Minutes - February 12, 2015

Certified Staff Advisory

February 2015

 

The Certified Staff Advisory met Thursday, February 12, 2015. Members present included:

Teresa Furr, GRES; Charlene Little, CES; Sabrina Gooch, TES; Mandy Brown, PSE; Janet Deaton, EMHS; Jackie Baldwin, EMS; Laura White, SES; Melissa Shields, MGES. Members absent included: Ericka Shaw, MLA; Caleb Rushing, WMS; Phillip Spivey, WMHS.

 

Dr. Ellis welcomed those in attendance.

 

Celebrations

SMART lunch has started at EMHS and has been going well for students and teachers.

 

Grant Update

The after school grant is up and going in elementary. Working on rolling out middle school after school grant. Grants are wonderful in that they provide more opportunities for our students, and a few jobs. Positions will be filled, but are provided through grant funds. Are working on PEP grant to provide equipment for physical education. Will be hiring two new technicians in the technology department to manage new equipment for i3 grant.

 

Budget Update

The state is $271 million behind in tax collections. Tax cuts have also gone into effect. There is a possibility of cuts. We are hoping to be able to cover any cuts with grant funds and fund balance. Our commitment is to maintain everyone that we currently have. Our goal is to increase service without decreasing funds.

 

Questions

 

EMHS – Can there be an initiative for recovery packets be created by the teacher of the course rather than the guidance office so there is consistency and rigor? Will be shared with high school principals for discussion.

 

Other counties do not allow students to make up time at the high school level.  Have we considered changing our attendance policy?  Students begin to take advantage of the system and it cost valuable resources. Haven’t considered changing it – seems to be working. Need more specific information in order to address.

 

SES - Can ear buds/headphones be added to the school supply list at elementary level? Will discuss with curriculum team.