Board Meeting Transcript Notes

Opening

• Prayer led by Mr. Godfrey focusing on cooperation and improvement of Harnet County Schools.
• Pledge of Allegiance led by Mr. Ha.

Agenda Adjustments

• Several amendments to the agenda were made:
  • Flip item two (special presentations) and item three (closed session for student appeal).
  • Added action items 13g (contract with Steuart and Duke PC Attorney Services) and 13h (letter to legislature concerning teacher pay).

Special Presentations

National Board Recognition

• Recognized educators earning National Board Certification.
• Certification is a rigorous process requiring demonstration of teaching proficiency.
• 11 educators in the district were recognized.

NCCAT Burroughs Welcome Fund Beginning Teacher of the Year

• Mr. Scott Denton was recognized as a finalist.
• Presented by Dr. Karen Sumner from NCAT.

Financial and Compliance Audit

• Presented by Josh Perrier from Forvis.
• Clean audit opinion issued.
• Key financial highlights:
  • State funding increased by $7 million.
  • Federal funding decreased slightly.
  • Total fund balance increased by $3.1 million.
  • Unassigned fund balance increased slightly.

Superintendent Update

• Attended the School Board Association training.
• Ms. Sharon Gainey to be Grand Marshal for MLK Day Parade.
• Birthday recognition for Ms. Gainey.
• Board member appreciation gifts provided.

Auxiliary Services Update

• State funding for SRO grant covering five positions.
• Custodial applicants are increasing.
• Athletic conference alignments were discussed with Overhills moving due to size.

Curriculum and Instruction Update

• EOC testing completed successfully.
• Middle of Year Assessments ongoing.
• New diploma endorsements introduced.
• Numerous professional development sessions conducted.
• State standards updates ongoing for various subjects.
• Upcoming science fair on January 30th.

Human Resources Update

• 26 base openings reported.
• Successful completion of teacher observations.
• Continued recruitment and professional development efforts.

Student Services Update

• Winter graduation ceremony was successful with over 80 graduates.
• Yondr pouch implementation for phone management starting in February.

Financial Services Update

• Various bonuses being prepared for staff.
• IRS tax updates being implemented.
• Board members can now contribute to the state 401K program.

Consent Agenda

• Motion made and approved to accept consent agenda items.

Action Items

Print Shop Lease

• Approved a new lease with Novatech, resulting in savings.

Purchase Approvals

• Approved purchase of iPads for DODEA grant implementation.
• Approved Get Ready program for ESL students.
• Approved K-5 summer book fair requisition.

Contract Termination

• Terminated contract with Performance Services Inc. to pursue federally compliant bidding.

School Calendar

• Approved the 25-26 school calendar option 2.

Attorney Contract

• Renewed contract with Steuart and Duke, PLC for legal services.

Legislative Letter

• Approved sending a letter to state legislature advocating for a $50,000 starting salary for teachers and a 5% pay increase.

Closing

• Moved to closed session.
• Adjourned after returning to open session.