May 7, 2024 at 5:00 PM - Bradley County Board of Education Regular Meeting

Discussion:  Chairman Beaty called the meeting to order and welcomed dignitaries in attendance. 

Discussion:  Dr. Jeff Lovingood led the Board in the Pledge of Allegiance. 

Discussion:  Mr. Bryson asked to pull the field trip to New York City from the Consent Agenda. Chairman Beaty pulled the item and added it to the bottom of the agenda.

Discussion:  Three community members signed in to speak.

1. Mitchell Simpson, Agenda item number 6.
Mitchell Simpson, the Executive Vice President of Erop Brothers Construction Company, addressed the board to express his support for Dr. Cash, the Director of Schools. Simpson highlighted the success of their vocational program at the PIE Center, noting that out of seven semesters, 54 students participated, with 42 receiving job offers from Wright Brothers Construction. Of these, 24 remain in the construction industry, and 16 still work for Wright Brothers. Simpson praised Dr. Cash for providing students with immediate employment opportunities post-graduation, emphasizing the significant wages and work hours these young workers achieve. Additionally, he commended Dr. Cash's support in addressing vape issues through educational outreach to students. As a father, Simpson appreciated the consistent and strong leadership that Dr. Cash provides, crucial in today's turbulent times. He concluded by thanking the board for the opportunity to speak.

2. Lynn Voelz, Agenda item number 6.

Lynn Voelz, President of the Bradley Cleveland Public Education Foundation, expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to speak and shared her admiration for Dr. Linda Cash's leadership as the Director of Schools and a member of the foundation's executive committee. Voelz highlighted Dr. Cash's visionary and strategic leadership, which has significantly advanced the foundation's mission to enhance teaching and learning through innovative academics and professional development since 2015.

Voelz emphasized that Dr. Cash's collaborative management and strategic communication with community leaders, donors, and state officials have been crucial in funding cutting-edge educational initiatives. She praised Dr. Cash for creating a culture of integrity and innovation within Bradley County Schools, which has energized and empowered the educational community.

Voelz also noted the profound impact of Dr. Cash's work on community investment, with numerous donors contributing to public education, thereby strengthening the community and providing future opportunities for students. She shared that donors are often moved by the enduring impact of their contributions.

In conclusion, Voelz underscored the essential role of strong public education in building great communities and expressed her privilege in working with Dr. Cash and her team to continually improve the future of Cleveland and Bradley County.

3. Mike Griffin, Agenda item number 6.

Mike Griffin, President and CEO of the Cleveland Bradley Chamber of Commerce, expressed his strong support for Dr. Linda Cash, drawing from his experience working with her on various boards, including Rotary and the United Way. He highlighted Dr. Cash's significant contributions and visionary leadership in the community, particularly noting her role in fostering partnerships with numerous local businesses and organizations, such as McKee, Massey Electric, and the Center for Sports Medicine.

Griffin emphasized that these partnerships, which have greatly benefited the community, would not have been possible without Dr. Cash's insight and vision. He shared his initial concern about potentially losing her to another position, recalling his relief and joy when she chose to stay. Griffin stressed the importance of retaining talented leaders like Dr. Cash, who has expressed her desire to retire in the community, and thanked her for her collaborative efforts and dedication.

 

Discussion:  Chairman Beaty summarized the Director Evaluation. "The Director of Schools evaluation plays a crucial role in the ongoing development of the school system by providing feedback to the Director, highlighting job performance, and assessing school board effectiveness. This year’s evaluation included a self-evaluation and an executive summary. The ratings were based on a three-point scale: exceeds standards, meets standards, and below expectations.

Evaluation Ratings:
Communication: 3.0 out of 3.0
Community Relations: 3.0 out of 3.0
Curriculum: 3.0 out of 3.0
School Community Involvement: 3.0 out of 3.0
Organizational Management: 3.0 out of 3.0
Personnel Management: 3.0 out of 3.0
School Facility Management: 2.9 out of 3.0
School Finance Budgeting: 3.0 out of 3.0
School Improvement: 3.0 out of 3.0
Staff Development: 3.0 out of 3.0
Director-Board Relations: 2.9 out of 3.0
Supervision Evaluation: 3.0 out of 3.0
Integrity, Fairness, and Ethics: 3.0 out of 3.0
Overall Score: 2.98 out of 3.0

Board Member Comments:
"Excellent communicator."
"Dr. Cash is visible in our schools and involved in many school activities."
"Dr. Cash clearly articulates school system goals with unrelenting passion."
"She hires the best and has a great support team."
"Dr. Cash has always maintained an open-door policy."
"She keeps us informed on board-related issues and district-related issues."
"Dr. Cash ensures fairness, transparency, and consistency when dealing with personnel."
"Dr. Cash is a joy to work with."
"I believe she has led our school district in an awesome way."

The collaborative effort towards improvement is vital in maintaining and elevating the standards of education and administration within the Bradley County school system, ensuring it remains a beacon of excellence for students, educators, and the community.

Discussion: 

Chairman Beaty introduced the agenda item regarding the Director of Schools contract, referencing the evaluation conducted and approved by the Board of Education. The proposed contract would employ Dr. Linda Cash as the Director of the Bradley County School System from July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2028.

Motion:

Rachel Goins raised a concern about an oversight found in the contract and proposed a motion to postpone the vote until the June meeting for further discussion.

Comments:

• Amanda Lee inquired about the procedure for pulling an item from the agenda.
• Chairman Beaty clarified the nature of the oversight, stating it involved a date error related to unused vacation days, which had been corrected and confirmed by the attorney to have no financial impact on the district. The error involved a date from the old contract being incorrectly carried over.

Outcome:

• Rachel Goins's motion to postpone the vote did not receive a second and thus failed.

New Motion:

Ted Bryon made a motion to approve the Director of Schools contract and the salary schedule for Dr. Linda Cash.

Second:

Amanda Lee seconded the motion.

Further Discussion:

• Ted Bryon praised Dr. Cash for her respectful and inclusive attitude towards him and others, especially highlighting her interactions with individuals with special needs.
• Amanda Lee reiterated that the date error related to vacation days would not have resulted in additional costs to the district.
• Chairman Beaty expressed his deep appreciation for Dr. Cash's leadership, dedication, and contributions to the district.
• Nancy Casson noted that Dr. Cash's salary is competitive and a good value compared to similar-sized school systems.

Discussion: 

On April 20, Walker Valley High School's Mu Alpha Theta hosted the 5th Annual Math Meet for Bradley County Schools. The event saw 178 fourth, fifth, and sixth graders compete in a paper-pencil test and a bracket-style buzzer round. The event was expertly facilitated by Molly Scarbrough and Megan Webb, with significant contributions from the student-run Mu Alpha Theta club members.

Key Highlights:

• Fourth Grade Winners:

  • 1st Place: Elijah Daugherty
  • 2nd Place: Kade Gazaway
  • 3rd Place: Savannah Bame

• Fifth Grade Winners:

  • 1st Place: Greyson Cannon
  • 2nd Place: Ellie Reed
  • 3rd Place: Max Osborn

• Sixth Grade Winners:

  • 1st Place: Mason Beard
  • 2nd Place: Colton Rogers
  • 3rd Place: Austin Yaw

• Team Competitions:

  • North Lee teams dominated the buzzer round, taking 1st place in both fourth and fifth grades.
  • Black Fox secured 2nd place for fourth grade.
  • Charleston B took 2nd place for fifth grade.
  • Ocoee Middle's sixth grade teams competed against each other, with Ocoee B winning 1st place and Ocoee A taking 2nd place.

Dr. Cash celebrated all participants, emphasizing the importance of mathematics and sending best wishes to all young mathematicians. She concluded by noting that mathematics is essential for understanding the world.

Discussion:  Chairman Beaty explained that Mayor Davis has asked that we appoint a person to the Growth Plan Committee. Chairman Beaty appointed Dr. Linda Cash. 

Discussion: 

Arlette Robinson, Career and Technical Education Supervisor, presented an overview of the recent achievements of students in various Career and Technical Student Organizations (CTSOs).

Key Points:

• The list provided does not include FFA achievements, as their competition season differs and is celebrated in February.
• CTSOs represented include DECA, HOSA, and SkillsUSA:
  • DECA: Present at both Bradley Central and Walker Valley High Schools, focusing on marketing and business.
  • HOSA: Also present at both schools, focusing on health sciences and health careers.
  • SkillsUSA: Concentrates on trade skills.
• Over 50 students have achieved significant wins this season, with many advancing to international competitions:
  • HOSA international competition will be held in Texas.
  • SkillsUSA international competition will take place in Atlanta.

Robinson then introduced advisors to discuss individual student achievements and detailed activities.

Discussion: 

Elizabeth Kaylor, Elementary Supervisor, presented an update on the third grade retention law, highlighting positive changes:

1. Background:

   • Previously reported concerns about the third grade retention law.
   • Expressed gratitude to the board for their efforts in addressing these concerns.

2. Changes to the Law:

   • A new amendment now provides a pathway for fourth graders.
   • Originally, retention considerations were based on third grade data but affected students in their fourth-grade year.
   • Students in the "approaching" or "below" categories on their third grade ELA TCAP had specific pathways for promotion to fourth grade.

3. Amendment Details:

   • If fourth graders did not show adequate growth by the end of fourth grade, they faced retention.
   • Concerns were raised that this might not always be the best scenario for students.

4. New Pathway:

   • The amendment allows for promotion to fifth grade with the addition of tutoring support.
   • This change is seen as a more appropriate step to help struggling students while still promoting them.

Kaylor emphasized the positive impact of promotion and the importance of continued support for students needing assistance.

Discussion: 

Kyle Page provided an update on the progress of new tenants for the property.

New Tenants:

• Four new tenants are currently in the process of finalizing agreements.
• Letters of Intent (LOI) have been completed and signed.
• Leases have been sent out as of yesterday.

Tenant Details:

• Farmers Insurance is one of the tenants, intending to operate as an insurance agency and collaborate with students.
• Pet Wants, a grooming business.
• Lee University is considering occupying space for athletic needs, particularly in light of track additions.
• Operation Compassion is exploring a retail site.

All four tenants are actively searching for architects and progressing with their respective plans.

Discussion: 

Corbett Drew initiates the discussion by addressing the task assigned after the previous board meeting, which involved comparing different tips providers. The urgency initially associated with the decision is now reconsidered, prompting the recommendation to draft specifications and initiate a competitive bidding process.

Ted Bryson inquires about the inclusion of a pad in the specifications, to which Corbett Drew suggests outlining desired performance and capacity criteria, allowing firms to propose their best solutions, whether angle frame or I-beam type.

Chairman Beaty acknowledges the discussion's relevance, particularly in light of the upcoming football season, and supports the decision to opt for a bidding process given the newly recognized timeline flexibility.

Ted Bryson advocates for comparing Walker Valley to Bradley. He suggests that Pilots are not superior in quality. Mr. Bryson makes a motion issue specifications and start the bidding process.

Chairman Beaty calls for a motion to issue specifications for the bidding process, which is seconded by Ms. Casson.

Dr. Lovingood underscores the importance of meticulous planning for such projects, emphasizing the need for thorough bids and expressing confidence in the process to ensure quality outcomes.

Discussion:  After review, the GeoServices contract was not attached to the Board Agenda. Dr. Cash requested that contract be sent to the board to review, and a motion to grant executive approval.

Discussion:  Corbett Drew provides an update on the value engineering process, stating that efforts have been made to reduce costs after the original bid exceeded the budget. Despite progress, the involvement of the Fire Marshal in the review process resulted in some cost increases, although not to the initial extent. The finalization of the revised budget and obtaining approval from the State Fire Marshal's Office is imminent, with the contract set for execution, as previously discussed in the last board meeting.

Discussion:  Corbett Drew reports on the progress of the construction project, stating that the geotechnical survey and investigation have been completed. Additionally, the schematic design has been vetted with the team at Ocoee and the Central Office. The focus is now on completing the design development documents by the end of the current month. Subsequently, the project will transition into the construction document phase. Plans include aiming for a bid package and obtaining fire marshal approval by the first week of August. This timeline is intended to ensure completion of the project before the school year of 2025 begins in August.

Discussion:  Dana Yost presents an overview of the federal consolidated budget and seeks approval for the 24-25 consolidated application. She emphasizes the strict guidelines governing fund allocation, leaving little room for deviation in the application process. Yost assures the board that any inaccuracies in the application will prompt its return by the State Department for necessary modifications. In response to Mr. Taylor's inquiry, Yost confirms that the discussed matter is indeed part of budget 142.

Discussion:  Principal Ruthie Panni expresses gratitude to Dr. Cash, Madam Chair Beaty, and the board for their time. She recalls the approval received on October 18, 2023, for the relocation and purchase of a new playground for Michigan Avenue School. Through a successful fundraising campaign supported by multiple donors and grants, they were able to purchase the new playground structure. Principal Panni now seeks approval for another project—a basketball court adjacent to the new playground area. Despite planning for a future fundraising campaign, the local paving company has generously offered to cover labor costs as an in-kind donation, with the school responsible for materials. Principal Panni highlights the significant contributions from the school community, business partners, and donors, amounting to approximately $135,000 raised so far. Madam Chair Beaty commends the initiative and hard work of the Michigan Avenue team in raising funds without relying on the board for financial support.

Discussion:  Johnny Mull reports that bids for janitorial paper supplies for the upcoming school year were received on April 23. After careful consideration, it is recommended that the board award the bid for all products to Kelsan, the current supplier. Kelsan has been a reliable supplier in the past, and the recommendation is based on their competitive pricing and satisfactory service.

Discussion:  Susan Willcutt presents the PIE Center operating fund budget for the next fiscal year. She reminds the board that this budget is structured as per the guidelines provided by the Comptroller's Office. While typically school budgets are not reviewed at board meetings, the PIE Center budget is an exception as it operates through the district.

Discussion:  Susan Willcutt provides an overview of the budget for building projects for the fiscal year 2024-2025. She explains that this budget encompasses all major construction projects undertaken by the district.

Discussion:  Dr. Cash asked for a Motion to move this agenda item to the June Work Session for further review. 

Discussion:  Todd Shoemaker presents a policy update regarding class ranking, specifically addressing the criteria for valedictorian and salutatorian selection. The previous policy was deemed vague, prompting the need for clearer guidelines. The proposed policy outlines specific criteria for ranking, transitioning from numerical rankings to Latin Honors (e.g., cum laude, magna cum laude) to align with college practices and the schools' honors programs.

Discussion:  Ted Bryson expresses concerns regarding the safety of field trips, particularly trips to New York City and European countries. Drawing from personal experiences, Bryson emphasizes the importance of prioritizing student safety, citing recent news events as a cause for apprehension. Bryson voices opposition to such trips and stresses the need for caution when approving travel plans. Nancy Casson seeks confirmation from Dr. Linda Cash regarding her authority to cancel trips if necessary. Dr. Cash affirms her ability to make executive decisions regarding trip cancellations, but notes that the proposed trip to New York City has been outlined in the field trip form and would require a board vote for approval.

Discussion:  Madam Chair Beaty read all the announcements. 

Discussion: 




                                                                      
Vicki Beaty, Chairman



                                                                      
Dr. Linda Cash, Director of Schools