The Simpson County School Board covered a full agenda during its recent meeting, recognizing board members, receiving construction updates, approving program changes, and reviewing federal funding allocations.
The meeting began with recognition of board members in honor of School Board Appreciation Week, acknowledging their service and commitment to the district.
Representatives from Bailey Construction Group provided an update on ongoing construction projects across the district. The group recently met with Superintendent Dr. Robert Sanders and conducted another walkthrough of school facilities to further identify and address needs.
Dr. Sanders emphasized his desire to ensure quality improvements across all campuses. Current projects include demolition, reroofing, mechanical upgrades, and renovations.
A bid opening for the demolition project is scheduled for March 3. The reroofing project will be advertised in April, with additional projects to follow. Additions and renovation projects are expected to be advertised in late April and May. Officials reported that all projects remain on schedule.
During discussion, board member Thomas Ray Floyd suggested that the proposed multipurpose building on the Mendenhall High School campus be listed as an alternate in the bidding process in case funding is not available. Other board members disagreed, stating they believe the building is a necessity rather than an optional project.
The board approved the consent agenda, which included several key items. Among them was the conversion of the district’s business marketing and finance program into a diesel service technician program. The board also approved funding for an ACT Bootcamp for students at Magee and Mendenhall high schools, provided by Preparing for Success. Additionally, the board approved a request for bids on a new scoreboard for Mendenhall High School.
Board members granted approval and authorized the sale of surplus land that had previously been designated for a consolidated high school. Bids will be accepted, with a bid opening scheduled for the March 19 board meeting.
The board approved the district’s salary scale with no recommended increases at this time. Dr. Sanders explained that administrators in good standing will receive their scheduled step increase, as this is the designated year for that adjustment. The board also approved salaries pending any potential increases from the state legislature for teachers and administrators.
In his report, Dr. Sanders reminded board members of a scheduled work session on Saturday, February 21. During that session, principals will present information on areas that need to be addressed to improve their respective schools.
A campus visit to Magee schools is scheduled for the first week of March. Dr. Sanders also pointed out changes to the district calendar.
Federal Programs Director Dr. Kerri Armstrong updated the board on federal funding allocations. She reported that the district has received its final federal allocation numbers, including Title funds and school improvement funds.
According to Dr. Armstrong, the district lost approximately $36,000 in Title funding, with an overall reduction of about $41,000 in federal funds.
Dr. Sanders noted that student achievement funds have decreased, which will require the district to adjust services in order to continue meeting students’ needs. Board member Lillie Hardy added that the district will need to align more closely with national Title requirements moving forward.
At the conclusion of regular business, the board entered executive session to discuss student discipline and personnel matters before adjourning the meeting.
