December 14, 2021 at 5:30 PM - Bedford County Board of Education

Discussion:  Garrett- We had at least 1 board member and teachers asked that we have the full week off for Thanksgiving Break. I met with the Celebration folks and they wanted us to keep that break in there because it is so important to the community. I also have spoken with some teachers that live in Rutherford county and have children in those schools. They asked that our spring break be the same as that county. 

Boutwell- We have the same number of days as this past year, they are just configured differently.
Garrett- Yes sir. 
Forsee- Graduation in May of 2023, would be the 18th, 19th, 20th, around there?
Garrett- Yes sir. 

Discussion:  Garrett- Because of events recently, I recommend having this new position to help students and principals. I think if someone can help us with that in this office, it would be beneficial and help with resources for families and the community. 

Boutwell- What would the qualifications be for someone in this position?
Garrett- We would hope it would be someone with a school counseling background or mental health background. We have looked for a job description but we have not had luck finding one in this state.
Forsee- I see this as an evolving position, but it will be customized to Bedford county. I want to also look at getting some kind of administrative assistant to help with coordinating things and paperwork. Is there an estimate of cost?
Garrett- What do you think, Chad?
Fletcher- In ESSER 2 and ESSER 3, there is money for a social worker position. Basically, we would use that money for this position. We don't have an assistant in that budget currently, but we have people who could do that for us. The salary will depend on experience and degree.
Watson- The base would be $40,500.
Fletcher- With advanced degrees we are looking at $50,000 - $60,000.
Crews- If we want a professional person, we will need a professional salary. 
Boutwell- We will need to hire someone with experience. 
Crews- I don't think we would get what we needed with someone who doesn't have experience. 
Forsee- Don't we have 2 people in the system who do this?
Garrett- Not right now. The contracted therapists we have do one on one counseling with students. We can consult with Vanderbilt and they will help us build our program for what we need. 
Cashion- I recommend that this person be licensed, because you can get things done faster when you are licensed. Like if a child needs placement and things like that. 

 

Discussion:  Cook- We don't have financial reports this month. The January board meeting will be on the 18th and the work session will be some time the week after. We have a lot of things ahead of us this coming year. 

Discussion:  Garrett- We will be able to close on the land for the new school before the end of this month. I also want to wish all of our students and employees a very Merry Christmas!