minutes lost. So, please plan carefully. Thank you. I want to thank all of you for your attendance and for the thoughtful input you have given us
055this evening. And I'd like to call this meeting to a close with an official adjournment. We are now.