This meeting is a meeting of the board of education in public for the purpose of conducting the school district's business and is not to be considered a public community meeting. This meeting is an in-person meeting held at 870 Kfax here in Benton Harbor. In addition, a live stream of this meeting is available
at the following link. Questions may be submitted beforehand to Natalie. Singinger at bhas.org or or presented in person during the public comment section as indicated in the agenda. Board members may be contacted through the emails listed below. Requests for special assistance, including for persons with disabilities, may be sent
to Natalie. Bhas.org. Call this meeting to order officially at 6:12 p.m. We'll begin by reciting the Pledge of Allegiance. I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the
republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. >> Miss Senior, in the absence of Secretary Triley, can you please call the role? >> President Robinson, >> present.
>> Vice President Bowens, >> present. Secretary Triplet, Treasurer Bradley, Trustee Rocket Martin, >> present. >> Trustees Gavin,
>> trustee Doyle. Madam President, a forum and present. >> All right. Awesome. Up next, we have approval of the agenda. We have a light agenda um this evening. >> Madame President, >> you have the floor. Make a motion that
we approve the agenda but consent item on policy and discipline committee. >> Yeah, they would all be voted that they would all naturally. It's just a read through. Do you want to amend that and take it off? >> We got to redo. We got to do it.
>> We don't vote tonight. This is a work session. >> Okay. So, can we remove the policy and discipline committee? >> I have no objections. I have no objections because the committee has not had an opportunity to dissect and discuss if there's any concerns um
regarding the policies and I have not had an opportunity to get that feedback from them. So I have no objections uh to removing that. >> Yes. Cuz I want to send some recommendations for conflict of interest. >> Okay. So you're making a motion to approve the agenda with the removal of
the policy and discipline committee. >> That is correct. >> Okay. Is there a second or support? support. The motion has been made by Vice President Bowens and supported by Trustee Rocket Martin. Any questions, comments, or concerns? >> Hearing none, Miss Singer.
>> President Robinson, >> yes. >> Vice President Bowen, >> yes. >> Trustee Rocket Martin, >> yes. >> Trustee Gavin, >> yes. >> Motion carried. >> All right. So, up next, very exciting. We have the approval of the
superintendent contract. >> Uh you have the floor. >> Don't you got to vote on the meeting minutes? >> Oh, I'm sorry. Thank you. I'm moving. I'm so I'm ready. I haven't done a board nor
comment. >> You look like you were about to go out before. >> You're right. I'm ready to get Can anybody tell I'm ready to get this done? Okay, let's back up a little bit. Um Up next, we have review of our board of education norms. Thank you so much to my
vice president. Let me slow down a bit. The norms of collaboration for I'm sorry, the the norms for Benton Harour Area Schools Board of Education. We will uh treat each other with respect. We will listen to learn. We will refrain from side conversations. We will use our time wisely, starting and ending our
meetings on time. We will challenge ideas, not people. We will ask questions when in doubt. There will be no surprises at the board table. We will practice the seven norms of collaboration. Those are pausing, paraphrasing, posing questions, putting ideas on the table, providing data, paying attention to self and others, and
presuming positive intentions. Up next, we have public comment on agenda items. Is there anyone present that would like to make a public comment on an agenda item? Hearing none, we'll proceed. Up next is the approval of the meeting minutes. As
you're aware, this is our work session. So, in our regular board meeting, we will be approving the minutes for regular session 610 2025, special session 614 2025, special session 624 2025, and special session the budget
hearing 626 2025. Um, if there's any unnoticed amendments that are needed to the minutes, you can notate that now. If not, I would ask that the board do a deep dive um into the minutes and we'll be prepared to take vote on those in our regular board meeting for the month of
August. Reminder protocol, as of 9:13 2022, our comments will be limited to two minutes per trustee per topic. Now, we are at board business, the approval of the superintendent contract. Um so, as the public and the board is
aware, we have selected Dr. Simone Griffin as our superintendent of schools pending contract negotiations as of July 8th, 2025. Over the past two weeks, we have uh worked vigorously with Dr. Griffin um to come to an approved and
agreed an agreed upon um tenative contract between Dr. Griffin and the board of education. So the board um has a hard copy of that contract and so it correlates with staff report B1 and so I
will read that um in its uh totality. Yes sir. >> Contract. >> No, the resolution. Just the resolution. Staff report B1. Resolution number 20250A. Resolution to approve the employment contract of the superintendent. Benton
Harour Area Schools Berian County, Michigan. The district a regular meeting of the board of education of the district. The board was held in Benton Harbor High School Library within the boundaries of the district on the 22nd day of July in 2025 at 6:00 p.m. Of course, we'll add um that I call to meet
in order and all of those that were present. Um whereas the board of education of Benton Harour area schools in accordance with its duty to ensure the effective leadership and administration of the school district has conducted a thorough search and selection process for the position of superintendent schools. And whereas the
board has selected Dr. Simone Griffin as the most qualified candidate to serve as superintendent has negotiated the terms of an employment contract that reflects the mutual understanding agreement between the board and Dr. Griffin and whereas the terms of proposed employment contract have been reviewed by the board
and legal counsel and it is the recommendation of the board president and the board that the board approve the contract as presented. Now therefore be it resolved that the board of education of Benton Harbor area schools does hereby approve the employment contract between the board of education and Dr. Simone Griffin for the position of
superintendent of schools. And be it further resolved that the president and the secretary of the board are hereby authorized and directed to execute the employment contract on behalf of the board and to take all necessary actions to implement the terms thereof adopted this 22nd day of July 2025 by the board
of education for Benton Harbor area schools. At this time I'll ask is there a motion to approve >> president? Yes. make a motion that we approve the superintendent's contract um employment with a change under use of district vehicle.
>> Okay. What's your recommended change? >> When you drive around our city, you see potholes, you see um construction and we know our streets are notorious um for repairs. I personally believe the superintendent shall receive a monthly
allowance of $175 um with the inflation and the tariffs and oil cost and you you just don't know. I think we should make that at $200 a month. >> Okay. So, you would like to approve
uh the contract as noted with the with the amendment of $200. >> That is correct. >> Okay. Would uh there be a support for that from the board? Well, I guess I lose then. Okay, let's stick to 175. >> Okay, so I'll ask now. Is there a motion
to approve staff report B1 with the contract as it stands with the 175 vehicle usage? >> Okay, so the motion has been made by Trusty Rocket Martin. Is there a second or support? >> Support. The motion has been made by
trustee Rocket Martin and supported by trustee Gavin that we approve staff report B1 concerning the superintendent contract as provided. Any additional questions, comments, or concerns? >> You have um two things. Um I'm getting
are we on Zoom? >> Yes. >> Cuz people are texting me can't get in. Um >> can you check the waiting room? All right. that you have the floor. >> Um, thank you. Um, I am excited about the future and great possibilities that
we'll be having with our new superintendent. I believe she will bring a professional um level that we need and I am excited. I would encourage our board to take away
any doubts or any concerns that you've had that you did not have the past four years and let's focus on moving forward and putting our personal vendettas and stuff aside and let's focus on let's
doing the right thing and that's making sure that we are accommodating and being there for our superintendent. >> Thank you. Any additional comments from the board table? Trusty Gavin. >> Thank you, President Robinson. I too am
equally excited about Dr. Griffin. Um, I'm excited about her energy. I'm excited about her framework. I'm excited excited about her commitment to transparency about uh student centered leadership and
her ideas about making sure that everybody can come to the table equally accountable and equally having the opportunity to um contribute to the solutions and and I'm excited about her leadership and I want to be able to
support her um in any way that that I can as a board member. And so I think I think that we're on I think we're all on the same page now. Um and so I just believe that the best is yet to come for both Dr. Griffin and uh for Benton
Harvard area schools. I think it's a great marriage and I'm excited about this contract. All right. Uh Trusty Doyle, greetings. I am equally super super excited about Dr. Griffin coming. Um, this is my daughter's senior year
and to have such great leadership come and play to help make her last year the best year. I am beyond grateful to have her come on board and yes, do what she does. All right. I
would like to give uh Trusty Rocket Martin an opportunity. >> I'm also excited. So excited I like to go ahead and vote and get her in. >> All righty. >> If possible. So, you asking that I Well, we only have one other person that hasn't spoken. Did you want an opportunity to make a comment regarding
approval of the contract? >> Yes. I um I've had an opportunity to um look at the contract, go through the contract, and um again to I'm excited
um about um the contract, the agreement, how um smooth the negotiations were. So that's a good sign, a good start. So I'm excited and ready for us to move forward. >> All right. My only con my only comment
to God be the glory. So at this time I would ask secretary triplet if you could call the vote for approval uh for staff report B1 resolution to approve the employment contract of the superintendent. >> President Robinson. >> Yes.
>> Vice President Barnes. >> Yes. >> Secretary Triplet. Yes. Treasure Bradley. Trusty Rocket Martin. >> Yes. >> Trusty Gavin. >> Yes. Trustee Doyle. >> Absolutely. >> Motion carries.
>> All right. So, congratulations to Dr. Griffin and Benton Harour Area Schools. We uh now have a superintendent who will be be beginning Monday um with our district. So, I'm super excited. She's actually in route um
here. So, she will arrive about 7:30 p.m. and then we will give her an opportunity to provide comments to the board and public at that time. All right. So, we're going to move right along. I do think we'll be wrapping up about the time that she gets here because we
do not have much on the agenda tonight. Um, our first item of business is the curriculum and student support committee work session agenda. I'll pass the mic to uh Chair Gavin. Thank you so much, President Robinson. Um, I am so excited about our committee
meeting um with um Dr. Bernick and Director Nichols um and just the work um that Director Cupch has been doing alongside them as well. And so my updates are about um the recommendation
from Trusty Rocket Martin for us as a committee to uh agree on a goal for ourselves. I gave it a lot of thought and
I'm hoping that this committee will uh agree with me um as I encourage us to set forth a goal around the education development plan of the student. I spoke
with um I spoke with Dr. Bernick and Director Nichols about what is entailed in that education development plan. And if you can imagine ideally what would happen in Benton Harour is every student
um from the fourth grade and above will have an individual education development plan and in that plan they will have their personality style test. We're hoping that they will have their learning style information. Their
parents would know how they best learn. They will know how they best learn. They will be clear um about their personality traits and about the academic plan that they have and the goals that they have for themselves.
They will use that plan as kind of a way to keep a portfolio of all of their successes, what they're doing well, what it is they need to work on, and they will use that plan to guide them um in their learning and also their career and
tech courses, their um arts um involvement. And so if you imagine this student and their parents and their teachers are now collaborating on this plan um from fourth grade on up. And if
we can look towards making a commitment or a goal of, you know, a certain percentage of our students, having that EDP and being clear on that EDP, EDP within a certain amount of time, like setting a smart goal on that, and then
us committee space to kind of track that. And if you imagine a now a high school senior has done that and they're able to defend their portfolio with all their successes and their well-rounded education, they are now um the spokesperson for their lives and for our
district and for their success. And so um when I spoke with um the team, the committee about it, they seem to be very excited and I don't want to I don't want to misrepresent them. So, I would love it if um Director Nichols or Dr. Bernett
could share um how they felt about that as as something that we we would work towards. Your raw thoughts, no pressure. >> Yeah. Yeah, we're really looking forward to it. Uh I think that you one of the
biggest things that we talked about was we have to start thinking forward and best practice dictates that we start saying all right what is it you that you want to be when you grow up and the sky's the limit and we should have all
that opportunity and then I think the idea of reflecting on it um senior year or junior year is just uh would be really fun and a cool process. >> Um, you know, like I wanted to be an astronaut when I was in third grade and
now I want to be >> I don't know, an astronaut still. Um, so we're Yeah, I'm I'm really looking forward to this. I'm looking forward to uh coming up with a good EDP template and uh something that, you
know, is accessible and something that we can we can use um throughout our district. Director Nichols, >> I would just add that I like the fact that we'll start early. Um that is something that is very important with
everything that we're doing in education and we started early that foundation because then by the time they do um get ready to graduate because that's the purpose um for them to be able to graduate. So I'm excited. >> Awesome.
>> Thank you so much. And I think it's in alignment. Of course, I we will never be sure until we actually talk to Dr. Griffin and um we want to be respectful of her leadership, but I do believe that it is in alignment with some of the things that she mentioned. Um and so I
appreciate Dr. Bernick >> identifying a um you know, I could tell he's been thinking about it like, okay, we want to come up with the template, the right template for it. Um, and so of course we want to look for ways for students, teachers, parents to be
checking in on that EDP and using it as their guide um, and just their portfolio of tracking their success. So I'll open it up. I'm not sure if u my colleagues have any thoughts about that, especially the ones on the curriculum committee. Oh
yes, I'm sorry. Um, Director Cups, I would love to hear your input on that. My apologies. There is a countywide committee that was started uh in the fall based on truly countywide data with Zello, which
is the platform that is being used for middle school and high school to build these EDPs. Uh the usage data shows that all of the schools in the county are struggling with this. So we brought together Barry and Rhysa brought
together um members of the educational committee, members from the business community community. Um a a really a wide range of people and there are kind of three subgroups within the committee.
Um I am in the group with the birth to grade five kind of elementary space and preparing for school. Also kind of that parent university piece of it. There is a middle school um subcommittee and there is a high school subcommittee.
Director Wilson is part of the high school group I believe. But the goal is to really bring all of the pieces together for that whole child EDP instead of just I want to be an astronaut. That's awesome. You want to be an astronaut. Let's create some
countywide experiences for all the kids that have similar kinds of educational goals. And then as they grow older and mature, maybe they realize that they don't want to go into space, but they want to do the math that's required to get other people to go into space. or
maybe they want to be a dietician that works with astronauts to be able to fuel their body for the the hardships that they're going to encounter by going to space. So that it's truly like a full countywide kind of program. We do
already have um some Zello and EDP training set for our school counselor, CTE director, myself, the graduation adviserss during that um hopefully that first week back. We have it on the calendar for 8:20. Um, so this is definitely something that we've been
talking about a lot through the school year and Dr. Griffin is going to have incredible um, ideas to weave into all of this. So, I think we will really see something pretty amazing come together for our students and get them excited
about what they want to do in the future. >> Thank you so much. I'm so glad you chimed in. Uh, director Cubs, if you can imagine our students taking part in their own rescue, right, and being very active in their own um academic, not
just academic, but their whole that the whole students uh career um and then having their parents involved and then creating opportunities for them to um get mentors to tap in and support them as well. and then their teachers being
clear on who this person is in front of me that that I am servicing and learning with and from. So, I would love to uh open the floor up if there if if um especially those who share the curriculum committee with me, but all of
the board members if you have any um concerns, ideas, thoughts about this being a goal for our curriculum instruction and student support services uh committee or clarifying questions.
Oh yes, Trusty Doyle. I'm sorry. >> I just want to say it sounds amazing. Like that would be a wonderful opportunity for our kids to get a foundation in the beginning of their learning and work up as they go up in
grade. And I just think it's amazing. That's a wonderful idea. And I think our kids would really, really benefit. and it may even possibly bring more of our kids back once they see the fruit of this program. I'm excited.
Can you give us like a timeline? How soon will we will the kids be able to get started right when school start or how is how soon? the EDP is a a requirement as part of the MMC requirements for graduation. So
it it's not that we're starting it that we didn't have before. The goal is to make what we have been doing much stronger and broader for all of the students. >> Awesome. >> Yeah. And so to answer it would probably
be a matter of what what will our smart goal be and how quickly can we implement you know agree on this is the smart goal. We want x amount of students in the fourth grade to you know have the EDP and da da da by this date and so I
think you know will be good for us to have that smart goal ready by uh the next either the next board meeting or the next work session if it's okay with the committee. I have a a quick question. Are we Did you say four? Are we starting this in
fourth? Because the paperwork says grade seven. Are we going beyond the seventh? I'm glad you asked. We talked about that in the committee and um I'm not sure if it was Dr. Okay. Yeah. Dr. Bernick let us know that u the requirement is
seventh grade, but best practices is fourth grade. Okay. Um and so I said, let's you know, we I think we agreed that let's do let's go with best practices. Okay. And then the second question that I had I have another question and then a comment. Um the second question that I
had is for Dr. Cuff. You said that this is you said this is a particular require legal requirement and it's not that we haven't been doing this. What is it that we've been doing to meet the requirement cuz there's a lot that you all do internal that doesn't come before the board table. So all of this sounds like
a brand new concept to me. So I'm just trying to figure just want more clarification as to what we've been doing internal to meet that requirement. >> So the excuse me the students at the middle school start with Zello. >> Okay. >> It's kind of an introduction in sixth grade and they start actually building
some things in seventh and eighth grade. Um they do need to have a four-year plan where they look at the courses that are available in high school. Um what their potential um goals may be. Um, do I want to do
work-based learning? Do I want to do a specific CTE program? Um, do I am I on a college track? Am I on a military enlistment track? Am I on a um career certification or maybe a technical school sort of track? And then to put
their four-year plan together, that's in Zello. Um, every student we can see their four-year plan. We did have conversations with them uh when I was the CTE director to add a year five to that plan so that it's not just through graduation but it's planning for that
first year out of high school also. Um the high school there are different activities that they're that they complete each school year. We want to weave those more into academic classes so that they are requirements and then there's a teacher that can help and
coach them through it. Um there is they're already completing um a career interest survey and kind of a a personality test that that goes in um to the Zello portfolio that's being built.
They can upload artifacts from any class into Zello that can become part of that portfolio. Um they can continue to have access to their Zello portfolio as long as their um email address stays in our system. Um, so they would be able to use
that when they are applying for scholarships or college training programs, that sort of thing for the first couple of years until they start to build a professional portfolio instead of an educational portfolio. Um, so so it is something
that we are already doing on a small scale, but we just want to give more oomph to those activities that they're doing so that they have more adult support. We want to give them more um career exploration opportunities to
really see what is it what is that career really like beyond what they have seen on TV or what they assume that that particular career is going to be. >> Thank you. And then the final comment that I had is just that I think this is amazing that this is something that
we're initiating. I'm super excited. Um, I also think it it goes handinhand with a previous conversation that we had at the table about what the former structure for career pathways were. Um, how we had a teacher cadet track, a engineering track. Um, and and I know it
was clarified to us that we don't necessarily have it in that that way in that vein now, but I think with each of the students putting in this amount of labor collaboratively with our staff, this should be able to lay that groundwork for getting those pathways,
you know, that foundation set. So, I'm super excited. >> All right. >> So much President Robinson. Um, I see uh Trusty Rocket Martin's hand up. I know for it's in the computer for Zello like you said for the junior high
and the high school kids if we started in fourth is there a way that we could also digitize their information because I can remember doing portfolios for children. We've done this before and we had boxes and boxes of of of
materials that would go along with the students. So we really just kind of ran out of space but that was of course before the digital age. So, if there is a digital way, this is great. We have a digital way that we can put their information in the system and kind of just let it stay in and float along with
them as they go from from grade level to grade level. Uh, this is a great idea. >> There's a lot of different options. I've worked with students in the past to build um their own Google site so that they would have ownership of all of
their um portfolio items. That way they have not only the soft skill of how do I build this Google site to market myself but then also have access to those um documents and pieces of evidence to show how they have grown. Um so that's one
option. Zello actually does start in kindergarten. Uh we just I mean it's we would have to determine whether you know the costbenefit analysis of that to add two more grade levels to our Zello subscription. But that is also an
option. Um, just strictly a a paper pencil kind of a portfolio of having a binder to keep track of some of those important things that you've done over the school year just to help kids to understand that there are things that we want to keep because they have value. So
your your artifacts of your learning and your growth, those are important things to keep just like your payroll stub or um your tax documents for seven years to so there's value in all of those different methods. We just need to make
the decision that makes the most sense for our students here in Benton Harbor. >> Thank you. >> Thank you so much. I see um Secretary Triplet's hand up. >> Yes, thank you. It's it's good to see this um these type of conversations
being held and as uh trustee rocket Martin stated those portfolios are very very important if you're going to sustain them and keep them moving and they they become a part of how they
document what it is that they're doing. The class of 2015 just recently had their 10year class reunion and the last week of their senior year,
their advisor uh Mr. Ardell Clark had them to write letters um saying where they thought they would be in 10 years and uh he kept those letters. And so at
their reunion Saturday, everybody got a chance to read their letters and it was a very very very emotional time for them. Some had
um accomplished what they said they thought they would be 10 years from now. And and then some was trying to be be um funny. I got 15 minutes to get two children. And I got 15 minutes to get two children at uh a house. You know, they laughed about
it. But these things I think these things are very very critical. when we when we were doing the work on the portfolios that is they had an opportunity to actually you know go into thought and have conversation at that particular time.
Um, one of my questions would be is to what what do we have in place to ensure those students who might not be as technically literate that everybody will have the skill set and be trained in order to do the necessary work you know
in in in the simplest forms because if it's something that we're going to do it need to be something that they you know a lot of times kids you heard kids say they didn't know how to go in they didn't know how to do this and people just wash over it. So hopefully you guys will look into that and make sure that
everybody regardless of what grade level without making any assumptions that there is a technology piece in the beginning and throughout the process on how to upload, download, how to enter, how to access all of these things and
and and how to monitor. But I think it's a great idea. >> Thank you. That is a really great question. We need to include that. um in our strategizing um because we want to make sure that all are included and it is an opportunity to enhance technical
skills for the students and their parents. Um so it may be a good uh interactive you know opportunity to interact with parents and students also. Um and I know I think I've gone over time so I'm going to turn it over to whoever's next on the agenda. Dr. Burn
it. >> I'm sorry. I didn't have the agenda. >> You want us to come back? >> Fine. >> We can come back. Um, we can go to Director Nichols and then Are you good with that, Dr. Bernett? >> I I'll go real quick. Director Nichols.
Uh my apologies. So um as far as special education, we're looking at some transfers of position. Uh an ASD classroom being established at Martin Luther King Jr. Elementary.
Uh and then an emotional impairment classroom is really a self-contained room that's being relabeled at Fairplane Middle. and then uh transfer of a resource room teacher into a different resource room. They're changing
buildings discovery enrichment center to Fairplane East. Short and sweet like I like it. >> Wasn't there some good news behind that, Dr. Bernick? I thought we were supposed to be cheering and >> we celebrate.
>> Yeah, we are celebrating. So, the establishment of the ASD classroom is because one of our teachers, Mrs. Hardaway, had finished her ASD endorsement. And >> you say what ASD is?
>> Oh, yeah. I'm sorry. Autism spectrum disorder. So, she finished her autism spectrum disorder certification, passed the state test, did all that she had to do. And um we have a great need for that. And
that's awesome. We're really excited. She's really excited. and and the teacher that is taking essentially taking her spot in the middle school, Miss Felicia Hall, uh was
successful in the UTRP program through Western and >> what is UPRP, please urban teacher residency retention program. >> I was almost there.
Uh so Miss Hall completed that. She completed her her endorsement and emotional impairment and became a licensed fully licensed teacher. Uh this I I believe it was in February. So got
to give her props for for working hard >> so much Dr. Bernard. is so super proud of our teachers for just advancing and espec I I would also say like especially there's been a huge need for support in the in the area of autism. So I'm just super excited about both um really
stepping up in that way and Miss Hardaway is like a rock star. We're so lucky to have them both and I'll turn it over to director Nichols. >> Thank you. So with student support services, um we are working because we're trying to do more with our family
community engagement. Um so we want to make sure we're communicating more with our families. So >> can you speak a little bit louder? >> Thank you. Sorry about that. Oh, there we go. Um we're doing more with our family community engagement. So more communication, pushing things out about our building. So each of our um building
principles, they have been submitting and putting together their um student parent handbooks. So it's going to be specific for each of their buildings, you know, the policies, procedures, so our families would know what is expected um at each of the buildings along with
our student code of conduct as well. Um the other thing is our attendance manual. Um you know, this past year we had our attendance campaign. We're going to be continuing that, but this year we're um putting together a manual so we can be able to follow just to make sure we're keep pushing that forward um this
coming school year. And that's it. >> Thank you so much uh Director Nichols and uh Director Couch uh teaching and learning. >> We have proposed replacing centric and egeneuity with a single platform called
subject. There is a board report that is attached um with information about subject um a link for a demo account to try it out as well as kind of a sideby-side comparison for egeneuity
versus uh subject and centric versus subject. There's also a cost comparison um and some additional information there. And I brought Greg from Subject
tonight and I believe he brought a colleague as well and they are going to give um a a presentation and then be able to answer any questions that you have. >> Thank you so much. >> Where you see this?
So, while they're preparing, I would just like to give um kudos to the district because when the when the agenda was presented and I was reviewing it, one of my questions was, "We need to know the difference between what you're suggesting and what we had previously. What are we getting that we didn't have?
What's the difference in cost?" And then when I looked when I actually clicked the link, you already had it. So, great job for knowing your board and ensuring that we had this um handy because this was really helpful for me. So you have the floor.
>> Thank you. Thank you everybody. Hello. Good to be here. Good evening. Nice to meet you. I'm Greg. I'm the partnership manager from Subject. Uh this is my colleague uh John Facitis. He's the director of technology uh sales
enablement implementation uh and everything on the tech side. And I definitely um want to give you guys uh a brief overview of subject. I know you might have many questions. Uh so I'll try to keep this as brief as possible. But I'm so excited to be here. Uh I've
been working alongside your administration for quite some time now uh in evaluation of the online curriculum. Um if you don't um know what subject is, I'll kind of start by saying, you know, we're obviously we're we're an online curriculum provider.
We're an accredited platform. Uh we're accredited by NCAA, College Board, WA was Cognia. Um and the big difference of subject and when we came to the market was we just realized that there was such a big gap in online education, right?
So, we realize that a lot of these platforms haven't been updated in 15, 20 years and we're putting our kids on this platform and it's very hard for them to engage and there's tons of academic integrity issues. Um,
for example, like Netflix has been around the streaming platform for 20 years. Instagram has been around for 15 years now. Tik Tok has now been around for 10 years. So these students, these Gen Z, Gen Alpha kids, these digital natives, they demand a different level
of cinematography and videography. We have to meet them where they are today. And I'm talking about short form, high-end cinematography content like we've invested tons and tons of dollars in to make sure that we're delivering the highest quality videos for your
students, meeting them where they are today, what they're using outside the classroom and in the classroom. And I'm going to hammer home today this what we're trying to solve which is the engagement problem and really the academic integrity problem. So I will
show you just a quick trailer and the trailer is going to be very short about I'll play like 30 seconds of it. And the reason why I want to show you it is just so you can really understand the vision of what subject is trying to achieve here because I want everybody to be excited about what we're doing. Um, and
I'll show you just a click a clip and then we'll kind of go from there. Um, and uh then pass it off to John. So, let me play about 20 seconds of this. where you live, what you eat, the medicine you take, and even the language
you speak. Students often say they're not good at math. >> You just haven't been taught math in this way before. Learning a language takes dedication, but it is. So, >> all right. So, hopefully you guys want to jump in and take a class and and that
excited you. you know, it is just a trailer and I just again wanted to show you that so you can really get an idea of what the videos look like. Um, so these are our four use cases that we have and this is really important to go over because one of the big things we're
going to be doing at Benson Harbor we're going to attempt to do is consolidate your vendor spend. Right now you guys have two different platforms you guys are using. So we're going to be a one-stop shop for your online curriculum needs. That means we can handle all
original credit, credit recovery, teacher of record. So we have certified Michigan teachers that are going to be um that within the each subject. So all the classes that we have, we have certified teachers for as well as multilingual solutions. So those are the
big four use cases that we have. And again, the goal is to be a one-stop shop for everything that you guys do in the classroom. Um I want to hammer home again why we're different. Why? Why look at subject? Why switch to subject? Why are districts from all over switching to
subject? And again, we're we're really focusing on this Gen Z, Gen Alpha digital native student, right? We are obsessed with that to make sure that we are providing the most engaging curriculum possible for these kids. Uh accessibility and accommodations. We
want to make sure that everything that you see on our platform is accessible and you can easily alter and accommodate to the students needs. So if any student has any sort of learning difference or anything like that and you want to shorten answer banks, you want to have
readaloud features or text to speech, you can highlight different um text, it can be read in a different lexile. We've invested a ton in AI technology so we can make sure that all this is accessible for these kids and it could
be done on a 247 basis. Um, flexibility without compromise. This is all about again consolidating your vendor spend to make sure that we are a one-stop shop solution for your district. And most importantly is the turnkey partner
support. We are partner and district obsessed. We are available around the clock 247. You have a dedicated team that's going to be in charge of any sort of implementation, ongoing PD, unlimited training to make
sure that your teachers and your staff are extremely comfortable using subject at all times. Um, the last thing here that I want to uh talk about before passing it on to John is really hammering home this academic integrity, right? So, when it
comes to online platforms today, it's really filled with a bunch of uh quizzes and we've really termed the problem click for credit where a student can effectively log on and truly click through a class and pass a whole
semester in 24 hours. Not possible, right? Can't be done. It's hurting our students. So, we are embedding a lot of authentic assignments. Think virtual labs. Think drag and drops, voice recording, video submissions. Anything
that we can do to really engage these students in a whole different way. You will be shocked by just a little bit of a makeover what that can do for your students. And with that, I'm going to pass it on to John that's going to talk high level about our student rostering and implementation features. And uh take
it from there. >> Good evening. Thank you for having us here tonight. It's a pleasure. Um, just a little side note, I worked for Imagine Learning for 18 years. I was employee number 35, so I know a little bit about contrasting and comparing our products.
Um, as Greg mentioned, I just want to hit on it really quick. The academic integrity piece is key. Uh, we really put a lot of effort into that. Um, so the way our stuff is designed is to force kids to critically think and
demonstrate mastery, not guess A, B, or C. uh you won't find that in any other product on the market. Another thing that we do that's different than the other guides that are on the market, we have focused uh a huge amount of energy on making our
platform administrationfree. Now, if you're using Egeneuity, if you're using Adventum Apex, your teachers are working extra hard just to support that platform. They're doing the grading, they're checking on the students, they're doing all kinds of things instead of actually engaging with
the student. We know there's not a platform on the market that is not as good as the magic that happens when a teacher has time to interact with a student. So, our platform is designed to do that. A lot of the ways that we do that is two clicks and you're anywhere
in our application. Our data reports are consolidated into a Google Looker Studio report that makes it easy to import and export data immediately in real time out of our platform. We have an amazing um integrations package. So we could tie
directly into your student information system. We get the rollments, we get the students, we get the teachers. One thing we can do that no one else could do, we could take the grades from a subject and automatically put them back up in your SIS. So now there's not some teacher somewhere that gets the spreadsheet says type all these grades in. The beauty of
that is it's each individual graded assignment, which by the way, all assignments are graded by Michigan certified teachers on our end. taking that lift off of your teachers. Your teachers are still the teacher of record. They still can change the grades. They can do that. But what we're trying to do is lighten that load so
they can spend the time really engaging with the students. But because those grades are synced every night, individual graded assignments, now your parents can come into your SIS parent portal and see the individual graded assignments. Far too much work to do
manually, but we've automated that whole process. So now your parents, stakeholders are connected with the progress of your students as well. Again, we've really thought through everything we can do to lighten that load and bring a really dynamic uh product into your school. So we really
appreciate your time. And I'll turn it back over to Greg. >> Yes. Uh thank you, Ana. So just to wrap it up, I know that you guys wanted to know about, you know, who is endorsing our platform. We work with um you know a ton of districts actually across the state of Michigan but also across the
country right so we've already provided those contacts um and referrals if you want to reach out um but you know we work with over 200 districts 550 schools um and we're rapidly growing my focus is
the state of Michigan I love the state and I'm going to continue to work uh to bring subjects to the kids and I really do appreciate all for your time and thank you so much. >> One other thing that we didn't touch on much and I'm not sure the the relevance in your district, but I just want to use
a Michigan uh district for an example. So, as you may or may not know, we have the best multilingual solution on the market. It is hands down the best. You can use the demo count and you can see it. So, we're working with districts like Udica and Hazel Park. We have a
huge Arabic population. They've been using our product now for about a year and a half and we're seeing those Arabic students on par or surpassing the traditional English students simply because we removed the language barrier. So, it's just another place where you could see where we've sort of leapt
ahead of the industry and and really tried to solve this problem of student engagement. We really do appreciate your time. Thank you. >> You all right? Are there any qu Thank you so much for your presentation. Any questions from the board?
I do have a question. Thank you. Um, you said that your PL first of all, this is great. I'm excited about it. Um, and of course, I already asked for endorsements from other people who uh will be
interacting with this and I see that director Cub has a list of team members who have already given up the thumbs up on it. So, it's not just me or us. Um my question is about the critically thinking and the integrity of the
program. How is it you know that your program allows or encourages students to show that they are critically critically thinking before they answer a question or like how are you able to prove that outside of like typically there's
multiple choice or a paragraph and all that? How is yours different? >> Yeah. So, what we do different is a is a there's a whole list of things. First of all, we review our product all the time. So, you're not going to find any answers to subject out in Quizly or Brain
Quizlet or Brainley. Um because we're less than 40% multiplechoice. So, everything else is short form essay, um drag and drops, interactives. Our ASL course is visual responses. We have audio responses. These are things that
students can't typically go, you know, just Google and find the answer to. And what I've seen across the country and I travel everywhere, um, where we replace Egeneuity, Edenum, those products, is that students really don't like our product when they first start because
they actually have to think and do. But let me tell you something, >> you will see a change in your students after they get through the first few things and see they actually can do things they can actually accomplish. I believe pride is important in education
and we are, you know, we try to be as positive as possible we can on our platform so that students are encouraged. We have a 24-hour homework helper. We have AI tool they can use that never gives them the answers and they can't get Giants tickets on it or anything like that, but the AI part of
their help is tied into their performance. So, say a student is struggling in algebra, but they've been on our platform for a while. Our system knows they're weak in fractions. So when they ask for help on that algebra problem, it's going to give that help based on I know you're weak on this
topic. >> Again, that pride thing. You see kids like suddenly start owning their education and start moving forward because you're not insulting them with talking head HR videos and multiplechoice questions. So that's how we solve that problem.
>> So the tool is able to identify their area of need like the area. >> Yes. the skill that they need to master and it and it meets where they are. >> It's always tracking them as they work through the platform. So it's a it's it's not tied to the internet. It's
encapsulated in our platform. >> So the longer they work in there, the more it knows. Now we have a teacher AI tool that tells them everything they need to know about their students, including, hey, >> why is Johnny struggling in math? It tells them why, and here's a lesson you
can give him to help. So this is where we're at as a platform. That's why I think you will be blown away with the results you see with your students. >> So your platform has a teacher on record through the platform and you're also able to support the teach like a physical teacher
>> that makes models of licensing. >> So you're the teacher of record. We still have those course facilitators, Michigan certified teachers doing the gradings, giving feedback to the students. You get the um certified teachers in the h homework help uh
section. They're there 12 hours a day and then it's AI based the rest of the time. The students are never left alone. That's another place >> you think about it. These kids work at like 2 in the morning. They get stuck. Who are they going to ask for help? We've always got support there for them
so they don't check out. >> Thank you so much. Um >> and they can always ask their regular teacher too. >> Absolutely. And let me let me make this statement because people hear AI and they start worrying about stuff. subject is absolutely useless without a
good teacher. Yes. And we are the first ones to say that. That's why again I told you about the design of our platform. That magic happens when the teacher's got time to sit down with that student and say, "How can I help you?" And that's really what we're all about
is giving the teacher the the sort of information about that student and how can I best help this student? >> Yes. Trusty Racket Martin. my question. Um, and if the student goes in and finds out, hey, I kind of understand this. I
know this. Uh, I'm able to do a certain amount of this work and can I move on without having to go through the whole entire >> So, we have two versions of every course. We have the full credit version, we have the credit recovery version. What the credit recovery version does is
each topic, not the whole course, each topic is gated with a diagnostic test designed to sort of find what they know and what they don't know. The district sets the threshold by which that student can pass that diagnostic. If they do, they move on to the next one. If they
don't, the topic opens up and they take the work. So we we give them, you know, there again, students sometimes they just goof off for like most of the school year and then they get that last couple of weeks and it didn't quite pass. No sense making them take stuff they already know. Let's learn the stuff
that we don't know and move on. >> Yeah. Thank you. >> I see um President Robinson and then Secretary Tripley. >> Okay. So I have one super quick question. um what is the the anticipated
um turnaround time for our educators to be trained? >> That love that question >> on this. >> So if you look at the legacy platforms, they want you to schedule PD that you actually pay for and they want you to pull all your teachers out and get substitutes. Our platform was designed
again to be intuitive. Our trainings take less than an hour. We pay for the PD, you don't. and we will work around your teacher schedule. So if that means our CS people come here to do training, they can go school to school during break times whenever it takes. Uh again,
the beautiful thing about subject is when you get an invoice from us, there's one line item, one price covers everything. The integrations, the full course catalog. We don't have any add-ons, nothing we're going to sneak up on you later. >> Yeah. And the trainings are unlimited
throughout the year. So, we will work with you. Um, and also we will make sure before we go live to set up any sort of integrations or anything that you need with your SIS system or single sign on system to make sure that we're ready to go live on August 25th.
>> Okay. And then second question, what is the same for our students? Do they have a learning opportunity because they they are now acclimated with the different programs? >> Yes. Again, think Tik Tok, think all those things they do, Snapchat. Our
product is designed to work like those so they learn really quickly. We do have a welcome to subject video that they can watch before they start, but it's really very simplistic on what they need to do and and there's not really a a formal training for it.
>> Okay. And then the last thing I have is just a observation um that I didn't notice originally. I'm not sure which part of the it's on the virtual learning platform comparison document. Um in the written in in one set of the
tables for centric it has the amount noted is $380,000 but then on the box on the second page it says $390. I'm not sure which is um inaccurate, but if the amount is 380 as
indicated in the upper text, then the actual savings wouldn't be 33,375. It would be 23,375. I'm not sure which of these numbers. Dr. Cush, you you following me? I'm not wish sure which number is correct, but if we could just get that clarified.
If you look at the chart that has the cost comparison just without all of the text, I gave the price per student because currently we only have 75 licenses for Centric, but we asked for a quote for 100 with subject because we
wanted to have room for growth for more enrollment and the price is less for subject. So in the end um when you compare the price for 75 teacher of record licenses with subject
it's less expensive but when you add the additional 25 in it becomes approximately equal in price. So that's why there's discrepancies in the two charts because one in the above chart it's giving the total um for 100
students whereas Centric is giving a total for 75 students. >> Gotcha. >> I tried to make it less confusing in the second chart. I just didn't want to give not accurate information.
>> So what's the bottom line? The bottom line is $416,625, which is a better platform that syncs with P school, that is more engaging for our students, has better opportunities for our English language learners, um is
less per student, has um better help for students with the AI tool while they're working, especially being in an asynchronous sort of environment. Um, it's more 21st century than egeneuity. And
I think it's probably competitive with Centric. Honestly, the power school part really shoves it over the edge. A huge problem that was reported from parents at Cape and even the staff at Cape is that with Centric, the way that they're
assessing student learning is with strands. and Centric has a very difficult time turning those strands into a grade that can be understood by students and parents incrementally throughout the grading term. So there
was never an actual power school grade until an estimated grade at the end of first semester and then the actual grade at the end of second semester. But with subject with both the asynchronous credit recovery and with the synchronous
teacher of record live teacher classes, we can give the same kind of grade update that we do with a teacher in a brickandmortar building. And that will help students better understand where they are, parents better understand where they
are, and all of us better understand where they are so that we know what appropriate interventions to give. Um, I think the strands are fantastic that Centric's doing. It's just difficult translating that to a more traditional
model that everybody understands. >> Okay. I still don't understand the reason why the numbers are different in one section than the bottom, but I'll ask you offline. >> Yeah, I'll look at it more closely so that I can give a better Yeah, >> because it just looks like a a
Yeah, I ask offline. >> Okay. >> Looks like U Secretary Chip had a question. >> So, um first of all, thank you all for coming. I was looking at um some of your school districts
um that you had on here that I guess recommended you and they're using. So those districts that you put up here were districts that you guys have contracts with right now. >> Yeah, that was just a few of the Michigan ones that we had. But yeah,
those were the ones. >> Okay. So when you talk about the there were there there two aspects of it. those that are taking the actual course and then those are that are doing course recovery can there are two different what would
you call that two different two two use cases so you can have students that are taking these classes they might want to take a government class and they're seeing they want they want to take that class depending on what's happening with their counselors or what have you they
can actually take that class online so I hear people saying that there are actual teachers there. So you have physical teachers, >> teachers behind the scenes. That's the standard model, teacher record model. You have a certified
teacher that's going to be doing like office hours. >> Yeah, we we've mirrored what you guys are pretty much doing with Centric currently. So we'll have a project based learning model where we actually have certified teachers on our end that are teaching the subject. So that is live.
And then we also have daily we have a virtual learning labs that are going to be happening twice a week for your kids. Right? So the difference is you have a project-based learning session within the subject. And then in addition to that you're going to have learning labs. So if these kids are struggling in certain topics or anything like that,
these are live sessions with a teacher that they can uh work with to make sure that they're understanding um and working uh you know at the pace that you want them to. And so with the course recovery, um, those students have have already had the quote unquote seat time. They may
have failed that class, but they've had the seat time, >> right? So now when you go through like you said they they don't miss um how do how how do you all identify what areas that they need to
uh actually recover or do is that you already give them a pre-est >> talking to Mike in the microphone >> Mike >> I'm not loud enough really first time anyone said
Um so yeah so if you look at the credit recovery course each so our courses are broken into 15 topics. So each topic is gated by a diagnostic test which is 10 questions that just test on a very narrow band of knowledge. >> And so the district would set that
threshold out of the box. It's like 80% I'd recommend 90% 80% depends on your students. And if they pass that they go on to the next diagnostic. If they don't they take that work. So that gives us a granular way to figure out what they know so they're not taking stuff they
already know. But we we also figure out what they don't know as well as they should so that they, you know, get great. So >> why would you recommend 90 when proficiency is 70 proficiency? Why would you why would you recommend 90 versus 70 in those segments?
>> I I that's just my personal recommendation. There's no science behind it, but I just feel like if you're going to give them the opportunity to test out, I would rather be really sure they know that topic. But again, there's different use cases for that. You know, sometimes uh
districts might want to uh you know, get kids through and just get them like sometimes kids are like, I'm not going to graduate. I need to take this class. And we want to make them get through. >> No, but my I guess my thought was simply this. What is classified as being proficient? If 75% proficient,
>> well, 70% I think most districts or most states would agree is proficient. >> Um, >> that's all you're going for. >> Yep. It's not about what we're going for. It's about it's about mastery. If our students can be successful, when you look at the grade C,
>> when a student is issued a grade of C, that means that that student is doing what is expected of them in that class at that particular grade level. Uh-huh. >> So, we don't want to push it where they just bound to fail if they if they if they are proficient. >> And that's just my thought.
>> No, I think that's why we have the adjustment because every district looks at that a little differently. So you said it how you feel like you filled the other. >> A C is when a student receives a C >> that means that when when they receive a C that means that they have accomplished
what is expected of them in that particular subject area. >> A B means they've gone above and beyond and a A means quote unquote superior. >> Right. >> So I I just when you said 90 >> it kind of shook me up a little bit. It's not about Yeah. It's not about
lowering standards, but it's about >> no >> the purpose, the reason that we want we want them to recover the course. They've shown that they have enough knowledge >> to go on to the next section. >> My thought. >> Yeah, totally. And you're totally right. So, that is going to be set up prior to
your students going live to make sure that that is set up correctly. Um, in addition, we are tracking everything. So we are having a whole um looker studio meaning we are tracking how long the student is taking the class how do how are they doing what direction are they
trending so you can intervene when necessary as well so that's a huge part and a huge value ad that we're incorporating within the platform to to make sure that we are achieving uh the best student outcomes. One more last question.
>> Once you see that they're not on there, they're not spending the time, who do you all alert as far as the do you alert the actual teacher a record? >> Yes. >> For that particular >> during So during the, you know, the
training, we have a training before the training where we decide all the district protocols, who gets what, who gets notified. So that's all set up ahead of time based on district needs. Um, we have the ability also to email progress reports to parents and stakeholders once a week. So, uh, they
get alerted. You have the real time grade updates happening in P school. So, your Power School parent portal is always going to be updated with numerous ways to do it. The teacher dashboard, obviously, you didn't go into a full demo tonight, but the teacher dashboard is very concise. And when a teacher logs
in, they're always going to know which students need support. need support might be they're stuck, might be they haven't logged on in two weeks or whatever, so they're always notified. We try to make a big deal about making sure teachers are always aware where they're needed first.
>> Want to thank you so much uh for your time. I know that we are probably at time for our committee. Really great questions. Um hopefully if board members have extra questions, they're able to connect. But are you expect are we
supposed to vote tonight or at the next board meeting? Um, director Couch, due to the financial situation with the federal government, RAG has not given the prior approval as of Friday. Uh, and
either our Barry and Rhysa contact or MDE contact has been on vacation intermittent over the last couple of weeks. So, um, we wanted to make sure that the board of education understood subject and the benefits. Um, and
as soon as we can get a green light on funding from the federal government, we'll be able to put that board report back on the agenda. >> Okay. Well, I want to thank you. Thank you so much. Can we give them a hand? >> Thank you so much for coming. Thank you, Director Cubs, for uh
fielding all of those questions and making sure that we had some visual information upfront. I think this is a really good way whenever we are asked to make, you know, these major financial decisions like that, changing platforms, I think it's important to have something
like this in place. And then we have a public comment for um if there is someone in the public who wants to speak on a curriculum uh instruction student support services topic. >> Okay, I'll turn it over to you uh
President Robinson. >> Thank you very much, Chair Gavin. And I would like to say thank you to you and trustee Rocket Martin for ensuring that the curriculum committee does have those meetings um prior to us coming to the board table. I was not present in the
most recent. Um so I I thank you all for the work that you all do on behalf of our committee. And now we will pull it over to uh facilities and finance operation committee. In the absence of Chair Bradley, I would ask that Secretary
Triplet lead us um in that committee work session. >> Madame President um and to my colleagues on the board of education. Um I did get an opportunity to attend one of the meetings. There was an additional
meeting that I was unable to attend based on the time uh of the day in which it was and the date that it was called. However, um I'll have Director Dash to go through um some of these things with the the updates on the gym roof, the the
high school track, the meeting with u Ben Charter Township and St. Joseph Township and um the finance reports. I guess that we'll turn that over to we'll go from there with uh Director Brock Carter. So, we'll just go with Bud. I
mean, director Dash can give us um information and you all can ask questions because I certainly have some. >> And I would just like to note for the record that Superintendent Dr. Simone Griffin has entered the building in her orange and black let the
record show. [Laughter] >> All right. So, go ahead, uh, Director Dash, and then I'm going to take a quick recess just myself. Um but I'll be back before we get through that particular report. >> Okay. Um today we we didn't we weren't
able to have a a committee meeting but um I put on the agenda >> I can't hear you. Director Dash, can you speak more into your mic? >> All right, I will. >> Thank you. >> You're welcome. Um so today we we weren't able to really have a committee meeting, but we did put some things on
the agenda um for tonight. They some of them are a little different than the last time um that uh Trusty Bradley was uh running the facilities report. Um so the gym roof is now done. Um we received
a 25-year warranty on workmanship and material for that roof. So watering a big branch falling down just landing on the roof. We're pretty good. um yearly inspections by the installer for 25 years. So, every year they're going to
be showing up, walking that roof, checking the drains themselves, and going over every seam, and making sure that their workmanship is standing up. Um, I had assessments done on the rest of the high school roof. Uh, I had a
couple guys go across all 21 sections of roofing on this one building. Um, and I'm awaiting that report and as soon as I get it, you guys will have it. Um, but the next roof to be considered is over
the band room cuz students are in there all the time and that one is according to the people that were doing the assessment, they said this one needs immediate attention. Um, the insulation underneath is soaked. So, we did when you we did discuss I
remember us discussing that um as it relates to uh the gym roof the roof over the gymnasium when we talked about it you know being flat and you said it wasn't >> Yeah, there's a little pitch to it. >> Yeah. A mix to it. So, the question and and and what we discussed maybe you
could share this with the board. What is our maintenance team prepared to do along the way as far as maintenance is concerned? So, we can't just wait for one year for them to come because they're going to come back in a year because those things though a lot of
some of the things that happened where the drain is falling was raining and water coming into the performing arts center. And we did say that that is a priority >> that we need to be looking at. And some of that had to do with the simple fact that drains were not cleared. They
weren't clean and and um like for a long length of time. And so that created the flooding and things that we've experienced. >> Oh yeah. >> So our maintenance team, are they prepared and do they have the information from the vendor of what it is that they should be looking for so
that they can check it on a regular basis? Well, the since the last time I actually went up on the roof with with the guys and and they loved the whole thing. It was super hot and real bright and uh we went up there and we cleaned a bunch of drains. Um checked the the baskets. I guess that's what they're
called. They kind of sit over the the drain hole. Um we checked all those, made sure they're secure. If they weren't, we put them in place and secured them. Um that's supposed to keep large things from going down the drain and blocking it down in the drain. Um but yeah, we went up there and we talked
about how we're going to move forward with this. Um what that's going to look like and we were all up there together and and physically did the work. And we also identified some real interesting things that in within the department we're going to look at ourselves. Um
some areas where there's leakage is actually not the roof. It's the um the what do they call it? like there's a name for it and I can't remember it right now, >> but if you know it, don't make fun of me. Um, it's the stone at the top of the
roof along the edge um along the edge of the building. Um, the motor is missing between that. So, the rain comes down and it goes between those motor joints where there should be mortar, but there isn't, and it then it gets behind the material for the roof. So, while we're
up there, we're looking at that and we're like, man, I bet this is it. So, we're going to start going up there with little tubes of mortar and we're going to start sealing those. Um, particularly, uh, the third floor is is got a big issue with that. Um, so that's
that's something that we noticed up there on our own during that inspection, you know, because we talked about that whole thing. >> But, uh, yeah, we we got a plan moving forward. >> I mean, that's that's you can you just keep on moving down. >> Oh, I'm sorry. Yeah. Um, high school
track. We all know what happened to the track the other day. Looks fine. The the track's fine. They fixed it. It looks looks good. Um, our fence is going to be fixed, too. Um, but anyway, so the track is on schedule. The striping is is
approved by the the track coach. I sent it right to him. Said, "Coach Gillespie, anything you want to change?" He actually looked at it. He made some little adjustments. Everything's good. It's going to be right to his specifications. >> Question, how did coach Gillespie make
changes? Then we we already had the draft. When you say changes, what kind of changes did co coach Gillespie make? >> Uh just where some starting lines were or not like starting lines, uh where event lines are. I think that's what it is. I don't know. You'd have to
talk to him about it. >> But he he was able to I I don't do track. He he was able to to I got him in contact with a contractor. Everything's good. >> Yeah. >> So, did did you
>> did you talk to the athletic director? >> I do. He was involved with the whole thing. >> He referred you to coach Lesby. >> Yeah. Yeah. >> Okay. >> Everything's good. Yep. Um the running surface has been installed. The striping starts next week. and the fence repair
and the cleanup of the job site are just the last two things for um job completion with as far as that contractor is involved. Um the gym floor I spoke to the contractor today everything is moving
forward um between them and the insurance agency the the start date is still as of today remains the first week of August. So that that's what I have for that so far. >> So I I don't see the gym floor on here.
I >> think you might be looking at a different one. >> The I see the gym roof the high school track. I don't see the gym floor. But so with the gym floor, the last time we met and you were saying that they were having you you were having difficulties
getting in contact with that the representative from that company and what have you. When I went in there and walked in on the gym floor, it it looked like it's lumpy. >> Oh, it is. Yeah. And the and the and the thing that that that that's disheartening for me and very concerning
for me in all sincerity is that they have a first of all that was brand that was a brand new floor. We have million dollars worth of insurance. I mean we have the insurance and then there were things that they had to guarantee the things that they that they needed to do
and they still have not come in there yet. And the longer they stay out, the worse it get because I can see the difference from the end of the basketball season to last week. >> Yes. Oh, within that time for the last time that you and I met, um, I spoke
with the insurance, they approved everything. Um, they are now in contact with the contractor. Everything is moving right along. >> Cool. >> Everything's good. And and what I'm doing is uh I'm making sure that the athletic director and the the contractor are in direct contact at all times. Like
I I want him to be able to be involved in the whole thing. You know, >> just just another question too. If you saying they're coming in August the 1st, will this interrupt the opening of school gym usage, fall
opening, have have any of that been discussed? How will that look? I asked the contractor about that and then he said no. Um since it's not my first rodeo, I called the installer, the the person that does the work and uh he he agreed. He said he thinks that they're
going to be done in time. He he thinks everything's going to be good. So I got it from the the company itself and the guy that's doing the work, the actual physical work that will be there. >> Thank you. >> Yes. >> Appreciate that. Anybody else have any questions about
anything as it relates to facilities? >> Thank you. I was just um wondering if it's possible to get an update on our HVAC system for the high school boiler system. >> The boiler Oh, sorry. The boiler system
right now, the the phase that they're in right now, they're working heavily on the wiring. Um, this week we've been experiencing a little bit of rolling uh outages within the the building as they're disconnecting stuff and putting in the new wires and then attaching it
to the new system. Um, the boilers themselves are installed. They're they're basically ready to roll and they will be functional come heating season. There's there's no question on that. Um, right now it's just down to the electricians and getting their stuff done, but
everything's moving along just fine. >> And you don't have to answer this now. Um, but I would like some type of report just in terms of the I don't know what it's called, but just how they regulate
the system in the rooms. Um, unless you already know, >> do they have we all know a system to make sure that >> there's regulation to make sure it's not overheating in the room? >> No, the the the heat registers in all the rooms are going to be the
same as what it was. Just like what the contractor or not the contractor, the um the C2E, the engineer, the engineering company came in and they stated the same thing. It's some rooms are going to be warmer, some rooms are going to be
decent. Um, I have talked to these contractors, Andy Egan, myself, and our plan is to go into identify the rooms that are really hot and then go in there and fix that like as soon as possible. So, that's that's what we got going on. >> Okay. So, what I would say is one, I
think it's important for us to have a lawyer get eyes on that contract to make sure we're getting um everything we're supposed to get. Um, and then two, um, if we can find out what it would take to
make sure that the heat can be regulated in the rooms so that they're not overheated. Um, you know, so they're not burning up and w we're wasting energy. So, um I don't know what it would take in order for is is it could is it
possible for that to be a priority or >> that has to be a priority because we did discuss this and before our previous superintendent left and when they came we talked about that contract. There is no way that we would have gone into that
contract that there was some promises that was made that they would be able to control these heat and dials as much as we paid and the long period of time that it has taken us. We knew that it would be like 18 months and that was that was
a major issue. So, as uh Trusty Gavin stated, they're saying that they did not say that, but we should have a contract that specifically says what it is. And we also have on record from board meeting when they presented. We should
have those records when they came and presented to us um as a committee and what they presented here because those we the amount of millions that we paid for that for this to happen um they
should be able to control that heat and stuff in their rooms. We should not still be having the same issues that we had where one section of this building just burns to 1,00 and then another one. I mean, what was I know when they got in
there once they got in there because it was so old, hundreds of years done and they found some other things. We added we we voted as a board to say yes, we'll move forward with that because we wanted to make sure that it was done. So, um,
trustee, um, Gavin, that is something that we'll be able to talk with. We I get more with, uh, director Dash on that so we can give you give the board a better understanding of where we are. >> Thank you so much. >> Yeah, I'll go through the previous
director's stuff um, from when he started this project and I'll get the information over to uh, Dr. >> Bernick. I got it. Yeah, I got it. >> I have a quick question. Um, as far as the individual registers,
I I know I'm not on facility, so and I missed the presentation where they came and discussed it with the board and gave us an update. So, I can't say that I've ever tangibly seen that written in the language or presented to me, but I know
that Dr. Bus has told us that. And so there could be some language in the contract that maybe was misinterpreted or I I don't really know. But I agree with the board that we want to have the clarity on how we as a board and as and our leadership interpreted us receiving
something differently than what was contractually obligated. And then the followup to that is um if that is not included in the contract at this particular time, is it is it not feasible for us to have that or is that an additional cost to the district? And
the third question that I have is I want to understand what you mean by some classrooms will be decent and then for those that are and I'm not sure if that decent is >> cooler than we would want or hotter than we would expect or want that and whether or not if it's cooler than we would
want. Does the district have the ability to have individual heaters that are available to classrooms that are a little bit cooler than we want. >> Not sure if the decent is hotter or colder. >> Cooler. Um, so for instance, example example here. This is, don't say that,
don't think that this is fact. I don't remember the room numbers, but I can I can tell you that I've been in the rooms and they felt like they were going to combust sometimes. Um, so room 235 example, you'd walk in there and it would be like 90°. You'd go down the
hall, two classrooms, and go in and it'd be like a cool 73, 74, like that. Um, which was weird because it was the same hallway. But yeah, that that's what I meant by some
are decent. Okay. Some are >> pretty bad. And the goal is to find those rooms that >> get out of control and get a guess some sort of a plan, some sort of plan of action to get those to be able to be regulated better or regulated at
all. Um, but that's that's up to the contractor as well, but I will be helping him find these rooms. >> Okay. And then are we able to have uh individual like heaters that you can move in the event that rooms are cooler or is there a fire code violation with
something like that in the school district? >> Fire code violation. Um, okay. Yeah, it uh we in the past we had uh those small heaters. Um the the fire chief and the inspector came in. They said you you can't have that and our electrical system honestly just can't handle all
that. >> Understood. I don't want to be on Casmir's bad side. I've been doing a great job staying over here. Okay. The last question that I have for you is inevitably if we find that we and this is more so an ask and and it would be up to you all to decide based on the
capacity that our buildings have. If inevitably we determine that there is a particular classroom that is cooler than we would desire and we can't regulate it, then I would ask that we consider closing that classroom as a teaching room and move the students to a classroom that has a better um
environment because we have a we have an a overwhelming amount of space specifically here in the high school which I know is one of the areas that we have difficulty and so if we have classrooms we're not using maybe we would be able to adjust accordingly. But you all know whether that's feasible
better than I do because I'm not in there doing structural learning. So just consider it. You don't have to answer now. That was just a suggestion. >> Madame President. >> Yes, sir. >> Yes. And for me, I just want this to be on the record for me when we went
all out and we asked them specifically what was needed to do this work. I'm very concerned that we are still now millions of dollars later talking about can we pull in heaters
talking about can we do we need to close down classrooms and so and this is no hit on anybody but it is a hit where we one thing people come in and make these
promises we the board sit here we had a very we had a very contentious time. It affected our board of education, our interaction with one another at that particular time. So, we were making sure we we we we wanted to guarantee that when these kids come back to school in
the winter, we were aware that it was going to be an 18-monthlong process and what's been happening all along the way in this 18month process of of of of it being completed. So, we're not quite done with that yet. So, we're going to
have to have some conversations with them and get this stuff taken care of because with that type of money when they come in this building, they should be all right. They should not be overwhelmed when it's hot and they should not be freezing when it's
cold. Because of those issues, we lost hundreds of students whether people want to accept it or not. We lost several students from this school district. And these are the things that we just have to polish up on and make sure that are in play for, you know, for all of us.
And so I appreciate uh your interaction with those contractor. I just need you to get on top of them. Make sure that they are doing what they said they were going to do for our district as our director of facilities.
I appreciate them. I think we have we we've done the the gym roof, done the track, and we've done the the gym floor. One more question before we close. Um and I'm quite sure
we'll have a meeting prior to this. How are we looking as we're preparing the building for the opening of school, painting, cleaning? Do we have that schedule? Also, you have to give it to us tonight because this is just a work session, but do we have that available
to everybody know what they're doing? So, >> I don't have it on paper. It's like on a whiteboard, but um yeah, it the high school's already under under interaction or Yeah. So, if you go into the the cafeteria, that's that was started. That's that's moving forward. We're
painting down in the teen center. Um, Coach McGinness uh has gotten a hold of us and he's he's brought up some concerns um because the teen center has not been touched in a long long time. So, today my guys were down there and they finished up painting one of the hallways down there and we changed out
all the lights down there that that we could get going. We're rewiring or replacing any lights that don't work. Um >> there's a lot of stuff going on. >> Yeah, that's good. Yeah. Um the elementary schools um other than MLK, so
DEC, Fairplane East, those are those are done. Um well, as far as the floors and uh any touch-up paint, that's not true. Fairplane East, there's some painting going on still today. I know there is. I was just there. Um so that one's not
done, but it will be. Everything's on track. If you can I I think it would be good to bring to the board of education if you can plan of action so that on day one even when our teachers come in on day one that each one of the buildings
DEEC MLK Fairplane East Fairplane Middle School and Ben Harour High School is ready to receive our student. >> Yes. Have you noticed that uh some of the buildings the parking lots have been resealed? >> Yes. So, I mean, just a plan of action to let us know so we can present to the
board. We can, you know, >> we're working on not just interior um up updates, upgrades, but also exterior um for curb appeal. >> Okay. >> You know, make it look nice as soon as you get out. >> Thank you.
>> Pull up there. It' be great. >> So, that's Do you have anything else? Anybody else have anything? >> I will get you guys that list. I I'll I'll write it down on paper and type it out. I'll be good. I don't mean to go backwards, but I was just ask can the board have an update on the next meeting on the contract interpretation from the
attorneys. >> Yes. Yeah. I I said that earlier, but I I even wrote it down, too. I'll make sure to get that over. >> Thank you so much. >> No problem. That that'll be done first thing tomorrow. >> Trusty Doyle, >> I got a question about the >> I have a question about the pool. Have
we looked into that or is that too much to add on at this point? I'm not going to say it's too much add-on it. Uh right now I'm just kind of focused on making sure day one um we're in great shape. The pool I'm definitely like if you guys
want me to look into that 100%. It doesn't bother me at all. I I can definitely do it. Yeah. I just have not done it yet. >> Yeah. Just Okay. And so that basically um um finishes our report to um to my
colleagues. And I think it it's important that when we have these meetings uh committee meetings and what have you, we bring it back to the colleagues for review. And if you have any other questions, um you can get in touch with Chairman Bradley, myself on concerns that we just weren't able to
discuss at this particular time. Um, and at this time for the finance component of it, um, Director Brock Carter will be going through to give you all information along the way as it relates to the finances and what have you. And
and trustee, I mean, Director Brack Carter, you remember the question that I asked you and I wanted it to be made clear that we are not $8 million in debt. We are not we have not lost one dime of the the
the $24 million. I think that that needs to be cleared because we did talk about it in HR too, you know, just going back and going through the plan and you you you understood what I was saying in our meeting and our discussions and what have you. So, can you please, you know,
lead off and handle that the way would you handle that? >> I sure will. >> Okay. And then before you get started, just for the board, it's 7:49. My goal was to get I told the staff we would be leaving by 8:00. So, if we could try to get out of here no later than maybe 8:15, which I
think is extremely feasible, I will be very happy. So, you have the floor. >> Trusty Gavin had her hand up. >> Yes, ma'am. >> Saying President Robinson, the way that we were setting it up was because it was um committees. I think those committees
would be dismissed once they're section >> they Yeah, they can. And um they you you that's fine. The definitely the directors. Yes, they're they're more than welcome to leave if their section has been um completed
>> unless they maybe interact with each other. >> So what we just discussed is once you all complete your section and there's nothing else on the agenda that we need you for, you are able to be dismissed if you would like to. >> Okay. Thank you. >> Okay. They they've indicated they'd like to stay here with their super with their
superintendent. >> Yes. All right. Now, okay. All right. You have a floor card. >> Thank you, President Robinson. We are going to discuss the June 2025 U financial report for Benton Harbor
Area Schools. So, this is not related to the 2526 budget that we discussed previously. This is 2425. uh we are still June was still a part of last year. So this information is the
June 2025 monthly report. So there will be no discussion of any type of deficits today. But um just based on where we're at right now with um the 202425
school year and getting our financials together uh we are at about 90% of revenue and about 93% of expenses and we should be at 100% at the end of June. So we are doing pretty good um with not
exceeding our budget as far as expenses are concerned so far. Um, again, this is the fund accounting that we our day-to-day processing here at the district. Our audit is coming up on the
18th of August. So, then we'll have our actual fiscal year picture um once our auditors make the those adjusting entries that they need to make in order to make our uh books final. So, um, just
keep that in mind that we these numbers may change after the audit. >> Sorry, my screen locked. >> Okay, just some of our just some pointers for uh June 2025. um our
year-to- date revenues were down compared to last year in June just because our federal revenue is down due to um not having er funds that we had for last school year. So our revenues were down compared to June of last year
and our expenses were actually actually lower compared to June of last year as well. Uh we spent a little bit more on purchase services of this year but less in all other categories. So, um, our expenses were down along with our
revenue for June of 2025. Some of the large payments that went out in June, uh, teacher created materials, um, $57,424.26. That was some of our summer um, camp materials and our summer PD
that we uh, purchased from Teacher Creative Materials. Blue Cross Blue Shield of course is our um health insurance. Andy Egan is the boiler work and other work throughout the district. Andy Egan,
they might as well move in. They're always here. If not at the high school, they're at other buildings. So, there are ongoing expenses with Andy Egan. CDW government were the amounts that we spent on our um Chromebooks
for the summer and t is it ter or tara I always say it wrong is our full service company and our last should be our last and final payment to centric learning if we are going to switch um programs. So those
were some of the large expenses that we paid out in June of 2025. Um, our syncing fund expenses did exceed revenue as we budgeted for at the beginning. So, that's not um anything new. We were expecting our expenses in
the sinking fund to outweigh the revenue to the sinking fund. That is to be expected. We budgeted that because we knew all of the work that we were going to be doing on our buildings and our track and our gym floor throughout uh 2425.
Um and then in our non- major funds, um our revenue did exceed expenses there as well and that is to be expected. We did know that our food service expenses would exceed the revenue for 2425. So that was already in our budget. Um but
it kind of didn't happen until May and June. So we >> Did the lights just go out? Thank you. Um so, uh these are all things that we expected to happen in 2425 and we have a fund balance. So,
it's okay. Um down in our budget to actual summary version, you'll see uh based on our budget for 2425, we have received 90% of our revenue. Um again that I know is going to change
because we have received some of our revenue for 2425 in July. So we have to do journal entries and adjust that money back into the last year. So that's why I'm saying that these numbers may change after our audit. That's something that we do in conjunction with our auditors
every year. But I know for a fact we have received some of our last year revenue in July. So that will be adjusted once we get our final financial statements and some of that revenue is the 1.9 million er funds that we were
waiting on. We finally did it. >> So that will help us um increase our revenue for 2425. Hopefully our expenses don't um increase, but again, some things could have went to other funds that
belong to the general fund. So once we make all of those adjustments, um our general fund expenses may increase, but with 1.9 million more in additional federal funds, we should be okay for 2425.
So I am anticipating that we may add to our fund balance at the end of 24 25 to even put us in a better position going into 2526 with our expected expenses to outweigh
our revenue. So it can only help um with the changes that may happen after our audit. So the detail of those expenses is on the next on the next slide has the details for
the general fund revenue and expenses. Please let me know if you have any questions and again we'll go over this again at the actual next board meeting. So if there's any questions or concerns you're welcome to email me or give me a
call between now and then so we can make sure everything's cleared up. So, when we actually vote on the staff report next board meeting, we'll be ready to go. Okay. Thank you so much. And I will reiterate that. I'd ask that everybody uh everyone do a deep dive into our
financials and and like she said, email her um in advance if you have questions. Our agendas have been a little light um in the last month and so they may be a little it might be a little uh we may have some things added in the meantime prior to August. So, I just want to make
sure that we ask our questions in advance so we don't prolong that meeting. >> And can I say one more thing members before we move on? I did want to um make sure that you all had a opportunity to see we did get our estimated allocations for title one for 2526. We're happy to
know that we were not impacted um as much as we thought and uh we are still waiting to hear from uh the MDE and the federal government concerning title two, title three and title 4.
Those funds are still frozen at this point, but we have received an estimated allocation for from MDE for title one and that is linked into the agenda. >> Thank you so much. Thank you. I believe uh director Dash is
going to discuss um the up is that Bar Carter or Director Dash is going to discuss the sidewalk rights for MDOT or Dr. Burn. >> I'll probably call on you soon, Director
Dash. Uh MDOT is putting in sidewalk in front of the skill center or in a year we'll be putting in sidewalk in front of the skill center. They're redoing the
road. Um they have asked to purchase our the front of our skills center for $300. >> Director Dash. >> Okay. >> They're purchasing the rights to alter
the sidewalk, right? Not >> sidewalk there. There's currently no sidewalk there. Um it's down uh um M139 or South F Street, depending on what you want to call it. Um they're they're changing the roads over there. Um so they'll no longer be just one way.
There'll be two-way roads. But either way, um in front of the skill center, they want to put a sidewalk down that side of the road. Um, so they want to purchase a strip big enough to put a sidewalk in from the front of the skill
center and they're offering us 300 bucks for it. We sent it to the lawyers and everything seems seems to be in place. >> Okay. So, the only question I have two questions. The um offer to purchase that we've been presented says that it's only
as valid as May 16, 2025. So, are they still are they going to provide an adjusted? >> Yeah. >> Okay. And then so because the way that it it reads, it says they have an upcoming project on M139. We are interested in acquiring consent to construct reconstruct sidewalk rights to
your property. That doesn't necessarily read to me as if they would like who's going to own the sidewalk, Ben Harbor Area schools or MDOT? >> MDOT would own the sidewalk. we would be not liable at all for that sidewalk.
>> Okay. >> So, um, so that's unfair. So, you're saying that they're changing fair back to a two-way. >> Yes. >> As it was back in the day. >> Mhm. >> And they need that just that strip in
front of it. And then when with that strip, anything that needs to happen, it later on it's on them. It's M. Property. >> Yep. So what what what would be your recommendation to this board of education since you all have been the
one Dr. Bernick who have met with them and talked to them? >> Yeah, my recommendation would be to proceed with the sidewalk. Um we have kids that are walking uh in that in down that street. uh it it you know director
Dash will be able to provide some some uh a better description but um when when I presented this to you uh legal it seemed like everything was good everything was in order and um it would
just it would it would be uh it would help the community and >> safety >> safety for sure we have some kids that could go back and forth there so >> yeah I grew up in that neighborhood it was dirt road it was dirt so that like
again like you said you do have students because you have bus project right there so I'm quite sure they're doing this all the way down so did anybody find out they're doing it all the way down across these properties >> across what properties >> other properties okay >> all the way down that that whole stretch of road
>> all the way down fair >> yeah all the way down that whole stretch of road that's that's what was presented to >> where it connects on Highland where they are they do I think they might have a sidewalk down there some quite sure they've done this part this thing with everybody going >> everybody on the street >> on that road. Yeah. Everybody got the
>> And there's a visual of the strip in your in your binders as well. It's a teeny amount of space comparatively to what we have. >> Quick question. >> You have the floor. >> Thank you. Um did legal provide any type
of um written opinion um on this issue? Uh yeah. Um and that's I can I can share with you. There was several questions that they asked and um they had the
answers provided in there. >> Awesome. I'm wondering if we can kind of make it a norm for us, especially when we're entering into contracts, if we can have those legal opinions included. um
you know provided to us so that we're clear on the legal stance in as in addition to the recommendation >> or if the board chair >> yeah the facility the chairman of what area that's being affected is involved
in the conversation if nothing else or representative from that particular committee is a part of the discussion so that when it come back to the board of education we're hearing from one of our colleague who can give yeah who can give us more specifics. So, I'm quite sure
we'll be asking the same type of questions, if you will, from a board perspective and then it'll be we'll be more included. We'll know in the know instead of getting it here, you're seeing it. They've had a conversation. Who did you have a conversation with? Who did they meet with from our school
district and all of that cuz it's not major. This cuz when I look at this, it looks like the sidewalk where the blue is, but in the front of it is going to be a little lawn piece. And so when they do this that um you see this madam president >> where the sidewalk go there but in front
going to the street there's some lawn care right there that us you know is is that ours is that still our property the only thing that they're taking care of is the strip most definitely. So those are those are types of questions that we would need some clarification on and
have some understand as to how that look. just a recommendation. >> And I'm curious as to how much they're offering the other people. I know it's probably none of our business, but I would hope that they're I would hope they're not being uh offered more than we are. I don't like being short
changed, but I >> they did a pretty comprehensive. >> Okay. >> And my understanding from legal is that 300 is the minima. So we we didn't even really make the minima.
They bumped it up. >> Okay. >> So, you're saying 300 is the maximum that they would that they're paying up. Nobody's getting any more. >> 300 is the minimum that they would pay. >> The minimum. >> So, we got the minimum. >> We have the the minimum. >> So, >> so I would like to know what has been
offered to the other entities. >> But wait a minute. If it's the minimum, then we need to go on up. >> If it's the maximum that they're paying everybody, then that's where they gave us top. They need the sidewalk. >> Yeah. >> I'm I'mma tell them. I'mma call tomorrow
and I'm gonna tell them that uh Trusty Triplet wants wants 301 or nothing else. >> Three? No. No. No. >> I'll call them. >> $300 is the maximum they're paying anybody. They're not gonna pay anybody over. They're not paying anybody over
$300. Is that not correct? >> They're not paying anyone under. Right. I don't know how much they're paying other people, but the our sidewalk comparative to other they did a whole cost analysis. We were under that $300.
So, the property that they wanted to put the sidewalk on fell under that $300 threshold and they bumped it up to 300. >> Oh, they so kind. >> They That's how kind they were.
>> Okay. [Music] All right, if there's no other questions, we'll proceed. Um, so up next we have the human resources committee. There is not an actual um update. I know that the human
resources committee though has met and there are some staff reports that are here. Um, primarily with our work sessions, we we take votes on the things um like our superintendent contract. That was something that we had a deadline. Dr. Bernick is wondering if the board if it's the will of the board
that we can go ahead and get our staff um get our our HR reports voted on tonight if the board is comfortable with that. Um and then we would be able um to ensure we're prepared accordingly moving forward for our our school district. I
am going to I'm not sure who would like to take it if it's going to be Dr. Bernick. Are you going to be providing the human resource committee uh staff reports and review and is there objection from the board to go ahead and proceed this evening with your staff reports >> with these two reports >> with I think there's three
>> three reports. Yeah. >> And madame president there was some things that that were discussed in in in HR um uh a few other things of the way in which um and Dr. Bernie, I see that you guys financial piece was a part of the financial conversation.
Um the curriculum conversation when we talked about the u the uh certification of our special education teachers and um the the reason for for them being moved. And so I think um as a member of the of
the um HR committee that we need to go ahead if at all possible um to um and and and act on these because teachers are being transferred and all of those transfers came within basically the special education
department, the majority of them and then the uh and the the the new hires so that they can start. They need to know they're gonna get in their letters and tell them where they are and we won't hold them up. They have to wait for us to have a meeting for this to take place.
>> All right. Thank you. So, Dr. Bernick, I would ask that you proceed with staff reports H1 through H3. >> All righty. Uh staff report H1, separation of an employ of employment
July 22, 2025. List of employee employees whose employment relationship with the district is or will be separated is submitted to the board each month. Facts and analysis. It's recommended that the board of education votes to accept the
separation of employment of the following staff. Policy reference 31404140. Uh termination and resignation of professional or support staff. Strategic goal reference would be personnel
leadership. Ben Harbor Area schools will recruit, hire, develop, and retain the best staff to improve student outcomes. >> Uh, Deon Gry, CTE, media communication teacher. Termination effective day would
be 6:30 2025. building would be Benton Harbor High School. Date of hire is 10172022. Date of the exit uh interview is to be determined along with it being completed and shared with the board.
Recommended action that the Benton Harbor Area School Board of Education votes to accept the separation of employment for the affformentioned staff. Is there a motion to approve staff report H1? >> Motion to approve staff report H1.
>> Is there a second or support? >> Support. The motion has been made by Trusty Rocket Martin and supported by Trustee Doyle. Any questions, comments, or concerns? Trusty Gavin. It says on the uh Thank you, President
Robinson. It says on this document that the date exit interview sent was TBD. And so I guess what I'm wondering is why is that? Um yeah, why is that?
>> We we haven't sent the exit interview. We plan to send the exit interview um as soon as possible. I'll just have to uh connect with human resources department to get that done.
>> Okay. Thank you very much. I um I want to say that you know it's really challenging and I'm glad we don't we're being asked to vote tonight. Okay. So, one I don't understand what the urgency is to vote on this issue tonight. Um, I
feel like there should be a urgency in getting input from the staff person who has exited prior to us voting. If that staff person decides that they don't want to do the exit interview, then that's their choice and I respect that.
We'll vote I would vote accordingly. But to vote on this without that being offered, it feels um premature. And so I guess my question is why is there a sense of urgency to vote
on this issue tonight as opposed to the next meeting uh after they've been extended and exit interview? Secretary Tripley. >> Madame uh President and Trustee Gavin, there was a meeting held with the uh
previous um superintendent and um director of CTE also with the attorney and uh though the information and the recommendation um with all of the information that was
garnered there uh it supported the termination. Um the reason um I'm not sure like you said as far as the date of exit interviews and what have you is this is something that has been inconsistent and something that we really really have
to work on because sometimes when when there's an exit interview um when it's board bashing we get those reports if someone from from central administration or somebody's been um terminated or what have you. we get those reports but any other report we
don't get an opportunity to see those things but the urgency um um if you will all of these reports is not just urgent for this one it just happened that this is the type of report a termination report that we definitely definitely
always do not feel well about but um that this job has to be posted as well if this person is terminated because we they have we we have to have a teacher in that uh classroom and that job has to be posted. So I think that would if if
anything that would be the reason or we'll start the the school year off with uh substitute teacher in the uh media room and communication media and communication. So that would be why we would ask for from a human resource uh
standpoint for this to be done for they can go ahead because they have posted and I did want to share this with you all unbeknownst to you all those um human resource jobs that were posted they were always in clump and we could never tell like you know if say for
instance at fair plane east there was a first grade vacancy there is a second grade vacancy there is a third grade vacancy We never knew where those vacancies were. And so in our human resource committee that has been adjusted. So when people go and it's on
our site because people go looking for a job and I might say, "Well, I don't teach second grade, but I do teach first grade." So they need to know specifically. So that would be the reason of if anything that I would look at it and say if we're going to make a decision to uh support the recommendation from the previous
superintendent, director of CTE and the attorneys, then we need to do that so that we can um um host the position and then that individual still does have an opportunity to have um an exit
interview. So I so I guess what I would say is that I feel like some of my colleagues are privy to information that I'm not but I'm you know being asked to vote. Um and so I'm wondering is it possible to receive that information? Is
it possible to have a short recess to receive the information and then vote on that? Um >> I don't think that's the protocol. How is it not a it's not a it's not going to close session? No one. This is this is a
termination. We can't go into a closed session. >> So, are you saying you want to touch base with the chair? You're asking for a recess so that you can be brought to speed from the from the from Secretary Triplet. I would like to get some raw data. Um I don't I don't need a close
session or meeting with the board in close session. I just need the information, some information that is from the source, a source that would allow me to move forward on a decision. So, what I can do is is I can take a
brief recess and allow you to consult with Dr. Bernick um and and what you do with your recess is your business, but I'll give you that opportunity to consult with Dr. Bernick and become a breast. >> Thank you. >> Okay. Thank you. >> So, if there's no objections, we'll take a really super quick recess. It's 8:17.
I'm trying my best to get us home cuz I know there's a lot of work that um we have to do um to prepare appropriately for our superintendent in the week, which is why I was trying to get our directors out a little bit early. But we'll take a super brief recess and plan to come back at 8:25
>> 5. Okay. So, apologies to the public. We are returning from recess as of 8:37 p.m. Um, reminder to the board, we are on staff report H1. The motion was made by Trusty Rocket Martin and supported by Trusty Doyle.
Are there any additional questions at this time? You want me to take another recess? >> No, that's it. >> Okay. All right. So, are there we'll allow for trusty Gavin to get back to the table. Um, are there any questions from the
board regarding staff report H1 prior to us taking vote? If there are none, I would ask that Secretary Triplet please call the RO. >> President Robinson, >> yes. >> Secretary Triplet, yes. Trusty Rocket
Martin. Trusty Gavin. >> Yes. >> Trusty Doyle. >> Yes. >> Motion carry. >> All right. Up next, staff report H2. Dr. Bernie. >> Uh staff report H2. Transfer of staff July 22nd, 2025.
Uh submitting for board consideration to approve staff employment in accordance with the revised school code general laws of Michigan facts and analysis. It's recommended that the board approve the superintendent's recommendation for the transfer of the following personnel.
Policy reference 3130 4130. Uh strategic plan goal reference personnel leadership. Benton Harbor area schools will recruit, hire, develop, and retain the best staff to improve student outcomes. Uh Jazelle Hardaway, mild cognitive
impaired teacher from Fairplane Middle School to autism spectrum disorder teacher MLK Jr. uh effective date 71205. Felicia Hall resource room at Fairplane
East to emotional impairment teacher Fairplane Middle School effective date 71205. Ashley Ellery, resource room teacher, Discovery Enrichment Center to resource room teacher, Fairplane East, effective
date 712025. The recommended action that the Benton Harbor Area Schools Board of Education votes to approve the transfer of the affformentioned staff.
>> Is there a motion to approve staff report H2? I move. >> Uh, Trusty Gavin, I believe that was you. Would you like to be the support? >> Yes. Wait, who is it? Which person is the support? >> I think Trusty G. Was that you? Trusty Gavin for support. Secretary Tripleta
made the motion. >> I support. >> Okay. So, the motion has been made by Secretary Triplet and supported by Trustee Gavin. Any questions, comments, or concerns? I >> have a quick question. >> You have the floor. >> Um, Dr. Bernick, how many um students
can um Mrs. Hardway service with the in the new position of autism spectrum disorders. >> We're going to keep her at eight >> eight >> below eight. >> Okay. Thank you. >> So I want to
>> you have a floor. >> So what is the maximum number though? >> So it it's not really a maximum number. It works more of a ratio. So I I I believe that the our county has a waiver for one adult every two students.
>> So do we have a pair of professional that's assigned in that classroom with her? >> Yes, we have at least one pair professional, two pair professionals in that classroom. >> Thank you. >> All right. If there's no other questions, Secretary Triplet, can you please call the vote for staff report
H2? >> President Robinson, >> yes. >> Secretary Triplet, yes. Trusty Rocket Martin, >> yes. >> Trusty Gavin, >> yes. >> Trusty Doyle, >> yes. >> Motion carried. >> All right, Dr. Bernick, staff report H3. And then if you could provide the clarification regarding the effective
date for Miss Fall as well, that would be great. >> All right. Staff report H3. So, submitting for uh employment of staff, excuse me, employment of staff July 22nd, 2025. submitting for board consideration to improve the employment of staff. In accordance with revised
school code and other general laws of Michigan uh facts and analysis, it's recommended that the board approve the superintendent's recommendation for hire of the following personnel. Policy reference 3120 4120. Strategic goal reference personnel
leadership Ben Harbor area schools will recruit, hire, develop, and retain the best staff to improve student outcomes. Felicia Hall, certified teacher, special education, FPE. The effective date is 222025
because that is when she became certified by the state. She has been considered in all of our systems as a certified teacher but has never received uh board consideration.
And then the other one is Cynthia Katenko, certified teacher, second grade, Martin Luther King Jr. Elementary. Both of the funding sources are general fund uh and Miss Katanko's
effective date was is 7:21 2025. Recommended action that the Benton Harbor Area Schools Board of Education votes to approve the employment of the affformentioned staff. >> All right. And Dr. Bernie, to my understanding, this individual, she went
through our one of our um >> urban teachers. >> Yeah, one of our programs. Correct. >> Yeah, it's our urban teacher. It was our partnership with Western um but she was successful. >> So, we would have previously had her um
title not as certified, but more so through that particular program. And so we're just doing the um legalities or the official uh ritual of recognizing that she is now actually a certified teacher for Bitten Harour Area Schools as of the date that she
received that certification. Um so at this time I'll ask is there a motion to approve staff report H3? >> I so move. >> Is there a second or support? >> Support. >> The motion has been made by Secretary Triplet and supported by Trusty Doyle. I'll open the floor for questions, comments, concerns.
>> Madam President, >> you have the floor. This has been a concern for uh me for the last two administrations when we talk about effective dates and I think that we need to be clear on this. Um, so if we're voting,
why wouldn't the effective date be today regardless to what the other things are? because they weren't th this in this particular role, the effective date should be today versus when they actually came in the building or when they were working and they got certified
because the question says the effective date which would be July the 22nd, the day that we um voted for them to become teacher. >> So to my understanding, the teacher has been recognized as a certified teacher.
Has she already been paid at the rate of a certified teacher since February? >> Yes, since February. >> But she never came before the board. And that right there too, that too is concerning as well. I'm just saying just indiv. >> No, I understand. That's what I'm saying. the future and and it has created so much it it makes the the
documents when we go back and we pull the documents then the these dates are very very critical because it has things to do it their retirement all of these different things are taken into in into consideration and if this stuff is wrong
so somehow she was getting who made that decision to start paying her full-time we knew nothing about it she had not been hired in at that particular time. So there are loads and loads of things that we need that need to be corrected and I know that there's been uh some
opening space in HR. So I I would I would I would feel comfortable moving forward saying the effective date since we voted would be the 22nd of July because this right here is going to determine I mean
it it it affects more than what we know. So, I would strongly disagree. However, um I would suggest that maybe we have council review if there's any technicalities because I feel as though if she I understand what you're saying that this should have be brought brought to us before she started doing that and
so we're doing it backwards. This is this is our effort to clean it up. However, if there's hesitations from the board, I completely respect that and I can get um we can get clarification from Clark Hill as to whether it should be 2225 or the current date. I don't want to pause because we need they need to
move forward and have people in position we can come back and then if we have to redo it with the necessary adjustments we can do it then. So I'm I'm I'm in favor of moving forward with it. >> Just something to be taken into consideration. >> Understood. Any other questions from the board?
>> Hearing none. Secretary Tripler >> second. >> The motion was made by Secretary Triplin and supported by Doyle. >> Secretary Triple please call the vote. >> President Robinson. Yes. >> Secretary Triplet. Yes. >> Trustee Rocket Martin. >> Yes.
>> Trusty Gavin. >> Yes. >> Trusty Doyle. >> Yes. >> Motion carried. >> All right. So, um I have a splice of old business and new business cuz we've been this more so pertaining to the superintendent um contract approval um
and things of that nature. So, I'll kind of merge the two. Um so of course congratulations again to our newly appointed um superintendent Dr. Simone Ga um so she will require a full district orientation. Um I will aid the district
in doing so. Um I would ask Dr. Bernick and people might want to take some notes. Um, if we could have our principles prepared to give her a tour of their building on Monday, that would be greatly appreciated. Um, I would also like to ensure that she has a formal
meeting with her her cabinet on Monday. Or are you guys out? >> Can we push the principal to the fourth? >> They're out right now? >> Yes, >> we can do that. >> We can definitely do cabinet whenever
she would like. >> Okay. right now. >> Okay. I understand it's the summer. Okay. >> And Madam President, >> one second, Secretary Triplet. Okay. And so the meeting with the cabinet, and then there does need to be a formal orientation with her where we go over
and give her a quick overview of um her administrative guidelines, her board policy, all of those types of things. I would like to be present um if feasible. So, if you all could see if uh this upcom next Friday works for you all.
um to schedule a formal orientation. Okay. Secretary Triplet. >> So, as far as the walkthroughs um of the building and what have you, the um director of facility to do the walkthroughs and
then give her an opportunity on the fourth to meet with the principal to meet with the principal. So, she'll have time >> to boost on the ground. She get a chance to see some things and be able to ask them questions. So if that's something that can be taken into consideration, so she have an opportunity to walk through with the director first.
>> Okay. >> Um and then go from there. So on our in our in our MASB too, when it says onboarding of the superintendent, is there onboarding with us and an onboarding?
>> So you all would have your you would have your one-on- ones as well with her. >> So you you're >> I'm still I'm still on my updates. >> Okay. Yep. Okay. Um and then uh of course as Secretary Triplet stated, we want to make sure I know Secretary
Triplet has had an opportunity to um I did formally request that Secretary Triplet assist me with helping um Dr. Griffin to acclimate to the city of Benton Harour. So assisting her with things like locating housing and
restaurants and things like that as she's learning the city. So, he's done a phenomenal job at um being a support to her over the past two weeks as she she's come down and kind of um looked around the city, got to know Bitten Harbor in transition once we appointed her formally um pending contract
negotiations. So, we really ensure that there's a schedule set up um so that Dr. Griffin can have one-on- ones with each of the board. Um, I know that sometimes virtual and phone calls work, but it would be my presence preference if those are in person and then it's completely
up to you if you all want to do something informal meeting in the office or if you want to do something over lunch. I'll allow you all to determine what that looks like. But I do want you all to get some time in the next two weeks to sit down and talk to her about your vision as a trustee for Benton Harour Area Schools and she can share her personal vision with you all as
well. So really just wanting to build those relationships right from the start strong. Yes, sir. Madame President, as your your secretary of the board of education, and this is one thing that we did discuss in order to make sure that you're on point because we have responsibilities
at the secretary of this board. I will be getting with you and my colleague, we can schedule so we can >> So, you're going to assist me in getting that scheduled >> schedule. I can call my colleague. We put the date and the times available so y'all can get me in because I know you're going to be very, very busy. But you do have a secretary on this board of
education. >> Thank you so much. >> All right. Next up, back to school bash. Um, just a reminder that that is uh Wednesday, August the 13th. Um, we will do her formal reception unless the board um feels otherwise. I thought it would
be an amazing thing to do her formal reception that same day and have it um take place immediately after at 6:00 here in the library. Um, so Miss Booth is working on, you know, I have the press release hot and ready. I wasn't sure if negotiations want to go through at the last minute. So, it wasn't set to
go out tonight, but it will go out in the morning. Um, so she will inform and remind the the public of back to school badge that Dr. Griffin will be present and that the formal reception will be here in the library August 13th. I would like it to be nice um similar to how we
did for uh Coach Will height. We had the full uh buffet laid out. So, if you all have some suggestions for programming, it won't be an official board meeting, but it will be a welcome reception and we will have a a small program. So, if you all have ideas of things that you would like to implement into that, let
Secretary Triplin know. Um, and then lastly, um, she will be doing we'll be doing a stakeholder tour. Um, so Miss Singer, if you I know we have a list that has all of the municipalities and when they meet, they
rarely change their meeting times, but if we can just ensure that that's accurate and then see if I can get on their agenda for the most uh their next meetings so that I can take her and formally introduce her to each municipality. Um, I think the first one that we'll go to is the city of Benton
Harbor. That will be the first Monday of the month. I know some of them are a little further out. I invite and welcome the board to either of the tour stops. However, I am I am strongly asking if you all are able to be present at that uh city hall meeting on the first of the month. I'm going to request to be formally on that agenda and I would like
you all to be present to stand and be recognized if your schedule allows when I introduce her to the to the city of Bender Harbor if you're free. Trusty Gavin. >> President Robinson, will there be a calendar of the tour? >> Yes. Okay, great. So right now the grid
it's the same um schedule that I've used for like talking to them about the master facilities plan and all of the updates that I go communicate. So we'll have that schedule. It's a sales sheet I think a spreadsheet. So we'll get that sent out to the board so you guys can see where we will be when. Um and then
the next piece of that stakeholder tour. I know that there are other organizations that we want to ensure that she's connected with. Miss Senior will be extremely helpful in helping her make those connections based on the current um meetings and things that were already scheduled with the former superintendent, but I would also like to
make sure um that we maximize on our church bodies. Um, so if you all attend and would like to invite her to your congregation, I would ask that you would um or if you have a congregation to suggest that you all would make that
communication with your church secretary or pastor and then let Secretary Triplet know so we can see if we are welcome to come in and just do a she can just greet um the community. That'll be a large body of people to be able to contact at one time as well. any other suggestions
for locations or stops or tours um that we can do, I would appreciate that. And I know that the press is going to be super eager to talk to her and interview her, but I don't anticipate allowing that again until August 13th because I'm sure they'll be here. Yes, ma'am.
>> They meet at 7 or 6. >> 7 o'clock. >> We also, you know, our township is >> of our of our district. >> So, we need to um >> Yeah. You guys are welcome to come. I'd like to at least have one or two other
trustees with me at each stop. >> Trusty Gavin, >> I just want to make sure I heard you right. You said allowing you mean like talking to the press. Yeah, like you know they be thirsty for no offense. And
so there was a request that was made previously. um there were certain questions that were provided in advance and then those questions were not the questions that were there were questions that were asked that were not provided in advance. And so I'm just trying to be
a little more um focused on allowing her to focus on the work versus being on the press and and and answering questions that she may not have answers to this early um in her transition. >> Um I would like to add a different
perspective. respect. >> Okay. >> I think that Dr. Griffin did an amazing job. >> I think that she is equipped >> and I don't mean allowing her, but allowing them okay, not allowing her.
>> I think it's perfectly okay to say I'm looking into that. Um, and we need we need a um we need somebody to be the spokesperson for us during this time, especially during the back to school,
like between now and that back to school bash segment where we're enrolling and getting folks excited about coming back to Ben Harbor. So, I'm wondering like is there a middle ground? >> We can find a middle ground. >> Okay. I'm just being I'm just overly protective right now and I and I will
give you more det. >> Yeah. Okay. >> And I those >> you know she did fabulous. I agree. And and what people don't know is that I was actually in the Zoom room and I wanted to call out and say wait a minute you but she she handled it she handled it
very well. Um, and so one thing that I did speak to her about is, you know, a lot of times she's heard us say little antics or make jokes about, you know, our our narrative with the press. And so she was able to see firsthand what was communicated to us versus what was actually discussed. And so she she was
actually with not within 24 hours of being selected, she was able to experience that. So she is coming in eyes wide open knowing um the types of sensationalized questions that are going to be asked of her. Um, so I I definitely think she's prepared. And um,
when I called her and told her that they wanted her, her response was, "You want me to do it?" And I said, "We hired you, didn't we?" So, we hired you to do Yes, I I do. I think you can do it. So, it's just we can definitely find a middle ground. I just want to make sure that she's not
pulled too much from the work and that we're not caught off guard by anything. >> Okay. Thank you. Um, so if you guys think of any other places, um, o, you know, over the summer as we work to make sure the community is aware that she's here, feel free to shoot those over. She is in control of her schedule. These are
just the acts that I would that I the things that I think that we can do to make sure that she has a phenomenal start um, at Benton Harbor area school. So that's all I have for old and new business. Anyone else have anything? I know trustee Rakette sometimes has MASB stuff.
Mike, please. >> Our leadership conference is coming up in October 24th, 25th, 26th, I think is that weekend. So, and it will be in Traverse City. So, by all means, um, you know, sign up, get some classes. We can
always go better and go higher. Um, if our whole board took a got certified, I think level one, we could receive a state reward. So we don't have much uh further to go. So and that would be nice. That's a a feather in our cap that
we were able to work together and get that accomplished. So you know encourage colleagues. That's all I can say. Um also we did meet with our Barry and Cass association. I was kind of trying to wait for them to send me the minutes
from that before I I brought it to the board. I'll try to have it ready for you on our next agenda when we meet again so that we can I can tell you what's going on there. >> All righty. >> Other than that, Dr. Griffin, welcome. Glad to have you on board. Look forward
to working with you and um making your job successful for you. Okay. Uh and that will be all. >> Okay. Secretary uh Trusty Gavin, I think Tripler had his finger raised for old or new business. >> Finger or hand? Was it whichever you
had? Go ahead. I don't remember which one it was. You have the floor though. >> Is it for me? >> Yes. Did you have something to share under old or new? >> No, I would just say in all sincerity and I would, Madam President, I will do
my best to work you to make sure seriously like with all the things that you have here with the u uh for the old business and new business and work alongside Dr. Bernie, you know, on that. Thank you >> on those things, you know. Um, and I I
just want to tell Dr. Bernick, I don't know, you just gave me a bit of peace, >> you know, you did an amazing job and we just appreciate the, uh, the expertise and the professionalism and all of that. Um and I too um to our new
superintendent and to our cabinet, you know, we we we we going to all work together, you know, and it's very very important that we you know, we don't want to just, you know, we we we're moving forward. And one person said to me before, you cannot
go forward always looking back. >> And so I I'm just excited about all of it and I'm ready to go. >> All right. Uh, Trusty Gavin had new new older new business. >> It's it's kind of old and I would like to make it new. Um,
>> I wanted to get it on the agenda today, but I didn't and I'm hoping the board will indulge me. I would like us to consider and I would like to get it to you all um before the next board meeting for a bo a vote. So our mission of Ben
Harberry area schools is to educate, guide and inspire students by developing their skills and knowledge to be globally competitive. >> You mentioned that. >> Yes, I mentioned that before. I'm very much interested in for a healthy environment for us to change the wording
from competitive to collaborative. That is the highest level of communication and it encourages us to be our highest selves for each other for making each other better as opposed to competitive figuring out what's the worst in others and being better than them. Um, and I'm
just hoping that we will be open to just making that little tweak um in the mission statement. Um, I feel like it would bring out the best in us all. >> I have no objections. Can you d work with Miss Singer to draft the resolution? >> Absolutely. Okay. >> Thank you.
>> Any other new or old business? All right. Hearing none. Open public comment. Hearing none. Superintendent announcements and comments. Dr. Bernick, this is your last drip. Hey, it is Nobody.
>> Well, thank you. Thank you. Not necessary. Thank you. As always, I want to thank the board of education. Uh, I also want to thank all of my colleagues that I get to see daily and work with daily. And, uh, Dr. Griffin, you and I,
we're going to be working side by side for a little while. So, I'm excited. I'm excited. >> All right. Awesome. Up next, board member announcements. And actually, if there's no objections from the board, I would like to give Dr.
Griffin an opportunity to speak before we do. Okay, you have the floor. Can we ensure her mic is on since we've had no one at public comment? So, we are going to use this time to to uh allow our superintendent as of Monday to make any announcements or comments.
You have the floor. >> Our superintendent. >> I would be remiss if I didn't say to God be the glory for the things that he has done in this time and space. I thank you all so much. I really am overwhelmed at the wonderful, beautiful energy in the
room. Look at my cabinet. Thank you all for staying late for me. Looking wonderful. The energy among them. I cannot wait. Get ready to be hated on. They were worth. You all were worth the
wait. I'm so grateful. Thank you to the board. Thank you so much. I know this was a very long and stressful process and I thank you for being flexible and patient with me in this time because I couldn't be more honored to be in your
presence to serve this beautiful community and take our babies to the next level so that we can collaborate to be globally competitive. Let's go Tigers. All right. >> All right. Board member announcements
and comments. Trusty Doyle. >> I'm so fired up after that. I just I'm All right, let's go Tigers. Okay, so I would just like to thank everybody who came out. I'm not sure if anybody came,
but to those who are watching the staff, the board, I love how we are getting along so much better. Um, I'm grateful. I am I don't even have the words to how grateful I am for Dr. Griffin to be here
cuz I know you going to make a change and help us move forward and I'm grateful for that. >> All right, Trusty Rockman. >> My comments. >> You did. You slid them in. I just didn't want to call you out for it. Okay,
Trusty Doyle, I mean Trusty Gavin. >> Uh thank you, President Robinson. I want to welcome you again, Dr. Griffin, I am so grateful uh to have you in our midst and once you meet our children, you're just going to fall in love. And so I'm
just looking forward to that journey for you and our phenomenal staff. So I'm just super excited about what's to come. I want to encourage everyone to if you haven't already to take the Peace for
Life challenge. it is lifech changing. You identify the habit that is not serving you, at least one, and replace it with one that is serving you and you're also making a recommmitment to our schools and and community. And you
can go to peace day2247.com to get more information about that. Um, I've just been hearing about really phenomenal life changes and I've been observing some changes in in myself as I work on it as well. And we want to
encourage all of our students, their parents, um, and community members to join in. There's been a lot of violence across the world, not just Benton Harbor, but across the world, and I believe that we can be the change that we're looking for. Um on another note,
um I am hoping that we as soon as possible can put together some type of uh strategic um plan for heating and cooling in the building in the high school to make sure
that the community um is ensured that our students will have a um comfortable environment while they're here. And I'm hoping that that will be a priority. As a former teacher, I know what it's like to sit in the class with a student who was hot here,
cold there, now they mad at everybody, right? So, we want to make sure that we um do what's best for them and get on top of that and and and prioritize that. Once again, I'm really grateful for my colleagues. Um, I want to thank you, um,
President Robinson, for dealing with the negotiations in a transparent way and making sure that we all were able to be involved and coming up with something that got us a really a a yes, you know, a yes from a um a phenomenal new
superintendent. So, I'm just looking forward to to the future. Um, also in regards to HR, I'm looking forward to the progress that we will be making um in our in our human resources department as it relates
to our staffing and very excited about the teachers, the new certified teachers. I think we're on a roll while everyone else is laying off. That gives us an opportunity to snag uh certified teachers and to treat the ones that we
have with the utmost respect. You all have an amazing Tuesday. >> All right, Secretary Triplet. Madame President, before I get my comments, um Ben Harvard just recently lost a giant >> and um former commissioner Ralph Krenshaw and also former commissioner
Dennis Nolles and u from the fourth ward. So they both passed away on the same day and so we can have a moment of silence for them if that's okay. Thank you, Madam President. Um, first of all, I want to say as I
said already, and I, you know, people don't have to do nice things. People don't have to step in. And I just want Dr. Bernie to know in all sincerity that I know I can speak on behalf of all of us that we do appreciate you holding the line um for
us in this transitional period through our board of education. our our our norms of collaborations are coming to fruition and we're learning how to work those things, you know, um and and and
to see us um getting comfortable in the norming stage of those steps. And I'm just so excited and I'm praying that we will reach performing where we can step back and feel
comfortable to say that we have a leader and who leads our team um and and and and um with integrity. Um in my time with uh Dr. Griffin, I you
know, just uh uh uh to have a little piece of hope and I haven't felt that way in a long time. And it's all, you know, trauma is something else and you don't even know how to appreciate it. So, it's it's a piece of hope and don't take it personal
um about some of the concerns that people might have in this community because we've been through a lot. I think my colleague um Trustee Gavin said something. We were talking after the board meeting last night. We've been in a war for some time now. And so when you
come out of war, there's a lot of adjustments. There's a lot of things that have to happen. Some people are shell shot and all the things. So it's not some of the things that you may encounter is not personally toward you.
I'm praying for you. I'm I'm I'm I'm grateful beyond measure. Um I'mma do my duty. I'm going to I'm going be on YouTube. No passes because um we you know we don't want to
be pseudo employees. >> We have hired a superintendent. We all have our lives. We all have our professions and we all have our job. Sometime we've had to what may look like micromanaging and what hedge we were fighting for our district and so I wish
you the very best know that I'm praying for a hedge of protection around you that the Lord protect you from danger seen and unseen bring back to your remembrance everything that you learn as you metriculated through the universities and the colleges and campuses and through your work
experiences what have you one thing for sure and two things for certain Ben Harour If they got your back, they got your back. So again, I wish you the very, very best and I'm excited about the upcoming school year. Thank you so very much.
>> All righty. So I will be brief. Just want to thank the board of education and our staff um for their time today. Thank you um sincerely from the bottom of my heart, Dr. Bernick. We appreciate you. Um, you've been our superintendent for
22 days and you've already been through brim and fire. >> Uh, and and that's not even just a metaphor. Literally, >> we've been through brim and fire. And the one thing that I would say is having your your presence there that afternoon
or that morning was uh invaluable because I was on a hundred and you was like, "It could be worse. It could be worse." and it just made me kind of stop and center and think about, you know what, he's right. >> It could be worse. >> It could be worse. So, I I just appreciate you for your calming
demeanor. Um, your willingness to to jump in and it and it really makes it strongly reflective of how embedded at Benton Harour Area Schools you were as a director because this was an easy transition for you and you've been put in difficult position with individuals that were once your colleagues and you
were able to rise to leadership whether it was good or bad. So, I value that. I hope that this is a a lifetime experience for you and that it's one that does bless your future professional career. I'm extremely excited to welcome um Dr. Simone Griffin as our
superintendent. I know that you are extremely excited to be here because you've been on me about your contract, which the board does not know. I've been checked uh via text and all types of stuff. Secretary Triplet had to let her know to have several seats because Dr.
Griffin said, "We're late in the game and school's getting ready to get started and she needs to get in here." And I love it. >> Yes. >> Because accountability is on the way. So, I thank you. I agree. I don't know if you heard on your way here. My comment earlier when we approved you was to God be the glory. So, for you to come
to the mic and say the exact same thing is just reflective that he is all within this. So, I thank you. I welcome you. I'm extremely excited and congratulations and well done to the board of education and thank you to HYA for your for your service. Um so at this
time I'll ask for a motion to adjurnn. >> I so moved. >> Is there a second or support? >> Second. The motion has been made by Secretary Triplet and supported by Trusty Doyle. Any questions, comments, or concerns? Hearing none. Secretary Triplet. >> Madam over there, Madam President.
President Robinson. Yes, >> Secretary Triplet. Yes, Trusty Rocket Martin. >> Yes, >> Trusty Gavin. >> Yes, >> Trusty Doyle. >> Yes. >> Motion carry. >> All right. Meeting adjourned as of 9:15
p.m. I do have the contract hard copy ready. So, we will be signing officially tonight. You all have a great evening. and