All right. Next up, we have the board of education norms for Benton Harour Area Schools. Those are we will 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. My goal for tonight is 8:00. 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. Next up,
we have public comment on agenda items. Is there anyone who would like to make comment on an agenda item? Hearing none, we'll proceed. Uh, up next, we have approval of meeting minutes. Of course, this is our work session, so they won't be approved today. However, at our next regular
board meeting, we'll have approval for the special session, the board retreat minutes for October 4th, 2025, as well as the regular session minutes for October 14th, 2025. And I would anticipate today's minutes as well. Um, so make sure that you all take a look at
those once received. If you have any edits or amendments needed, please send those forward to Dr. Griffin and Miss Singer. Reminder protocol. As of 9:13 2022, all comments will be limited to two minutes per trustee per topic.
Uh first under board business, we have MASB annual leadership conference updates. I'd like to apologize to the board that I was unable to attend. I know I was the one of the greatest advocates for us all being there. Um however, when we do attend conferences and things of that nature, we do come
back with a report back. So at this particular time, I'll open the floor if there's anyone that would like to add comments as to uh the experience or overall conference. >> Madam President, you have a floor. Um I
arrived that Friday and when I got there, I attended a class on black superintendent and black female superintendent. and it was an honor to be right next to representing with our superintendent on
the front row. Um, one of the things the superintendent Dr. Jazz Parks uh presented and you think Bitten Harbor area schools, we hear so much but you see some of the stuff that they go through. I said, "Thank you, Jesus, for
the tigers. We are um you know, they had a Gaza resolution. um you know they had to deal with the board situations and it was just an honor to represent and then Secretary Triplet introduced our
superintendent. Um and it was just overall unified. We missed your presence. I hope you can attend the next one. Um >> I hope the same for you schedule's book but thank you so much. Anyone else would
like to add any feedback? If not, you have the floor. >> I too was honored to be there and you know, it's just so nice that you can improve yourself. You know, it's like
any other profession that you're in or a job that you do. the the ability and the availability that you we have through MASB to constantly learn new things and to have our understanding enlightened and I was so pleased that our
superintendent was able to be with us. It's always nice to have the top people in the room. Um we did miss our board president did but you know we carried we we we uh
acted well on your behalf. Thank you. that um we learned and um I wasn't able to get anything ready for this board meeting, but for the next, you know, I'd like to do a little presentation of some of the things that we've been learning
in MASB. >> Sounds good. I'll ask that Miss Singer note that for me so I don't forget. Um and just for the public, uh NASB is the Michigan Association of School Boards. So, school districts, your board, they boards have an opportunity to become a
member of the association and they provide conferences and educational learning opportunities um for boards of education. Um, Secretary Chlo, >> um, Madame President, I too am glad that
we um had the opportunity to go. Um I think um it's always good that the board of education take advantage of opportunities like this so that we'll get we'll we'll have an opportunity to
see that um a lot of the things that we're doing here as a board of education we're on track and in many instances ahead of the ball. Um I I too had an opportunity to
see um old friends. I had an opportunity to see uh colleagues from Flint, colleagues from Calamazoo Public Schools, colleagues from Sagena um and districts that look like ours. I was very very pleased to see that the
Michigan Association of School Board um has some emphasis on identifying African-American presenters um because that's very very critical. Um I too had the opportunity to um be in
the workshop where um it was the basically what African American female superintendants go through and in their roles as African-American women and how people receive them um in those roles
which are really basically held by white men. And so that was a great workshop uh well a presentation for us to attend. All of us went to that one and I I was very
honored to see our superintendent there. She had an opportunity to speak briefly um with the uh superintendent of Ann Arbor public schools. Um I did miss your presence, but you've been there so many times before
>> and so um yeah, it was a long long ride, long drive to Travis. Yes, very long, >> but um we made it and I was glad to see um our board making a concerted effort to be a part of it. >> Good to see our vice presidents as well.
>> Absolutely. And I look forward to seeing him at future conferences. Um, if there's no other impact provided, we'll pass the floor to uh Dr. Griffin for the positive pause staff appreciation recognition. >> Yes. Yes. Yes. I'm excited about this. This uh actually today is my 90th day
with the district and I'm super happy about that. What better way to commemorate it by launching my positive pause program. This is an opportunity for us to highlight the great things that staff are demonstrating across our great district. Uh it's called our positive
pause and it is how our staff exemplifies our tiger values. Teamwork, innovation, growth, excellence, and readiness. That's what they represent. And so at this time, I would like to acknowledge um many of our staff members
throughout the district really quickly uh for the great work that they have done. I'll start. I'm just going to go through these really quickly. Um you guys, your uh gift cards, what we're going to have for you. This is just a note and your envelope, kind of like your little I owe you cuz we ordered
your gift cards. We ordered each of them uh a $50 gift card that we get donated to our district through our bank in some way. I have to double check it, but we get them free. Uh but this is the note. It will represent your certificate that's coming in your case as well as
your $50 gift card for the work that you did above and beyond and exemplifying teamwork. Uh I'm sorry, Tiger values. So, I'll start with Jason Wolf because he is everywhere all the time. >> Don't go anywhere.
>> Thank you so much for your hard work. >> And then we have there are many of them in here. I'll name them, but I'm going to go make sure I uh address those that are in the room. Where's Kyle? Here we are. Cherylyn
Kyle, this is my homecoming committee. >> An amazing job with only two weeks notice. >> I would have to start speaking, but I'm not so hard. >> Thank you for your hard work.
Miss Uh oh. Miss Regina Robinson, please come up. She did a great job. >> That was my class advisor class. >> Thank you so much. >> Uh, Miss Brenda Matthews, come on up.
>> You have been acknowledged as well. Someone acknowledge She does a fantastic job. I think we also have our members, staff members being acknowledged by other departments throughout our district, our central office departments. So, she was nominated. I'm Who's your uh Miss
Nichols? Miss Nichol Miss Nichols, because each of the cabinet members, they wanted to h they highlight one person. And Miss Nichols, the director of student support services, acknowledge Miss Matthews. We have more really quickly.
Miss Cindy Goodson did an amazing job on the bonfire for homecoming. >> Thank you so much. >> I appreciate your hard work. Thank you >> little. Noel for real. Sorry. Sorry.
Oh, Ricky Payne. All right, Mr. Rick. He was nominated by his supervisor. >> Here you go. Thank you. >> I'm just going to go ahead and name the rest of them really quickly. Uh you guys can take Thank you so much. Uh they couldn't all be here, but I want to at
least acknowledge their names for the record. Brian Harris, Ardell Clark, Ardell did an amazing job during homecoming. Uh even the superintendent breakfast, he uh swung that. Miss Audrey uh Mason did a great job on on uh the
homecoming dance, right? And she made me some pretty cool swag, too. Kylie Loftton, Raymond Emer, Trevan Alexander. These were principles who did an amazing job too. Deandrea Patterson, principal Jordan Wright, Elena Scales was
nominated by her uh director Angela in her absence. Princess McGrder was also acknowledged. Solidad Mor Martinez, Leonard Morant, Dr. Regina Strugger, and Sophia Mason. Thank you to
all of you for the hard work that you're doing. So in essence, these calls are an opportunity for uh administrators to acknowledge the good work and grit work that our uh staff members do every single day, especially those that have gone above and beyond to pull off this
that homecoming weekend was amazing and all the hard work you guys are doing. Thank you so much. At this time, I would like to uh highlight another person individually. if you could go ahead and play the video for me, Miss Singer.
>> Dr. I'll share just one second. It should it should be coming up now. >> Is it disconnecting? Yeah, I hold it. You have it. That's what you're larger. Larger. You make it bigger.
>> Tell us your alarm. My that's why I teach that's why I get up in the morning and run so I can get faster, so I can be better. And I know that's why you did all of your assignments so that you
could get smarter, you could get better. Um, yeah, that's the reason I teach is to help students grow. And I had the experience when I was in 11th grade. I wanted to make it to a university and I found out that I needed a 25 on the ACT
test. My highest score was a 17. So, I got a little study book and I practiced, practiced, I practice. I took the test again and I got a 19. 19 is better than a 17, but it's still well short of 25. So, I knew that I had
to work really hard. And every just about every night and on the weekends I studied that book, practiced the test and the third time I took the test I got to 25. So that was automatic admittance into Michigan State University.
So I know that it's practice, perseverance that you can achieve what you set out to achieve. What do you like most about working in this district? >> There's so much I like about working in the district. Um, Tiger Pride, the
homecoming week, >> the game time excitement, the the feelings of graduation and then being able to capture all that with my camera. Um, but one of the things I like the
most is the feeling of family. Um, working with people that I've known for so long and having known parents of the students, it makes it so much easier for me. It makes it feel like a family.
>> What does being a tiger mean to you? >> Being a tiger means being a part of history and carrying on traditions. Um, we graduated 150 classes this high
school and be part of that history. >> If your students could walk away knowing what they what >> I want all of my students to know that they matter, that they're important. From the homecoming queen, valadictorian
to the lowest GPA, I want all students to know that they matter, that they're important, and if they can imagine something, they can achieve it. >> With that, I wanted to invite Mr. Wolf up. He's going to kill me, but to say a
few words. think you would do it. So, I'm gonna I'm make you continue to feel uncomfortable. The reason I chose to highlight him, come on up. You have to at least let everybody see you. This is the last part. I see him. You say, "Catch somebody doing good." He is everywhere
all the time demonstrating exactly what he said. He's a man of integrity. He's a man who lets you know that the kids feel seen. So I wanted you to know as superintendent of schools for Benhover area schools is that I see you. Thank
you so much for all you do. You got to say something. >> You need to say something. Mr. Ro >> told me he would never do it. But come out and say something. >> Yes. It is so nice work. Is this on? >> It should be.
>> She's on her way. I feel bad. Bulocks checked it in at work before we started. >> You know, it is so nice to have Disha Moore helping me at this podium and to work for this board. um people that I've known for 27 years
and it's a tr it's it's an honor and a privilege to work in this district. Thank you so much. >> Thank you. >> That concludes my report. >> I'm so excited. Mr. Wil is my favorite teacher of all time. So, thank you so
much for all you give to Benharia schools and each student individually. Thank you so much. All right, that was amazing. Thank you. >> Okay, up next we have the um power school litigation
staff report B1. Did you want to brief that Dr. Griffin or did you want me to or Okay. So, what you all have um in your packets, it should be your um first set of documents right after your agenda. Um so, I'll just kind of read the first
paragraph. Schools nationwide are joining a lawsuit against Power School and related defendants concerning the December 2024 P School data breach and P school's alleged contract breaches, specifically MDL number 3149 in the United States District Court for the
Southern District of California. According to Friends Law Group, a California law firm representing schools in that litigation, P school hackers claimed to possess data of 62.4 4 million students and 9.5 million teachers. That data includes names,
addresses, phone numbers, emails, medical information, and social security numbers. And then it continues. Um, if you take a look at the uh last three paragraphs, of course, a recovery in the lawsuit is not
guaranteed. Trun is not count is not co-consel in the lawsuit. Their role is limited to referring clients to France to join the lawsuit. Our school needs to improve approve the enclosed resolution in the contract areas highlighted in teal and those documents should be
completed prior to signature. Now in the paragraph above it does note um the terms for participating in the lawsuit are detailed in the closed attorney client fee contract which has already been reviewed by their firm. Friends will represent schools on a contingency
fee basis, meaning friends will not charge any fees or costs unless there is a financial recovery. Friends will receive 30% of any recovery. Truman will receive a portion of friends 30%. If there is a recovery, schools will also reimburse friends out of the recovery
for costs incurred by friends during the lawsuit, such as court filing costs and expert witness fees. So, what you have before you is a resolution that'll be presented at our regular board meeting, which gives us an opportunity to essentially join the lawsuit um with
other district nationwide. So, I would like for you all to make sure that you read um the email blast that we received from TRUN, read through the um resolution staff report B1. If you have any concerns, please raise those at the
meeting. And then the attorney client fee contract is also attached. Um so you are aware of the terms as relates to plans law group APLC and then we can um discuss that more in detail at our regular board meeting if
there are any concerns from the board. All right, we're going to move it right along. It's 6:30, so we have about an hour and a half to go. First, we have policy and discipline committee for our work session. So, we're going to um have
a there are some new September policy updates received from Niola. Um the committee will review and make any policy updates for presentation to the full board. That's volume 40 number one and volume 40 number one non-discrimination.
There are some policy updates that we need to make that are outstanding. Um so we do have it noted to do a first read um today. So I'll go through those briefly. So the volume 40 and number one and then um the discrimination those are in there
as well. Okay. So the first uh policy that we'll be reviewing is revised bylaw volume 39 number two. And this is uh bylaw 0131.1 bylaws and policies. So there are some
amendments that have been made. Um so the second paragraph you'll see those bylaws and policies which are not they added required to have a public hearing um by the statutes or rules of the state of board of education are ordered by the superintendent. It goes on. So as you
know uh those things noted in green are what we're adding. Those things that are crossed out in red are what is suggested by Niola um to be removed from the policy. So this one specifically relates to how we um update our bylaws and policies.
One of the things that I thought of when I read through it is that I don't know which bylaws are required to have a public hearing. I've never come across one that does. So that's further research that we'll have to reach out to Nola to specify and clarify.
Um the next policy is policy 1430 leaves of absences. So there are some additions that are added as it relates to earns the earn sick time act which is um a fairly new provision. This policy provision applies to all district
employees who are eligible to acrue earned sick time under the earn sick time act. Paid leave includes but is not limited to paid vacation days, paid personal days, and paid time off. Um it goes more into detail about the full of that
leave. Um each eligible employee will acrew one hour of earned sick time for every 30 hours worked. And so it kind of continues to get us up to date with those federal standards. So ensure you read through that as well as it relates to leaves leave of absences.
The next policy continued is um 3430 regarding leave of absences. essentially same types of updates um earned to or earn sick time act updates and things of that nature. 4430 is again
leave of absences and these are broken down as it relates to our different staff levels. So that's where there's multiple leave of absence policies. Uh policy 2340 is for field trip field and other district sponsor trips. So,
for example, um the the addition the board of education recognized the value of organized trips or other excursions away from the classroom as a valuable part of the district's educational programming and a valuable opportunity to obtain additional educational experiences not offered directly in the curriculum offerings. These
opportunities occur in four primary forms addressed in this policy. Field trips, extracurricular or co-curricular program related trips, overnight trips, and other district sponsored trips. very important that you all review this one thoroughly. Um there's quite a bit of
green that has been added as as it relates to each of the field trip types. Um most of these policies that we approve as you all are aware um operations internally um will be managed by our admin office and our um
administrators etc. But it's important that the board is aware of the field trip policy as well because these field trips come to us for approval. Um, so we have to make sure that we are up to date on what those changes are. The next policy is concerning
immunizations 5320. Very minor updates. Um, for example, in the center of the page, you'll notice well at the top of the page, the update is just adding quotations around DHS. Um, and then we also have an an addition
to item A. Um the vaccines involved in the time frame the student is not able to get the vaccines is a small addition that's added. Um so just look over that one. That was just a super brief update. The next one is use of medications. Of course another thing that the board does
not necessarily deal with but it's important that we're aware of what the expectations are. There's quite a bit that has been added as it relates to the administration of prescription drug products by school staff and then quite a bit that has been removed as well. um student possession of medication updates
there. And then continuing on um policy 5330.01 epinephrine auto injectors um some more regarding medical provisions
and then you will notate that there is um some changes that are reflected here. So bylaws and policies explanation of recommended changes bylaw 0131.1 bylaws and policies. This bylaw this bylaw has been revised to streamline the process
for review and the adoption of policy and of making technical corrections to policies and bylaws. The bylaw provides options for defining technical corrections and authorizes the superintendent to make such corrections and provide a summary of the corrections to the board for review. This revised
bylaw should be adopted if the board wishes to streamline the policy adoption process and or technical corrections process for policies 1430, 3430 and 4430. The leave of absence policies. These are revised. These policies have been adopted to include the provisions
of the earn sit time act effective February 25th, 2025 or at the expiration of the district's collective bargaining agreement CBA covering such benefits. Policy 2340 field trip and other district sponsored trips. This policy has been adopted to
update language over to include transportation options and provisions found in policy 8640. Policy 5320 immunization revised. This policy has been revised to reflect the immunization requirements in the Michigan Department of Eds 2024 immunization requirements for students
entering kindergarten in seventh grade or enrolling in a new school district in grades 1 through 12. These revisions should be adopted in order to comply with NDE's immunization requirements. Policy 5330, use of medications revised. This policy was reviewed at the request of clients and updated to include
additional definitions and further clarification to processes for the storage and administration of prescription and over-the-counter medications. These suggested revisions should be considered for adoption. And then policy 5330.01. This policy was revised at the request
of clients adding the im immunity provision set forth in applicable state law. So next board meeting we'll be presenting staff report B1 for the noted policies for approval. That will be our official second reading and then we'll proceed.
Now there are policies that um because the discipline committee hears from our boards and previous concerns. There's also we've included policy 5610 regarding the emergency removal suspension and expulsion of non-disabled students.
Um 5610.02 in school suspension and then due process rights 5611. Um those are policies that we would like to begin conversation regarding if there are elements of those policies that we
would like to adjust because the the the board has um certain members of the board has verbalized such. So the policy um committee wants you to know that we hear you and so we have those policies listed for review so that the board can have further conversation about those as
well. Um so if you would like what you can do is go through those last three policies. I know for example Secretary Triplet um has mentioned wanting to uh review at what point the board becomes involved in the expulsion
process. And so what I would ask is that you would take a look at that particular policy and then um just send me a quick email of what particular section you would recommend for adjusting. Okay. >> And then that way we'll kind of have
something tangible to um review as a board when we rejoin um and don't have to necessarily have a conversation or discussion about what the change should be and it'll give me an opportunity to have NEOA review as well. All right. Any
questions regarding policy? >> Madam President. >> Yes. Um I'm so glad of some of these policies, but one thing I do think we need to do as st and I mentioned this this to some of our colleagues. Um we need
to implement a social media policy with teachers and staff. Um >> we have one. >> Are we enforcing it? >> That I don't know. >> Okay. Thank you.
>> Go ahead. But you can continue with your thought. I wasn't cutting yours. >> I was going to say we may have one. I don't have a problem with us having a like most of us probably have like I have a Trenton for solutions that solutions orientated but that's where the public or the teachers could go to
and interact with me versus the personal page. It's a difference. >> I know that there it was under Dr. B's leadership that there was a social media policy. I don't know if it was already in place or created, but I do remember that conversation, us getting that
update at the board table because we uh supported the the policy, but also there were um concerns raised about whether it it can be viewed as an attempt to silence staff. And so I remember us discussing u more meaningful ways to give staff an opportunity to give
feedback or express frustrations and things of that nature so that it doesn't have to go to uh social media or looking on social media and seeing that you have a staff member that's on the clock that's making constant updates and things like that. So it is something that we discussed before, but I haven't
seen it in quite some time and we can re-review that policy. >> Secretary Tripler. Yeah, I think that's a that's a real real critical piece. Um, as it relates to staff and social media,
I think, you know, for me it has been very very uncomfortable, if you will, to say the least. Um, and to see employees on um, social media during the workday,
it's that's that's not acceptable. if that's not their role and their responsibility and also there are uh confidentiality breaches if you will. I mean, you know,
when we just to reflect back when we when we look back at the time we were going through uh situation with boiler where staff just took it upon themselves to take pictures of students in classroom um during the school day with coats on and it it it's just too much. It's very
it's unprofessional and I think this is very very urgent. Um, you don't have to be, it's not about being friends with people on the board on social media platforms or any of that, but I think that is I I know for myself I
I don't have time during my workday to be on social media as much as we see staff from Ben Harvard area schools on social media. I don't know how they are doing their jobs and having all of this time to be on social
media hour after hour after hour just posting is just ridiculous. So I I would like for that to be if we can madam president to pull that back up. I don't really remember I remember it came up because some that that happened I think
when it came to the boilers and different things like that. We have to also be careful when you know our children are being you know exploited or used on their own personal pages and stuff. So yeah, if if we can can we get
that pulled as soon as possible um from uh the uh superintendent um if the superintendent can do that for through the look through the policy to bring the ones off
for social media. All right, Trusty Rock sessions that I attended at MASB was AI and um policies need to be developed around AI. Uh and that's coming. I mean,
we it's here to stay, but we do need to have a policy in place for AI if we don't have one. The the man that presented to us worked for the Nyla's community schools. uh he was the tech director and I do have some samples of
policy uh that he had created for the use of AI school districts. So um I would like to have that on the agenda. >> If I'm not mistaken, didn't we just approve AI last? We just did AI policies
um in our last meeting, >> but I'll have to look and see. I cannot remember exactly which one it was, but I know that we did an artificial intelligence intelligence policy recently, but I'll I'll send it
back out. >> Okay. >> Okay. Thank you. >> And I'm sorry, Madam President, instead of asking the superintendent, please forgive me of Superintendent Griffin. Madame President, can you get that information? >> Okay. >> Thank you.
>> All right. So, I have um social media policy for review. Um, Triplet was requested to send me and not just Triplet, but I know he has specific um, notations, but anybody that um, has recommendations as it relates to policy 5610, 5610.02 and 5611, if you could
send those suggestions to me so we can have something tangible. And then for trusty rocket Martin, I'll look into the artificial intelligence policy. So that is all we have for the policy and discipline committee. I did my committee update in 15 minutes.
So, we're going to pass the floor. Um, curriculum and student support services committee. Now, normally Trustee Chair Gavin would run this section. She's unable to um be present today. So, I'm not sure if Trusty Rocket Martin if you wanted to lead or did you want me to
lead us through >> to meet? >> Okay. So, you can just chair your section. >> Yeah, I'll just chair. >> All right. about our our president of our chairman being absent. I'm going to pass the floor right directly to um Dr.
Foster for the teaching and learning part. So Dr. Foster, the floor is yours. >> Good afternoon. I want to start off by uh saying Benton Benton Harbor area schools is making
significant stride in curriculum and instruction by empowering our students and educators with innovative tools and robust professional development. Our commitment ensures every tiger is prepared for the future success.
I do want to take this time to say that uh according to the miracles framework I am a part of the I which is instruction. Our goal is to strengthen tier one tier one core curriculum across all subjects ensure high quality learning experience
for all students and embed seal and resilience and practices into our daily instruction. Our department goals and every time we meet I'll definitely talk about these three goals again is to strengthen tier one core instruction implement
standardbased data data cycles improve instructional climate and engagement and so for the curriculum updates oh for the curriculum updates I do want to
say I have to put a pause on SAS for the K5 5 uh tier one curriculum. You did approve that. I appreciate that. However, MDE is revamping the ELA uh vendor list and that list will come out
in January. So, I do not want to purchase a curriculum and they will not probably not be on the vendor list. They might be on the vendor list. I have no idea. And so, I'm going to put that on pause. The plan that I have in place is to continue
to work with Baron Resa uh and McGra Hill to support our teachers with ELA and the content integration. So we will wait. Uh you got your hand.
>> Yes. >> Okay. So I I'm I'm not sure how Michigan Department of Education vendors their list of vendors has anything to do with what Ben Harvard Area Schools has decided to do for Ben Harour Area Schools. So is this list of vendors
saying this is the only list that we can use um in in the state of Michigan. >> So we don't want to go against what the state requires our teachers for high quality instruction. And so they usually put out a vendor list. And so with
talking with Baron Resa, they was like, "You might want to hold off depending on especially the dyslexia laws that was passed last year. They're trying to get the vendors that are aligned to the standards."
>> So thank you for that. Um because his his point of clarification, we that's not something that that's common knowledge for the board. So I didn't know that there was a vendor list either. vendor list for every subject u that we can go to. So we don't have to take it. We don't have to guess about
what is high quality instruction for our standards. And so you don't have to guess. Just go to the now they have a list for everything uh for every subject. And so because of that vendor list, I don't want Benton Harbor to be deemed for us purchasing materials
that's not on their high quality list. And so my thing is I just want us to be right. I want us to be correct. Another question. Have our um what we voted on >> Uhhuh.
>> at the last meeting. >> Yes sir. >> Our teachers felt very very comfortable. they did >> with that and um that they were that they felt like they could move in that direction because I know we have a vendor's list when you talk about English >> um language arts mathematics and
whatever we talk about those vendor list sometime those vendors align with connections with people um and you know all of that stuff let's keep it real >> um I think that I just for me >> but I'm going to uh digress and and and
and follow your leadership but I I just don't really want us to be pausing when we already know the things that we need to do and what it needs to happen for our kids and our district and our teachers really really support it. >> Yes, sir. And I get that. I understand
that. And that's the reason why I'm bringing it to you all to let you know that I have to pause. I don't want us to be I don't want us to be out of line of what the state is requiring for us to do or to teach. Like right now, we're
trying to be standard based. Um MVE Michigan is putting a lot in dyslexia. Um so some laws that were passed literally October 10, 2024. So I'm learning the laws. Um B 4746.
Uh those laws going back and reading those. We definitely want to be in line with what um Michigan Department of Education is saying. I get what you're saying, but when that vendor list come out, we would definitely look at that, get with our teachers, again, the
curriculum department to see what is best and what aligns with uh Benton Harbor. But right now, we do have a plan in place to continue to work with McGra Hill to get that alignment with uh our standards and our integration and also
with um Baron Reso. Um I have actually four ELA consultants that are coming out tomorrow to do a district walkthrough. You all are more than welcome to come starting at nine o'clock at >> All right. >> All right. You can continue.
>> All right. So, and let's go to the instructional walkthrough. So, tomorrow I will be with uh some ELA consultants from Baron Resa. Um our sites will be deck and MLK. Our focus is differentiation engagement and small
groups which are the learning centers that should be happening in K through three. Um we will expand our walkthroughs um math and science in November. Right now, my main concern is ELA.
Our partnership meeting, I want to shout out the principles. We had our second um partnership meeting in October, well last week, and our principles did a great job telling their story about their buildings. Um the principles
presented their data and the next steps. Um, I am so proud of them of their growing of being instructional leaders in their building and so we are tracking their process or their progress with their evidence. So, we're going to
continue to um well, I'll continue to work with the principles on that. So, I'm proud of them in that partnership meeting. The next thing I want to talk about is our districtwide PD on November the 11, 2025. Our theme for this is
capturing kids promises because our focus will definitely be on social, emotional, behavioral health which is the tier 2 portion of that um training and then community resilience model which we call that prim.
>> And so basically we want to strengthen what we've been seeing is the relationships between the teachers and the students and then student engagement and then classroom climate. So of course classroom men >> 21st century
I know every people want updates people want updates on 21st century my first communication with them was on September 9th 2nd was September 17th it was a follow-up meeting and they were a no-show
October 1st I did receive um that the site was down and it was down for approximately in three weeks. However, I did reach out to them and they are coming to the district November 6th and the 7th. So, they will be here to have a
face toface conversation with myself, the principles, and uh Dr. Griffin. And so, we're trying to move this program forward >> in Benson. >> Yes, sir.
So the 21st century program, refresh me on that. That >> it is an AI program to help teachers build out
courses for classes. >> So it's the one that they they did. I think they did. He came and then they showed us virtually. You could go in and say, "Well, teach me about chemistry, but use Kobe Bryant in LA on >> I I I I just wanted to make sure >> Yeah. >> that I was clear.
>> And so, am I hearing you say that there was a no show? >> Yes, that is correct. >> Okay, cool. I that that was something I was going to ask about.
I'll get some more information before I bring it to the table. I do have a question about the the instructional walkthroughs. >> Okay. >> Why aren't the principles involved in in the instructional walkthroughs? >> They are. >> They are. >> Would they be participating with you all? >> Yes, sir.
>> Yes. >> Okay. So, I >> for each building, they would definitely be at their walkthroughs. No, I I mean so when you say that walkth through so when you guys go through you go through deck do all the principles in the district walk through and see and then they have
a discussion and then when you go to MLK do all of the principles is there a team for these instructional walkthroughs that go through or what is this for just for reason to come in and say >> no. So this instructional walkthrough is
to support us and what we need for ELA. Um right now our district walkthroughs we had our district walk well we had two district walkthroughs we had to reschedule but those principles were invited uh to those district
walkthroughs. We also invited um the president of the union as well to uh deck well MLK and so yes we are we have a group of people it's myself Dr.
Griffin, the interim sped director, um Miss Nichols, the principles, the other principles at the school if they could break away um to come to those walkthroughs and but this instructional walkthrough is for us to put an action
plan together on how Baron Rees support our ELA teachers. >> Gotcha. Thank you so very much. >> You're welcome. You can proceed. You can proceed. I was at the end of yours. >> Any questions? Does anybody think any
questions? >> I think they've already been asked if I'm not mistaken. >> I just I have to give you kudos. um listening to this and seeing um I got to honestly the whole little packet we got
um it's just refreshing and um I'm excited about not where we are but where we're going and um so you put the good the bad and thank you >> thank you >> for the teaching and learning um can I
possibly have my site open um I can't get into the Google slides and says Sorry, unable to open the file at this time. So sometime during the night if I may. >> So if you could just sh She's saying she can't access if we could share electronic access to the full board
>> because I think he Yeah, triples can't. >> So now we will have a presentation by our student support person. >> Thank you. Good evening. Um so student support services department update first. Our >> Can you speak louder please?
>> Yes. >> Is that better? >> Yes, that's better. Okay. >> So our work in our department is aligned with the strategic plan under learning environment and we are the L in the miracles framework which is the learning environments that support student
success. Um in our department we have uh three goals um to one is to reduce chronic absentism. The second goal is to increase parental engagement and the third ro go goal is to improve student well-being.
Um could do the next slide. Um this is our my fantastic uh student support services team. So, um, you can read through it. Of course, have myself, um, I have our register, um, Brenda Matthews, our family and community
specialist, Solidad Martinez, and, um, Tiarara Greer Allen, our truency prevention, um, specialist, and Amy Gable, who is our district nurse. Next slide. Thank you. Um we're going to start with
our student enrollment under um which Brenda Matthews and that goal is to decrease the time between online enrollment and the actual start date. So one thing that um we are doing is making sure that we um have early communication
and eliminate any barriers to our online platform that we are using for applications and enrolling our students. Um the next step will be um on our professional development day just to align more district-wide welcome um follow-up procedures for all of those
new families as well. Next slide. Our attendance um a lot of this work is led of course by Tiara. Um but we are currently on pace to meet the and sustain the target goal that I just
mentioned to reduce um chronic absenteeism rate. And also compared to last year um we have decreased um our absenteeism rate and our average daily attendance rate
has increased compared to the same time last year and this year. And of course, this is due to each of our buildings have their attendance teams who are working um on the weekly attendance reports to identify students
and those trends early um and continuing to target interventions and increase family engagement. Next slide. Next is our um one of our goals is of course our family um engagement and what
we're doing in that area is to um develop data data collection methods um to get feedback um especially at a lot of all of our events. So, we have QR codes um so they can get the surveying back um as far as how did those events
um engage them and how they can support or or other ideas for events um for family engagement. Another item that we're working on, we're reviewing and revising how we distribute materials to ensure equitable
language access for all of our families. Next is under our student health um led by Amy, our district nurse. Um just completed the mobile dentist um at all of our buildings and the Bearing County
Health Department completed the vision and hearing screenings at uh Fairplane Middle School and MLK. And just last week on October 23rd, 24th, the Lions Club vision screening was completed in our buildings.
Now, one of our next items that of course we have are my goal is the 80 80% um positive ratings for our well-being indicators for our students. And so we have completed our social emotional behavioral health in the classroom and non-classrooms trainings um for both
deck uh discovery enrichment center and Martin Luther King Jr. buildings for all staff and we are in the process of our fall perception surveys for students, staff and parents. Um the staff surveys
will go out um with Thursday and the students and parents are slated for next week and the following week. Um we already heard about our professional Yes. >> I do have a question and I just I'm
going to keep bringing this up. I I hear a lot about our elementary division. I don't hear anything happening at the secondary level. So, are they excluded from this? Are they not a part of this at all? >> No. Our professional development on
November 11th um they actually our high school and middle school um secondary had um SEBH in the classroom last year and excuse me, not classroom last year and this year they're doing in the classroom. So, they have the first
session. This is the second session for the social emotional behavior that is taking place on November 11. I didn't get to it just yet. >> No, no, no. I was just saying with this information, all of this stuff, why are we just doing it? Why is it broken down? Why aren't we doing it district-wide?
We're such a small amount of students in our district. Why are we just focusing in on these two? Why everybody doing the same thing at the same time? because we need the data for all of there. Any reason why that's not happening? >> Yes. So, if you recall last year, we had
a um grant called the state personnel grant. Uh it's called pedig and under that grant that's where the myts from the state came in and they supported starting at M at Dak and MLK first. Um and then we streamlined and we brought
up to Becklane East. So, we started adding them just last year. So it would have been the third year um of that and so when we it was sort of you know having to their schedule with my MTS right so they
started under first deck and then MLK and then we were able to last year which was the second year stream it up to Fairplane East the middle school and the high school and so we had to do on by steps phases.
>> Thank you. Welcome. And so um as you had heard that we are having the on November 11 of course our social emotional behavior um for in the classroom for our middle school and high school staff and then as uh Dr. Foster
mentioned we will be having the creme training for discover enrichment center Martin Luther King Jr. and Fairplane East. Um, just as always, student support services department is actively working to reduce absenteeism, improve
student wellness, and strengthen our community partnerships. We are making measurable uh progress and have a clear actionable plan for the rest of the school year. Thank you. >> Thank you. >> Do we have any questions? >> Thank you, Trustee Rut. I got to give it
to you all. You guys are uh I like it. I couple of weeks ago I had a meeting with the superintendent about the miracle framework and um seeing how everything is labeled and got the goals and everything. Um
this is impressive to see the gains on attendance. Um it's great. Um, I am excited to see what gains and everything we'll be doing with recruitment.
So, thank you. And, um, I'm just excited where we're going. So, I would like to um I'm not going to repeat what you said, but I agree. I'm I'm impressed by your recognition of your team. Something so small is absolutely major. And a lot of times
often in internally the district knows who does the work but before the public it's you. Um so I appreciate um you being a a good leader of your team and acknowledging their efforts and I also like that it's noted which particular staff member is responsible for what
goal in what area. Um so I thank you for your efforts given >> chief chair. I would like to also say to um our superintendent the format and the presentation of the
department and what have you. I I appreciate it. 90 days with uh all that you've had to deal with. Um, this is there is a I just I'm just glad that there is a foundational piece in
these reports that we can read and and really be able to make uh ask questions um inform questions and things that we don't know but it's just good to see a template and a format. So, thank you and
I appreciate this. Um, director, what are y'all names now? What are they now? director >> director. >> Yeah, director >> director Nicholls uh from the student
services and to also uh Dr. Foster uh for our curriculum and what have you. At least we have a template here and I appreciate it. Thank you. >> I have one question. Is it possible for us to get a um a preview of the survey
that you're sending out to the teachers and the parents and stuff? Can we also >> Yes. >> get a copy of it? >> Yes. >> Thank you. Uh if there will be no more questions, madame chairman, it is in your hands. >> Thank you so much for chairing. All
right, so we're going to keep it moving. It is uh 700 7:09, so we're making good progress. Up next we have the facilities and operations committee. I'll pass it over to Chair Triplet who will facilitate that section of the agenda.
>> Um good evening madame um president. At this time I would like to um turn this portion of the meeting over to um our director uh director Joseph Bulock for presentation.
>> Good evening board of education. We would like to just start with our gym floor has been completed. >> Will you speak loud and clear please sir? >> Our gym floor has been completed and we do have pictures now put the pictures up
there to show the board. >> I'm scared to look at them cuz somebody might do something to damage them. And it actually look better than what it was the last time. They did use a different um it was a waterbased um
shellac um last time and we went with oil base that will last a lot longer than it was previously at no additional cost. So, we will be working on now getting the walls painted um so it can look like
a brand new gymnasium. >> I have just a quick question to that. When we do projects to that extent, are we like that's a a lot of area. Are we hiring an external painter or do we handle it inhouse? >> That would be an external painter. >> Okay.
>> That way we can have warranty. >> Thank you. question. Um, Director Bulock, also um, when you're saying that you guys are going to be doing some painting or what have you, you get a chance to speak with you uh, in in more in detail, but um,
and I think I spoke with you before about the condition of those bleachers and how the stairs and how filthy they look. and you had mentioned something about getting in contact with somebody,
but I would like for you to if you can, would you please check into that and we'll get an opportunity to talk further. But that looks absolutely amazing. Thank you. >> So after that's the plan. So after we get it painted, that way all the dust will be completed and then we will go
through and steam clean the bleachers so it'll be ready for basketball season. Is it? >> So, most schools, um, I got to do some traveling and took a detour to see it another school. Some of the gyms, they
have the main gym and an auxiliary gym. I know that's not an option right now in Bitten Harbor, but do you think if we had something like that or they went to gym class at Fairplane Junior High or something, it would make our gym floors
and everything last longer? It would. It definitely would. Or I mean look into an addition. We have the room on the side of the parking lot. So looking in addition to that to make
another area for them to go through. >> So it's beautiful that we have the gym floor. I actually took a sneak peek and I probably shouldn't have been walking on it, but I hadn't inspected. Okay. Um,
have you looked at the locker rooms? >> They definitely do um need to be addressed and updated so we can look into that as well. >> Okay, thank you. >> Any more questions on the Jim Jordan?
Okay, so next on our agenda, we have the hazardous waste material assessment report. they are in and everything and I did link the uh link inside so you all can review them on your time um for
Fairplane Norththeast Bar Elementary and Martdale Elementary. My recommendation is to demo guard in Martindale. And as for Fairplane Northeast, just get it cleaned out and get it ready to go
because the building is still in decent shape and that way when we deal with our facility master plan, we can include that building in that plan as well. >> So I know there's a development getting
happen at Bard behind Bard. It's going to be a development. How do we make sure the lines and everything remain the district property? We're tearing I mean I support tearing down that building. I went out there and it was roosters walking it like you know
in the area but how do we make sure that we are not losing sight of the property lines and everything and it doesn't become oh this is just one big development that's going to happen there. >> You said a big development behind bar.
Yes. No, I'm sorry. Martindale. >> Okay. Okay. Yes. But they uh Benton Township is actually putting in a park. >> Oh, so it's already there. >> They they in the process of it. But uh a survey. We we should have a survey. I double check and see. Can we find one?
But if not, >> putting a fence up if we demolish it. >> Yeah. Yeah. We can easily have a survey. Um actually they have to have a survey as well in order to um start construction on it anyways to know where their property lines actually started in anyways.
>> Okay. And the demolition I see those were the properties but have we looked at the stake of Morton Hill? And I'm not saying demolish it but have we looked at what is the stake? I know we paid for inspections on these buildings but what about Morton Hill?
>> We can look into those. We was just um these were the main ones that we had to get a rush on. So u we will actually be looking um at our other vacant buildings as well. >> Okay. Thank you. >> So
>> So I I'm going to let you um continue. I just want to remind the board that we saw do two things. I'll ask for an update on the masses facilities plan, not necessarily today, but maybe at the regular board meeting cuz I know that we have made quite a bit of progress and I
need to go back and see where we are as relates to the timeline and transitions and leadership and both superintendent and director of facilities. Of course, put a pause on that process, but I just want to um bring it back front and center. And then also just to remind the
board with some of the projects and things and updates and improvements that we want to make. We do want to make sure that we fully flesh out our masters facilities plan so those types of projects can be included within that plan as well. Okay, you can continue.
>> And so we are creating RFPs. Um they're about 60% done. So, we will be sending out the RFPs for um for the abatement and everything for this project. And so, once we send them out, we usually have a
10-day turnaround uh with different contracts. And then I will share that with the facilities committee. And then from there, u Mr. Triple can actually u share them with the board of education. Madame President, I did uh one of the
classes that um I attended at MASB was uh for projects like this and how do we do when we talk about a master facility plan and the steps and how it actually looks. So, I'm excited about working with Director Bullock and
Superintendent Griffin um so we can expedite and get this process in place and have it already mapped out so we'll know what it is that we that we're doing few years down the road. So, thank you.
Go ahead. Continue. Next on our agenda, we'll be talking about the roofs here at the high school. Um the PAC roof and the band area roof need to be replaced. Um I have already sent out RFPs and got bids
actually back from there from the two companies. And so I have did miss the difference in the two companies. Um that was the lowest bid as well. And so the lowest bid was 100
$166,616 for both of the roofs. And that's a total rip off and um move replace and um on the PAC they have some shutters that's on there for like fire u
purposes. So, say for instance, the PAC catch on fire, it'll open up those shutters and allow the smoke to come out the PAC to kind of save the building a little bit. And so, those need to be replace cuz right now they real rusted and won't open. So, that's actually
included in those prices as well. So, and when when um when we look at this, we we look at uh uh about replacing roofs and uh those types of things. Um
have we prioritized which one is needs to be addressed like immediately before winter? Um have have we looked at it from that perspective? >> Yes, sir. That's why I hurry up and created RPs and sent them out. We had
actually 10 contractors come in and put VAS in. And um we actually I wanted to make sure we get the best bang for our buck, but the best warranty as well. So, this actually include a 20-year warranty for this roof.
>> So, the these two right here, this right here is for uh the high school in particular. >> Yep. the PAC cuz it's it's got a nice leak in especially on the stage area. >> Oh yes. Oh yes. And and the gymnasium
area. >> The gymnasium have already been a new roof have already been put on the gymnasium. So we are good with the gym. Um, but my recommendation is because I know it's um $851 more with the uh second highest bid
that that contractor there is the one that did the gymnasium as well. And so we actually seen his work and we seen how good it looked and he came back. We thought we had an issue with the roof. Um, but it wasn't. It was the drain pipe. He actually came right back and
checked on it and found, you know, that it wasn't his job. So, I would recommend even though it's only $851 different, I recommend going with him. That will be dealing with one contractor uh for all our warranties. We don't have
to chase different contractors down. >> Thank you. >> And I did um also link pictures of the different roofs as well, so you can also see those as well. Any
questions on the roofs? Okay, boilers. All boilers have been turned on at every school. Um, now I do believe we need to start looking at phase two. We're actually replacing the piping
um of um of all at the high school. We're playing East is up and running. That school is good with the new boiler replacement. Uh but we definitely need to start um researching and um get phase two ready for the high school for the
plumbing. >> Okay. And and so just the notation some of our p pipes can't take the pressure of the new boils. That's just because they're older pipes. >> Yeah, because they older. I did link some pictures in and you can kind of see um when we turned it on some of the
elbows have um had holes in them and everything, but we had also replace those that the ones that had the holes in. So, we keeping a eye close eye on classrooms, close eyes on the tunnels and different things like that. So, if
something happened, we can address the issue really fast. So you you you guys have walked through um and identified those areas pipes areas that need work on the pipes that we can take care of right now so that we
won't have any problems in particular this winter. >> Yes. >> As it relates to our students and our school buildings. >> Yes. >> So have we purchased those things? Are is somebody doing those things? Are we ready or is there something that needs
to happen uh to from this board of education in order for you to be able to go forth and do that work? >> No, we have already because it is not that expensive to replace certain elbows and different things like that. So, we have already replaced some that's
already been damaged. So, we are like right now everything is good. All heat is on in different classrooms, but we going to be studies doing walkthroughs just in case something happens so we can address it urgently. Okay? Cuz it's
predicted that this is supposed to be a very extremely tough winter um in the state of Michigan, you know, extremely tough. And so, um, just just just listening today and just keeping up with things, uh, it is exceptionally
cold fall. So, I want us to be ready and we're counting on your expertise and your leadership to take us in that direction and let's move as quickly as possible if we can. I would like to uh uh get with you and um
Superintendent Griffin as soon as possible so we could talk so I can present it to my colleagues and to the uh committee. >> Yes, sir. >> Thank you. >> And just as a clarification to the board, I know everyone was kind of overwhelmed with the size of the packet today, but majority of these documents
here are related to the assessments um of those buildings, various certificates and things of that nature. So you want to make sure that you do um peruse through these documents so we can have a full understanding of the outcome of those assessments done.
>> I did link an electronic version as well. So >> thank you very much. >> Okay. If there's no other questions for um Director Bullock or the facilities committee, we'll keep it. Trusty Rock, you had a question or comment. Okay. You
have Go ahead. >> I just have a quick statement. And I want to make sure that uh and I apologize for his uh this portion his portion he addresses the L in the miracles framework around the learning environment that supports student success. It's all about making sure that
there's a particular focus on learning environments leveraging systemwide professional learning and ensuring that the district is is working and safe and culture is right. So he sets the stage for that for the L and miracles.
>> Thank you. Thank you. So, if there's no other further questions at this time, we'll proceed to finance committee work session. Now, I noticed that um director Carter was unable to be present today. Um it's it's up to the board whether you
all want to review her section over um time, >> Madam Secretary, >> and send any questions or do you guys want to go through? Madame President, when I look at the September financial summary, like it has Savas, but we're not even using that or paying for that,
right? It's on hold >> large pay um in her financial summary under large payments. Uh they're listed. >> Hello. Yeah. Okay. So, we're using Savis um not only just in ELA, however, in
math and Spanish. So, I will have to know what area that is in. Um right now, SAB is for ELA K through five. That has not
been um issued out right now or whatever. That is literally on hold. So that shouldn't even be on the financial report, >> but you'll you'll we'll confirm what that monies is for because we use them for other subjects as well as ELL.
>> Okay. So Madame President, what I would recommend is if any of us have any questions with your financial, we um communicate with Trustee Gavin or Treasurer Bradley and we um communicate
through Dr. Um, I mean, Dr. Griffin and Doc, Miss Brock, um, Director Brock in our classroom, but to save the essence of times and your goal of getting us out of here by 8, we pass it. >> Okay. So you all have linked um there
your standard financial summary, budget to actual summary, budget to actual detail, your vendor payment report, credit card report, year-to- date revenue comparison, year-to- date expense comparison, statement of revenue and expense by fund, statement of financial position, staff report F1,
which is for the approval of funds spent. And then also you have title one and title 4 estimated allocation information. As always, we have the financial summary for September 2025. So, please take the next two weeks to
peruse the documents. If you have specific questions in detail, please send those directly um as he stated to Dr. Griffin. I know that we standard would go through this um today. However, I am asking a major ask of the board
that you do the homework in the meantime um so that we can have clarity needed and can get through um this section as standard at our regular board meeting. What they'll be presenting in staff F1
is a total fund uh spending of 1,84,23643. So I would strongly suggest that you all uh peruse and and look through the documents in great detail so we can be prepared to approve that report. >> Madame President, >> you have the floor.
>> Also uh for Dr. Foster and as uh Superintendent Griffin stated um if there are any adjustments that need to be made to say particularly what this money is, this large payment is for that particular line item. make sure
that we're clear on what it is that we're spending. So, we're g and that it will not be with ELA or any of that. >> All right. Thank you. >> And we have access. Can you all make sure that any of the links that you sent that we always have access if you can?
Thank you all so much. >> Madam President, who where's that? There's that door. You have the floor. Um, I was wondering about getting a different kind of report. Will we talked it out? Talk about that offline or is that something
we can discuss at the table? >> What type of report is it? Is it financial report? >> Okay. >> So, I'm looking to see if we can get a report of like requests that are being made in the f from finance or however
our people make requests for money. Can we get a list of those requests and what was the P, you know, given or not given? >> Do you think that's something Doc uh B Carter could do, Dr. Griffin? >> Certainly.
>> Okay. Okay. So, we'll check into that and see what a report out system of that nature would look like. So, you're essentially wanting to know, for example, um, Principal Barnes requested $3,000 for this particular activity and 3,000
was approved or something to that extent. Okay. >> Thank you. >> All right. So, we're going to continue forward um passing it over to Vice President Bowens for the human resources committee work session. And it is 7:30
>> and I give it to our director of HR, Miss Sheila Dorsy Smith. >> Good evening and thank you. >> I can uh start us off for that section if you want. Uh so this section of course with human resources she falls
under her department falls under the A for attract and retain high quality staff. So I'll do these uh first areas and then I'll turn it over to her for the updates. In other words, uh regarding our human resources, our effort to do just that, attract and retain highquality staff. As we
mentioned last uh board meeting, we talked about uh and approve proximity learning. Uh Miss Dorsy and Dr. Foster and myself are working in tandem with them about which classes they teach or they take on, the courses that they take on, and we're monitoring all three
programs uh very closely. And of course our goal as we wait anxiously from the state and NDE regarding the curriculum, our goal is always to provide grade level uh tier one instruction to our students because that helps to decrease
our tier 2 tier three uh sections of students. Uh I would also want to give an update on the uh Miss A. Williams update. She and I met after last uh meetings, board meeting and we talked very uh intently and she shared uh her
request humbly to ask for us to make that change and I did. Uh so she has been approved to move forward with her new district. I also had an a meeting with the instructional facilitators and uh academic interventionists that were
recently uh requested to go into the classrooms to assist with the human resources deficits that we have. And I had a wonderful discussion with them where they had an opportunity to share their uh concerns, ask questions, and uh I made sure that I affirmed them in the
hard work that they had already done as well as the strategies that they were working on prior to being removed from uh their roles and going back into the classrooms. And so from there, we agreed we have a a Google classroom where we all have our norms and I have the
meanings of the things that I needed to follow up on. and I gave them the updates to a lot of those access to curriculum, access to resources. They have some other resources that uh and things that they needed uh to so my goal was to make sure that we when we make
transitions that we do so in a more humanizing way and so I'm really happy with the outcome of the meeting and we have an opportunity to share a lot of the things that they've asked for have already been provided. So I will continue to make sure I support them through those pathways. one day in the
Google classroom and they also have um my direct contact information as well. So that closes out my port and I'll yield back to Miss Dorsy, our human resources director, to give us an update on other areas regarding human resources. >> Thank you so much for that.
Like to talk about the H1 report. >> Can you speak louder? Can't hear you. >> Really? Is that better? Let's talk about the H1 report. The separation of employment. We have
Jeffrey McCoy, school social worker, resigned effective November 3rd. He was at Fairpan Middle School and Ben Harbor High School. He there was an exit interview and it was done in person. He did complete the survey and asked to be shared with the administration and also
the board and that was shared with you. >> Me I've already shared it with you them. >> Yeah, it it was shared with >> the board. here at the cabinet. You all have that. The next report is the H2 report. The new hire third party and it list
Ashley Williams as being I'm hired to work at River of Life School. The H3 report is report for new hires. We've hired two certified special
education teachers, one for Fairplane Middle School and one districtwide and also a CTE media communications teacher and those are with general funds. >> Just have a quick question for clarification. How would the uh
districtwide um spare teachers day look? >> So, what he does is write IEPs and hold IEPs every day. >> Okay. >> Thank you. >> Yes. >> Sorry. With the IEPs, so
it's probably changed from years ago. um when I was a IEP student that individual teacher wrote, you know, the student will learn and what was my strength and weaknesses and what they seen for observation. So that district-wide
special ed teacher will be doing that. How would he be in the classroom observing or will he just I'll I'll take that. Yes, of course. Uh one of the things that this person is going to do is is just that look at the student's data, observe the student in classroom,
have conversations with the students as well as with the teachers obviously because the first thing we want to make sure we do is to make sure that the goals are accurate and they have high expectations for our students that have uh diverse learning needs to make sure that they're aligned to what the student
needs are. So yes, the teacher uh Mr. Vides will absolutely be observing having conversations with the students reviewing previous uh the current IEP right to assess that to see where where strength strong and where it's weak because one of the major things that
happens in many districts is uh the strength of the IEP and so of course also bringing the student to the table to know the IEP. When we talk about student voice we should make sure that a student knows what's in their IEP and have a voice in those goals. So to your point, yes, this person will be
observing, will be looking at data, and we'll be having conversations with all applicable stakeholders connected to the IEP. >> Thank you. And I like that that student voice, if you know me, >> I was raised in if I thought it was not obtainable or whatever. So I'm glad to see that that student voice is involved.
I'm also glad to see that we are hiring certified teachers. So thank you. >> Thank you, >> Trust. I'm sorry, Secretary Triplet, you had your hand up. I did I so I I I got a different understanding. I thought
that this individual would lead the work of the IEP for the district in its entirety. And so they would make sure that the IEPs are scheduled. So is this a teacher
or is this a person that's over the for the district? Is it an is a classroom teacher? >> It's not a classroom teacher. This person will support and fill the gap for the missing teachers going through the IEPs and making sure that we're in
compliance with their annual evaluation dates. >> Right. Okay. >> The person that's overseeing that obviously is Miss Hegler. >> All right. >> So, who Okay.
All right. Thank you. >> The next area is teacher certifications. We're up to 56 teachers are fully certified and they're listed in that document. The next slide is mentoring. So, we have multiple ways we're trying to get
teachers certificated to work here in Ben Harbor Public Schools. And this just gives you an update on where we are. And we get this monthly. The next item is our vacancy list and it lists our vacancies and what we are doing toward
building those positions. And we're interviewing tomorrow for the Monu King vacancy, principal vacancy. >> How many? >> Can you repeat that last statement? >> We're interviewing for >> the MLK vacancy tomorrow. The principal
vacancy. >> How many candidates do we have? wait to drink three tomorrow. >> Thank you. >> Yes. >> Thank you for providing us the list that shows our areas of certification. Um it's really meaningful to have access to
this. Um so I appreciate your efforts as well. >> Yeah. Are you done, President Robinson? >> Yes. >> Thank you. Um, I also like, you know, just seeing the strike down when we're making progress and everything. Um,
although the mountain may look tall and may be big, we're slowly making progress. And, um, I'm optimistic about the HR department. Um, and kudos to Jessica McFall. She chaired in and
represented the HR department. What class in job well done in getting that um office welloiled. Trustee Angela. Sorry, Trusty Doyle. Sorry. Thank you. Um can we get an update on
proximity? I know we were going to hire some teachers through there. Well, with proximity, we have been working in tandem with their staff and looking specifically at the roles we want them to fill. So, we have vacancies. I am being very strategic and
intentional about which vacancies they fill because of the other program that we have because we're also being very fiscally responsible. You know, the ask in miracles is sound fiscal stewardship. So we're not giving them all of them because as you can see very clearly there are fewer that that we need that
we had fewer at the last meeting the board meeting when we was here and since that time we have even fewer we have certified individuals coming so with that the uh Miss Dorsy Miss McFall Dr. Foster and myself, we sit at the table and we're coming up with a plan for
exactly which courses we want them to take on. And then we're also going to be observing when we take them on. We're going to be doing what when I interviewed a superintendent the program evaluation. Remember that we're going to be evaluating and analyzing everything they do to determine who moves forward for SY27.
>> Awesome. Thank you. You're welcome. >> Was there any brother secretary triplet? >> Yes. So on here when I look at first of all I'd like to take this opportunity to thank director Dorsy Smith as well for
um those of us who are visual learners and we need to see it. Um that that's very very critical. I appreciate that. So as I look on here the vacancy list for 2025 2026.
So, the teachers through proximity are going to fill in these positions. Is that not correct until we find someone for those positions? >> No, that's not correct. My objective with working with my team, we're going to determine which classes they fill.
>> Okay. So, maybe my understanding was a little bit different that we had 18 positions when we asked the last meeting. There were 18 positions that were >> That's not the cases anymore. We've gotten some of those positions filled.
>> So, this list right here, it's been some changes since you guys submitted this tonight. >> No, not since tonight. >> Yeah. I mean, I'm just as >> not since tonight. Uh the the as I stated before, I am being intentional with what courses they take on. And so I
don't want to say it this time because I'm still deciding with my team which courses they will take on as a company. Yes, we have vacancies but I'm not just going to do this haphazardly. I want to make certain from the courses that we need which one will fill this. So
proximity will be utilized but to which to what extent I will finalize the decision for that. >> Okay. So nobody is filled in the position. >> I'm not finished with my question. Yeah. So again, the core academic teachers positions
will take precedence. Is that not correct? That's why I voted and supported it under the assumption that if nothing else, these core academic teacher positions would be >> Yes, of course. >> Right. Thank you.
>> Okay. If there's not being any further question, Madam President, it goes to you. >> Okay. So, thank you to the human resources committee for your um meeting as well. Um we'll proceed. I have no old business at this particular time. I also
don't have anything for new business other than I anticipate um that Dr. Griffin and I will uh go to a Bearing County Commission meeting in the near future. We received
an invitation. I think was it St. Joe Charter? we were at um from one of the commissioners a couple months ago and it slipped my mind to uh send out the the information request for us to attend. We were invited um so we'll be doing that just to introduce them formally to Dr.
Griffin. Um that's really the only update that I have as it relates to new business. I'll keep you all posted on the date and time of that meeting. I'm not sure if it'll be November or December. Um, and just in case you all want to be present, want to um, attend
as well, I have no other new business. So, at this time, I'll open the floor. It's 7:45, so we I think we can actually make that go. I'll open the floor. Is there anyone here for open public comment? Hearing none. Superintendent announcements and comments. Dr. We do
have Oh, you have something. >> Okay. Do you need me to read you the public comment statement? Okay. The Benton Harvard Area Schools Board of Education recognized the value of public comment on educational issues and the importance of allowing members of the public to express themselves on district
matters. Today, there are two areas for comment on the agenda of which you may decide when to speak. Public comment on agenda items and open public comment. We request that each interested participant complete a public participation form using legible writing to ensure the response is appropriate and properly focused. for Benh Har School's bylaw
0167.3 which governs board participation at board meetings. We request that you purchase your comments with your name, address, and group affiliation when appropriate. Each statement made by a participant shall be limited to a threeminut duration and per bylaws. No participant may speak more than once on the same topic until any other persons
have had the opportunity to speak on that topic. Participants may remove their mask when addressing the board. Participants shall direct all comments to the board and not to staff or other participants. The board will listen and take comments and questions under advisement and not respond at this time. I as president will refer questions to the superintendent for research and
response. Please ensure that your public participation form includes your contact information as requested. You have specific questions for the board or executive team that require followup, please email those directly to Natalie.bhs.org. You have the floor.
Thanks. we can't. >> So my concern um Okay, I apologize. So, my concern, my name is Disha Moore and I am one of the IT support professionals. I also was trying to
volunteer as one of the coaches for the robotics team. I spoke with Miss Mason who is over the robotics as a whole. She is the head coach and I was informed um and I will also say I was a graduate of 2019 and part of the robotics team
for 2018 and 2019 when we went to state and we also won the chairman award. So I'm trying not to be emotional. Um, I was informed that we may not be able to do any competitions due to funding
and there's a lot of grants. And when I was part of the team, I worked really hard to try to build up that program. And now I see that it's starting to go back down to a level of
kind of just brushed to the side almost. And technology is one of the fastest growing fields right now. No matter what area of robotics the students get into, they are building those skills that they will need in any job they get going
forward. So, I am concerned and if I would just ask if we could please review and look over the funding and how it's being
handled when it comes to the robotics team because I'd like to see it expand and be more than what it is right now. It's kind of like we're in a classroom. There's two, one for coding, one for the building area.
There has been no approval to even get our the machine. As I'm told by Miss Mason, as of right now, there's been no approval to get the kits for this upcoming season. So, there may be no we're working off spare parts
essentially is what she told me. So, she would like to request some things and I know there's a formal way of doing that, but I just have concerns and if that could be reviewed.
Thank you. Anyone else for open public comment? Hearing none, we'll proceed. Superintendent announcements and comments. Dr. Griffin, I just have one. I am super excited about my the launch of my superintendent student advisory
council. I had my introductory meetings and I want to give a special shout out to Miss Nichols, the director of student support services for putting it all together. She gathered all of she sent out the survey, gathered the names, we went through the names and finally from all of her planning, she did an amazing
job. I had both meetings today and I couldn't be more excited about all of the wonderful things that will help improve our district because of the input and voice of the members of the student the superintendent student advisory council.
>> Okay. >> All right. We're going to proceed. Thank you, Dr. Griffin with board member announcements and comments. Trusty Doyle and it is 7:50. I would just like to thank everyone for coming out. Um, I really like the call
appreciation. That was so dope. Thank you, Dr. Griffin, for starting that. Um, I think it's very important that we let our people know that we appreciate them with a little extra. Um, yeah. Thanks a lot. You guys have a great night.
>> All right, Trusty Rocket Martin. Hats off to everybody that did the um the track cut, the ribbon ceremony. That was so nicely done and for the I enjoyed the tailgate party. It didn't stay for all of it, but I certainly enjoyed um
being out there with the community. So, well done and thank you Dr. Griffin for those ideas. Um, also we had a nice turn off of our educational uh advocacy program that was sponsored
by the bar and cast association at the ID ISD. So um, thank you. Um, I think um, Trusty Bradley made it. >> I completely forgot.
>> I our president is busy. So, um, but I appreciate that you just signed up. But anyway, that was, uh, well worth the time and effort. And maybe I can give a little highlights on that a little later at a later date. And that's all I'm
done. >> Thank you. Up next, we have Secretary Triplet. >> Um, Madame President, I would just like to um, thank Dr. Griffin and her team for all the work and say congratulations.
um on your 90day marker um as superintendent of the schools um just continue to work. Thank you. >> Thank you, Vice President Balance. >> In the words of Mr. Triplet, we make time for everything else. So, I'm going make us make No, I'm sorry.
Uh I just want to say um kudos to um Dr. Griffin and the staff and everything for making homecoming back to what it used to be. Um, I was there. I had to sport my Tiger gear, my
jacket and everything and it was just nice. Um, the mayor was telling me he ain't seen homecoming like this in years. So, job well done. Um, the student advisory. I got my start off in politics back in 2006. It feels awkward
saying that, but back in 2006, I was a student board representative under the superintendent Paul Adonni and then I became in 2007, my senior year, a student representative again.
So to see that and to see that you're doing advisory and then seeing a letter on Facebook with the parent bragging, um, it just touched my heart. Congratulations to the Bitten Harbor Tigers on their football season and the win um last year.
>> I mean know last week. Sorry. >> Um you know sometimes things look he said last year. >> Yeah. Sometimes things look um tough and they look dimmed and um we got to realize good does come out of Bitten Harbor.
>> Oh yeah. >> And we just got to press forward and keep going. Um, I like the pause thing, um, Dr. Griffin, and boosting staff morale and staff engagement. You know, I was big on that a couple of years ago.
Um, and board unity. I will say we may be that one dysfunctional family. >> We may take pictures and smile, but I got to be honest, going to Traverse City and driving and taking the back roads and all of that, uh, the
unity was just there. It was making sure all of us got home. Making sure all of us made it there and everybody was okay. Making sure we went out to eat. And it just showed we each bring something different to the table. Um, we may not got to love each other, but we do got to
work with each other. And I think that's what it showed. Congratulations to Dr. Griffin on your 90 days. Um, and I look forward to the next 90 days. you've been going on and on. Um, Madame President, we missed you
at the MASB. I am so excited about next year. Um, it was just great and I hope we go to the National Black Association of School Boards. Um, one thing I will tell you, when we were there, we seen Dearborn walk by and we was like, "Oh,
they must be from Dearborn." And we seen Anchor Bay walk by. I had my Tiger gear. They didn't have their stuff, but I was extra extra. Somebody didn't post it on Facebook, but that's okay. Um, don't hate, appreciate. Um, so besides
that, I would like to say have a good night and I love you all. >> I will make it super brief. Congratulations to Dr. Griffin on your 90 days. Um, you you've done a fabulous job. I appreciate um and trust your leadership. I I trust your cabinet and
appreciate their efforts given today as well as the presentation. um of our documents and our slides. I appreciate my board and the five that were able to make it to the conference to hold it down for Bit Har area schools. Extremely proud of Vice President Bowens on taking
that step um this weekend and joining and having an opportunity to appreciate the conference of Serious. Um and so really excited for opportunities for growth in the future as well. And um of course congratulations to the Tigers on their
win this past Friday. And that is all I have. So without further ado, I'll ask is there a motion to adjurnn? So move. >> Is there a second? >> The motion has been made by Secretary Triplet and supported by Trustee Doyle. Any questions, comments, or concerns?
Hearing none. Secretary Triplet, please call the role. >> President Robinson, >> yes. >> Vice President Bowen, >> yes. Secretary Triplet. Yes. Trustee Rocket Martin. Trustee Doyle. >> Yes. >> Motion carries. Meeting is adjourned as
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