Meeting Notes

Opening Remarks

• No public comments received.
• Scheduled performance by Granite Falls Elementary School choir.
• Dr. Phipps asked for remembrance of Michaela Rangel, a student who passed away.
• Moment of silence held.

Invocation and Thanks

• Invocation by Mrs. Teresa Branch.
• Special thanks to bus drivers and Caldwell County Schools staff for their dedication.

Pledge of Allegiance

• Led by Granite Falls Elementary School group.
• Performance of the National Anthem and another song.

Approval of Minutes

• Minutes from February 4, 10, and 24, 2025, meetings approved.

Announcements

• Mark Gerson discusses upcoming four-day weekend for students.
• March 28th: No school for students, professional development day for staff.
• April 8th: Board work session (public welcome).
• April 14th: Regular board meeting.

Introductions and Recognitions

• Introduction of new maintenance director, David Siegel.
• Recognition of middle school Battle of the Books winners.
• Encouragement to finish the third nine weeks strong.

Honors and Recognition

• Recognition of student artwork from various schools.
• Presentation of citizenship awards to students demonstrating exemplary kindness.
• Recognition of Avania, a student honored as a Goodnight Scholar.
• Recognition of Dr. Jessica Anthony as Northwest Region’s Principal of the Year.
• Various board members received awards from the North Carolina School Board Association.

Program and Contract Approvals

• Educational Program Services:
  • Approval for summer remediation program.
  • Approval of a contract for speech language services.
• Finance Department:
  • Approval of audit contract for Anderson, Smith & Wack.
  • Approval of budget amendments increasing state and federal fund allocations.
• Auxiliary Services:
  • Approval of procurement plan for the Child Nutrition Department.
• Human Resource Services:
  • Approval of usual action items and substitute lists.
  • Approval of student transfers for 2024-25.

Superintendent's Remarks

• Request to approve the 2025-26 school calendars for public comment.

Closed Session

• Board moved to a closed session for confidential personnel matters.

Key Points

• Multiple recognitions for students, staff, and board members.
• Discussion and approval of various educational and financial plans.
• Discussions regarding school calendar for future academic years.
• Board to address confidential matters in a closed session, no further actions expected after.