Board of Education Meeting - June 9th 2025

001call this meeting of the June 9th regular June meeting to order and uh at this time I'll entertain the approval of the agenda. Motion to approve the agenda. Mr. Chairman, I'll second it. Okay, we have a motion by uh Mr. Schuford to approve the agenda. We have a second by Mr. Subtles. Is there any further discussion? With no further discussion. All those in favor signify by raising your right hand, which is unanimous vote. And at this time, we will now have an invocation. I invite you all to join with us or engage in a moment of silent reflection. And at this time, I'm asking Mr. Chuck Abernathy to uh return the invocation, please. Let us pray. Lord, grant us faith to make real the word of God. We rejoice in your presence. You are our

002strength, our refuge, and our savior. We pray for the recent graduating high school students. Let them meet every success. And we pray for all of our students and staff that are working towards the additional graduations that will occur over the years. Grant us your peace and prosper the work of our hands in your holy name. Amen. Amen. Okay. At this time, normally we have the uh famous uh McDow High School in JOTC do our pledge to the flag, but tonight we're going to have retired Lieutenant Commander Chad Marsh to lead us in our pledge. So, you would Mr. Marsh. Appreciate it. Salute 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. Thank you very much, Mr.

003Mark. I appreciate that. Okay, Dr. Grit, uh, your remarks, please, sir. Yes, sir. Thank you folks for being out there tonight. It's a crowded house after a graduation. And it's good to see everybody's already we're still into it, which is great, great news. I was just making a joke earlier with a student who graduated on uh Friday night and uh you know, I said the very first thing you could do is be back to a board meeting on Monday morning. Ryland, we appreciate you being here. Of course, Claire as well. Um we've got several students who returned uh that are going to be receiving awards tonight. We're very proud of you. And that I think that just folks that just speaks volumes to the level of kids that we've got that the day after school's

004out, graduation's over, here they are to receive some recognition. That just says a lot. Um, I wanted to share an article uh recently that I that I put out in the paper, but I felt like it was one that I that that I wanted to read to to folks here. So, this was um really remembering the 2425 school year. So, I'm just going to read this to you. The 2025 20 2024 25 school year began much like any school year with students eager to return to school and teachers preparing their classrooms. As a as a district, we started the year with a convocation where all of our staff had the opportunity to hear from Missy Teman. She was the national teacher of the year. Miss Testerman shared with her experience of teaching in rural Tennessee

005just across the mountains from us here in Marian. We ended up having a lot in common as Miss T. Sterman had even taught some of our students who were associated with a local manufacturing company that also had a plant in her hometown. Little did we know at the time that tropical storms in the Atlantic would be brewing and heading our way. Miss Teman shared stories of adversity and triumph with us that she experienced with her students over the years. She spoke of the hardships her school faced and how her town changed over the years. Miss Terman was an excellent speaker and there was no doubt why she was named the national speaker or teacher of the year. You could feel the passion and the pride as she spoke of her students, even tearing up at

006the fact that as the national teacher of the year, she would not be in her classroom. Instead, she would be traveling the country. The days following Hurricane Helen on September 26, I came to understand that McDow County was extremely blessed to have teachers like Missy Tester. Our teachers ensured that every one of their students was accounted for following the hurricane. Teachers and staff who worked tirelessly distributing food and items of comfort to families in need. Teachers who came into our school despite the struggles due to the storm's impact. They came to work, took care of our students, and then went home to clean up from the storm. Teachers at Pleasant Gardens opened their doors making space for our students and staff from Old for as they spent the next week moving and organizing for students.

007After two weeks, we o reopened the doors to all students except those at Old Fort. The following week, we were able to open PG for Old Fort students, and all of our students returned to school. Our staff helped reunite our schools, enabling the community to return to work and ensuring our students have a safe place to learn. If there's a national school district of the year, I would cast my vote for McDow County Schools for the 2425 school year. I could not be prouder to work with a team that prioritizes our students needs over their own. Later in November, I had the opportunity to meet Miss Testerman once again. It was at the National Blue Ribbon Schools awards ceremony in Washington, DC. She recognized me from the crowd and immediately asked about our schools, letting

008me know that she had been praying for us. I told her about the work our staff did to open our doors. She teared up and she she said she was not surprised to hear how well our staff did. She could tell with her t from her time in Marian this August or last August uh that we had a hardworking and resilient community and staff. After reflecting on this school year, I must say I'm honored to work in a place that will always put our children first. And because of this, our students have excelled to great heights this year. As we prepare and as we prepare I wrote this uh just the other day. As we prepare to graduate the class of 2020 2025 this Friday, which we just did, I have no doubt that our

009students are wellprepared to take the next steps. We hope that many of them will return to Mcdow County to help us bring up the next generation. On behalf of my office, the McDow County Board of Education, I would like to extend our gratitude to all of our staff, emergency services personnel, local law enforcement, fire and rescue, and community leaders for their support in helping us to return to school and for being with us every step of the way during the 2425 school year. We could not have done it without you. Mr. Frank, I also want to take this opportunity uh to let let folks out there know that um we did have an additional award that came in uh just last week. Uh we received notice that Mr. Jacob Davis, senior at McDow High School,

010who just graduated, was recognized as the all an all-state baseball player. Uh it was one of those we did not have an opportunity to get uh Mr. Davis on the agenda. We might need to do that at some point. Um, but even even as the kids were walking across the stage, we were still learning about some of their accolades. It just just speaks volumes about the resilience of this bunch of kids and the staff that we've got working with them. I'm incredibly proud and honored today. Thank you. Continue on. All right. I think I'll step up to the podium for this next. Yes, sir. All right. Tonight is also a special night for a retiree. He didn't We don't You hadn't heard us say that very often, have you, Mr. Trinks? Well, we've got something

011special for you tonight. And first of all, we want to just thank you for coming back tonight. It means a whole lot that you would give up your time on the lake. I know you're probably busy out there. And what better would you be have to do at 6:00 on a Monday, a beautiful Monday afternoon than come to a board meeting after you're retired. Um, but I promise you, uh, we won't let you down on this one. Uh, I've got I've got a, uh, prestigious award that I want to, uh, present to you tonight, Mr. Trinks, and I'm going to ask you, first, I'm going to turn your face a little bit red, but I'm going to ask you if you will come on up here to the to the center. I'm gonna put you

012on the spot a little bit. I'm gonna put you on the spot. All right, folks. It's moments like these that don't come around every uh very often where we pause to reflect on the life of service, dedication, and unwavering commitment to others. It is a true honor to be standing here today, part of a celebration that recognizes not only the years of work, but the legacy built through the integrity and quiet impact. On behalf of the governor of North Carolina, I have the incredible honor of presenting one of the most prestigious recognitions our state can bestow, the order of the longleaf pine. This award is more than just a certificate or a ceremonial title. It's North Carolina's way of saying with deep gratitude, thank you. Thank you for showing up, for leading with integrity, for

013making the lives better quietly, consistently, and without ever asking for recognition. Today we honor Mr. Garvin Trinks, a man whose name is synonymous with the dedication and service to Mcdow County. Mr. Drinks began his journey with McDow County School at just 18 years old. Over the next 45 years through skill, hard work, and unwavering commitment to the students and staff, he rose through the ranks from maintenance worker to director of maintenance. He has made it his life's mission to ensure that every school in this county is safe, functional, and welcoming. His work has endured the respect and commendation of every superintendent he has served under. But beyond the certifications, achievement, and recognition, Mr. Trink's greatest legacy is his heart, his tireless work ethic, his fiscal responsibility, and most of all, his devotion to the children

014of McDow County. He has worked countless hours beyond the call of duty, not for praise or for spotlight, but because he believes in the power of safe, well-maintained school to transform a student's day and maybe even their future. For these reasons and so many more, it is my deep honor to present Mr. Garvin Trinkx with the order of the Longleaf Pine on behalf of a grateful community and a proud state. Thank you. [Applause] Now, the one thing I'm going to show you about making a toast in order to make this toast. I'm not a member of the long so I can't do this. Charlie made she can't she she can she can make toast. You can make toast. I think she wants to make a few others to One of the few things that you

015can do here. We appreciate you, sir. Thank you. Thank you. [Applause] Dr. Gre, you should have reminded him Mr. English can also make that toast. Yep, that's right. Just the other day, Mr. English can make that toast with you. Uh, next up, we have our student recognitions, and I'll invite to the podium Mr. Chad Marsh. Folks, as Mr. Marsh makes his way to the podium, uh if you all will just roll right up so we don't have to announce you. Just follow the agenda. Uh Mr. Chairman, thank you, sir. Members of the board, uh Dr. Gri, it's always a pleasure. Uh tonight, we're going to ask two incredible young people to please join us here. Uh, Miss Claire MacArthur, Mr. Ryland Parkkins, if you will please come front and center with the superintendent. Uh, Mr.

016Superintendent, recently the North Carolina High School Athletic Association announced uh, the recipients of the 2024 2025 Heart of a Champion Award. The North Carolina High School Athletic Association recognizes this award uh, for student athletes across our state who have demonstrated exceptional sportsmanship, leadership, and community service while participating in high school athletics. Each recipient rep represents the very best of North Carolina's high school sports culture and exemplifies the values of integrity, perseverance, and dedication on and off the field. Miss Clara MacArthur, a basketball and volleyball player. Clara has overcome a hearing impairment to become a leader on and off the court. She volunteers at youth camps and shares her story with children diagnosed with hearing loss. Mr. Ryland Parkkins, a two-time conference player of the year in basketball. Ryland leads school mentorship programs and has overcome

017major health challenges to remain an active and impactful student athlete. Mr. Superintendent, these represent the very best of McDow High School student athletes. We're very, very proud. [Applause] Good evening. I have the pleasure to spotlight Valentina Trillo. She is a in a remarkable achievement has made history as the first McDow County student to receive the North Carolina seal of biiteracy. This prestigious accolade is awarded to students who demonstrate exceptional proficiency in two or more languages by graduation. Graduating on May 16th from McDow Early College, she not only earned her high school diploma, but also her associates in arts from McDow Technical Community College. She is set to continue her educational journey at Eugene Lang College of Liberal Arts in New York with a focus on psychology and art therapy and plans to pursue a master's

018in counseling. McDow County Schools proudly celebrates Valentina's achievements and the impact she has made in her community. Congratulations So, it's my honor to get to recognize some of our art students from McDow High School. So each spring, members of the US House of Representatives sponsor the Congressional Art Competition. It's a nationwide high school visual arts contest designed to recognize and encourage artistic talent throughout the country and within each congressional district. Uh this competition is open to all high school students in grades 9 through 12 within each district. And so McDow High School, we were very proud to send four of our students this year to compete in this. And Miss Christina Cannon, if you'll step up here, she entered two pieces of artwork and was awarded first place for her stunning still life drawing. Her

019work is going to be displayed in the United States Capital for one year alongside other district winners from across the country. and she and her mother are going to travel to Washington DC to get to participate in this special honor. I'm clap [Applause] I've got a question. After one year, is it for sale after that? No. It never hurts to ask. Na name your prize Christina name your prize. That is her other piece of artwork that she entered in this. Um also Barbara Nell Leot she received honorable mention and the Facebook favorite award. Also while we were there Congressman Edwards was so impressed with her work that he asked to have that to display in his office. So um she cannot be with us tonight. They're on a family trip. So there's her artwork. Bailey

020Bernett was also awarded with honorable mention. And that's Bailey with her artwork. I think we've got there's the closeup of it. And then Emily Bean artwork was recognized for its excellence in the competition. And there's Miss Emily with her artwork. Yes. And and I would like to um also recognize the outstanding guidance of Miss Christy Shaw and Miss Sarah Weatherman Marsh. Um they're my dedicated art teachers at the high school. Their passion for teaching and commitment to developing the talents of our students continue to shine. Um and these students here can attest how great Miss Shaw and Miss uh Marsh are. So we appreciate them. Thank you. [Applause] Mr. Frank, if I may, real quick, um, go ahead. My older brother is is here. And Eric, could you introduce your family and val in your

021relationship to Valentina? Sure. So, Valentina is my niece, her mother is SA, my wife, Sul, and her aunt Marty soul. They're all sisters. Thank you. And Sebastian, her brother. Thank you. Good evening, Mr. Frank, Mr. Abernathy, Dr. Grit, members of the board, and ex esteemed guests. We have all had those incredible people in our lives who bring joy, laughter, support, encouragement, and an incredible amount of energy. If the Energizer Bunny was a person, it would undoubtedly be Zachary Eden. Zachary has been an absolutely instrumental member of our EC department. He's always on the go, whether he's facilitating monthly PLC's for our school behavioral support assistance, visiting schools, working in classrooms, and directly supporting students. His dedication shines through in everything he does from earning his trainer certification for CPI which stands for crisis prevention intervention

022to adding on an additional certification for supporting students with autism. He even provided afterchool behavioral support for a student who couldn't attend during regular school hours showing his commitment. One of Zachary's many accomplishment includes establishing student coping skill groups. He meets with these students weekly, helping them understand appropriate ways to communicate frustration, advocate for their needs, and express themselves effectively. Beyond all his hard work and focus on student success, Zachary also keeps us entertained. He's got a song for every conversation, a witty joke to lighten the mood, and a constant reminder that our jobs are centered on people, individuals with unique needs, talents, and abilities. And now for a final celebration. We're thrilled to announce that Zachary has been accepted into the BCBA program. This means he'll return he'll be returning to school to become

023a certified board behavioral analysis pursuing a master's degree in applied behavior analysis or related field. Zachary, you you are beyond obser deserving of this recognition. It is truly an honor to watch you be celebrated for the amazing things you do for McDow County Schools. So, ladies and gentlemen, Mr. Zachary Eden is our certified employee of the month. Next up, we're going to ask Miss Becky Berles to come on up here. It is an honor and a privilege to recognize an outstanding individual whose dedication and behind the scenes efforts keeps one of the most essential operations in our school system running smoothly. Our classified employee of the month is Miss Becky Berles, a vital member of our transportation department where she has served for over eight years. Mrs. Sperles's responsibilities are numerous and each one plays

024a critical role in ensuring the safety and efficiency of our transportation system. She assists with submitting all required paperwork to NCDPI, helping us maintain compliance and accountability at the state level. She also coordinates drug testing for our bus drivers, ensuring that we uphold the highest saf safety standards for our students and staff. In addition, she aids to managing the processes for the DOT medical cards, which is a big deal, supporting the health certifications needed for our drivers to stay on the road. Mrs. Berles organizes the scheduling for bus driver training and renewals, a task that becomes increasingly complex when you're supporting a fleet of over 60 school buses that collectively travel more than 3,700 miles every single day. Her meticulous attention to detail, dedication to safety, and ability to manage complex logistics makes her an

025indispensable part of our team. Mrs. Burles, thank you for your care, precision, and heart that you bring to your work each day. Your impact on student safety and operational ex excellence is deeply appreciated by us all. Please join me in congratulating Mrs. Becky Berles as our classified employee of the month. [Applause] Don't leave yet, Miss Burles. Don't leave yet. I I've got to pay honor to this woman. Uh, I'm telling you, Miss uh, Dattle alluded to the health cards you got to have to drive a bus. And, uh, I am a bus driver. And, uh, I've had some medical issues that I have to renew my card every year. So, it takes a a collaboration between the cardiologist and your physical doctor that gives you the physical. And and I'm telling you, this woman has

026been over backwards the past three weeks uh so I could get my health card uh to her before I had to go to some truck driver training school to renew everything. And so let me tell you, when she she didn't touch the surface of what she commended this woman for, uh I'm just one of many, but she takes the same attitude and the same patience and the same uh everything with them that that she did with me. And I'm going to tell you something. Don't you ever think I don't appreciate you cuz I couldn't get that doctor on either side to budge. But but you but she kept telling me, "Oh, honey, it's okay. It's okay. We'll get it. We'll get it." And I thought, "Yeah, yeah, right." But anyway, thank you so much [Applause]

027Members of the board, ladies and gentlemen, I would like to introduce a special guest tonight. Actually, you always see him every time you come and that's Mr. Joy Hill. As your term, Mr. Hill comes to an end as teacher of the year. We want to thank you for your dedication and service throughout this remarkable time. Your presentations and contributions have truly been valued. They offered inspiration and practical insight to our colleagues and students alike. Your passion for education and commitment to excellence has left a meaningful impact on us all. Thank you for representing the best of what teachers can achieve. Having you serve as this year's teacher of the year has been an honor. Ladies and gentlemen, Mr. Joy Hill [Applause] You ready for me? Yeah. All right. And we're going to mix things up

028a little bit from what we normally do. Normally we hear from Mr. Hill. Um but we it's in September. We missed one for obvious reasons. Um I guess it would have been the October one. Uh so we we've passed that on to our new teacher of the year and during this time we want to introduce a video to the board. This is the everyday hero video and I want to tell you how this came about. Uh, Miss Hamby and I put our heads together and uh, talked about what we could do special here at the end of the school year and we liked the idea of being able to have this each of our schools honor somebody that they considered to be their everyday hero. Uh, they then invited those people in and surprised them

029at their school. Uh, Mr. Barry Hill then took all the 45 second, excuse me, 45 second clips and put them together in this video. So, in lie of the presentation tonight, Mr. Mr. Hill, we thought we would show this everyday hero video so the board and the community could see who our schools felt like were our everyday heroes. Once we uh air this tonight, we will put this out on our social media pages uh so everybody will have an opportunity to see it. But Mr. Barhill, if you will take it away. [Music] I'm Tracy Woodman, the principal of East Midtown Middle School, and I've got the lovely Jennifer Franklin with me, who doesn't know why she's here. She's a little stressed. Our school, East Midtown Middle, wants to recognize Jennifer Franklin as our everyday hero.

030Oh my gosh. 24 years. Oh my gosh. The reason is simple. Jennifer pours her heart into making a difference in the lives of students and staff at East Down Middle. She embodies the Trojan spirit. She's dedicated, compassionate, and selfless. She is our biggest supporter. She's not a lot. Congratulations, Jennifer. You have made a difference. Every single day makes me middle school. Thank you. Your dedication and hard work inspire us all and have made a lasting impact on our students and staff. Thank you for being our everyday hero. Thank you. I love you guys. Everybody, I love you all. Thank [Music] you. My name is Billy Klein and I'm the principal of McDall Academy for Innovation. Today I would like to recognize Miss Wilma Elliot as our everyday hero. Miss Elliot has been a huge impact

031on the students and and families of McDow County Schools for almost 50 years, serving as a math teacher at several high schools in the in the county. Miss Elliot, thank you so much for your dedication, your willingness, and the contribution you've made to my life and the lives of many others in our area. Thank you very much. Hello, I'm Adam Wisman, principal of North Cove Elementary. Our school wants to recognize Miss Glenda Glenn as our everyday hero for the 2024 2025 school year. We are proud to recognize Miss Glenn as our everyday hero. Miss Glenn joined the North Co family just after Christmas as our interim school counselor, and from day one, she has gone above and beyond to support both our students and staff. Her unwavering commitment to putting students first, her positive attitude,

032tireless work ethic, and genuine heart for children truly embody what it means to be an everyday hero. We are so grateful to have Miss Glenn as part of our North Cove family. Congratulations, Miss Glenn, for making a difference at our school. Your dedication and hard work inspire us all and have a lasting impact on our students, staff, and community. Congratulations, Miss Glenn. You've been nominated for McDow County School's Everyday Hero Award. Oh, you're kitties. Oh, how wonderful. They thank you for all you do. Yes. This means so much to me. Thank you so much. Principal of Foothills Community School. And I have with me, Miss Britney Peters. They are help us out all the time here at Footh Hills Community School and so we wanted to present her with this [Music] award. My name is

033Diana Ray and I'm the principal at Glenwood Elementary School. Our school wants to recognize Betty Ross as our everyday hero for the 2425 school year. Mrs. Ross is a retired educator from Glenwood Elementary School. She was a teacher and counselor at Glenwood for many years. She spent her career advocating for children. Her retirement has been no different. Following her retirement, Ms. Ross has continued to volunteer at Glenwood. She mentors a group of students once a week and has done so since her retirement. She also serves as a parent surrogate for Glenwood and other schools, advocating for students with the greatest needs. Thank you, Miss Ross, for making a difference at our school and in our community. Your dedication and hard work inspire us all and have a lasting impact on our students, staff, and community.

034Thank you for being an everyday hero. It has been my pleasure for the last three months to be the principal of Pat McDow early college. And when I go around classes all day, I see people who really work and do the extra things that make it a great place to learn for all kids and someone that never stops working and someone that every day outworks anyone else on this campus I see and I'm very appreciative of what she does and I see the impact she has on kids. So my everyday hero award for Early College goes to Miss Bice. Oh, thank you. That's so sweet. Oh, thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Marian Elementary is proud to recognize Stephanie Goodro as our everyday hero. As the community representative on our school improvement team, she brings

035a strong voice and steady support to our school. Stephanie is our liaison with First United Methodist Church of Marian, coordinating everything from snack donations for our nurse and teachers to leading the adopt a teacher program. She also works with our beautifification team and recently gathered volunteers to help reopen our nature trail. Stephanie's heart for service makes a lasting impact and we're so grateful for all she does. Hey, I'm Aaron Rayfield, principal of Pleasant Gardens Elementary School. We want to recognize Greta Goodson as our everyday hero for the 2024 2025 school year. Miss Goodson goes above and beyond to support the students and staff at PG. Miss Greta comes in to sub, makes copies for teachers, runs errands, reads with students, buys Christmas gifts for families, and so much more. Congratulations, Miss Goodson, for making a

036difference at our school. Your dedication and hard work inspires us and has a lasting impact on our school and community. Thank you for being an everyday hero. Thank you. Hello, I'm Rodney Wheeler, director at Sunman Academy. Our school wants to recognize Lincoln Poe as our everyday hero for this school year. Blake arrives nearly every day. He tends everything Chromebookwise from checking stuff in to making sure they're signed out. You can always find him interacting with students, assisting with technology issues, academic issues, and maybe even playing the card game or two. By the way, he is the UNO champion. Link is the student whisperer, and there's no voodoo involved. Congratulations, Mr. Pubone for making a difference at our school. Your dedication and hard work inspire us all and have a lasting impact on our students, staff,

037and community. Thank you for being an everyday hero. Hello, my name is Edin Spivey, principal of West McDow Middle School. Our school would like to recognize Miss Crystal Marsh as our everyday hero of the 2425 school year. Hey, go. The reason for this selection is Miss Marsh or Mama Marsh as she is known to many at West McDell Middle is often the first face you see when you walk through our school doors. She makes everyone feel welcome. Whether she's answering the phone, greeting parents, or managing situations with a nurturing demeanor, her voice is both powerful and her personality is impactful. She is the glue that holds us together. We would like to express our gratitude for your patience, kindness, and efficiency. Thank you for all the little things that you do and the big things

038that you do for West McDow Middle School to make it such a great place every single day. You are the heart of our school. Congratulations, Miss March, from making a Thank you. Crystal Marsh shows love through her contagious laughter, amazing dance moves, school spirit, and listening ear. As soon as you enter the doors of West Middle, you are greeted with kindness and compassion. Her unwavering care, and dedication have made a lasting impact on the entire school. Mama Marsh, we love you and we appreciate everything you do for us. I think Miss Marsh is a hero more so because she's always here for people and she's a very solid person in the school and you can always run to her for anything. Today I want to recognize someone who truly embodies what it means to be

039an everyday hero. McDow High School English teacher Mr. Samuel Roy. Mr. Roy puts in countless hours outside the classroom to make sure not only our students but families across McDow County are supported and cared for. He leads initiatives like Mr. MHS, a fundraiser that provides critical help to families in need, which is no small feat. As the leader of student council who are surrounding us today, Mr. Roy models servant leadership daily, organizing prom, dances, and community service projects that bring people together. Even after suffering major damage to his own property during Hurricane Colleen, he continued showing up, volunteering, supporting students, and putting others first. Samuel Roy just doesn't talk about making a difference. He lives it. And so, Mr. Roy. On behalf of McDow County Schools, I want to give you this certificate of recognition

040to Mr. Samuel Roy. He is McDow High School's everyday hero. It is my pleasure to recognize someone very special at Old Fort Elementary School. Mr. Steve Ray, our school custodian, but truly so much more. He is truly our everyday hero. Mr. Steve keeps our building and grounds looking perfect, but that's just the beginning. He encourages students. He prays for us and sets an example every day as a role model. He can fix absolutely anything. During Hurricane Helen, when our school was displaced, he coordinated the massive job of moving furniture, made thousands of strips storing supplies, and never once complained. He kept a positive spirit the whole time. And if you've ever heard one of Mr. Steve's stories, you know he can make you laugh until you cry. Mr. Steve Ray, thank you for being the

041heart of our school. Hi, I'm Ashley Bagwell, principal at NA Elementary School. I have with me Miss Christina Wooten. She is our everyday hero. Miss Wooten was selected for this word award because she builds strong meaningful relationships with our students through lunch groups with our families with our staff and our community as a whole. She not only supports our students at school through academics. She also makes sure that their basic needs are met. Um food, water, clothing, housing items, she just does it all. Miss Wooten also collaborates greatly with our community partnerships in this this effort and we could not think of a better person to be our everyday hero at Nemo Elementary than Miss Miss Christina Wooden. Thank you. How are you? I'm good. Well, I got something for you today. It is an

042award and it is from Red County Schools and it is the everyday hero award. You remind us all the heroes are among us turning ordinary moments into extraordinary impacts. Hello, I'm Melissa Elliot, principal of Eastville Global Magnet School. It is my honor to recognize someone who truly embodies the spirit of service and community, Pastor Terry Roach. Roach and his church have been unwavering pillar support for our school through their generous contributions to our share cart have access to essential items like shampoo, soap, toothpaste, and hairbrushes. small things that make a big difference in a child's daily life. But Pastor Roach's support doesn't stop there. He visits our school regularly, checking in with a caring heart and a willingness to help however he can. He and his church have provided meaningful activities for the Eastfield community

043throughout the year. And this past Christmas, they brought joy and relief to eight families with their incredible support. Each week, Pastor Roach also leads the Good News Club, offering students who wish to attend a safe, welcoming space to grow in faith and friendship. Terry Roach is more than a pastor. He is a consistent prayer leader and a friend to our entire school community. That's why we are proud to recognize him today as our everyday hero. Thank you, Pastor Roach, for all you do. [Music] Well guys, we're up in Moresville, North Carolina. We thought we'd stop by the drag ship ripping on heat sleeper 4Runner today and Mrs. Dat we don't have any requests address the board. Okay. Thank you. Item number 11 on our agenda is unfinished business. And I wanted to be able to

044introduce this gentleman myself, Mr. Chad Marsh. Uh talking about everyday heroes, Mr. Uh Marsh, I appreciate everything that you do. Uh you're a lot of your feats go unnoticed, but I can assure you here on the board, we uh see them. We appreciate them. And I know you're a man that doesn't accept accolades real well. But I just wanted to know my appreciation for you, sir, and the board's appreciation for what you do. Thank you, sir. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I'd be remiss if I didn't take just a second to say the one lady there from West I happen to know pretty well and uh really really proud of my wife. I think that's a really that's a it's a incredibly important thing that you did Mr. Superintendent um to get that program rolling along

045with Mrs. Hammy because I you know as someone who gets a chance to work with some of our non-certified staff every single day I can tell you McDow County Schools doesn't operate without them and so u really appreciate that. Um, Mr. Chairman, members of the board, Mr. Superintendent, and ladies and gentlemen, it's again my pleasure to provide an update of operations, auxiliary services, and athletics. Um, Mr. Chairman, one of the things as we talk about some of our operations folks, you know, Mr. Garrett Barry Hill being here tonight amongst them. Again, I think sometimes it goes unnoticed, but just how much work he and and Mr. Thomas and Mr. Haynes and Mr. Vaughn are able to do uh within our operations auxiliaries division is just really eye watering. Um for instance, Mr. Thomas and his

046staff have been diligently working to assist with bus allocation of the summer programs, conducting parts inventories and performing incredibly important bus inspections and repairs. While Mr. Gary Bar Garrett Barry Hill and his staff have been working the testing of our new temperature sensors, Mr. subtles that we have talked about for a while and and initial testing has really proven to be promising there uh with students been assisting with students getting out of the buildings there and so we can be able to move forward with migrating the remaining schools to their new subnetss and this will significantly improve our network speeds and reliability and security across our district. uh they're working through our updated cyber security insurance application for this year and finalizing grant applications. Uh for instance, with our COPS uh CSVP or school violence

047prevention program, uh Garrett and I are working closely to get that grant out the door. And then uh certainly with our Chromebook reallocation, which is important every year, uh Mr. Haynes and his staff have been working diligently uh to ensure that each one of our children within the school system will be able to eat uh federally child federal child nutrition programs and claim reimbursement for those meals. And I'm happy to report that they've finalized our annual agreement there. Also been working with contractors and staff to at elementary school to ensure that our kitchen is ready uh to receive children upon arrival uh this August. and our athletics. We're happy to report that we had three new bleachers delivered to the school this uh this past week and information about our summer camps has gone out

048and the first one starts today. I know there's a little girl who was excited to go up and play some volleyball this afternoon. Uh Mr. Jeff Vaughn in our auxiliaries uh division has been absolutely wonderful thus far. He is attentive um and he's hardworking. Everything that I could have asked for. our playgrounds, playgrounds, and more playgrounds seems to be one of the issues that we're addressing. Uh we have new playgrounds at North Cove Elementary and in West Marian. A new playground will be installed to replace the damage system at Marian for Mrs. Wilkerson this month. A playground that was ordered and delivered for Neibo for Mrs. Bagwell prior to my arrival will be erected over the summer by the original manufacturer, allowing us to keep the warranty. And finally, we were happy to assist with

049Dr. Cormans and her team with procurement of adaptable swings. And after they arrive, um, McDow County Schools personnel will install them at various locations that she appoints throughout the district. This means that children who might not otherwise get to play with their peers have an opportunity to swing alongside of them. And that's super important. Remediation, repairs of the water damage caused by the broken braided line at Eastville Global Magnet School nears completion with the exception of some base trim and a few finishes. So, we're we're in the short roads as we say. Uh we're working to convert areas of Westwindale Middle School to create an incredibly important self-contained EC classroom over the summer. And Dr. Croyman's has been incredibly hardworking and easy to work with as we begin to go out there and identify a

050classroom along with uh Mr. Spivey there that will suit the needs of those children. Uh we continue to work with FEMA and local contractors to remove debris as well as make repairs to areas that were damaged. And this summer, uh, we have finally received all of our Knox boxes and we will begin installation of those, uh, at various locations throughout the district this summer to improve our responsiveness and security. Uh, finally, we when auxiliaries, we are kicking off our summer painting and floor cleaning programs, which is always an important way to uh, refurbish our schools. Pleasant Gardens Elementary School. We have completed our agreement with Pleasant Gardens Baptist Church and with the exception of replacing a few ceiling tiles that were damaged by a leaky toilet, we're out of their way and those will be

051replaced this week or as soon as they come in. Uh we worked with our insurance claims manager who has agreed to cover the interior cleaning and painting of of that entire school. Uh we met with a contractor Belffor today who walked through the entire school with us to try to get a good assessment of what it was that they would need to do before providing a proposal and we'll working continue to work to gather quotes for the remediation and sp expenditure of the $1 million grant that Mrs. Rampy and I uh worked to be awarded recently. Uh on to elementary school. Mr. Chairman, I am continue to be confident, sir, that we will be able to open school uh for students in August of this year. Uh I believe we'll be able Dr. Grit and

052I will be able to work together to find a timeline that will be inside of that to provide that to Mrs. Ward at which time he will notify you. Sir, a thorough walkthrough was completed on Tuesday the 20th of May by McDow County Schools personnel, Principal Ward and Belffor representatives. The result of this comprehensive walkthrough was a ninepage hit list or punch list that Belffor has been working on since we completed it. officer. Um, this is expected to be completed in the month of July and with the exception of some long lead time items such as backsplash and a couple kick plates, uh, everything is uh, is pretty much in place. Uh, I'm also happy to report, sir, that as of this afternoon, um, McDow County Schools received a certificate of completion from Mcdow County

053Building Inspector, Mr. J. Subtles for Oldford Elementary School. The reason that we did this serve was after discussion with Dr. Grit. We just wanted to make sure certain that we included all of our partners and had as many eyes on that elementary school prior to opening as we could so that everyone felt comfortable and satisfied with the measures that we've taken. Mr. Subtles reported that we he felt like we went overboard in some cases and he was very pleased with what we did. Remediation is ongoing, sir. Again, just as a as a cursory, HVAC's been completed and air quality inspections has been uh deemed satisfactory. The floorings are completed. The walls are completed. Case work and cabinetry. There's some linear feet of backsplash, as we mentioned earlier, is identified as being damaged or missing that'll

054be replaced. Then the contract continues to work on the process. So, finishing the door item, which includes installation hardware, replacing exterior door sweeps. The furniture from Vero, uh, the vendor has been approved. Mrs. Rampy, myself worked with the claims manager to make sure that those items were approved. and they will be on site the week of 7 July to assemble all of the equipment that was deemed to be damaged or lost during the hurricane. Structurally, as a reminder, we have an inspection that was completed and it's been deemed to be structurally sound and safer occupancy. Um the grounds, the sediment testing, as a reminder, was completed and the grounds were deemed to be safe. We have grass growing in areas that were recently filled with dirt and debris. Our playground sidewalks and exterior building have

055all been pressure washed to fidelity. They look great. and our natural areas in front of the school have received mulch. Um, finally, an area of erosion that we've identified near Mil Creek is adjacent to the walking track has we're in the process of receiving proposals for remediation of those and we're working with FEMA to cover the cost. Mr. Chairman, this completes my report this evening, sir. We're happy to answer any questions from you or any of the members of the board. Does anybody have any questions for Mr. Marsh? Mr. Marsh, I just want to add to that. Um, going out to Old Fort this morning and Mr. Shuford had a chance to visit out there as well. Uh, just to see the the smiles on those teachers faces getting back in that building. It's big

056and we just want to appreciate the work that you've done and just thank you for helping us get get those teachers back in the building and know that we're headed that direction with our students and it's it's it's been a long time coming. Thank you. Yes, sir. Thank you. Go ahead, sir. All right. Uh next up we've got Miss F uh Suzanne Rampy will be giving us a finance update. A little different of a finance update tonight. We will be talking about um our consolidation project. So I've asked Miss Rampy to provide us with some figures on that. Thank you. Before I get started on that, I just wanted to also make a note of two items that are in your consent agenda. Uh these are normal end of the year uh resolutions. One is

057for uh the interim budget resolution. So basically that gives us the authority to pay salaries or normal expenses until the budget is approved uh from the state and then the other item is the uh budget resolution for budget amendments and that is uh notification that we will anything that happens between now and June 30th we will give that to you in your next board meeting. Okay. To so first thing I wanted to talk about was in the consolidation that we spoke about uh with consolidating two schools there would be several moves and um there are some cost savings related to that. The first one would be we would u move our central services and move summit academy along with that into one centralized location. A couple of the benefits of that would be both instructional

058and operational support would be in one location. Currently we have several locations across the county where operational support is located. It would also create additional space for board meetings including additional space for uh events or guest uh parking etc. For the summit academy integration that does support growth currently uh where we're at does is limited in the number of students that we can provide services for. So that would allow us some growth there. If we did see growth, if we get at least 100 students at Summit, it does allow us a principal aotment from the state at that at at the 100 student mark. That is when the state does allocate a principal position there. It would also allow us to provide on-site nutrition services for better student support. Currently, we are bringing the meals

059to the summit students every day um from another site. And so we will be able to uh make those and create a nutritional service there and a cafeteria there. Improve traffic flow, site accessibility, and reduction of rental expenses. We're currently renting that space that the Summit Academy is located. Uh some of the other benefits would be staffing efficiencies. Um when you're combining two locations, you would have some staffing efficiencies there and through attrition, we would look at efficiencies in those positions. Operational cost reductions, we would have some lower utility costs by reducing uh the number of facilities that we have. Uh we are looking at around $50,000 for that per year. We would have a decreased cost for nutritional services because we would go from two locations to one by combining two schools. Also, there's

060an opportunity to optimize transportation routes and just improve efficiency overall both in maintenance um and any other operational expenses that we have there. And then also um if we were to sell the surplus uh facility that we had, we could use those funds to offset any cost to build the new location, the new school or for any land cost at that time. And that is a a quick summary. You know, obviously there's a lot of more work to do there and a lot more detailed work to do when we do combine two facilities, but those are some of the bigger items that we would have and some just noninancial benefits that we would see as well. Any questions on that? Thank you. Next item we've got on the agenda is um North Carolina school-based capital

061grants uh discussion. And tonight folks, I will be uh board I will be asking for um action to be taken on this item. I want to go back through and talk about the history of this pro program and what's been going on there. So, uh, at this point, uh, we've, uh, we've, uh, we've picked up, uh, 120day due diligences on two pieces of property, uh, as part of, uh, work that we're trying to do to be able to apply for a grant to be able to build a new school. And that's exciting, but I mean, there's a whole lot of things between now and and that time frame. One of those pieces, and it may seem early, but I just want to remind folks that there are three really big uh pieces to the rubric

062that the state looks at when you're going to build a new school. One of those is being shovel ready, meaning you've got a plan uh with with an architect. Uh the other one is a tier one county is given um an additional uh score in the rubric. And anytime you can consolidate facilities, uh that is the that is the th that those three things when you can put those three things together, you are the most you have the highest score on the rubric and stand the best chance at earning the grant. I'll remind the board those grants are $42 million for an elementary school, $52 million for a middle school, and $62 million for um a high school. I will tell you um with the and you guys are well aware with the number of

063uh studies that we have done uh and they've isolated a location uh for for the properties to be within roughly a mile and a half somewhere in that neighborhood radius of East McDow Middle School. Uh so we were able to find and two pieces of property, enter into contracts on those two pieces of property. Of course, we only want to buy one of those pieces of property. We know that. Um, but those are all the things leading up to that. I want to take that a step further. Uh, over the past couple of weeks since our last board meeting, I've had individual staff meetings at both Marian Elementary School and Eastfield uh, Global Magnet School because one of the things I wanted to do was talk with the staff and make sure they understood what

064what we were doing. Um, we've talked about um, McDow County Schools has had a decline in enrollment due to population and growth in the in the district. So combining schools with large numbers really wouldn't work. Um but because we've had uh smaller class sizes coming through those schools over the last little bit. Um and uh looking at the numbers basically from the NC State study group um that was really one of the best models to be able to look at a consolidation. The biggest questions that they had weren't about whether they needed a new school, but it was about staffing, which Miss Rampy just spoke to you about. No positions would be uh gone unless uh through through attrition. So, I think that was important. They also wanted to know about schedules and time frames

065and curriculums and different things like that. and I I ease their mind by having a conversation with them to say, "We're really early to be having those conversations. The first thing we need to do is secure $42 million to be able to say we're going to we're going to be able to build a school." Um, in order to do that, uh, what I would ask the board to do uh, tonight would be to consider that consolidation of those two schools. Why is that so important at this point? In order to be shovel ready and have this grant written by January, uh we need to put out an RFQ for our architect, we really need to have that put out tomorrow. Just to be completely honest with you, uh we can put an RFQ out tomorrow

066that gives the scope of the work to the architect so they would know what they were looking at. So in July, we would bring back to the board uh an RFQ for the architect, which then could begin designing the plans. So that's a whole lot of moving parts to say that I feel like we've spoken with faculty. Um we had uh Mr. Subtles, you were you were present with us in the meeting. We had great faculty meetings with uh both of those school staffs. I felt very strongly about it. Uh we followed up back with our principles. Miss Wilkerson's there in the back of the room. We had some great conversations with uh the staff there. And since then, I think we put a lot of the rumor mill, if you will. Uh we put

067a lot of those rumors behind us. Uh yes, there's going to be difficult decisions to make. What's the mascot going to be? What are the school colors going to be? What's the name going to be? What's the calendar going to be? All those are questions that we know we don't have answers to right now. But the one thing that I can say that we do know is we need $42 million in order to build this school. And the next step for us in order to do that is to uh what I would ask the board is to uh I'm going to recommend that you consolidate or you're you're proposing for the North Carolina capital grant that we consolidate Eastfield Global Magnet School and Marion Elementary School. And I would open the floor up for any

068questions and entertain that. Okay. The floor is open for any questions and uh if there are no questions then I'll take your time. If there are questions that's fine but uh at the point there are no more questions u Dr. Grit has asked for entertain a motion to approve the North Carolina schoolbased capital grants uh action there. Mr. Chairman, I'd like to make a motion that uh we move forward based on the groundwork and consideration that we've given in combining Maron Elementary and Eastville Global Magnet School and that we go forth with a application for the U North Carolina schoolbased capital grant to make this happen. Do we have a second? Second, Mr. Frank. Mr. Frank, while we're doing this, I think it's important that we we go on record too to say, as you

069know, for me as a Representative Marian, um I want to make sure that all the teachers, the kids, uh the students feel safe and comfortable and uh let Marin Elementary and Eastfield know that we're going to do everything we can to make it gel for them as a staff and not cut any corners on what they need over there to make this uh not only successful but to be a great environment for our elementary school and uh just like we would for Old For Elementary and some of the others too but uh that they've got our back and they can come to us with any questions throughout that process that they may have for us to answer. Miss Helms being a representative from the U city as well. Do you have anything you'd like to

070add? No, I I totally support and and echo what Donnie said and of anything those teachers or the community needs in terms of their transition. Mr. Barkstdale, I just think after we had our meeting today, we need to just make sure that everybody understands that um these positions that we'll be losing be lost due to attrition. Um, and that's one of the important things that I would like to echo and but everything also I just want to thank you all for all the work you put into it. Is there any further discussion? We have a motion by Mr. Schuford, second by Mr. Baker. Discussion's been had. Great comments by Mr. Subtles. We appreciate that. But definitely got to keep that in mind and uh as well as other two representatives from Marion at large, Miss

071Helms and Mr. Barkstdale. With nothing else, I'll entertain a vote. All those in favor signify by raising your right hand, which is unanimous. Does that get you where you want? Yes, sir. Thank you, folks. I think that is a a big step tonight. Um, and I just want to remind everyone, uh, grants are just that. They're grants. Um, you know, they come around once a year and you have an opportunity to apply for it. U, so we very well could get our grants submitted. We hope we hope we have everything the state is looking for. But just as a reminder, if if if we don't, uh, then we have to wait another year in order to apply again. So going ahead and having a plan, having our having our architect make some designs, having the

072property, all that stuff, that means when when the state does give us the nod a year, two years, three years down the road, uh this board, I want to thank you for having the vision and the forethought, the foreshadowing to know that that's what we needed in this community. So thank you. Up next, we've got uh Mr. Marsh with the under new business will be the RFQ for the architects. Uh Mr. Super, I'd like to yield to Mr. Barkdale, sir. On this particular item, u to make sure that I understand what we're doing first. We talking about the West McDow project, sir, or the the RFP that we just discussed? The West McDow project, sir? Yes, sir. This won't take long, Mr. Chairman. In accordance with North Carolina General Statute, we're required to submit um

073or to advertise for requests for qualifications for any single project that's in greater than the amount of $300,000. One of the grants that Mrs. Ramp Rampy and I work be able to work through and get approved was remediation after Hurricane Marine for the athletic field and area that is commonly used for baseball practice for soccer and football across from Lowe's on Highway 70. This was in the tune of $3 million. Those funds have been sent to school system and required an RFQ to be submitted. Uh we we advertised the RFQ, sir. We had one architect apply for the RFQ. It's my recommendation, sir, to the board that we accept this RFQ from Holland and Hamri, sir. Okay. Uh, and I saw the report in our package and I hope other board members saw it as

074well. We're we're familiar with that firm. And at this time, uh, Mr. Barksdale, I know you guys talked about that probably at today's meeting as well. Is there anything that you want to add to it? And remember that action is requested and he's asking for a motion for this. No, I believe that he's he said it all. We we just need to go ahead with the motion. I'll make the motion that we employ Holland and Hammer. Second. Okay, we have a motion by Mr. Abernathy and a second by Mr. Barksdale to go ahead uh with the RFQ request that Mr. Marsh has uh asked for and at this time is there any discussion on it? I just got a a question about it. So, with Holland and Hamrik, did we put out some kind of

075uh direction for them or for all the uh people to look at as far as what our idea and our plans were to do with that 3 million? Do we say we're doing the baseball field? Are we doing softball? What are we doing down there? Did we put that out? It's not required in RFQ, sir. All this is is a request for qualification from an architect. The next phase for planning occurs after an architect's been selected. Yeah. And I understand that, Chad. I I would I would suggest that in the future that we put a little bit of uh a note in there for that because you will get more that are um have the desire to help us out. Uh I like Holland and Hammock. They've helped us out a lot. There's just so

076many more above them on uh field building that that do a good job and for 3 million if you want to do it right, which is enough money to do it right, we need to make sure sometimes we have the best. So just putting a note out there in the future just saying hey this is what we're wanting to do whether it's baseball softball uh cheerleading platforms whatever it may be uh just making that a note because you may entice some others nothing against Holland and Ham they do good work uh in certain areas but just for future purposes now thank you Mr. So I want to make it clear though sir we haven't decided what we're going to put down there right what only thing that we put in there that was we had

077$3 million for a grant through remediation so we haven't we were planning on working with building a ground surf okay to make sure that that next phase is planned we haven't planned anything for it there's been lots of discussion has happened but I didn't feel like that was within my perview sir to go out and make assumptions and so all we stated was that it was $3 million that it was for remediation a part of that and that it was going to occur in this location and that's really again sir just that baseline But I understand what you want us to do. Again, that was something that we were going to work with building and grounds to make happen. I've made sure that we've included Mr. Barksdale in all these conversations and all the members

078of the committee. Absolutely. I just don't want us to get somewhere to where uh we've got a grant and they come back and they have expected us to do something and we had no intentions of doing that and that's part of a remediation uh to where we step into something and that we can't get out of. Uh that's where I was looking at it. But yeah, thanks Ch. Yes, sir. Mr. Superintendent, before I sit, I just want to ask one question. On the motion that the second mo the motion was made a minute ago, not on this one, but the particular one for the RFQ. Yes, sir. I didn't know if Mr. Barkdale, you weren't planning on doing that then, I don't think tonight. Did was the motion that was included for moving ahead with

079the consolidation? Did that include the RFQ to be able to go out and solicit? Sir, it it did not necessarily. It just included the North Carolina school-based capital grant. Um, I don't know necessarily that we needed we knew that that was part of what we have to do as part of that grant. So, I didn't know if I needed a separate motion in that. I didn't feel like we did. Not trying to step on you, sir. I just want to give an opportunity to Mr. Barkley when he comes to that point if he wants to bring it back up. Yes, sir. Yes, sir. Thank you. Any questions for me, sir? No, sir. Thank you. Next up, we have Miss Hamby. Wait, I'm sorry. Excuse me. We haven't voted yet. I'm sorry. Excuse me. No, you're

080fine. Ready to go. Okay. Uh I'm I'm kind of confused there a little bit on Mr. Marsh's request with of Mr. Barkstdale u about the two RFQS we the one that we approved uh I mean the the uh capital G grant thing we didn't request an RFQ we are requesting an RFQ for this West McDow Middle School ball field. Exactly. We'll be going into the U. I'm assuming y'all are referring to the HVAC. We'll be doing that later. Yes, sir. No, let let me be clear. The RFQ for the um new school, that is part of the process that we will have to do moving forward. So, the RFQ that we're uh looking at tonight is only for the field. um because those are separate items, we will need to put out another RFQ as

081part of the North Carolina capital uh grant proposal that we'll be doing. So, it was one of those that it it didn't require board action necessarily because it's the next step in that phase. What would what would be required for the board action would been then be the uh which RFQ uh which group of architects that we would then select for that project. Um, so really all we needed uh was the capital grant to so we knew a scope and a sequence of the work. So then we can publish that and put that put that out there for proposal. Um, so that one did not require uh board uh for the HVAC uh project that we talked about uh today. Um Mr. uh Barkstdale uh just to be completely honest with you, I've looking in

082here and and it really it's not showing up on this agenda, is it? No, sir. So that would be my error um in that I don't see a place in the agenda for that. Um if if you would like to entertain that we may it may be something where we would have to amend this agenda and that would be a mistake on my part. Um so I don't see it in here on the agenda and it's an oversight on my part that we did not. And folks just to let you know what we were talking about. Uh we do have some HVAC work that we need to get done over the summer. We had the discussion in building and grounds and there was just a miscommunication on uh my part as to where we would

083put this into the agenda. But uh sir, I do believe we would have to have a motion to amend the agenda. Um you want me to do I'd like to make that motion. I think so. So we could then bring that up. But we'd have to vote first. Yeah. I'd like to make a motion that we include the HVAC project. Yeah. Yeah. Hold on one second. Okay. We still got the matter of the RFQ for the West McDow Middle School ball field to vote on it. Before we can do anything, okay, with everything said and and I apologize, but I want to be perfectly clear and I want the board members to be clear on everything that we're we're doing right now. It's a lot of money. And uh so I'm asking for a vote

084on the request for the for the RFQ to prove Holland and Hamri. Uh that the motion that uh was made by Mr. Abernathy, seconded by Mr. Barksdale. We had our discussion and now we're going to take a vote. All those in favor, signify by raising your right hand. which is unanimous. Now, Mr. Barksdale, you can if you would like to make a motion to to amend the agenda and you got to tell and if you'd like to discuss with Dr. Grit real quickly why what we need to amend the agenda to. Dr. Agreed. I believe we we just need to amend this uh to include the HVAC project um at Eastfield Global Magnet. Yes, sir. Also, Go ahead. There was a there were a number of number of HVAC issues that we had. Um those

085those HVAC issues, anything more than that $50,000 threshold, we would have to request board recommendation to uh to ask the county for our funds that they hold for us to be able to utilize to get those fixes. Um so we know and we've we've known for a long time we had a ongoing uh issues with some of our HVAC systems. So, this is an attempt uh to get many of those projects up and completed this summer so we're ready by the fall. And again, Mr. Bartdale, my apologies for not having that on the agenda. Certainly an oversight. No problem. I'd like to make a motion that we include all HVAC projects. Uh amend the agenda to include those. Okay. Need a second. I'll second. We have a motion by Mr. Barkstdale and a second by

086Mr. Allison to amend the agenda to inc to include all the HVAC projects that we need to do over the summer. Is there any further discussion? And this amendment is just for the RFQ. It doesn't have a have a budget. There's no there's no RFQ on this. This is this is basically we need to get some work done. And I'd like to have Mr. Marsh, if you can step back up once we take a vote on it, so he'll be able to share with you what those projects are more specifically. And I've just left it off the agenda. All right. Before I vote on I'm actually looking for a budget number is what I was He's got that before. Yes, sir. Should have just stayed up here. I apologize. Yes, sir. I need a first

087a motion was made by Mr. Bartale to the motion by Mr. Alison. Thank you. Okay. So, we need a vote on it now and then we'll do the other. Yes. Okay. So, we're voting on the amendment, but we I' I've asked for discussion and he brought up a discussion and so let's go ahead and have this discussion and then we'll vote if that's fair with sir. has to be proper anyway. Yes, sir. I'll be happy to provide clarification. So, the request through building and grounds was to come to the board tonight and make a motion for a capital project. I've requested that a capital project be written not to exceed $150,000. We have one single project that is in excess of the board limit that has been levied to the superintendent of $50,000. That's why

088I'm bringing the capital project before the board. The one project that is above $50,000 is replacing a failed cooling tower at Eastfield Global Magnet School. The reason the tower is failed is because of dissimilar metals. The bottom of the tank is galvanized. It should be stainless. That project will be completed this summer by the same local contractor who has provided water source services to Mcdow County Schools for decades, Piatt Heating and Cooling. They provided they're the single source vendor and they provided a proposal as we have in hand. The rest of the dollars that I'm requesting, sir, will be used for various items. Not one single item will go above the $50,000 threshold that the superintendent has the authority to approve. The reason we're requesting a capital project, as Mrs. Rampy's educated, is that she

089can then take that to the county and that that those capital dollars will be used from that allocation as opposed to local funds that she has on hand. Okay. Is there any further discussion or any questions for Mr. more. No, that's great. Thank you, chair, for doing that. I apologize for not mine. I threw a monkey. I'm sorry. No, we're good. We're good. Okay. With with everything being said, we have a motion by Mr. uh Barksdale, a second by Mr. Allison. There's no further discussion on on the uh amendment amendment to the agenda. So, with all that being said, all those in favor signify by raising your right hand. Okay, that is unanimous. Now, what we need to bring next is the HVA capital project contract. A motion to approve that. I'd like to make

090the motion to approve general HVAC project uh in an amount not to exceed 150 to address the various HVAC needs. Second throughout the district. This includes approval of the contract with Piatt heating and air in the amount of 70,000 for HVAC work at Eastfield Global Magnet. Second. Okay. All right. We have a motion by Mr. Barksdale. We have a second by Mr. Abernathy to approve the capital project not to exceed 150,000. Am I correct on that? Exactly. And the contractor that's going to do it pi uh is the contractor right. Okay. Of the one single project. Oh yeah. Right. At the Eastville Global Magnet Trust. Okay. Now is there any further discussion on the amendment I mean excuse me on the motion? Okay. All right. We have a motion by Mr. Barkstdale. We have a

091second by Mr. Abernathy. We have discussed it. There's no further discussion. All those in favor of the uh capital project, signify by raising your right hand, which is unanimous. Okay. And that's it for Mr. Marsh. Again, I'm sorry, Mr. Chair. I didn't mean to throw a wrench in. I was just trying to be thorough and I apologize. No, no. I I appreciate you put pointing it out as as when you when I when you stepped away, I recognized it wasn't on there. So that's okay. We just missed it. All right. Next up, we have Head Start. Um or I'm sorry, the leader in me contract. Uh Miss Hamby has a proposal for you and this was in your board packet. Good evening. It is an honor to stand before you again tonight to present the

092leader in me contract. The leader in me is an evidence-based program uh a school-based improvement framework for prek12 schools and it's rooted in the seven habits of highly effective people. It empowers students with critical leadership, goal setting, and communication skills while equipping educators with the tools to create a positive and engaging learning environment. This initiative supports our district's goal of enhancing student engagement, academic achievement, and career and college readiness. Leader and me has proven to reduce absenteeism, improve teacher effectiveness, enhance student outcomes, and has an improvement on student mental health, making it a valuable investment in our school's success. The funds for this program are already in the state approved school safety grant and accounted for in that approved budget. I want to take this opportunity to thank Miss Ashley MacArthur for her hard work

093and for securing the grant funds for Mcdow County Schools. We respectfully request the board's approval to allocate the grant funds for the invoiced amount to implement the leader and me program in our middle schools of West McDow and East Mcdow middle schools. I'll make the motion. Second. Okay, we have a motion by Mr. Settles. We have a second by Miss Helms to approve the leader me contract that Miss uh Hamby has uh just told us about. Now, is there any further discussion concerning the leader me contract, Mr. Chairman? Yes, sir. I'm all for students taking up responsibility and leadership and I appreciate the effort y'all put into marching towards that and it's reflected in the school anytime we go up there. I mean these kids are absolutely phenomenal. I do have some concerns about this

094particular program and I'm just kind of curious. I got a couple of questions. um it's not actually a curriculum and it's not actually a um it's more like a culture model for the school. That's good. And you indicated that there's um some kind of proof like um has this been studied independently like third party where they've actually shown like positive results in implementing it? Yes, sir. That's correct. It is an evidence-based program that has been shown and does have thirdparty research. Okay. And as part of the contract, are we required as a school to kind of promote this to other schools in the sense of as far as do we want to include other schools as we begin to progress along with this contract or are we required to market this program? the marketing aspect

095of it. We do not necessarily have to to do that. Um, for example, we know which counties have Leader andMe and we've had an opportunity to visit like we have visited Henderson County. We've also had Leader and Me at Old for Elementary. Um, and so there's nothing that says that we have to market for them. Does that answer your question? So it's not explicit in the contract. If we go this route, we don't have to go to other school and say, "Hey, as part of it, you guys need to look at this." Nothing like that. No, sir. The contract. That's correct. Okay. And then as far as the cost of it, I was looking at the handout that we got and it was talking about the subscription fees and whatnot. Yes. Is there any other

096additional cost associated with any kind of training for teachers or students? So it's the original first year in which we have secured the funds through the school safety grant which is what we're requesting action for tonight. And then if we as we continue in year two and three uh there will be additional costs for those years. And then we've also uh have written grants to cover those additional cost as well as partnered with leader and me. This is the uh CVY uh institute. uh we have partnered with them to also um to have support from one of their grant writers as well to help us to secure the funding as we continue through years two and three. Okay, I'll add Thank you, sir. Mr. McGinness, I'd also add this has been a a program as

097a superintendent group that we have uh been studying this year. There will be a number of districts who are attempting to bring this into their to their districts had had an opportunity to uh not only see it in action but um to see it before you know many many years. It's not not necessarily a new program but there there is a success rate for it and and I would I would stand firmly behind this one. I think it's a great program. I really do. Okay. Okay. We have a motion by Mr. SS. We have a second by Mrs. Helms. We've had discussion uh concerning the leader me contract and it's there is action requested and at this time I'm asking for those that are in favor signify by raising your right hand which is unanimous

098and thank you so very much. Thank you. Thank you Miss Hamby. I think you guys can just stay right up there. We've got the Head Start non-federal share waiver change in scope and I know Dr. Delaney was going to be speaking with us as well as I've asked Miss Rampy to talk with the group because there is a financial component to this. Thank you. Thank you. Good evening Mr. Chairman, members of the board, Dr. Gret Guest tonight. I have two items on the agenda for your approval. They will require separate action. The first item is our Head Start non-federal match waiver for 2425 school year. The Headstart Act mandates that grantees provide at least 20% of total program cost through non-federal sources. These contributions can come from cash donations, volunteer hours, inind services, or donated

099space. The total amount of non-federal match that is required for McDow County Head Start is $586,00056. When a program cannot obtain the required amount of non-federal match, they are allowed to request a waiver. And we have requested a waiver in the years past. Um, consistently each year we do request a waiver. Last year we did request a waiver for $29,000. The year before that was 27,000. But this year we only need to request a waiver for 10883. So we did make a significant improvement on the amount of non-federal match that we collected this year. So we do not have to request as much of a waiver for this year. I would be happy to answer any questions that you may have about the non-federal share waiver. Does anybody have any? Great job. Okay. At this

100time, she's asked for action on the Head Start non-federal share waiver. I'll entertain a motion for this uh approval. I'll make a motion that we ask for the amount as given. I'll second. Okay. Okay. We have a motion by Mr. Settles and a second by Mr. Schuford. Is there any further discussion on the federal share waiver? Okay. With no further discussion, all those in favor signify by raising your right hand, which is unanimous, and you can proceed. Thank you. Um I want to share an opportunity with you next um that will help us make the most of our resources to strengthen our Head Start program. You did receive information in your packet about our current Head Start slots at our West Marian Head Start location. We're requesting your approval to relinquish unfilled slots at West

101Marian Elementary that have been vacant for almost three years. By taking this step, we can proactively request to maintain the funding tied to those slots, which we plan to reallocate to improve a more competitive wage for our Head Start employees. This would help us stay competitive, attract great talent, and support the staff who are critical to our program's success. We're excited about this plan's potential, and with your approval, we can move forward with this request and submit it to the Federal Head Start program. Okay. All right, we've had a very condensed form of we've got some extra funds. She's going to utilize them to help her staff increase in salaries which they which they greatly need. I'll entertain a motion to approve this. Like to make a motion this stage. I'll second. Okay, we have

102a motion by Mr. Barkstdale. We have a second by Mr. Allison to approve the rearrangement of the funds to help for salaries. Is there any further discussion on the motion? Miss Denny, do you think in the future you'd ever see a need to have that position back? Um, it is just our Head Start slots that that is affecting at West Maran Elementary. We have um currently two additional full day programs at West Marian and a part day prek at West Mar. All right. Thank you. And no staff will be uh involved in that. Gotcha. There's slots for all. Yes. All right. Is there any further discussion? With no further discussion, all those in favor signify by raising your right hand, which is unanimous. Thank you very much. Ma'am, if I may, uh Mr. Frank, I

103I want to just say that uh with what y'all just did, it is important to remember that we have to gain approval federally before we can do anything. As much as I wish I could just wave that wand and make make those funds appear, um what Dr. Delaney brought to us, we'll we'll need that federal approval. And then it is our goal uh to have comparable salaries. And I think that's something that that that this board has been requesting from Head Start, Mr. Schuford, for for some time, you know, going forward. So, I just wanted to point that out. Um, that's this is kind of like that new school. It's just a step in the right direction to be able to do some of those things. Thank you. Do you have a timeline on that?

104Dr. Delaney, do you have a She stepped out. Oh, there she is. I would love to say that it would get approved immediately once it was submitted, but it is at the request of the office of head start when they approve that plan. It's a good question, Mr. Barstell. Thank you. At this time, uh, we have we're having board reports and Mr. Settle's curriculum and instruction. Yes. Although we have nothing curriculum wise, I I want to take the time to commend Miss Hamby on that, the leader to me. Uh, I think we're in a time period to where we need to build leaders uh, in children right now and for our future. and so taking the steps to do that in McDow County. I commend you for that and I'm looking forward to it. So,

105thank you. Mr. Barksdale with building and grounds. Yes. I have a few things I I knew tonight might be a little confusing with all the moving parts that we've been discussing. One thing I'd like the public to know is um just for their knowledge about the HVAC project, some of these units that we are replacing are 40 years old. Some of the units that's being replaced have not been in operation for over three years. And that's why it's so important for us to move forward with this. and I appreciate um everybody's hard work in the buildings and grounds committee to make this happen. Also, I would um I'd like to uh do recommend a board discussion in close session to discuss the acquisition of the real property to include the properties we have under contract

106for due diligence. And the only other thing that I'd like to announce to the public is I'd like to ask for a walkth through for the old fort school. And the date that I'm looking at is if everybody agrees uh would be on July 14th. That is our next board meeting. But it would uh at a time that the board sees fit that we could have a walkth through and anyone who would like to come and do the walkthrough would come through and and and look at the the improvements and whatnot we've done in the old fort school. Does anybody have a time that they before the board meeting and is that an appropriate date? As far as I'm concerned, it is. We we could potentially use a lunchtime uh date if folks would like

107to do that during maybe they could come out during their lunch lunchtime on the 14th as a possibility. If everybody agrees to that, that'd be great. Is that it, Mr. Right here? June. Mr. Schiffer, you can go ahead. Excuse me. I have nothing further than what Mr. Rampy's already reported, but uh we will be having a a finance committee meeting. There will be no action taken, but we'll be having that Wednesday at 3:00. Okay. And Miss Helms, you're getting ready to get your hands full. So, go ahead and tell us about it. Yes. It's my understanding that we just received our policies back from our attorney um review today. We will be setting up a date and time for the coming week at today's meeting end um where we'll review those finalized policies for presentation

108to the board uh for your review and approval. I would expect hopefully by the next board meeting. Okay, Mr. Sheford start indulge me for just a minute. Um, I'd like to uh make some comments regarding uh the Head Start programs just uh in in May celebrated six decades and uh it's uh the head start program uh I think um we all know it focuses on family involvement offering parent and caregiver support such as job training, housing assistance, parenting coaching and parents also taking leading roles as they do in a big way here in our Head Start programs as classroom volunteers and serving on the on the ground on the council, excuse me. Uh there's about 750,000 infants, toddlers, and preschoolers that will receive services this year and more than half of the programs are in

109rural communities where early care and learning opportunities can be especially hard to find. And I'd like to uh end this with a with a comment that uh from the National Head Start Association, but u it says, "Since its founding in 1965, Head Start has transformed the lives of more than 40 million children and families across the nation, providing comprehensive early learning and child care, better health and nutrition, and parent involvement services to eligible families. amilies across the United States. For six decades and 11 administrations, Head Start has had a proven impact, including children who are better prepared for kindergarten. They graduate from high school and college and experience long-term health benefits. Thank you, Mr. Delaney. Thank you, Mr. Shec. And I know Mr. Baker and uh Mr. McGinness have a lot to report there, man.

110They got an active summer. So, I'll turn it over to you guys. Uh, Mr. Frank, I'd like to say amen to what Mr. Schubert said there, Head Start program and Dr. Delaney. And uh when when you see when you see those folks that work with her and they cry over these children, especially the you know some of them have really homes in which most of us didn't grow up with and in. And they they say they have them there for I think someone says six hours and they they cry about having to send them home to some of the conditions that they have. These people care and I never knew that much about Head Start, but I I'd take my hat off if I wore one. I It makes my head itch. I never wear

111one. And but what a program and what a job y'all have done and continue to do. We we thank God for you and and changing lives of these young young children. And I'd like to, if you don't care, I'd like to digress a second. Mr. Marsh, I started to say it up there while he was up there. And back to uh uh his walkth through in Ofort. And Mr. Marsh, what did you call that? Punch punch list, sir. The punch list. He had nine pages. Yes, sir. Not terrible things, but things that, you know, I asked if he could help me build a house. He and Miss Rampy, her financially, and him with his eye, but things that just weren't quite right. They they weren't safety factors or anything like that, they said. But, but

112nine pages of things that they held up money on until it was right. Number one. And again, don't wear a hat. Take it off to you if it did. And then uh NJOTC, I'd like to read you a few things that's coming up. These folks, we're so proud of them. They're they're so busy and so talented and so dedicated. Uh uh leadership academy, they'll they'll have J uh June 7th through 14th. Master Chief Crossing and other NJOTC. instructors. This is run in in collaboration with other NJOTC units. Uh students will join other schools in a collaborative unit. These are the best individuals from each unit and they receive advanced leadership training and direction. Uh then uh June 12th through 15 uh some will be uh it's a the sale academy. Uh it's organized and ran

113by our our NJOTC. This is run ran in collaboration with other NJOTC units. Students will learn how to work on a sailboat. Derek wanted to go. He has to work though. Uh June 21st, remember this. This will be a cadetr run car wash to fund raise for the unit. Uh it says feel free to express to friends and associates to come by and make a donation. Support our NJRTC. We they're forming leaders that I hope I wish every one of them would go into the military or you know, but even no matter what they go into, they're they're forming leaders here. Where is that going to be, sir? I'm sorry. Advance Auto. Advance Auto June 21st. Have a time. Then uh No, he didn't. I'd say they'll be there pretty early. Warms up so much.

114Okay. Then uh June 7th through 11, they'll have a basic leadership training, new cadet orientation, uh with Sergeant First Sergeant Miley. This is for new new cadetses and uh allows new staff to get a foundation. This is held at McDall High School. Says feel free to stop by 8 until 2 and uh support them in that. Just say hello. Just see what's going on. It's it's wonderful. Then we have the CMP summer camp in Aniston, Alabama. last uh July 14 through 18 with uh first sergeant Miley. This program is what keeps us consistently in the top 20 in the nation across all NJOTC teams. Like the support we received in attending our two national competitions. If this is an event we could use some financial funding, it would be greatly appreciated. Uh, first sergeant Miley

115and family will be chaperoning our students while they receive instruction from collegiate and Olympic shooters. Uh, summer leadership uh, summer leadership training at Camp Bud Shields. That's July 21 through 26 with First Sergeant Miley. This program is program is held annually at Camp Bud Shields in collaboration with the Boy Scouts of America. This covers six days at camp, three square meals, full access to the count's facilities. This year it will grow. Listen to this. McDow is the lead unit that hosts over 250 cadetses from multiple states and over 15 schools in the region. We highly encourage board members to come out and see our students repel from a tower, shoot ski, and small boar rifles and lead their peers through more. If any members would be interested in sponsoring uh attendance attendance fees uh or

116if the board would like to provide support, it would be greatly appreciated. Fee per student is $285 this year. McDow plans to send 38 cadetses this year. Did did we help on any of that or had was that talked about? Yes, sir. Most of that was done through fundraising, but they did want to just advertise that if anybody wanted to make any donations that they would certainly accept those. Okay. Yes, sir. Mr. McInness, do you have anything to add to it? I just echo what he said. We got a great unit and they're active and they pack their calendar. There's something going on every single year and that's probably one of the best run programs that I've seen. Definitely one of the best in the nation and we have it right here at McDow and

117um the overlap um up there at the high school with the other programs. Um it's just phenomenal what they're doing and you know I just um I'm glad to be some way to advocate them in any way um any way I can. I want to be part of that. So but yeah, I think he's covered everything they got coming up. So, I'm sure there'll be more by next meeting. I I've always said this uh uh and Mr. Baker reiterated the other day about all the things that they offered the high school, especially through CTE. It's just a I' I've coined this phrase, but it's a great time to be a student in Mcdow County. There's so many opportunities here. Uh you know, we don't have just one high school. We've got what? Four total. Got

118two early colleges and summits an option in the traditional high school. So, four total options. Yeah. And hey, they all offer something for everybody. So, we're uh we're nothing to be slack or or look down upon whatsoever. And next item on the agenda, item number 13, is approval of consent agenda. And I want to remind everybody that if there's any one item on the agenda that you'd like to pull and talk about it separately, we can vote on that separately. But if there isn't, I'll entertain a motion to the to approve the consent agenda as it's printed on the agenda. I'll make a motion. Okay. Approve the consent agenda as a second. We have a motion by Mr. Chuford to approve the consent agenda as printed. We have a second by uh Mr. McGinness. And

119is there any further discussion? Okay. With no further discussion on the approval of the consent agenda, all those in favor signify by raising your right hand, which is unanimous. And at this time, uh requesting a motion to go into close session. And it will be requested under subsection A1 to prevent disclosure of privilege or confidential student information pursuant to 20 United States Code uh 1232G FURPA and general statute 115C 402E includes student discipline and student transfers and releases. and under subsection A1 to prevent disclosure of privileged or confidential personal information pursuant to general statute 115C 319-321 includes employee matters and under subsection A uh sub uh A5 to discuss the acquisition of real property and this time I'll entertain a motion to go into close session I'll make a motion we go into close session

120second Okay, we have a motion by Mr. Baker and a second by Miss Helms to go into close session. Is there any further discussion on going into close session? At this time, I'll enter uh I'll entertain a vote. All those in favor signify by raising your right hand which is unanimous at uh 7:50