001[Music] or tap here to share the event with friends and [Music] family. The feed is where you'll find updates from administration about what's going on throughout the school. Whether that's celebrating a student success or reminding you about an upcoming deadline. Search Edgecomb County Public Schools in the App Store or Play Store to explore the app for yourself. It's everything ECPS in your pocket. Heat. Heat. [Music] baby. Baby, hey. [Music] Hey, hey, hey. [Music] Happy [Music] Heat. Heat. [Music] Heat. Heat. [Music] Heat. Hey. Hey. Hey. [Music] Here we go. Heat. Heat. [Music] Hello. Heat. Hey, hey, hey. [Music] got [Music] Heat. Heat. [Music] Heat. [Music] Heat. Heat. Heat. [Music] figure it out. [Music] Heat. Heat. [Music] Hey, hey, hey. [Music] Get away. [Music] [Laughter] [Music] Down. Down. [Music] [Laughter] [Music] Heat. Heat. [Music] I [Music] feel
002down. [Music] everyone. Good evening. They can't hear me. Welcome to our May 12th, 25th regular board meeting. I hope you have had an opportunity to pick up an agenda. We will follow it as printed. The public may be able to view this meeting using YouTube.com Edgecom County Public Schools. We will declare and call this meeting to come to order. Would you please stand for the posting of our colors by Southwest Edgecomb High School AF J O TC? Freezing color. I pledge algiance 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. Please remain standing if you will in a moment of silence. In reference to the loss of attorney Patricia Robinson's father, Mr. Mark Ryan, who recently
003went home to be with the Lord. Let us bow in a moment of silence for him. Amen. You may be seated. Amen. Thank you. You're welcome. We will continue our meeting. At this time, we will ask for approval of our agenda. Madam Chair, um I would like to request tonight to amend the agenda to one item for action be under action items 8.9B, approval of the lottery funds application project. Okay. Hearing none other, could we hear a motion for approval of the amended agenda? Madam Chair, I move for the approval of the amended agenda as printed. Second. has been moved and properly second that we will approve our amended agenda as printed. Any other discussion? All in favor of the motion, let it be known by saying I. I oppose the same sign. Motion carried.
004Thank you. Now we are at item three and for recognitions, Miss Hope. Good evening. Our first recognition this evening is our employee of the month. We're excited to celebrate Miss Sherry Hayes as the Edgecom County Public Schools employee of the month for May. She is the school counselor at Edgecom Early College High School. She has devoted nearly her entire career to ECPS. She lives here, serves here, and pours her heart into her students every day. Her deep love for our community shines through in everything she does. She is the kind of person who makes everyone around her a better human being through her leadership, her compassion, and her unwavering commitment to doing what is best for kids. Congratulations to Miss Hayes, the employee of the month. [Applause] We are thrilled to announce two exceptional ECPS
005High School students have been selected to attend the prestigious Governor School of North Carolina this summer. Governor School is a highly competitive 5 and a halfweek residential program that brings together some of the state's most outstanding high school students to explore advanced studies in academics, the arts, and other courses. Please join us in congratulating the following students, both from Edge Early College High School. Cameron Shaw and a real Fuentes Uscanda. [Applause] media unos. Cameron Shaw, the Edgecom Early High School. [Applause] Portresque. At this time, we are proud to recognize two of our our outstanding career and technical education teachers who are making a powerful impact in the lives of their students in the field of CTE. Mr. James Williams is a business teacher at Tarbor High School. He has been named the 2025 CTE teacher
006of the year. Mr. Williams is a dynamic educator who brings real world relevance and career readiness into the classroom every day. His commitment to student success and excellence in teaching has set a high bar for business education in our district. Congratulations to Mr. Williams. Miss Amber Davis is agricultural teacher at Southwest Edgecom High School. She has been named the 2025 beginning CTE teacher of the year. In just her first years in the classroom, she has already made a remarkable impact, cultivating curiosity, hands-on learning, and a deep appreciation for agricultural sciences. Congratulations to Miss Davis. [Applause] At this time, I would like to invite Mrs. Beverly Perry Clark to the stage for the presentation of the WA Patilla Alumni Incentive Awards. Good evening. On behalf of the board of directors of the WA Patilla School National
007Alumni Association, congratulations to the 2025, excuse me, recipients of the 2025 incentive awards. The incentive awards program honors our community mentors from the youth of the 60s and 70s in the East Harbor and Princeville communities. The incentive awards program recognizes one elementary and one middle school student in each edge county public schools. In the name of our 2025 honore, Dr. Moses A. Ray, dentist, councilman, and mayor who served our community well. Each student will receive a frame, certificate, and a $50 cash award. We would like to recognize the presence of Mrs. Glattis Ray, wife of Dr. Moses Ray. Mrs. Charlotte Privet is representing Mrs. Ray in her absence. Will you [Applause] stand to the 2025 Incentive Awards recipients, please continue to display the outstanding people oriented and academic skills you possess. So now we will
008honor you. Um Dr. Brian and Dr. Would you confident? Our first recipient is from GW Bulock Elementary School, Carson Marshall from DW Carver Elementary School. Gabrielle Lopez [Applause] Pacia from Coker Wimberly Elementary School. Canyon [Applause] Facon Millennium Academy. Jamari Whitehead from Phillips Middle School. Yilia [Music] Hernandez Right here. Right here. Right here. Right here. Right here. Stay. Right there. Back up. Back up. Back up. Back up. That's good. From Princeville Elementary School. Michaela Andrews. [Applause] from South Edge Middle School. Chamilleia Sanan [Applause] Hernandez from Stocks Elementary School. Jared Chavez Perez [Applause] from WA Patilla Middle School. Lynchia [Applause] Joseph from West Edge Middle School. Malik Hines [Applause] from Baskerville Elementary School. Mariah [Applause] Mabberry from Fairview Elementary School. Canaria Hammond [Applause] from DS Johnson Elementary School. Andrew Black [Applause] and from Parker Middle School, Dran
009Gathers. [Applause] Okay. Come right here. [Applause] And for my um certificate for the honore who is Dr. Moses A. Ray. Dr. Moses Ray was a true leader who was very active in Tarborough communities and especially in East Tarbor. He was a native of Clinton, North Carolina. came to Tarbor in 1946 to open a dental office in the Garrett building on the corner of Church and Polola Streets. Later, he loved his practice across the street on Polola Street where St. Luke Episcopal Day School once stood and was torn down. Excuse me. His dental practice remained until his untimely death in 1995. He saw a need for improvement in East Tara and therefore joined with a group of citizens to form the East Harbor Citizens League utilizing urban renewal funding to make community improvements such as paving
010streets and home repairs. To further his goals of local improvements, Dr. Dr. Ray ran for the town for the town council and was elected to serve from war seven. Dr. Ray became mayor after the death of Mayor Clarence Wickham and was elected by voters for several elections until his death. This made him only the second black person to serve as mayor of Tarbor since Franklin Dancy became the first black person elected as mayor in 1882. Dr. Ray served as a leader and member of the North Carolina Board of Transportation, Need Incorporate, and Edgecom Community College Board of Trustees. He also served on the board of Edgecom County Credit Union, which provided financial assistance to area farmers, teachers, professionals, local citizens from 1955 until it ended its operations in the 70s. In 1968, under Dr. Ray's
011leadership, four black churches in East Harbor came together to secure land, sponsor rental housing for families in the area. They named the 50 unit apartment complex United Meet Court with an ultimate goal of East Tarbor citizens using it as a springboard to home ownership. The 1999 flood destroyed the entire complex. So, it had to be torn down and rebuilt in 2003. After moving to Tarbor in 1946, he bought a home on the corner of Lord and St. John Streets. He and his wife joined Union Baptist Church, which was located across the street from their home. He became a beloved deacon, adult Sunday school teacher, and senior choir member. He and his wife had three children. Dr. Moses Ray spent decades fighting for social change, empowerment, and equal opportunities for the marginalized marginalized communities. He was
012a successful political leader in civil rights acting. So now I will ask Miss Mrs. Charlotte Privet to please accept the award. [Applause] Each year, the Edgeon County Board of Education proudly recognizes gold key students. exceptional young people who stand out as positive role models within their schools and communities. These students consistently demonstrate strong character, outstanding behavior, and a commitment to academic success. They go above and beyond, not only in the classroom, but also in the way that they treat others with kindness, respect, and compassion. They are nominated by their teachers for being shining examples of what it means to lead with heart and to strive for excellence. It is now time for the elementary gold students to please line up. So the students from Baskerville, Bullock, Carver, Coker, Wimbley, DS Johnson, Fairview, Princeville, Stocks, and
013all students from Martin Liam Academy, please move to the wall to be to begin um line up. classesto Baskerville, Bulock, Carver, Koko, Wimbley, Diaz, Johnson, Fairview, Princeville, Bill stocks, Martin Millennium Academy. Students, as your name is called, please come up the steps in front of me. You receive your certificate from our board chair, Dr. Wilson, and superintendent, Dr. Brian. Please stay on stage for the rest of your school's goal key winners. Afterwards, we will grab a picture of everyone in your school before exiting the stage on the other side. Parents, please feel free to come forward and take pictures. In order to hear each student's name, please hold all applause until the last student from each school is recognized. Our first school is Baskerville Elementary School. Principal Mr. Lucas has joined us on stage. Our
014first student is Nivevea Pitman. Nvea has exceeded first grade expectations in literacy. She consistently models excellent behavior. She has demonstrated good communication and leadership skills when given the opportunity. Aubrey Townsend. Aubrey has been an outstanding student and a leader in her classroom. She is a student leader that excels in the area of academics. Zanna Johnson. She has demonstrated academic excellence, a concern for other students, and exemplary character throughout the year. Gregory Jones. Gregory has demonstrated excellent behavior and academic achievement throughout the year. Congratulations to the goalke students from Baskerville Elementary School. DS Johnson Elementary is our next school. Dr. Lindseay Lee is the principal. Our first student is Denise Joiner. Denise works hard and is a leader that always sets positive examples for her peers. She is kind and always greets others with a smile
015that will brighten your day. Zamir Lane is a positive leader in and out of the classroom. He is always willing to help others and has a positive attitude in all that he does. His teachers describe him as a student that shows determination and perseverance in all of his efforts. Vanessa Cardinas Alva Al Alvarez. Vanessa is a vocal leader that can take charge and guide her peers in the best ways. Her teachers describe her as a student always willing to help others and one who is never shy to ask for help when needed. Dearia Green is a quiet leader who demonstrates a strong work ethic in all that she does. She listens intently and is always willing to help with a smile. Congratulations to the Gold Key students from DS Johnson Elementary. GW Bulock Elementary School
016is our next school principal Dr. Will Lamb. Our first student is Jazil Taylor. His enthusiasm for learning and forming friendships in the peak prek program quickly transformed into him being a classroom leader where he has inspired his classmates to collaborate and engage in enjoyable activities. Tursza Fernandez Vobus. She has a strong desire and eagerness to learn. She has shown truthfulness in her work and interactions and she has respect for her teachers, peers and the learning environment. Ilana Sagada. Iliana is a kind-hearted and well-mannered student who always puts others before herself, eagerly offering to help both her teachers and classmates. No matter the task, she approaches everything with a bright smile and a and a determined attitude, always giving her best effort. Hermmani Black. She is help a helping hand to both her teachers and peers
017and always pushes herself to be the best she can be. She is a great role model for other students as she goes out of her way to make sure her classmates feel comfortable and supported. Congratulations to the gold key students [Applause] from [Music] Our next school is GW Corver Elementary School. Miss Lindseay Palmer is the principal. Our first student is Leah Dupri. Leah is a fantastic student who is always lending a helping hand. She is very considerate of others and loves to help them learn. Jet Noral Jet is a hardworking, respectful, honest, friendly student. He is a role model for other first grade students. He is always willing to help others in need. Johanna Sapera Hernandez. Johanna is an amazing role model and really works hard each and every day to grow. She always participates
018in class and pays attention. She excels in and out of the classroom with her academics and she is a kind and respectful student student to her teachers. Participating Vanessa Butler. Vanessa has taken on a leadership role in the classroom. She takes initiative in distributing materials for activities and lessons, demonstrating responsibility and a willingness to support her peers and teachers. Come on. Congratulations to the goalkeep students from GW Corpor Elementary School. Our next school is Coker Wimberly Elementary School. Miss Cassandra Harley is the principal. Our first student is Emma Simon. Emma has shown tremendous growth this school year, both academically and socially. Not only is Emma dedicated to her learning, but she enjoys helping her peers as well. Onyx Jennings. He ensures that all of his assignments are completed to the best of his ability. He
019is a two-time winner of the math fluency tournament. He he is a dependable classroom helper. He is also kind and friendly to other students. Canyon FA Canyon is a high achieving honor student recognized for his perseverance, strong character, and respect for others. Chase Davis. Chase is a kind student that always works hard and tries to do his best. He is an active participant in class and always willing to help others. Congratulations to the Kok Wimbley Elementary School. Fair View Elementary School Principal Cynthia Gorn. Leanne Dowy is our first student. Leanne always comes to school ready to participate and gives her best effort. She works hard in the classroom and displays great behavior. Natalie Whitaker. Natalie is a student who works very hard in the classroom. She comes to school every day eager to learn. She
020loves to help her teachers and her classmates. Isabelle Greenwood. Isabelle is a genuine, respectful student who goes out of her way to help others even when she's not asked. She loves school and excels in all subjects. Jacob Arrington. He sets a great example for his classmates. Jacob works hard and always tries his best. Congratulations to the Fairview Elementary Gold. [Applause] Princeville Elementary School. Tena Mercer is the principal. Our first student is Gianna Pitman. Giana is a pleasure to teach. She loves to learn and always treats others with kindness and respect. Alani Wharton. From the moment she steps in the classroom, Alani radiates positivity and a genuine love for learning. She is always eager to take on new challenges and incorporates new knowledge and enthusiasm. Stefani Woody Stefani always has a smile on her face. She
021comes to school eager to learn. She helps others and demonstrates the school's Paul's expectations of being prepared, responsible, working hard, and showing respect. Jamasion Hedgepath. Jamasion has consistently demonstrated integrity, kindness, and responsibility. He is known for his ability to lead by example, inspiring others through his dedication to both his studies and personal growth. Congratulations to the principal elementary gold key students. Stocks Elementary School. Tiffany Mercer is the principal. Tristan Harvey. Tristan is a great role model in preK. He comes to school ready to start his day learning while having fun. Leslie Santiago Ortiz. Leslie is a kind student. She is always willing to help others in need. She sets a great example for others inside and outside of the classroom. Sophia Cruz. Sophia tries her best in school. She stays on task and participates. She
022also demonstrates excellent leadership by following rules and expectations and assisting classmates when needed. Sophia Mahimo. [Music] Amiia Pittsford. She consistently demonstrates outstanding character, perseverance, and academic excellence. She is hardworking and dedicated. She's a hardwork and dedicated student who not only strives for success, but also uplifts her peers and teachers through kindness and community service. Congratulations to the Stocks Elementary School Gold King students. Martin Millennium Academy principal Dr. Killian Mud Zamora Worsley. Zamora is an insightful, intuitive student with a quick mind and a natural talent for problem solving. Her confidence will take her far in life, but her sharp wit will take her even further. Avery Bailey. Avery has been an active member of her Girl Scout troop for the past five years. Consistently demonstrating dedication and community spirit, she plays soccer year round, often stepping
023into leadership roles on her team. Avery holds herself to high academic standards and excels in the classroom. Alfonsa Gayton Medina. Alfonso consistently strives for academic excellence and sets a strong example for his peers. He is also a remarkable team player, often taking the initiative to support his classmates by helping them understand challenging math concepts. Lily Peters. Lily exemplifies what it means to be an excellent student. Her quiet leadership and dedication to learning serves as an example for her fellow students. Congratulations to the gold key students from Martin Millennium Academy. Another round of applause for our elementary students and MMA students. At this time, we'd like to ask the middle school students to please line up. So, the students from Parker Middle, Patillo Middle, Phillips Middle, South Edge, and West Edge, please wake make your way
024to be lined up. Middle School, Parker Middle, Patillo Middle, Phillips Middle, South Edge Middle, E West Edge Middle. is a little confusing. I think you could do I think you could do Our first middle school is JW Parker Middle School Principal Cher Saunders. Khloe Parker. Chloe is a diligent, studious young lady who always puts forth her best effort and is happy to assist her peers and teachers when needed. Kamarius Mercer Kamarius consistently goes above and beyond to support his classmates. Always willing to lend a hand, he gives his best effort in class and collaborates easily with others. Desiah Walker. She's an exceptionally bright young lady who puts forth her best effort in every subject. Polite and inquisitive, she isn't afraid to ask questions and is willing to help her peers. Jazer Williams has shown much
025growth academically. He has made gains in all areas and earned AB honor role. He is a well-rounded and respectable student. Congratulations to the go students from JW Parker Middle [Applause] School WA Patila Middle School. The principal is Miss Tenisha Strer. Our first student is David Cabrera Chima. David demonstrates leadership qualities and exemplifies good citizenship. He consistently serves as a positive role model for his peers through his respectful attitude, reliability, and willingness to help others. responses responsia doer. Messia is friendly and well-liked by her peers. She comes to school consistently and is a hardworking student that gives her best every day. She's a joy to teach. Zyri Tillery. Zyri is an exemplar of is an exemplar of a great student. She makes sure she's on top of her grades and schoolwork and actively participates in class.
026John Laguna's Compass. John is a very hardworking student. He always is always engaged and attentive in class. He helps his peers and always exhibits a positive behavior. Positiva, congratulations to the Patilla Middle School go students. Phillips Middle School. Mr. Corey Williams is the principal. Lauren Scott Lloyd. Lauren is a model student who exemplifies a relentless spirit to do well and excel. She consistent. She is consistently found leading her peers and helping them persevere through difficult tasks. James Davis. JZ is a joy to have in class. He is very respectful and always willing to help others. He has been involved in a community service um project at a local nursing home and is always willing to work towards academic excellence. Leslie Martinez Hernandez. Leslie exemplifies outstanding leadership skills and is always ready to lend a helping
027hand to both her peers and teachers. She approaches every task with a positive attitude and a strong sense of responsibility. Navian Johnson. Navon is a very respectful and kind student. He is always willing to help his peers and teachers. He is a great role model for other students. Congratulations to the Phillips Middle School go gold key [Applause] students South Edge Middle School Principal Mr. Billy Brother Reed Austin. Reed has consistently demonstrated excellence in behavior in academics. He is kind and thoughtful and always steps up to help other students. He is truly an outstanding member of the South Edgecom learning community. Ashlin Mayfield. Ashlin always gives her best effort. She's kind, considerate, and always willing to help others. She's mindful of what she needs to be successful and works very hard to reach her goals. Payton
028Carowway. Payton is a bright student who gives her best in all that she does. In addition to her high academic achievements and work ethic throughout the year, she also excels as an incredibly talented four sport athlete and always displays school spirit and pride for her school. Mary Faith Gray. Mary Faith is a model student that is always ready to step up and help out staff if needed. She works hard in all of her classes and is always willing to help out a classmate if they are struggling. Congratulations to the South Edge Middle School goal key students. [Applause] West Edgecom Middle School. Dr. Kelsey Balor is the principal. Gail Ramirez Sbrano is an excellent student who excels in all academic areas. He is an active and continuous learner who is always pushing himself to be the
029best. Elmehore Christopher Warren Jr. Chris works very hard in his classes and earned stellar grades as a result of his efforts. He was a member of the school's robotics team that competed earlier this year and he also attends Saturday camp at North Carolina State University through the MEN program. Nvea Evans. Nvea is a dedicated student. Um she's dedicated to her studies and consistently strives to be her personal best. Her character is evident in her regular acts of kindness and willingness to go above and beyond. Elania Ruffen. Elania always goes above and beyond in class. She balances extracurriculars and academics well. She is a team player, self-motivated, and a student liaison to the math department. Congratulations to the West Edo Middle School students. One more round of applause for all of our middle school goalie students.
030It is now time for the high school goal key students to please line up. Students from Edge Academy of Health Sciences, Edgecom Early College High School, North Edge High School, Southwest Edgecom, and Tarver High School High School, the Edgecom Academy of Health Sciences, Edgecom Early College, North Edge High School, Southwest Edge High School, High School, Dasjo, Lateral our first high school, Edge Academy of Health Sciences. Siobhan Criy is the principal. Kendra Cooper. Kendra consistently brings a positive attitude to class, staying on task, and working well with others. She actively participates in discussions, ask thoughtful questions, and remains engaged every day. Teresa Whitehead. Teresa is focused is a focused and driven student who consistently demonstrates a strong work ethic. She remains actively engaged in her academic responsibilities while thoughtfully planning upcoming National Honor Society service projects.
031With her dedication and determination, she continually strives for excellence in all that she does. Couture Gunter Couture is a positive influence on her school. She consistently sets high standards for herself and works hard to improve. She is a leader among her peers and is always striving for excellence. As a member of the student council, she often shares ideas for kind and thoughtful ways to celebrate other students. Stacy Nora Ger Escalante. Stacy is a bright and hard-working young lady with a sweet personality. She is always striving to improve. She isn't afraid to ask questions, whether for herself or to assist her classmates, contributing to a supportive and collaborative classroom environment. [Music] Edge Academy goalkeeping [Music] [Applause] students Edgecom Early College High School the principal Mr. Matt Smith Nivea Manning Naa is a is truly a model
032student in every sense. Whether she's lending a helping hand to her classmates or completing each assignment with care and excellence, she consistently shines. She is kind and compassionate and a leader in the classroom. Maria Williams. She approaches every task with determination, always following up and following through to ensure her work is completed to the best of her ability. She consistently holds herself to a high standard and never hesitates to put in the effort required to succeed. Jesus Cabrera Hernandez. Jesus is an exceptionally dependable and driven student who approaches every task with determination and purpose. A true servant leader, he dedicates himself fully to both student council and robotics, always leading by example. robot robot. Our next student is Amy Estavan Ortega, who regrets not being here. She's traveling with family, but she's an ex considerate
033um young woman. Um her thoughtfulness is evident in in the small but meaningful ways she interacts with others. She is kind, patient, and ready to offer support. Congratulations to the Edgecom Early College Gold students. North Edgecom High School principles, Mr. Rodrik Tilly and Miss Elena Ritter. Cintia Whitehead. She c she continues to work towards becoming a better student and overall person. She is a naturalb born leader who works hard and always excels. Faith EPS. She is a dedicated student who completes all of her assignments on time. She is very respectful of the classroom expectations. She shows integrity, sincerity, and a love for learning new things. Dantavius Hyman. Dantavius, also known as DT, is a joy to have in class and on campus. DT is meticulous and determined throughout each endeavor he encounters. He consistently strives
034for excellence. Nico Bastion. Nico has demonstrated leadership in the JOTC program and throughout the campus. She's a leader in the classroom and demonstrates what it means to be a North Edgecom warrior. She is a masterful artist providing beautiful creations and inspiring artistry throughout the campus. Congratulations to the North Edgecom the Fellowship of Christian Athletes president and is actively helping surfer community helping surfer community through that club. Crystal Mendoza Masias. Crystal is a responsible, kind-hearted, and level-headed student. Her bright personality shines in the classroom and can lift the spirits of everyone in the room. The leadership she demonstrates daily is a vital part of the animal science program at Southwest. Rodeanwest. Ricky Smith. Ricky is a model student. He is a member of the National Technical Honor Society and participates in several leadership opportunities on and
035off campus. His positive character shows his ability to assist others within the school community. Zenerian drone Zenarian is a conscientious young man who goes the extra mile to achieve academic excellence. He always participates in class, provides thoughtful discussion and examples, and answers questions. Congratulations to the gold key students from Southwest Edge High School. And finally, Tarver High School. Miss Caroline Joyce is the one of the assistant principles. Malachi Pedaway. This young man exemplifies self-discipline and a strong work ethic, both of which are key to his continued success. He consistently completes his assignments on time and demonstrates leadership by actively supporting his classmates in accomplishing their goals. Reggie Best. Reggie is an outstanding team player who is always willing to support his fellow students. He takes initiative and collaborating with classmates on assignments and consistently contributes
036to group success. In addition to his academic teamwork, Reggie is also a valuable asset to multiple sports teams where his dedication and cooperative spirit continue to shine. Michael Edwards. He is an outstanding student who is kind and respectful. He does very well in class and works great with others. He exemplifies the values and the very best of Tor High School. And finally, Cole Kratock, who is not with us. He was competing in the golf state championship in Pinehurst today. He is a natural leader who consistently goes above and beyond to support both peers and staff members. Whether lending a hand in the classroom or leading by example on the field, Cole's positive attitude and strong sense of responsibility stand out. Let's give one more round of applause for our Crawford High School students. I'd like
037to say thank you to Mr. Christristen here for being our interpreter this evening and we thank all of you for coming to celebrate with us tonight. [Applause] We will take a five minute break while we're getting ready for our regular ones. This one. Thank you. You're welcome. I got I'm sorry for Canyon. Did you hear me? Go be hon. I want to just You know what? Yeah, I got one. I got extra here. I got your phones in your purse. How are you? Good. How are you all? Good. Wonderful. Good to see you all. Good to see you. Yes, indeed. Good work. Good work. Thank you. All right. Yes. This is That way. left. The children are gone. Okay, we're at item four on our agenda and that's our public comment section. I will need
038to ask the board to vote to wave our policy because we have more than seven signed up to speak. Could we hear a motion to Madam Chair? I make the motion to wave our policy to allow all to speak. Second. has been moved and properly second that we will wave our policy and allow all to speak. Any other discussion on the motion? All in favor, let it be known by saying I. I. Opposed the same sign. Motion carried. Okay. Thank you very much. Our policy is that we will have three minutes to speak and since we have more than what's allowed to speak, I would ask all who's speaking if they would speak two minutes and that will instead of three minutes if you would. All right, we're ready to start our public comment section.
039First person signed up was Queenish Brown. Chronicia Brown. Yes. Okay. Well, good evening everyone. My name is Quinnish Brown. I am with the school's emerging community rest redistricting working group. Um, I represent my son, Zeicier Johnson, age eight years old, who is autistic and lacks functional communication. I'm here today to express my concern regarding the insufficient individualized support for students with autism within our school district. Research indicates that students on the autism spectrum often require tailored educational strategies and resources to thrive academically and socially. However, many of these students are currently not receiving the necessary accommodations under the exceptional children's program, which can hinder their learning experiences and overall development. The lack of individualized support manifest in various ways, including inadequate access to specialized staff, limited one-on-one assistance, and insufficient training for general education, teachers
040on autism specific strategies. This gap not only affects the academic performance of these students but also their emotional well-being and social integration within the school environment. To address this issue effectively, I urge the board to consider allocating funds specifically aimed at enhancing individualized support services for students with autism. This could include hiring additional special education professionals, providing targeted training for existing staff, excuse me, and developing personalized learning plans that cater to each students unique needs. By investing in these critical areas, we can create a more inclusive educational environment that supports all learners and ensures that students with autism have equal opportunities to succeed. Thank you so much for your time today. Thank you, Miss Natalie Ori. Good evening. My name is Natalyn Ori and I live in Metobrook community of Edgecomb County and I'm not
041here by accident but on assignment. I am not restricted in what I can say but I am reserved. During the last school board meeting, I was very disappointed when it appeared that the board interrupted the progress of moving forward with public meetings to discuss and view proposed options for the community redistricting project. We went towards a direction of drawing another map that might help or not help. and the verbal discussion that occurred to question why you have heard from Metobrook community and not from other communities. Well, need I remind you that Metobrook is in Edgecomb County and currently Metobrook does not have a single elected representative on the school board. Earlier this year, the statement was made that you all would represent me. But at the last the last meeting, it did not seem that
042way. What I heard sounded like Mebbrook is not represented along with other communities in the Rocky Mount city limits which have been abandoned by Nash County School Board and forced into Echomecom County school system. Many citizens have expressed a preference for map C, for fair district lines, not perfect lines, but fair. I applaud Dr. Brian who demonstrated foresight and planning to move us forward. But to sit and witness the lack of initiative to move the process forward by the entire group was very concerning to me as a resident of Edgecomb County. I hope that tonight's meeting will be more productive and that you will consider that Metobrook time and all of Edgecom County matters. Thank you. Thank you, Angela Bryant. Good evening everyone. Good evening. I'm with the school de merger community redistricting working group
043and I'm here to just encourage you to move forward uh in the public information public hearing phase of the redistricting process and we're asking the board to make sure option C is moved forward as one of the options during that phase for public posting public information public hearings and for further input and and consideration. ation. Uh we want to encourage you to move uh to that phase for broader uh public input. It would also help us to know have a timeline and to know the steps you ex uh consider uh you're considering taking between now and passage or adoption of a new map even if those steps and timelines have to change so that we can all make sure there's adequate time for public review uh and input uh with you in that process. uh
044redistric is redistricting is probably the only area where um you have to balance your own self-interest with the community's interests. Having been in your position in in terms of running for office uh from new districts in my career, it helps if we can describe what the districts are easily and neighborhoods, precincts, main roads are the easiest descriptors to help voters understand their new districts. And in my experience, the the the engagement part of redistricting will increase uh community engagement with the board and understanding of the board's operations. I also want to highlight that you're in a major transition to a new district. That transition has been delayed by the time frame for this redistricting infrastructure. It will be different and new for you to truly represent this whole new district. So, please move option C
045forward to the next phase. Thank you. Okay. Next person, Barbara B. Brown. Good evening. Good evening. I am Bobby Brown, a resident of Membrook. I'm requesting support for moving forward map C for further consideration during the public public sessions, public hearings and map posting. It keeps my community intact. It would also allow me to know who is representing me and my community. It's the only map that keeps most of precinct 12 together. Option C is the favorite of our committee community. I am participating in the community redistricting merger committee. Thank you. Susan Perry Co. Good evening, madame chairperson and other members of the board of education. My name is Susan Perry Cole and I'm a resident of the Edgecom County side of Rocky Mount. I'm also a member of the school de merger community redistricting
046working group. I want to begin my statement tonight on behalf of our group by pressing forward option C which is the best choice for repres respecting communities of interest in Edgecom for schoolboard districts. I want to point out too that option C has some board member support. We ask that option C be moved forward for further review by the board in the community in public information meetings or public hearings. There has not been an adequate opportunity to discuss in depth this option with the board and the community and the positive attributes that option C has. For example, keeping communities of interest together is important for community representation. It is also important because people will be able to identify who represents them in a simpler manner. Our group believes that option C provides a fair percentage
047of the black voting age population across all of the districts, avoiding the high numbers of black population found in option A, B2, D, and D2. We are especially troubled by option D and D2, which have a high percentage of black voters in districts one and three. Let me mention that option D2 does not align with the purpose of drawing option D because it moves further away from the current commissioner district configuration that is represented in option D. Thus raising the question of the purpose of this option as set forth by the board. Another question that is circulating concerns the continued request for changes to the existing map options regarding the creation of options D and D2 specifically. These options appear to have been made to achieve a specific goal. Thank you very much for letting
048me make this comment tonight. Miss Gloria [Music] Davis. Good evening to each and every one of you. I am Gloria Davis with the school de merger community redistricting working group and I live in the Mebrook community county in the city of Rocky Mount. We believe that option C is the best choice for respecting communities of interest in Edgecom for the school board districts and that option C has some some board support and uh the community needs to become familiar with what is happening and we'll request public information meetings or hearings at least in Rocky Mount and Tall prior to adopting any map so that residents can have a better opportunity to let their voices be heard, ask questions, and engage with board members on the maps and the redist redistricting process. We request that some
049regular schoolboard meetings take place in Rocky Mount. This will help to welcome Rocky Mount residents to the system. Thank you. Have a great day. Thank you, Chamilleia [Music] Stansley. Good evening. Camila Butch the second. I live three miles from Pinetops and several miles from Tarboro, which is my physical address. My dad live in my Pinetops home. I have been attend this meeting dating back to the 80s along with Dr. Evelyn Wilson and Anne Kent. Um, the others of you have come on in the latter years. I had children in the I didn't have any children in the system back in the 80s, but I had a son and a daughter that went from elementary to high school now have gone to college and been out several years. Uh, I said that to say this. It
050is not a requirement for me to have a child in the system to participate in the process. None of you have any children in the system. So um to ask how many of us that have children in the system is irrelevant. I don't need to echo what everybody else have said. My choice is number three. Thank you. Thank you. [Music] Jim Ren Good evening. Good evening. My name is Jim Ren. I'm from Leot Precinct 51. I come to you tonight to uh in support of option C. One thing I want to say being here tonight with the gold key students from the first time all the public school students in Edgecom County are in the Edgecom County public school system. That's why we're here tonight because this is a big step that Edgecom County has
051stood up the way Nash County had treated the school issue for so many years and we said enough is enough and this is why we've taken on these students into this system. At the same time, we're taking on 9,800 new residents uh into the voting uh for our school board and they're 93% African-American population. So we have to create maps that bring these people into fair districts. At the same time we drew districts that um each incumbent was in a separate district as was requested. Um option C of um the last time we board meeting you requested uh a D2. A D2 has come out but D2 also has a district with 89.5% African-American population. All the the other options except option C have a districts in with 80 to 90% African-American population. Option C
052is the only one where the there's no more than 76% African-American in one district. We think that's a fair distribution. And um this um again it was said last me month referring to the Nash Rocky Mount group. This our working group is Edgecom County. We from Rocky Mount, Battlebor, Whitaker, Leot, Princeville, Tarbor, Pinetops, Canita. I think we we received a letter from our group with over 29 signatures. This represents a Edgecomb County uh group, not a Rocky Mount, Nash group. That's that's and we ask you to get the public maps out for public hearings. And we ask you that option C be presented to the public in those hearings. Thank you. Thank you. Reverend Dr. Joyce Spaith Lane. Good evening board members. Good evening. Members of the community. My name is Dr. Joyce Spate Lang.
053I'm from the northern area of Edgecomb County which encompasses Whitaker, Dumbar, Battleboro, Leget and uh Lawrence and surrounding areas North Edgecomb High School, Phillips uh Middle School and Cocoa Wimily Elementary School. Um we believe that option C is the best choice for the respecting communities mentioned. It's it's important because Edgecom County School District option C has some board support. We are asking the board to move option C forward as one of the options for public posting public information meetings and public hearings and for further input and consideration. Again, thank you the board for its transparency during the redistricting process. We appreciate it and hope that that continues as we continue through the rest of this process. Thanks for providing the sign up link for meeting notices and for redistricting information and for for pro for
054briding for providing materials on the redistricting page. It would be helpful if the board would let community members know a proposed or tenative timeline and steps from consideration to passage of a new district map. Even if that timeline will be subject to change and other calendar priorities, we would like to make sure that there is adequate time for the public to review the maps and to provide the input to the board. We are asking that the board host public information meetings or hearings and at least in Rocky Mount and Tarbor prior to adopting any map so that residents can have a better opportunity to let their voices be heard, ask questions and engage in board me engage with board members on the map and redistricing process. We request that some regular school board meetings take
055place in Rocky Mount. This would help to welcome Rocky Mount residents to the system. that may include them and familiarize them with the operations and leaders of the system. Option C is still the best choice for respecting communities of interest in Edgecom County. And we thank Blake and the board for considering this map. Thank you. Thank you. That ends our public comment section. I will ask the board members to move to item five and that is the approval of three different open session minutes. I will ask for the first April 3rd, 2025, we had a work session. If anyone has any discussion or comments on that set of minutes, we need to hear it. If not, I need to hear a motion for approval of that set of minutes for April 3rd for our work
056session. Madam Chair, can I make a motion to approve April 3rd, 2025 work section session open session minutes? Second. Has been moved and properly seconded that we will approve our April 3rd, 2025 work session open session minutes. Any other discussion on the motion? All in favor of the motion, let it be known by saying I. I oppose the same sign. Motion is carried. Thank you. Now we go to the next set of minutes. April 14th. That was our regular business open session uh minutes. Do we have any corrections or discussion about that set of minutes? Hearing none, I call for a motion to approve. Madam Chair, move for the approval of the April 14th, 2025 open session regular meeting of the county board of education. It's been moved and properly second that we will approve
057our April 14th regular business meeting open session minutes. Second, Juel. Jewel. Any other discussion on the motion? All in favor of the motion, let it be known by saying I. I. Opposed the same sign. The motion carries. We have one other set of minutes. April 22nd, 2025. Does anyone have any comments in relation to those minutes? April 22nd. Hearing none, I call for a motion. Madam chair, I make a motion that we approve the April 22nd joint meeting open session minutes. Second. has been moved and properly seconded that we will approve our April 22nd, 2025 uh joint meeting with the county commissioners and the board of education. Any other discussion on the motion? All in favor of the motion, let it be known by saying I. I oppose the same sign. The motion carries. Thank
058you. We will now move to items for information. Thank you. And we will start. Yes, sir. We will start with view 6.1, our school updates. Thank you, Madam Chair. Um, just a few announcements tonight. ECPS promotes mental health awareness month. In honor of mental health awareness month, ECPS student support services and the family resource center are hosting a series of events under the theme turn awareness into action. Activities include school resource tour May 5 through 9, daily mindfulness moments starting May 12th, the district-wide mental health walk May 21, and a youth panel May 23rd, and spirit week May 27th through 30. staff can always enjoy free exercise classes and surprise giveaways all month long uh in recognition of mental health awareness for May. Also, empowering young minds through engineering. Last week, several ECPS elementary teachers
059and technology staff proudly represented our district at the 2025 K5 Building Engineers Conference in Greenville, North Carolina. At this hands-on event, the team explored exciting ways to bring engineering, innovation, and design thinking into K5 classrooms. They returned uh energized with plenty of fresh ideas, strategies, and resources to make STEM learning more inclusive, engaging, and accessible for all students. Also, uh ECPS had some educators recently honored as statewide teacher celebration. uh three outstanding ECPS educators, Emily Lumis from 2025 beginning teacher of the year. Uh Tamika Farmer 2025 teacher of the year and Rachel Bragy 2024 teacher of the year were honored at the rooted and learning NC celebration at the governor's mansion during teacher appreciation week. The event hosted by the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources recognized over 70 educators statewide for their
060commitment to learning and growth. And uh very very excited Tamika Farmer is now on the uh on the uh advisory team for uh the governor uh North Carolina, Governor Stein and uh very very excited about that. Also, family sessions to support exceptional learners. Uh, ECPS, Family Resource Center, Circle of Parents, and Exceptional Children's Department are hosting two free sessions titled Understanding and Supporting Exceptional Learners for Families of Children with Autism, ADHD, and Other Special Learning Needs. Sessions will offer practical strategies, resources, and support with child care and refreshments provided. Events will be held May 13th in Princeville and May 22nd in Rocky Mountain. Also a free summer camp opportunity for rising fifth through seventh graders. ECPS Family Resource Center is offering camp essentials, a free summer camp focused on connection, creativity, and competence for rising
061fifth through 7th graders. The CL camp includes hands-on activities, social skill building, meals, and transportation. June 16th through 20th at MMA in Tarborough and June 23rd through 27th at Baskerville. Registration is open now with limited spots available. And uh also want to highlight that our uh literacy program at Cocoa Wimbley was highlighted last week uh with an article in EdNC and uh certainly excited about that and the progress they have made along with some other several other schools and a lot of the work we're doing with literacy across the school district. It's foundation of everything we do with our students. It's very important to what we do as a school district. Thank you, Madam Chair. That concludes my report. Thank you. Does anyone have any questions or comments? Dr. Brian in reference to all the
062programs that he has just mentioned. It's it's pretty impressive that out of 70 educators, three came from Edgecom County. Very proud. very proud of our school district and our and our folks and the accomplishments they they've won recognition they've won on a statewide level. Wonderful. Any other comments? We'll move to item 6.2 uh our maintenance report. Mr. Perkins. Madam Chair, I'm sad to report that uh Mr. Perkins was ready to go tonight and uh he is actually working on a uh on a maintenance issue uh right now. So you were stuck with me again toh provide the uh the maintenance report. Uh I think we're about ready to queue up the There we go. So, uh there's uh some replacement of uh some bathroom some bathroom repairs at Fair View Elementary School. We move forward
063with that before we we always like the after pick photo better, don't we? Uh we can go to the next uh some office repair at Fair View before then and the after repair. Did a great job on that. Some more office repair afterwards. Boiler room at West Middle uh West Middle School. some work our folks have put in there. Also, Tarbo High School bearing replacement that uh the staff put together, took care of. Uh our folks continue to work very hard to uh make sure our schools are taken care of and uh of course we uh continue to monitor things for us obviously with all the rain we're having uh across the uh next few days. Okay. Do you all appreciate that report that Dr. Bry just made for Mr. Perkins? I I'm just trying
064to find out what kind of report I should give to Mr. Perkins. I think last report I gave someone said I got a C minus on it. So, I'm sure. So, we'll see if we did better tonight. All right. Cuz I promise you when I see him, he's he will inform me what kind of report you gave. I'm sure you will. All right. Now we will move to item 6.3. So madam chair, board members, uh these are field trips uh that have been approved since the last time uh we met. If you have any questions about that and also fundraisers, extended day trips are Tarbor High School. Um, also, uh, we had a trip. We supported Boys and Girls Club during spring break, which turned into, I think, a great opportunity for our students to
065have, uh, great great, uh, great time at at at Boys and Girls Club, Southwest Edgecom, esports, uh, and also a trip to Fedville State University, North Edge High School track team, and fundraisers for Carver, Baskerville, and MMA. Any questions? Anyone have any questions on those uh the fundraiser and the trips that we've had since our last board meeting. Okay. Thank you for sharing that. Item seven, our committee report. We do not have any at this meeting tonight. We'll move to 8.8 our consent items. We have two of those and we will have one motion on those if you have any concerns. Dr. fundraisers for uh GW Carver Elementary School and uh also for for u excuse me GW Bulock Elementary and both of them for for those two schools and approval to accept grant funds
066award to ECPS child nutrition department from No Kid Hungry in the matter of $20,000 uh help us expand summer feeding model um purchase of a minivan and uh I will also mention another item that Um, I want I should have mentioned under my report that would be a grant coming to you at the next meeting. Uh, we received a $250,000 21st century grant to support some summer enrichment particularly for prek um from Department of Public Instruction, State Board of Education just in the last week. And uh very excited that we received that grant and all the hard work of our team that put it together and great things it's going to do for students during the summer. Does anyone have any concerns about those before we call for a vote? Call for a vote on
067both hearing. None. We need to hear a motion. Madam Chair, I make a motion item. I make a motion to approve the consent items as presented. As that was Evelyn Johnson second has been moved and properly second that we will approve our consent items as presented. Any other discussion on the motion? All in favor of the motion, let be known by saying I. I oppose the same sign. Motion carried. Thank you very kind. We'll move into a point B. These are all action items. What you have in front of you is the uh is the local budget request uh for the 2526 school year. I've outlined in a letter the rationale for the local current expense uh request and also for the capital um request that's also included in this. Uh I would just say
068that uh the the priorities which I will touch on in just a moment. Uh our top priority uh that's been expressed by this board of education and our team that's helped put this together is to retain and attract the very best available individuals to teach and support our students. Quality educators and staff who care about students and possess the skills necessary to help them learn are the most critical factors for student success. In the current environment, the district continues to experience intense competition with other school districts across the state and region that offer compared to local supplements. The competition for teachers is exacerbated by the continued trend that more individuals are not entering the education profession impacting number of candidates for certified and classified positions. Notice I say they're certified and classified positions to retain
069and recruit the best employees. Board of Education um is requesting a current expense increase of uh $1,446,000. Last year's local current expense allocation was uh just over 10.6 million. The 25 26 request takes take includes an increase in yearly local supplement from 10 to 11% for certified staff and increase of yearly local supplement for classified staff from 300 to,300. uh notice the special emphasis on classified staff uh because all of our educators and I say all of our educators meaning both certified and classified support our students day in and day out from the beginning of the school day to late uh in the afternoon early evening. This increase also includes raises for bus drivers and athletic coaches and increase for all administrators to only at least 7% to equal that of teachers which primarily impacts
070assistant principles. request also attempts to account for mandated state salary increases which are unknown at this time because the state's still working on the budget and also to uh apply to school district operating costs uh outline those things uh within what I discussed in reference to certified and classified supplement also bus driver increases and accounting for utilities uh increases that are ongoing within our school industry. Our local capital budget request uh total request is for just over $5 million. We uh as I noted before, our maintenance department tries to take care of our aging schools as best we can, but it takes uh a lot of additional funding to uh upkeep and uh maintain uh the life extend the life of our uh buildings. uh during the last four years, four and a half years,
071Eskim County Public Schools uh used conservatively in the neighborhood of just over $12 million from ESSER funding to upgrade facilities. Uh as everyone knows, ESRE funding is no longer available and was encumbered last year by September of 2024 and spent out by December of 2024. We also use lottery, local sales tax and capital funding to repair roofs, doors, necessary renovations and emergency repairs. However, we still have many facility many facility needs and I've outlined those needs which uh was also presented to the uh to the board of commissioners in our joint meeting back in uh back in April. And uh also it uh it I made a few additions to that that take into account a couple different things from a uh HVAC rotation replacement at the middle schools and the gyms uh to a
072couple additional parking lots and some other things and tried to uh divide that up between things over $150,000 and local budget projects under 150 under 150. Uh we believe that we're an important cog for education within our community both support the individual development of our students and also for the betterment of our community. Uh especially in terms of economic development. Uh we want to make sure that we are we are supporting um our students and our community at this time which comes at a critical time for our community. Um, Escom County is ranked as the most distressed county in North Carolina based upon the latest data considering average unemployment, median household income, percentage growth in population, adjust the property tax per capita. Um, I think these data support the idea that we are critically important
073to ensure that our students and community are u are striving and reaching the potential that we can. We want to make sure that we part of the solution to how we can move our county forward and make it an even better place to live. Concludes my budget presentation, Madam Chair. Any questions from from the board? Yes, I have a question. Um, in 2024, we ran a bond to raise capital funds to help out uh five just schools that we couldn't even work in unless we raised some extra money. And we what what I'm driving at. Have we finished paying that bond off? Was it a 12 12 year sale or more than that? It's more than that it because so it's still active. And I say that, Madam Chair, because in and when I attended
074a uh county commissioner meeting recently, there was a bond debt um uh that was still on that that that kind of was paying. So So it's still That's why I'm asking. Is it still active? Right. Yeah. Could we find out where we are, Dr. Brian, with that? Because that comes out of our budget every year, the the part that we're paying back. Um just correct just so we'll have a better idea of projecting things in the future. I am pleased with the budget. The the only the biggest concern I have had um from the merger or de merger depending on what side you're on is a a problem with school buses getting kids to school in the Rocky Mountain area. And that was a one of the concerns that the parents had talked about and
075I see that you have tried to increase salaries and hoping that will be a solution. Do you think that will maybe um attract more people to drive buses? I know it's a fix it. This is not the only place in the world, United States, North Carolina, but you know, we've got to get our kids to school for them to learn. And I know you are more concerned about it than anybody else in this room. So I'm not being critical, but that is that's something I see on a regular bas basis on Facebook. You know, we're not going to have a bus at this school today. I know I know Juwel and I follow very closely on Facebook and it seems like it's it's very distressing, you know, the number of times that we don't have
076transportation to or from school for our kids. I believe it's part of the answer. Uh our transportation department is trying very hard to recruit more folks to drive and also get folks uh trained. The process for that is um difficult and tedious sometimes. Um but I think for us is trying to recruit and um retain enough people to do that. Um it's not an easy task, but but trying to increase their hourly wage and some other things that maybe we're looking at that are that are um looking at combining some things maybe support more of a wage for that which we might bring back to the board is what we're trying to do to to increase the number of drivers we have. Well, I I know you have worked on it all year. We've talked
077about it several times and I was glad to see this added to our budget. But it it is a it is a huge concern because a lot of those schools are in areas with busy busy streets. I certainly wouldn't want my children crossing busy streets between neighborhoods and and things like that. But um that that's been one of the the biggest concerns I've seen because I think we've gone in and we've tried to repair buildings and put great teachers in and and um enrich the programs and give support to every, you know, to the teachers and the community the best we have. We just haven't been able to get the school buses there as frequently as we would like. We're going to keep working on all those issues and more. Um because we're going to
078try to do the best we can for our students and our community. Well, I know you always do. We do the best we can. I just hope we can make a make a magic wand go and fix something. Does anyone else have any questions or concerns in reference to the budget? Because this is the time we we actually have to do it or need to do it. I hope you've had time to study it thoroughly, but there's a section in this budget that's mentioned. I appreciate the information on the academic performance and low performance schools. You do address that because that's crucial. Um, and I won't call names out or anything like that. I'm just saying it's very important that we know which schools are, which schools are not. Uh, low performing are the schools
079that have net growth. That is very good information and I appreciate you putting that in the budget because then it lets us know how hard uh we really have to work in getting our students. We've talked about everything about the merger and that everything, but no one has mentioned anything about our students and and that's who we have to move forward and make sure that they are on grade level and so forth. That's the that's the crucial piece uh to me in uh putting that in this budget section because We're going to really need to do that. Okay. Any no other If we have no other comments, we're going to ask for a motion to approve. Madam Chair, I move for the approval of the superintendent's county budget request and submission of the county budget
080request 2526. Second. Do we hear Don't jump. Okay. Did you hear that, R? Uh, we have a motion uh to approve the superintendent's county budget request and submission of the county budget request for 2526 school year. Any other discussion on the motion? All in favor of the motion, let it be known by saying I. I. Oppose the same sign. The motion carries. Thank you for bringing that. Okay, we'll move to 8.2B. That's Miss Sites. As a matter of fact, she got three. Good evening, Madam Chair, vice chair, other members of the board, and superintendent Dr. O'Brien. Um, I'm here tonight to acquest approval um of the contract between ECPS and Kinetic Physical Therapy um and increase for occupational therapy services. Just to kind of give a background about these contracts, um this is kind of
081including the increase um for our four new schools. And then we typically assess about 30 to 60 preK kids a year. we're at 119. So, um that is where these increases are coming from. Does anyone have any questions? Any questions to her? Hearing none, I need to he a motion. Madam Chair, I'll make a motion that we approve the contract addum between Edgecom County Board of Education and Kinetic Physical Therapy and Wellness Incorporated for Occupational Therapy Services for 2425 school year. Second. has been moved and properly second that we will approve the contract addendum between Edgecom County Public Schools and Connecticut Physical Therapy and Wellness um for school year 24 25. All in favor of the motion let be known by saying I I oppose the same sign. The motion carries. Okay. 8.3B. Um this
082is an request for approval for the contract between um ECPS and Kinetic Physical Therapy and Wellness um for their speech therapy services. Does anyone have any questions on [Music] that 8.3B? Hearing none, we need a motion. Madam Chair, make a motion to approve the contract between Ed County Board of Education and Connecticut Physical Therapy and Wellness Incorporated for speech therapy services for the school year 2024 2025. Second. has been moved and properly seconded that we will approve the contract between Edgecom County Board of Education and Kinetic Physical Therapy and Wellness and Cooperated for Speech Therapy Services for the 2425 school year. Any other discussion on that motion? All in favor of the motion, let it be known by saying I. I. Oppose the same sign. Motion carries. 8.4B. Um, this is to request approval of
083the contract addendum between ECPS and KidSpeak for speech language therapy services. And this will cover ESY and compensatory services um for the summer for therapists that we had out on maternity leave. Any questions? 8.4B. I need to hear a motion for approval. Second. It's been moved and properly second um that we will approve the contract between Edgecom County Board of Education and Kids Speak and Speech Languages Pathology Services for the school year 2425. All in favor of the motion, let be known by saying I. I. Oppose the motion. The same sign. The motion carries. Thank you so much. Thank you. Oh, you have another 85 AIG. Yes. Um Bry's going to come up and present that. I'm going to bring some papers up there to you. Good evening, uh, Madame Chair, vice chair, good evening,
084Dr. Brian, and the board. Um, we rewrite our ECPS AIG plan every three years, and we have made a few updates to our plan that have been presented to you before this meeting. Um, Miss Sykes is just passing out a a quick one sheet, one pager on what we did change. On the front is what I'll be talking about where there's a picture. On the back is just a a quick snapshot of what you have the long version of. Um on the front practice A from standard one, we made changes to practice A, F, and G. Um there are no changes to our identification process. Um but we've clarified that transfer students that are already identified in other counties will automatically go into the AIG program. there's no need for the needs determination team to
085um reassess their eligibility. Um practice F, no changes were made, but we clarified the process for obtaining parent con consent for AIG services. So, we will meet with parents and guardians to um approve and review their differentiated education plan each year. And um if they can't if there's not an in-person meeting isn't possible, we do send that home. um practice G in standard one. We've added that a semester progress report will be sent to parents from the AIG um program. We've also clarified that the D development process includes input from all educators educators familiar with the students abilities. Um standard two we just made some clarifications. Um in practice A um we clarified ways in which we differentiate weekly or bi-weekly small groupoup sessions with the AIG specialist, differentiated assignments or units based on individual
086needs. extracurricular enrichment activities, cluster grouping of three or more similarly identified gifted students, grade or subject acceleration, inclusion in co-eing by the AIG specialists and core teachers, and advanced math classes for students scoring the highest score of a five on the math EOG. These are all options to serve our students um and differentiate. Um, practice G, we updated this practice to reference the current board policy on early entrance to kindergarten. Um, practice I, we added that we are developing a plan to provide differentiated curriculum and lessons tailored to gifted learners at each grade level. Standard three, we didn't make any major changes. Remember, we do this every three years, so some things do stay to stay the same. Um standard four we added on practice C academic coaches and MCL's at each school will support
087that classroom differentiation that's happening in every core classroom um throughout their quarterly PLC meetings and they will also look at that subgroup of AIG students. Practice F. This practice now includes the development of many lessons for teachers and staff on best practices in gifted education that we will share with teachers. um in the future practice and standard six which is the last one we included that parents must give informed consent that kind of um goes back to that practice F and for their child to be identified and placed in the AIG program they will be notified and um sign the D knowing that they have that their child is in AIG. So, with that, um, I ask for the approval of our, um, three-year cycle of our AIG plan and, um, see if you have
088any questions. I have one uh if I understand this correctly each year you'll bring this for the three year or what we approving now we go we will go we will our program will based on be based on what you approve now for three years okay and then in three in 2028 we'll do this again okay all right thank you much anybody else need to ask anything about do you do any after school programs for your AIG children? Um we did we used to do quiz bowl a lot after school. This is when we were um fully staffed right now. Um our AIG teachers I'm serving five schools and um Miss Knap is serving five schools. We have some retired teachers that are serving part-time. So unfortunately after school activities um are difficult to carry
089out since we're at several different schools but in the past when we had more AIG teachers we did do that because we were able to go to those schools after school. Is that on the wish list? It's definitely on the wish list. I'd love to have more staff. That'd be wonderful. Anybody else have any questions? Okay. Thank you. Thank you. I need to hear a motion for approval 8.5. Madam chair, I make a motion for the approval of the 202528 academically or intellectually gifted AIG plan. has been moved and properly second that we will uh approve our academically and intellectually gifted plan for 25 through 28 school years. Any other discussion on the motion? All in favor of the motion, let be known by saying I. I oppose the same sign. The motion carries. Thank
090you very kindly. 8.6B. The payroll calendar. Good evening. Good evening, Madam Chair, vice chair, board of education, superintendent. Um, I'm here to present the 2526 payroll calendars. It's recommendation for approval. I'm ready. Have any questions? If not, I recommend them for approval. Oh yes, speak madam. six week you'll review you'll be able to see that therefore the Yep. Um traditional early college 12 month 11 month 10 month 9 month food service bus service group summary of each payroll calendar is attached for your review is based off of the previous calendar academic calendar that was approved. Yes ma'am. Um you have I do. This is sort of pulling something we looked at earlier in the meeting about the grant for the summer feeding program and the nutrition calendar. So I know that this our summer feeding
091is different from our nine month. Yes. It how are those employees paid? I mean it's money federal government money or um they're paid out of so child nutrition paid out of the summer grant. So each summer program has its own funding source. for instance the um reading programs and those different programs. So what we do like for instance the regular school program calendar for this year ends in June but then we also have the summer programs that start after the regular. So then there are extra payrolls that are added and what we do is we sit down with the committee to establish those pay dates to try to keep them in line with um our regular school 12 month and 11month calendar. that starts in July, but making it equitable for everybody that's getting paid.
092I'm glad you're trying to keep it in line for employees. And I guess that's the money you were talking about. Some of the money you were talking about earlier, like the 21st century grant that we just received line it up with the money you were talking about for summer program and deliveries. Thank you. You're welcome. If you would look at the child nutrition employee payroll section. Okay. They work 200 days. Are you comparing 2012 2013 with what we're doing 25 26 school years? Is that a comparison? Pardon me. I'm want to look at You're looking at the look at look at the last paragraph, right? The last paragraph. Yeah. Let's see. Not the last paragraph. Well, it's the last paragraph on that page. Yeah. Because our still the last. Uhhuh. They are. Yes. It's a
093comparison. Is that what it Well, it's just referencing when we started paying them hourly. It continues and that we're continuing to pay that way. Okay. Move up to the ISS employees. Yes, ma'am. Okay. Uh, do they get a different paycheck each month depending depending on what? Depending on the hours that they work and depending on how many planning days or are in the month. So any hourly employee, they get paid for the hours that they work and depending on how the payroll days submission. We try to make the payroll submission dates and the time period that it covers equitable every month, but also depending on how many planning days and depending like say for this school year if it's days where we're virtual or different things like that depending on the job position that they
094have depending on if their department supervisor may have something that they're able to do working from home or virtually can depend on what they receive in payment that month. So, the same goes for any ISS employees as child nutrition, TAs, all of those different employee types that are well, not TAs because they're paid a salary, but any position types that are paid hourly. Was that helpful? You're just saying it's more fluid than if it was just a salary. Yes, ma'am. No work, no pay. Okay. Take your time. Okay, I don't have any questions. Does anyone else have any questions about the payroll calendar for 2520? Hearing none, I need to hear a motion for approval. Make a motion to approve to approve the 2025 26 April calendar as presented. Second. Has been moved and properly
095second that we will approve our 2526 payroll calendars as presented. Any other discussion on the motion? All in favor of the motion let be known by saying I. I oppose the same sign motion car. Thank you for coming. Thank you. The next one as well. Oh, okay. Uh 8.7. All right. I'm here to recommend for approval the request of the board to the state funded teacher supplement pay for teachers and certified instructional support personnel per state PRC 071. Um this act became a state funded in 2021 and they are continuing to fund and provide an additional supplement that has to be paid by June to all teachers and certified instructional personnel. One of the things that I do want to point out is that previously we were able to fund supplement some of the prek
096teachers that are not covered through ESSER, but this year we did provide budgeting in the beginning of the year to continue to pay them so that way it's equitable across all teachers and certified um instructional support staff throughout the district. And I would like to recommend this for approval. Have any questions on that section? Does anyone have any questions from that 8.7B? Any motion? We don't have any questions. Madam Chair, move for the approval of teacher state funded teacher supplement paid for teachers and certified instructional support personnel per state using QRC 071 for PK prek certified teachers and instructor support personnel for fiscal year 2526 2425 Yes sir. Is that what it's supposed to be? Yes. Pardon me. Do I have it written incorrectly up here? Yeah. Should be for the information they gave 24,
097but on our on our sheet should be should be for 2425. Right. You did it correctly. Information you gave us. I did. Yeah, you did. Okay. should be for 2425. Yes, sir. Just make sure it's right in the motion. Okay. Yes. 2425. Oh, no. Okay. 24 25 in the information. Was that in Who? You did the motion. I did. Okay. Did you you said it right? Right. Okay. Because she gave us the information and a second. Okay. From Dr. Johnson and Okay. Rose, did you hear? Dr. Johnson second the motion. our stated. It has been moved and properly seconded that we will approve the state funded teacher supplement pay for the teachers and certified instructional support personnel per the state using PRC-071 for prek certified teachers and instructional support personnel for 2425 FY school Thank
098you. Any other discussion on the motion? All in favor of the motion, let be known by saying I. I. Oppose the same sign. The motion carries. Thank you, Mary. Thank you. Oh, you got enough. No, I'm well done. All out of money. No, I'm not looking right. Okay. This just has to be a little bit closer to you. Oh, okay. Is that okay? Madam Chair, um 8.8 8B uh up for uh discussion and recommendation with the board tonight. Approving next steps for posting uh and public feedback on draft redistricting maps. Uh have Blake here with us tonight. Uh also Miss Stagner and u we'll turn turn it over to them for right now and then uh seek discussion from the board. Thank you Dr. Madam Chair. Thank you. I'll keep this short. You have all
099received five separate options for redistricting. I'll just briefly remind everyone option based on the instructions from the board was developed to preserve the four districts that are currently existing to make that possible. Option D2 is provided that was intended to create compact shapes. Option B, student keeps incumbents within districts and does not double incumbent. Option C, the instruction of the board was for grouping of identified communities organization public input and feedback that was received during a public open time for public to submit requests and information. After those were reviewed, the board requested option B, which was to replicate commission districts to the extent possible. incoming board members. And then recently the board asked for slight reision of that based on a desire to do communities in Rocky Mountain to retain more constituents to the extent
100possible in district 5. So you all have received those. They've been out there for public um review on the website and we for the board to narrow it down to a manageable number. Further public hearings and public input. Um I think we've in the past discussed that two options would be ideal but certainly we will go forward with board's wishes and I'll ask if he has anything to add. Otherwise, it's just waiting on your direction forward. Did he say I think he did? He said he had he doesn't have any other thing to add to. Uh, all right. Start talking. Anybody can start talking right now based on what she just read and we as late. Madam Chair, I certainly uh, Madam Chair, I certainly recommend the uh, going forth to present to the community
101uh, option C. Madam Chair, I'm going try to make this short and sweet. I um make the motion um to go forth with option C. Sir, before we make motions right this moment, could we have just a brief discussion? Okay. And and the brief discussion should be are we presenting to the public one map or two maps. My discussion is two. Raymond, what were you saying? My discussion was one. I can't hear. She she said she said two one two. All right. So I would like to clarify something too. When I asked for we asked for a difference in in D2 um the communities of interest in Tarbor and we can't kind of hear you down here. up. Well, they said that communities of interest in Tarborough in my in the area that is district
1025 were not communities of interest to be intact. I mean, when I went through and looked at them, they didn't have anything in common. Um, I don't know how they were picked. I neglected to look at them in January. I'll say I didn't really pay much attention, but uh there were not communities of interest for district 5 and that's why we asked for a revision of D2 when the comments were made tonight. I just want to clarify why we asked why I asked for well why we asked for that. I feel like we should offer the public at least an option of two maps. Because when we originally talked about it, talked about maps, we were not talking about four maps with all the different times that we have been talking about maps, but I
103personally feel that the public should have an option. And that's why I'm thinking we should post at least two maps if that's what we're talking about publishing uh for the for the public to come up and look at one map or will they get a chance to look at two? So, and we did say that at the beginning. We going to do too. Yeah. I was just wondering, was I the only one in this room? I mean, on this board that didn't never hear that. I know. I heard that. And that's what my focus has been is watching and looking at the different ones. What do we have? A B C D E F G H I J K F. And that was before we got all of the other alphabets in there. We had
104a lot of alphabets. And to me, that would be giving the public an opportunity to say a look at their community where they're located and so forth, cuz that has to be on the map. the com the all the communities uh has to be on the map that's posted. All right. So, we ready to move forward? I have no problem. Could I call ask for a motion to have two maps posted? Madam Chair, I'll make a motion that we post. Okay. Do you could you hear me? She couldn't hear. I make a motion that we provide two options in redistricting redistricting mats for public viewing. Do we have some second? Has been moved and properly second that we will have two maps for the public to observe. Any other discussion? All in favor of the
105motion, let it be known by saying I. All right, put your hands up. Let me see it that way. 3 4 oppose. 44 and oppose. One, two, three. All right. The motion passes that we will have two maps for the public to observe. Now, now we need to know. All right. Now, we need to know which two Madam Chair, I make a motion that one of the maps um under consideration would be D2. Madam Chair, I make a motion that we I'm I got to act on his motion first. Second. It has been moved and proper second that we will have D2 as one of the maps. All in favor of the motion, let it be known by raising your hand. What's that for? Was that for? Yes. Thank you. Now I need to hear
106Liz's motion. Madam Madam Chair, I make a motion that we have option C. Second. Has been moved and proper second that we will have option C as a second. Uh M. All in favor, let it be known by showing I mean raising your hand. two four six. Okay. So for your information it will be C and D2 for to put up. Is he listening? He can hear. Oh you Yeah. put you so close to your foot of the sun. I can't get that. All right. What's next information we need? I believe that the superintendent has put together a framework for receiving public input. Thank you, Miss Dager. um at this point uh because uh we we looked at a lot of dates between now and the end of May and with everything going on at
107our schools and high schools for after school graduation activities etc did not seem to be a really good time. So, I am proposing the dates um and I'm going to come back to a timeline on this after I say this. June 10th, June 12th, June 23rd, and June 24th to seek community feedback at and these are the sites that we've mentioned since u since we discussed this back in I believe going all the way back to February. Um we would we would post or have these community meetings uh Tarper High School, North Edge High School, Southwest Edge High School, and probably DS Johnson Elementary School in their multi-purpose room. Juneth, June 10th, June 12th, June 23rd, June 24th. We would like to talk to our our school administrators at each one of those sites to
108ensure that we before we announce the date to ensure that we everything is clear on those dates. But we can get that done probably by then date tomorrow to make that happen. We could do we have a time. Would it be like six o'clock? We're looking at six o'clock. Okay. That way I can get it on calendar. Get the dates again. Uh June 10, June 12th, June 23rd. Oh, 23rd. I put in June 24th. Oh, I did have 24 with the hope of presenting to a board meeting or or bringing the issue back for a decision from the board uh by the end of June or by the regular board meeting in July. that will depend upon the the uh the will of the board and when they want to make that announcement. Also, um
109we will be announcing uh at by the end of the week places where we will put the maps just for public observation uh around the county. But I need before we announce those uh those places and times when they will be there, we need to get a little bit of information back from our printer to make sure that we have everything set. I want to make sure we have them out there in time so everybody can see them. And we will alert we will alert the uh alert the community through our list serve and our website and social media about all that information I just shared and confirming details as quickly as possible. by consensus is a great motion. Okay. If if anyone has anything to add to that or everybody's okay with that plan.
110Yep. All right. Thank you so much. M you take me in close. We have one more item. Madam Chair, I'm trying to have one more item. Madam Chair, 8.9B. Um what you what you have in front of you tonight added is a lottery application approximately $180,000 uh for roof repair at Baskerville Elementary School. in the area of the uh kitchen, cafeteria, and media center. And I'll just remind everybody uh even after our board approves this, it require approval by the um board of commissioners and signatures by the chair for the board of education and chair for the board of commissioners to be forwarded to the state. Dr. Right. Is that all one area? It's all in one area. Yes, sir. Any question in reference to I think it's a great idea and if it's a
111dire need, I'm happy that we can ask the county commissioners and we're still getting the lottery funds. Dr. Brian, since we have I know we're waiting on signatures, is there a time frame? Do we have a contractor in line or uh we we do not yet. Uh we investigated we we wrote on the form estimate that we'd starting this in July to hopefully be completed by August. So it's not an emergency situation at that school. I mean just need I know it needs to be done but it's not we need to do right this not I'm not that I'm aware of at this time motion madam chair I make a motion for the approval of the lottery fund application project for distribution request public school anyway for uh Baskerville Elementary School at an estimated amount
112of $180,000. Did you hear Raymond second that did you not second? I did. Yes, you did. I did. It's been moved and properly second that we will approval of the submission and dist of $180,000 um lottery funds for the Basavia Elementary School. All in favor of the motion, let be known by saying I. I. Oppose the same sign. Motion carries. Okay. Madam Chair, I make a motion under the North Carolina Open Meetings Law Section 143-318 11A1 A3 and A6 to go into close session to consider personnel matters to consult with the attorney to preserve attorney client privileged information and to prevent the disclosure of student records rendered confidential under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act 20 USC 1232G and the disclosure of Personnel records rendered confidential under general statute 115 C-319 through 321. Second
113has been moved and second that we go into our close session. We will meet in that session. Okay, we has been moved and proper second that we go into close session. Any other discussion on the motion? All in favor of the motion, let it be known by saying I. I. Opposed. Same sign. Motion carries. [Music] Introducing the brand new app for Edgecomb County Schools. It's everything ECPS in your pocket. This is the home screen. Tap the three horizontal lines in the bottom left to see all the menu items. To turn on push notifications, tap settings, select notification preferences, and allow notifications. [Music] Tap subscriptions to subscribe to your school. The event section shows a list of events throughout the school. You can use this button to add an event to your calendar or tap here
114to share the event with friends and [Music] family. The feed is where you'll find updates from administration about what's going on throughout the school. Whether that's celebrating a student success or reminding you about an upcoming deadline, search Edgecom County Public Schools in the App Store or Play Store to explore the app for yourself. It's everything ECPS in your pocket. [Music] Heat. Heat. Hey, hey, hey. [Music] down. Hey, [Music] baby. Hey. Hey. Hey. [Music] Everything. [Music] Baby, baby. Heat. Heat. [Music] Heat. Heat. [Music] Heat. Heat. [Music] Heat. Heat. Heat. Heat. [Music] Heat. Heat. [Music] N. Heat. Heat. [Music] N. Heat. Heat. Heat. Heat. [Music] N. Heat. Heat. N. [Music] Hey, hey, hey. Heat. Heat. N. Hey, hey, [Music] hey. Hey, hey, hey. [Music] Heat. Heat. [Music] Hey, hey, hey. [Music] feel. He [Music] Hey, hey, hey.
115Heat. Heat. [Music] Hey, [Music] hey, hey. [Music] Heat. Heat. [Music] Heat. Hey, Heat. [Music] Get away. [Music] [Laughter] [Music] Are [Music] you star? [Music] [Laughter] [Music] I miss [Music] you. Heat. Heat. N. [Music] Wow. Wow. [Music] Hey. [Music] Heat. Hey. Hey. Hey. [Music] Heat. Heat. [Music] Hey, [Music] hey, hey. Hey, hey, hey. [Music] the personnel management list of personnel and I second has been moved and properly second that we will approve our personnel management. Any other discussion on the motion? All in favor of the motion let it be known by saying I oppose the same sign. The motion is carried. Thank you very kindly. Uh we also have reviewed our close session minutes. Could we hear a motion for approval? Madam Chair, I move for the approval of the close session minutes. Second has been
116moved and properly second that we will approve our close session minutes April 14th, 2025. Any other discussion on the motion? All in favor of the motion, let it be known by saying I. Oppose the same sign. Motion carries. Board correspondence. Do we have any hearing none. Item 12, items brought by members or superintendent for consideration or discussion here. There is none. I need to hear a motion for adjournment. So moved. Second. Has been moved and second that we will adjourn our meeting. All in favor of the motion, let it be known by saying I. Oppose the same sign. The motion carries. Thank you all for coming. We