An additional live stream of this meeting is available at the following link. Questions may be submitted beforehand to len.serbhas.org 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. Singinger at bhas.org. I call this meeting to order officially at 6:06 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 Singer, in the absence of Secretary
Triple King, please call the role. President Robinson >> present. >> Vice President Bowens >> present. >> Secretary Triplet, Treasurer Bradley, >> Trustee Rocket Martin,
>> present. >> Trustee Gavin, >> present. >> Trustee Doyle. Madame President, Mr. President. >> All right. So, next up we have approval of the agenda. Madame President, I make a motion that we approve the agenda.
as it is. But consent consent, you did it as a consent. >> Yes. >> Okay. So, um are you moving all of the votes you would like >> votes as a consent items? >> So, you want to do one vote for all matters?
>> Yes. Unless my colleagues >> and including the policies. I mean, we had our closed session. I mean, we had our board meeting before we reviewed this information. >> Okay. Um, is there a second on support to that? So, I want to make sure you all
understand what he's saying. So, each item that we have for vote today, Trusty Williams would like us to take just one vote and account for all of the reports noted. Is there a second to that? If not, the it will fail.
just not talking about the policies. >> No, he's saying take one vote and he accounts for everything. All right. So, your motion has failed. >> Okay. >> I do want to make sure that the board knows that there is a closed session to review and opinion of council. A
twothird vote uh is required which means we would need five board members. So, if we don't have an additional member attendee, we could not actually review that opinion today. Um however session policy 016 67.2A
um does allow majority vote which we would be able to enter. So I just want to make sure that not those are noted on the agenda. Is there a motion to approve? Go ahead. >> You said if we don't have another member come we can't go into >> Yeah. So our opinion and council vote
requires that we have two/3 vote which means that we would have to have a minimum of members of the board present in order to um review the opinion that I had prepared for the board tonight. However, the other one just requires a majority
vote of those that are present. So Angel trusty is on our way. >> Okay. So we can approve it um with anticipation that we'll have the required members present when she arrives. So is there a motion
to approve the agenda? >> Make a motion to the approve the agenda as is. >> Is there a second or support? >> Support. >> The motion was made by Rakette Martin and supported by Trusty Gavin. Any questions, comments, or concerns? >> Go ahead.
>> Actually, I I can wait. Thank you. >> Okay. All right. Miss Singer, can you please call the vote? >> President Robinson, >> yes. >> Vice President Bowen, >> yes. >> Trustee Gavin, >> yes. >> Trustee Wat Martin, >> yes.
>> Motion carried. >> All right. Next up, we have review of the board of education norms for Bitten Harbor 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. 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 present that would like to make a comment on an agenda item? >> Is it? >> Okay. So, I'm going to read um the
public comment statement for you. The Benhar Schools Board of Education recognizes the value of public comment on educational issues and the importance of allowing members of the public to express themselves in district matters. Today, there are two areas for comment on the agenda with 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 that responses are appropriate and properly focused. Per schools bylaw 067.3 which governs board participation at board meetings. We request that you preface
your comments with your name, address, and group affiliation when appropriate. Each statement made by a participant shall be limited to three duration and per bylaws. 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, 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. If you have specific questions for the board or executive team that require followup, please email those directly to anatomy. BJS.org. You have the floor.
>> Good evening. >> Hello. You hear me? >> Yep, we can hear you. >> My name is Derek Bishop. For those who don't know, >> I appreciate all for having me tonight. um in the honest and spirit of improving
the advancement of our young people. It was brought to me by several students who go here son related that they feel like the students not being heard. It's a lack of care and uh support of mental health and check-ins with the students instead of them being given opportunities to have mental check-ins
to tell them how they feeling and what's going on with them. They feel like they're being treated like robots and they not getting any individual help or assistance with their mental health and their academics. Secondly, my son among other students told me I don't know how true it is that it was a
meeting had in the PCA and the superintendent addressed every grade of students and maybe the delivery was off with the intention. I don't know I wasn't there but that the low test scores, the failing grades, how bad the district is doing the academics was highlighted to the students.
and I and instead of being used as a form of uh encouragement, whatever. Also, I was also told by several people about the superintendent possibly engaging in an aggressive, vulgar, disrespectful
cursing tirade with another student and even was open and welcome into the physical confrontation with the young girl. I wouldn't hear it, but I was also told there were several staff members there and there's a video floating around. I myself looking for the video so I could also do my own independent investigation into it as he gathers and
garnered some support for the young student. I also was told that the little sister Shamaya Davis was uh moved to a different school and per my limited understanding that's a violation of due process and it shouldn't have
happened that fast. And I don't know if it's true or not, but if any of this is, I feel like it should be handled with the expediency that it deserves because even though no type of disrespect should be welcome or allowed,
anybody that's in the position of authority should be held to a higher standard. And if it was me as a former employee, parent, and advocate, I'll be removed expeditiously. So I feel like the same thing should be done if we going to move in accountability and transparency.
Okay. I'm sorry. Um, can you just the young lady's name that you mentioned, can you clarify that, Mr. Bishop? Okay. Thank you. Anyone that would like to make a public comment on the agenda item tonight? All
right. See first um we have approval of our meeting minutes. Today we are approving the meetings from special session 1042025 regular session 1014 2025. Is there a motion to approve the meetings as noted?
>> Madame President, I make a motion that we approve the meeting minutes as noted. >> Is there a second in support? Motion has been made by Trusty Bowens and supported by Trustee Gavin. Any questions, comments, or concerns? >> Hearing none. Miss Senior,
>> President Robinson, >> yes. >> Vice President Bowens, >> yes. >> Trustee Gavin, >> yes. >> Trustee Gavin, >> yes. >> Trustee Rocket Martin, >> yes. >> Motion carried. >> All right. So, we're going to proceed with our business for this evening. A
reminder of protocol as of 9:13 2022, our comments will be limited to two minutes per trustee per topic. Um I do anticipate we'll be out of here uh fairly quickly this evening. Um as Trusty Bowen stated, all of our items, majority of our items we did get a
chance to review in the work session. We do have our first item of board business, our outstanding student recognition and then we'll be entering into the close session for policy 0167.2.
If Trusty Do makes it prior to um us returning to the table, then we'll proceed with the second close session 0167.2. So at this time we are um proceeding with outstanding student recognition and I'll pass the floor to Dr. Griffin.
>> Thank you. >> I am excited to announce the students of the month. The first student being from uh being Orlando Clayton. I'm excited about these because the student of the month doesn't just get a certificate but
they get a gift card as well for $50. So, if Orlando Clayton is here, he can come up for his gift certificate. I'll put that to the side for him. The next student of the month is uh Oh,
I dropped the money. Uh, next student of the month is Desiah Crossley. Certificate and gift card. Is she okay? She's not here. Oh, okay. Our next student of the month is Tasia
Moore. Tasia, come on up. >> Congratulations. Thank you. Very pleased. Congratulations. You're welcome. Our next student of the month is Alia
Aaliyah Phillips. >> And last but not least, Annayia Wilson, please come up. >> Thank you for your hard work. All right. Awesome. Dr. Griffin, I would like to say I like that you started um we've brought those back to the
forefront. We have had opportunities to recognize individuals for amazing efforts, but I like the consistency of recognizing our staff and students in our meeting. I thank you for bringing that back to the forefront. Um so, as stated at this time, the board is going
to enter into close session so that the public is aware of what that means. A close session is a meeting of the board of education that is only privy to the board of the place into that session. So at this time we'll go into close session. I
do not anticipate you will be there long. You all are more than welcome to stay. Um yes ma'am. We can go into the second one with four. Okay. You all are welcome to stay here physically present. If you would
prefer, you can also choose to. If we are there, you prefer, you can leave and tune in online, but you're more than welcome to stay as stated. Um, at this time, I am calling for a motion to end the close session under policy 0167.2A.
The board of education may hold a close session to consider the dismissal, suspension, and disciplining of or complaints to charges brought against or to consider periodic personnel evaluation of a public officer, staff member, or individual agent if the name persons request a closed hearing. Again,
that's policy 0167.2A, a majority vote is required. If we do have Trusty Doyle present, um in time, then we will also continue close session per policy 0167.2. 2F which requires a twoth3 vote. The board
of education may hold a closed session to consider materials such as written opinions of council which are exempt from discussion by state or federal statute. If trustee door does not make it in time then we will proceed with our meeting of standards. So is there a motion to end the open session and enter close session as noted?
>> Madam President, I make a motion that we end open session and go into close session. >> Is there a second in support? The motion has been made by Trusty Bowens and supported by Trusty Rocket M. Any questions, comments, or concerns? Senator >> Robinson. >> Yes, ma'am.
>> Is it Is it possible to do anything else on the agenda? >> We can proceed with the order of business on the agenda to start and give us more time if the board prefers. >> Yes, please. >> Okay. So, what we'll do is temporarily um suspend the rules. Being that we know
we don't have enough people present for both closing session, we'll proceed with the agenda. If there's no complaint from the board, we'll go into the power school litigation. >> Do I need to withdraw my motion? >> Um, you can do so. >> I mean, is it? >> Yep. You can do so to be sure that
>> withdraw that motion then. >> Okay. So, we'll proceed with the agenda. Temporarily suspend the rules. Proceed with the agenda on skipping over the closed session to allow more time for our remaining board member to make it. So this is the power school litigation
staff report B2 second. Okay. So I will ask the board I did go over this um fully in our work session as relates to the power school litigation. Would you all prefer that I read the full
I can read the full um resolution? Um so a regular meeting of the board the benton is board of education board was held on the 11th day of November 2025 at 6 pm the meeting was called to order by president Robinson president trusty bones rocket Martin I'm sorry vice
president bones uh rocket Martin Gavin and Robinson would be noted and triplet the following preamble resolution will offer that information once a motion is made as women schools nationwide joining a nationwide lawsuit
against P school Holdings Incorporated P School Group LLC and related defendants concerning the December 2024 P school data breach specifically NDL number 3149 in United States District Court for the Southern District of California uh referred to as a lawsuit number two
schools in the lawsuit are being represented by Fence Law Group APLC a California professional law corporation referred to as France three law firm PC referred the school to fragments for the lawsuit. Four, the board believes it is in the school's best interest to join
the lawsuit on the terms specified in the attached attorney client fee contract. Five, the board believes it is in the school's best interest to authorize and direct Dr. Simone Griffin, superintendent, or designate to sign the attached attorney client fee contract on behalf of the school and to take such
other action as necessary to obtain monetary damages for the school in the lawsuit subject to review by the school's legal council. Now, therefore, be it resolved that one, the board decides to join the lawsuit on the terms specified in the attached attorney client fee contract. to the board
authorizes and directs a superintendent or designate to sign the attached attorney client fee contract on behalf of the school and to take other such action as necessary to obtain monetary damages and injunctive relief for the school in the lawsuit subject to review by the school's legal council. And then
of of course it's all resolutions and parts of resolutions that conflict with provisions of this resolution are rescended. So at this time I'll ask is there a motion to approve staff report B1? Make a motion to approve staff report B1. >> Is there a second or support
>> support? The motion has been made by Trusty Ret and supported by Bones. Any questions, comments, or concerns at this time? >> Harry M. Senior. >> President Robinson. >> Yes. >> Vice President Bowen. >> Yes. >> Trustee Gavin. >> Yes.
>> Trusty Rocket Martin. >> Yes. >> Motion carried. All right. Up next, we have policy and discipline committee. Our second readings for um policy 0131.1 regarding bylaws and policies revised.
Policy 1430, leaves of absence revised. Policy 3430, leaves of absence, revised. Policy 4430, leave of absence revised. Policy 2340, field and other district sponsor trips. Revised policy 5320, immunization
revised. Policy 5330 use of medication revised and policy 5330.01 nephrine auto injectors revised. We also have um staff report B2 that uh goes along
with those policies. Um so this is technically our second reading. I know that we did a full reading in the last meeting. Any points of concern regarding the policies noted as we review them? If not, I'll go ahead
and proceed. >> I have a question. President Robinson, >> you have the floor. >> It is about the field trip. >> Okay. >> Policy and I'm just kind of looking at it.
The section where it says any plan, it's the paragraph underneath kind of all of the sections that scratched off, right? Field trips >> for purposes of this policy of field
trip shall be defined as any planned journey by one or more students away from district premises which is under the supervision of a professional staff member. and what's added is approved by the principal, the superintendent, the board
and furthers or supplements. So I guess what I'm wondering are you following? >> Yep. This is technically the second meeting. >> Gotcha. Okay. I was just wondering the these were not requirements before
approval by the board to you know I'm thinking in the past the board was only required if it was an out of town trip. Does this change that dynamic in which I mean out of state trip? Does this change the dynamic such that if they're trying
to go somewhere local or somewhere, you know, close by or within state, they now still they now have to go before the board, I'm concerned about holding up their process if that's saying. >> Okay. So, I'm trying to get back to that. Um, I'm having a hard time opening
the link on my phone. So, give me >> catching that sooner. give me an opportunity. I can direct you to the paragraph is right under So when I first go into it, there's a field and other district sponsorship trips heading and then right
under that is the field trips heading. they've scratched out a lot of stuff. And then it's that first paragraph right under uh bullet e. >> Okay, so the first paragraph of the policy indicates these opportunities
occur in four primary forms addressed in this policy. A field trips, B extracurricular, co-curricular program related trips, C overnight trips, and D other district sponsored trips. So it appears that this is speaking to all of them. Um,
>> yeah, I'm concerned about holding up that process if there's instate. I personally feel like if the superintendent and the principal are on board with uh, you know, instate
drip, I don't think it needs to go before the board. >> Go ahead, trusty rocket Martin as I go back over the specific So, I'm thinking maybe if the superintendent is not available, then the board would have something to say.
I think that's just a safety maybe. Just in case the superintendent isn't available, we can do that. Kind of like what we did for the robotics team that Saturday, but we had to come in and approve that trip. I was
over. So, what I would suggest if it's um if it's okay with the board, we can remove that particular policy until I can dig a little deeper into it and take a take a vote on the rest of them. Okay, that was a good clarification. Trusty Gavin, I do want us to be able to look deeper into that without holding up the
other policies. Um, so we'll proceed with uh the vote as noted and then we'll just remove that particular policy. Any other concerns with the policies noted? Okay, we'll proceed.
All right, so this is um staff report B2 subject new and revised NEOLA policies dated for November 11, 2025. Reason for board consideration for the Benton Hara Area Schools Board of Education to review the updated enroller policy adoptions as listed effects and analysis
occasionally due to changes in legislation and or and as needed sends out new and revised policies to school districts. The central administration reviews and annotates their suggestions. These are given to the board for review and approval. The following policies are
recommended for revision/ addition. Bylaw policy uh reference policy 0131.1 bylaws and policies revised policy 1430 leave of absence policy 3430 leave of absence revised policy 4430 leave of
absence revised policy 5320 immunization revised policy 5330 use of medication revised policy 5330.01 01 epinephrine auto injectors revised policy reference 0131.1 bylaws and policies strategic plan
reference facilities operations Ben Harbor Schools will develop, implement and evaluate a physically responsible plan that will ensure physical and psychological safety recommended action that the Ben Harbor Schools Board of Education goals to approve the Ben Harbor Area Schools revise reissue NEA
Neiola bylaws policies as presented. Approved for presentation to the board of education on November 11, 2025 by Dr. Griffin. Is there a motion to approve staff of court B2? So move. >> Is there a second and support? >> Second. >> The motion has been made by Trusty Doyle
and supported by Trusty Rocket Martin. Any questions, comments, or concerns? Hearing none. Miss Singer, >> President Robson, >> yes. >> Vice President Bowen, >> yes. >> Trustee Gavin, >> yes. Trusty Rocket Martin. >> Yes.
>> Trustee Doyle. >> Yes. Motion carried. >> All right. So, at this time, I'll ask, is there a motion to end the to end open session and enter close session per policy 0167.2F? >> Madam President, >> and policy 0167.2A.
>> Madam President, I make a motion that we end open session and go into close session stating the policies you just mentioned. >> Is there a second of support? >> Support. >> Yes, ma'am. said he was on his way. >> Okay, we can go ahead and So, are you
guys wanting to wait till Rally or J? We can proceed with the agenda and wait until he makes it. Okay, Lawrence, would you like to withdraw your motion again? She said Bradley's on the way, so she suggested maybe we allow him to get here
as well. >> Would you like to withdraw your motion and we proceed with business? I guess I have no choice. >> All right. Um, up next we have Monkey Reports, staff report F S F S F S F S F S F S F S F S F S F S F1. Miss Bart, you have the floor.
>> Thank you, Madam President. Hopefully the board have had opportunity to review the monthly financial reports. Staff report F1, reason for board consideration. A set of finan financial reports is provided to the board of
education each month. Facts and analysis. This evening, it is recommended that the September 2025 payments be approved for all district funds. Policy reference 6470 payment of claims strategic plan goal reference
facility/operations. Benton Harbor area schools will develop, implement, and evaluate a physically responsible plan that will ensure a physical and psych that will ensure physical and psychological safety.
recommended action that the board of education approve the September 1st through September 30th, 2025 payments for the following funds. General fund 1,296,44422. Food service fund $50,35741. Sinking fund $457,434.80
80 for a total of1,841,84 $236,00043. >> Okay. Um 1,84,23643. Is there a motion to approve staff report F1? >> Make a motion to approve staff report F1. >> Is there a second or support? >> Support. The motion has been made by
Trusty Rocket Martin and supported by Trusty Doyle. Any questions, comments, or concerns regarding financials? >> Madame President, >> you have the floor. Um, good to see you, Dr. Um, we got your name tags messed up. Angie,
sorry. Yes. >> Um, good to see you. I got a few questions. Um, >> it shows an increase in total spending. Payments rose from 1.43 43 million. I'm sorry, 1 million 1.43 million in August
to 1.89. And I understand that school started and everything of that. That's about a 458,000 increase month over month. Um I also noticed that the general fund nearly doubled. Um the food service fund though
that decreased slightly right >> from last month and I'm looking at last month versus this month. >> Okay. >> Um and also I see that the syncing fund also dropped. That's probably because of the boiler situation and everything and the track field. >> Okay.
All right. Just had those questions. So, thank you. >> You're welcome. >> Um, if there's no other questions from the board, Miss Singer, can you please call the vote for staff report F1? >> President Robinson, >> yes. >> Vice President Bowens, >> yes. >> Trustee Gavin,
>> yes. >> Trustee Rocket Martin, >> yes. >> Trusty Doyle, >> yes. Motion carried. >> All right. Up next, we have staff report F2. Um, from my memory, this is new since the work session. Um, Dr. Griffin,
did you want to present this staff report and give us some information? Or you can just present the staff report if it if it answers. >> I'll read it out. Yes, of course. >> Acceptance of grant funds November 11,
2025. policy dictates that all grant monies received from the grant proposals by approved be approved by the board. The Indiana Michigan Power Foundation awarded Benon Harbor High School a $35,000 grant
to support its college tour program. The letter signed by Vice President Steve Baker states that cashing the check signifies acceptance of the attached grant terms. The school is required to send receipts or confirmations to the foundation or its partner foundation
source. This grant enhances college readiness opportunities for students and strengthens Benon Harbor's partnership with a key community and corporate supporter. It's 6110 grant funds. Benton Harbor area schools will develop, implement, and evaluate a fiscally
responsible plan that will ensure physical and psychological safety. That the recommended action therefore that the Benton Harbor Area Schools Board of Education approve the acceptance of the Indiana Michigan Power Foundation grant in the amount of 35,000 to support the
Benton Harbor High School College Tour Initiative. >> Okay. Is there a motion to approve? And there's also um a letter that proceeds that was written to uh Miss Director Brock Carter on behalf of the district regarding the grant. Is
there a motion to approve staff report F2? >> I'll make a motion to approve staff report F2. >> Is there a second and support? >> Second. >> The motion has been made by Trusty Rocket Martin and supported by Trustee Gavin. Uh, Director W Carter, was there any more information that you want to
present or provide to the board? >> Uh, I just want to thank the Ben Harbor High School staff, uh, Mr. Morant and Miss, uh, Goodson for, um, helping with, um, the submission of the information in order to qualify for this grant. So,
thank you so much to the Ben Harbor High School staff for for reaching out and sending the information so that we can apply for this grant and get the money so that our students can have um this college tour. Thank you.
>> Thank you. Um if there's no trusty Gavin, >> just be real brief. I want to thank the Indiana Michigan Power Foundation for supporting our college tour. I definitely want to thank Mr. Morant and
Miss Cindy Goodson as well piggybacking off of that. And I just want to say this goes to show, you know, how awesome it is to have funds. So once again, I'm putting a plug in for a grant
coordinator so that we can be applying for all this extra money every day. Thank you. >> All right. If there's uh trusty balance, um I'm excited that our kids will be able to go on a trip. I do question
the timing of it. And when I say timing, um it's like next week. Well, not next week, about three weeks from now. Right. >> The high school staff has been uh working with a um tour company in order
to schedule of this trip and um we were initially waiting for a response from the Indiana Michigan Power Foundation before we made a commitment on the date. Um so that's why it is um close by because they have been planning for
quite some time pretty much just waiting on the approval of the grant so that they can move forward. >> Okay. And the other question I have I see that the grant was 35,000 which is good. The trip is
>> 56 other part of that fund is coming from it >> title one. >> Title one. Okay. Thank you. >> All right. There's no other questions or concerns. Miss Singer, can you call the vote for staff F2? >> President Robinson, >> yes. >> Vice President Bowen,
>> yes. >> Trustee Davis, >> yes. >> Trustee Rocket Mars, >> yes. >> Trustee Doyle, >> yes. >> Motion carries. >> All right. Awesome. Up next, um, we've approved the grant funds for the actual
tour. um for the four tour funds. Next we have the Ben Harour High School DC College tour staff report T1. Dr. Griffin, will that be presented by you today? >> Yes, ma'am. >> Okay. >> Oh, see those subject requests for out of state overnight field trip for
students of Ben Harbor High School date November 11, 2025. The board shall approve field trips and other district sponsored trips that are planned to keep students out of the district overnight or longer longer and or out of the state. Ben Harbor High School will participate in a Washington
DC college and cultural tour from December 2nd through the 5th, 2025 coordinated through CE Educational Tours LLC. The total trip cost is $50,61910 for 30 students and five chaper chaperones covering roundtrip
transportation, three nights of hotel accommodations with night security, four days of meals, activity admissions, and a dedicated tour director. The itinerary includes university uh visits to Morgan State University, Howard University,
Georgetown University, and the University of District of Columbia along with tours of the US Capital Building, National Great Blacks and Wax Museum, and various monuments and memorials. This experience supports the district's mission to promote college readiness and
cultural enrichment for students. Policy reference policy 2340 filled in other district sponsored trips. Policy 6320 purchasing funding source Indiana Michigan Power Foundation grant of 35,000 and title one strategic plan goal
reference academics Ben Harbor area schools will increase student achieve a achievement as measured on local state and national assessments the learning environment Ben Harbor area schools will develop maintain and implement with fidelity a multi-tered system of supports that enhances the culture and
learning environment therefore the recommended action is that the Ben Harbor Area schools board of educ Education approve the Benon Harbor High School HBU field trip in Washington DC scheduled for October 23rd through 26,
2025 as presented. >> All right. Is there a motion to approve staff report T1? >> President Robinson, I make a motion that we approve staff report T1. >> Is there a second or support? >> Support. >> The motion has been made by trustee
Gavin and supported by trustee mind. Any questions, comments, or concerns? >> Quick comment. >> You have the floor. >> I'm very excited to see our students going to Howard University, my alma mada
>> and and Oregon. And my sister Millisent who's also graduated Bent Harbor area school, Ben Harbor High School, graduated from University of District of Columbia. And we had a recent graduate from Ben Harour High School who's winning all kind of
awards at Howard University, Anna Dancer. So don't let anybody tell you what our kids cannot do. This is going to expand their personal view of what's possible for them. So, I want to thank everybody
who planned the trips and who is attending the trip and who is creating these experiences for our students to see how amazing they can be and to see people who look like them doing amazing things and I would love to see even more
college tours. I know that uh Mrs. Gunter and Mrs. Jennings have done amazing trips as well. So, definitely want to support them if that comes up. I think the more the merrier. Thank you. >> Thank you. Any other comments from the board? >> Um,
>> you have the floor. >> A couple of years ago, it was a big thing with Tennessee State University in South Bin. Um, and they did a college tour and they played Notre Dame. And the guy said what made him even think about going to college was he went to be um
Ukanon schools, but he said Bitten Harbor gave him an opportunity to come on to the black college tour. He said he was never thinking about going to college, let alone a black college. And he went and now he does tours. So when we see about the state, I mean the black
college tours and us paving the way, it's always an experience and um honor to send our kids and I hope they enjoy it and it sparks u motivation and gives them the urgency
to want to attend a historical black college. Oh, thank you. Any other questions? >> All right, Miss Senior, can you please call the vote? >> President Robertson, >> yes. >> Vice President Bowen, >> yes.
>> Trustee Gavin, >> yes. >> Trustee Rocket X, >> yes. >> Trusty Doyle, >> yes. >> All right. Up next, we have staff report FAC1. Um, Dr. Griffin, who will be presenting that today? >> I can.
>> Okay, you have the floor. Uh subject Ben Harbor High School pack and band room roof bid award. Date is November 11th, 2025. The board of education shall approve all purchases over the most recent state of Michigan Department of Education threshold of $31,321.
Fact and analysis. The submitted bids from Daikver's roofing represent a comprehensive and compliant proposal for the required roofing projects. The PAC roof replacement carries a higher base cost due to the inclusion of smoke hatch replacements and the larger surface area
involved. Whereas the band room project is smaller in scale with skylight wrapping rather than full hatch replacement. The deductive option offered for the PAC project is less than $5,771 provides the district flexib flexibility
if the exist existing smoke hatches are determined to be serviceable potentially reducing overall costs while maintaining warranty integrity. Given Dyver's roof roofing manufacturer authorization, prior experience with Versel systems,
and clear adherence to specification and warranty requirements, their proposal appears to meet the district's technical and financial criteria for award consideration. Policy reference 6320. Purchasing strategic plan reference facilities and operations. Venton Harbor Area Schools will develop, implement,
and evaluate a fiscally responsible plan responsible plan that will ensure physical and psychological safety. recommend action that the Benton Harbor Area Schools Board of Education vote to award the contract of Dyver's roofing incorporated for the performing arts center and band room roof repair
projects at Benton Harbor High School in the total of $166,616. We're $14,291 for the uh performing arts center roof and $62,325 for the band roof. Band room roof.
>> Okay. And then I just want to uh notate that uh the deductive option offered for the PAC project is noted as 51,771. Is there a motion to approve staff report FAC1? >> Madame President, I make a motion that
we approve staff report FAC1. >> Is there a second or support? >> The motion has been made by TR uh Vice President Bowens and supported by Trustee Gavin. Question, comments, concerns? >> Madam President, I don't recall. Do we recall? Sorry. Can I speak? Uhhuh.
>> Sorry. Um, can we recall how long is the warranty on these roofing jobs? >> I think um, previously doc he indicated it was a he say 20 year last week.
>> Um, I'm not sure. I have been but the bid award is in here. >> Okay, let me look and see. Good question. I will try to take a look at um the work session and see if it clarify. I can see it.
>> That's okay, a 20-year warranty. So, the work session comments from last week um notate PAC roof and B air roof need to be replaced. RFPs have gone out and we received them back with bids. I'm recommending um the Kyver Roofing even though the bid is
$851 higher than the lowest bid. They just did our gym roof and they provided us quality work. Both roofs come with a 20-year warranty. >> All right. Thank you. >> All right. Any other questions from the board? Hearing none. Senior.
>> President Robinson. >> Yes. >> Vice President Bowen. >> Yes. >> Trustee Gavin. >> Yes. >> Trustee Rocket Martin. >> Yes. >> Trustee Doyle. >> Yes. >> Motion carries. >> All right. Up next, we have staff report H1.
Um, will you be presenting that in absence of our director of HR, Dr. Griffin? >> Yes. Okay. Separation of employment November 11th, 2025. A list of employees whose employment relationship with the district is or will be separated is
submitted to the board each month. It is recommended that the board of education vote to accept the serveration of employment of the following staff. Policy reference 3140 and 41440. Termination and resignation of professional support staff. Strategic goal plan goal reference clarel leadership. Vincent harbor area schools
will recruit, hire, develop and retain the best staff to improve student outcomes. Uh our name the separation of employment for Jeffrey McCoy school social worker. Reason resignation effective November 3rd from Fairplane Middle School and Ben Harbor High School. Date of hire August 21st, 2023.
Done in person was an exit interview on 102425. Exit interview completed. Yes. Okay. To share with the board, yes. recommended action that the Ben Harbor Area Schools Board of Education votes to accept the resignation of employment of the aforementioned staff. Is there a
motion to approve staff report H1? >> Madame President, I make a a motion that we approve staff report H1. >> Is there a second or support? >> The motion has been made by Vice President Bowens and supported by Trusty Doyle. Any questions, comments, or
concerns? You have the floor. >> Thank you. I did not get an opportunity to interact with Mr. McCoy, but I just want to thank him for his service. I saw a write up when he came. And so I want to thank him for his service and his
impact and just use this opportunity to advocate for us to, you know, look for ways to get as many social workers as possible for our students in in the building and counselors. Thank you. >> All right. Awesome. Any other comments from the board
hearing? None. Miss Singer. >> Madam Pres. Madam President. >> President Robinson. Yes. >> Vice President Bowen. >> Yes. >> Trustee Gavin. >> Yes. >> Trustee Rock Martin. >> Yes.
>> Trustee Doyle. >> Yes. >> Motion carried. >> All right. Awesome. Next up, we have staff report H2. Dr. Griffin. >> Yes. Subject employment of staff. date November 11, 2025 to approve the employment of staff in accordance with
the revised school code and other general laws of Michigan. Fact and analysis under section 1120 of Title One Part A requires a participating local educational agency to provide eligible children attending private elementary and secondary schools, their teachers
and their families with Title One services or other benefits that are equitable to those provided to eligible public school children, their teachers and their families. Policy reference 2261 title one services 3120 4120 Employment of professional support staff
strategic plan goal reference personnel leadership Benson Harbor area schools will recruit hire develop and retain the best staff to improve student outcomes new hires Ashley Williams certified academic interventionist building river of life funding source title one effective date November 11 2025
recommended action that the Benton Harour Area Schools Board of Education votes to approve the employment of the aforementioned staff Is there a motion to approve staff report H2? >> Madam President, >> you have the floor. >> I approve. We make a motion to approve staff report H2. >> Is there a second or support?
The motion has been made by Bowens and supported by Raquette Martin. Any questions, comments, or concerns? >> You have the floor. >> I just want to thank uh Dr. Griffin for listening to the concerns and making the adjustments to support Mrs. Williams. I
look forward to us looking for ways to recruit our students uh from that school and bringing them over to uh Ben Harbor High School and our middle school. And so I think there's a there's a great opportunity in that if we develop that
that proper partnership and thank you Dr. Dr. Griffin for your compassion. >> All right. Awesome. Is there any other comments from the board hearing? None. Miss Senior, >> yes. >> Vice President Bowen,
>> yes. >> Trustee Gavin, >> yes. >> Trustee Rocket Martin, >> yes. >> Trustee Doyle, >> yes. >> Motion carries. >> All right. Next up, we have staff report H3. Dr. Griffin. >> Employment of staff. Date November 11, 2025
to approve the employment of staff in accordance with the revised school code and other general laws of Michigan. Fact and analysis. It is recommended that the board approve the superintendent's recommendation for the hire of the following personnel. Policy reference 3120 4120 employment of professional
support staff. Strategic plan goal reference. Personnel leadership venton harbor area schools will recruit, hire, develop and retain the best staff to improve student outcomes. Our new hires are as follows. Shironda Pearson, certified teacher for sped building Fairplane Middle Schools. Funding source general funds effective date November
3rd, 2025. Orlando Bridges, certified teacher for sped district-wide general funds is the funding source October 10th, 2025. Jayla Lewis, CTE, media communications teacher for Benon Harbor High School funding source, general funds, uh effective date, October 6,
2025. Recommended action that the Benjon Harbor Area Schools Board of Education votes to approve the employment of the aforementioned staff. >> Is there a motion to approve staff? Madam President, I make a motion that we approve staff report H3. >> Is there a second or support?
>> Support. >> The motion has been made by Bowens and supported by Rocket Martin. Gavin, you had a question. >> No, ma'am. >> All right, Miss Singer, can you please call the vote? >> President Robinson, >> can call me last. Thank you.
>> Trusty Doyle, >> yes. >> Trustee Gavin, >> yes. Trustee Rocket Martin, >> yes. >> Vice President Bowen, >> yes. >> President Robinson, >> no. >> Car.
>> All right. So, we have gotten towards the end. Um, we can continue with the business. Um, being that the public is here and maintain our close session at the end. Um, Dr. Griffin, it looked like you didn't necessarily have anything
under your superintendent section. Um, I don't have old business or new business. So, did you want to take a moment to Okay, go ahead. >> This is my statement for as superintendent of Benton Harour Area Schools. After careful consideration of feedback from staff, students, and
members of Benon Harbor community, I'm announcing consideration for the reinstatement of Mr. Leonard Morant as principal of Benton Harbor High School. Since his departure, I have listened closely to the voices of our educators, students, families, and community members. Your thoughtful input and heartfelt commitment to the success of Benton Harbor High School has been
instrumental in assisting me with this decision. As superintendent, my responsibility is to ensure that every decision supports the academic growth, safety, and well-being of our students while strengthening trust and collaboration across our district. Any action taken will reflect that commitment and the collective goal of
creating the best possible environment for teaching and learning. I want to thank our board of education, staff, students, and families for your patience, professionalism, and continued support as we move forward together. Our shared goal remains clear to ensure that every student at Ben Harbor High School
receives the highquality education they deserve. I appreciate the continued support, patience, and partnership of our board of education, staff, students, and families as we move forward together in service of our students and community. >> Thank you. Um, is there any old business
from the board this evening? Um, for new business, Miss Singer emailed us a new conference. Can you remind me of the name, the official name? >> Napsi. >> Okay. Can you say it on the mic for me,
Dr. Griffin? >> Napsy. >> Okay. And so, she asked if if we were interested in intending to email her. Just a reminder to do so if you have not. And I believe that one is in Chicago. Um, and so that would be a
that will be um technically out of state but close enough for us to make it. So, please consider um that particular learning opportunity. This will be our first time as a district attending one of those those conferences and it'll be um this current board. I'm not sure if the district did it in the past, but
it'll be an opportunity for us to explore a different conference. And so please um go check out that email and respond to Miss if you're interested in being um signed up for that.
>> Yes. >> She said, "What's the latest you can let them know?" Miss Singer, is there a deadline for registration or is this does it get higher after a certain point? >> Can you send out another email to the
board for clarification? Okay, Trusty Damon, >> I definitely believe them waiting on the close session, but I'm feeling like we need to go ahead if possible. >> Okay, we can do that. Um, so are you all
okay with giving the um open public comment an opportunity and then putting close session or would you like to do close session fire? I just I'm I'm wondering if we should do the close session because that may or may not have an impact on
I'm not sure. >> Okay. Um I it's whatever is the will of the board. Honestly, I know that we anticipated I think rocket mly was coming, but if there's no objection, I have no problem with us entering close session now. So ask is there a motion to end open session and enter to close
session per policy 0167.2F which requires 2/3 vote and policy 0167.2A which requires a majority vote. >> Madam President for the third time um say that we go into close session in
open session we go into close session. >> All right. Rocket Martin, do you still support? All right. The motion was made by Trusty Bowens and supported by Wat Martin. Um, every reminder to the board, I mean to the public want to go to a private room.
We'll return shortly. Um, Miss Singer, can you if there's no other questions, comments, concerns, Miss Singer, can you please call the RO? >> Yes. >> Vice President Bowens, >> yes. >> Trusty Gavin, >> yes. >> Trustee Rocket Mark, >> yes. >> Trustee Doyle,
>> yes. >> Motion carries. All right, we're ending open session and entering close session as of 7:02 p.m. >> All right, so at this time I'll ask, do we have a motion to end open session and end close session and return to open
session? >> So move. >> Is there a second and support? >> The motion has been made by Trusty Doyle and supported by Trusty Brock Martin. Any questions, comments, or concerns? Hearing none. Miss Singer.
>> President Robinson. >> Yes. >> Vice President Bowen. >> Yes. >> Trustee Gavin. >> Yes. >> Trustee Rocket Martin. >> Yes. >> Trustee Doyle. >> Yes. >> Motion carried. >> All right. At this particular time, I would ask is there a motion to amend the
agenda to allow for a first policy read of the transition reassignment enhancement as well as Board report B three.
So move. Is there a second or support or not? I'm sorry. Board motion B3. Um the motion has been made by Do and supported by Trusty Wet M. Any questions, comments, or concerns? All right. hearing none. Trusty Gavin, I
would ask that you lead us in the first reading of uh transition and reassignment enhancements >> and we'll give you an opportunity to get it. >> Get back into my computer. >> I might have it quicker than you do. Let
me see. Okay, I have it up. You want me to? >> Yes, please. >> Okay, so this is um this is a staff report concerning resolution to enhance transfer reinsignment policy.
Um dated for today, November 11, 2025. Reason for board approval that the board of education shall adopt bylaws and policies for the organization and operation of this board and district in the district and shall be bind to follow such bylaws and policies. Facts analysis
01 through 1.1 bylaws and policies. Bylaws and policies shall be adopted, amended, repealed, or suspended by a majority vote of the board. The board may adopt, amend, or repeal rules of order for its own operation by simple solution resolution of the board passed by a majority of those present in
voting. The adoption, modification, repeal or suspension of a board bylaw or policy shall be recorded in the minutes of the board. All bylaws and policies shall be printed in the board policy manual. Policy reference 0122 board powers 0131.1
bylaws and policies 4111 creating a new position strategic plan reference facilities operations Benhar schools will develop implement and eval evaluate a fiscally responsible plan that will ensure physical and psychological safety
recommended action that the Benton Harour area schools board of education votes to approve the revision of the Benton Harour area school revise reshoot neiola bylaw policies 3130 and 4130 to add the language. So, we're using this as a first reading of that policy. The
second reading would be during the work sessions. So, we will be amending the two policies to notate a change. The board shall approve the transfer reassignment of all professional staff and support staff in the district and EDG staff upon review of a transfer reassignment plan that includes the
following rationale and benefits of the proposed change. Onboarding transition plan for re for new assignment impact statement from the proposed staff detailing the proposed cons and recommendations to consider explicit indicators
as to whether the reassignment transfer is voluntary or involuntary in nature and accompanying documentation to support the change approved for presentation of the board of education November 11, 2025. So again, this would be considered a first reading for NEO bylaws and
policies 3130, 4130 to add the language as noted. Um again, the board shall approve the transfer reassignment of all professional staff, support staff, and the district edited staff upon review of the transfer reassignment plan that includes the following um with the four with the notations listed there. We'll
do the second read at our upcoming work session for this month and then the board at that particular time will take um make a decision on that particular vote concerning the resolution to enhance transfer/reassignment policy.
Okay. And at this particular time um this is motion B3. I'll ask is there a motion to authorize the president and vice president to meet with the superintendent and deliver correspondence on behalf of the board. >> I make a motion that the uh president
the president and the vice president meet with the superintendent >> and deliver correspondence on behalf of the board. Okay. Is there a second or support? >> Support. >> The motion has been made by trustee rocket Martin and supported by trustee Gavin. Any questions, comments, or
concerns? Hearing none. Miss Singer, >> President Robinson, >> yes. >> Vice President Bowen, >> yes. >> Trustee Gavin, >> yes. >> Trustee Rocket Martin, >> Trusty Doyle, >> yes. >> Motion carried.
>> All right. So, we have successfully um gotten through the majority of our agenda. As noted, um myself and our vice president will be touching base with Dr. Griffin in a one-on-one and then we will
um I'm in communication with the board regarding other um matters. We are going to move right along to open public comment. Is there anyone present that would like to make a public comment? >> Do you need the comment statement or you
were here early? Okay, you have the floor. members of Benton Harvard School Board of Education. My name is Darla's mother and my husband and I have attended games for many years. During that time, I've listened,
observed, and taken careful note of how leadership, collaboration, and consistency influence the direction of our district. As you know, success of any school system is not built by one person alone. It takes many individuals, each
contributing their talents, integrity, and experience. Their combined influence determines the progress of the district. Yet it is also true that a single leader can spark meaningful and lasting change that
positively affects students, staff, and community as a whole. Maya Angelo once said, "People will forget what you said. People will forget what you did, but people will forget
statement reflect the leadership of Mr. Morant who has served the community since 2007. For 18 years, he has worked to build trust, promoting integrity, and strengthen relationships with Ben Harper families across generations, earning the
respect of students, parents, and community member. And within those 18 years, there are multiple people stop in Walmart, in Meyer, in Home Depot, Bones, beauty
supply store to talk about what they are satisfied with or what they they would like to have. And we sit and we listen. Because of that foundation, I am deeply concerned that recent actions in the district do not align the words that
have been shared publicly about transparency, transparency, support, and consistent leadership. Despite the narrative that has been set, Mr. Morant is a Christian leader who has never been overwhelmed and has always maintained control of Benton Harbor High
School. This current native narrative is based on a limited 90day observation which directly conflicts with the multiple visits and ongoing communication from state superintendent Dr. Michael Rice who served until his retirement in October.
Dr. Rice visited Vinton Harour High School several times, met with students, and publicly expressed excitement about the positive changes taking place under Mr. Morant's leadership. >> Yes. >> Yeah, sure. I will. Thank you. His feedback shared the positive changes
taking place under Mr. Miranda's leadership. His fe um his feedback shared on behalf of the Michigan Department of Education affirmed that Bitten Harbor High School was on a positive path. There's a clear misalignment between the conclusion of a
90-day observation and the multi-year record of improvement and recognition shared by the state superintendent himself. The district administrators publicly stated principles and staff would be supported, not micromanaged, and that they would have the autonomy, meaning
the principles, to lead their buildings. Unfortunately, this commitment has not been reflected in practice. The district administrator entered classrooms without the principal's knowledge. Teachers have been removed from active instruction without prior communication. Students have been questioned directly about the
teachers. These actions undermine leadership and send a conflicting message about trust, collaboration, and professional respect. Words are not aligned with the actions displayed. Chain of command and evaluation
practices. The district administrator informed principles that all individuals, including central office staff, must obtained building level permission before entering schools. This standard has not been consistently upheld. District administrators have entered buildings without notice or
communication. Former teachable event evaluations have been conducted without informing or including the principal. A clear procedural and ethical violation. Again, words are not aligning with the actions displayed.
Culture, climate, and professional conduct. This admin administrator has emphasized a commitment to positive culture and climate for staff and students. However, that commitment has been compromised by actions that bypass the proper chain of command and create
division. Staff have been encouraged to go directly to the third floor's complaints instead of working with their building principal. Some staff members have publicly stated, "We got rid of Mr. Roseberg and now we got rid of Mr. Mor."
>> They didn't start the timer when you initiated, but I'm pretty sure we're probably beyond. So if you could wrap up your comment. Okay. >> Hostility and underlying leadership. I noticed staff member has to display the superintendent personal cell phone number to to intimidate others saying I
have a direct line to the superintendent. Better be careful. >> Students have been permitted to by their principal go directly to the third floor to follow. One student has even stated that he is watching the principal and
the staff um and reporting directly to the superintendent including who enters and leaves the building. And just as a note, there were uh some staff members who contacted me tonight and said they were afraid to come and support Mr. Morant for fear of
retaliation. These behaviors create an unhealthy culture of fear and mistrust. Once again, words are not aligning with actions displayed. Throughout throughout all of this, Mr. Morant has remained composed, professional, and guided by his faith. When informed of his
reassignment, he responded calmly and respectfully, packed his office quietly, and and leaving with dignity. Never did Mr. Morant raise his voice, screamed, wrote his keys, wrote papers,
cursed students, staff, or parents. He modeled the same emotional control and integrity he expects from his students every day. The Bible reminds us, "By fruits you shall know them." Matthew 7:20, "Our actions reveal our true character more than our words ever can." And as Maya Angelo said, "When someone
shows you who they are, believe them the first time." Meaning you should trust their actions and behaviors to understand that their true character instead of making excuses for them expecting them to change is a reminder to take what people show you at face
value. In closing, I respectfully ask the board to evaluate not only the statements that I have been that have been made, but also the actions that have followed. Our students, staff, and community deserve leadership rooted in integrity, consistency, and accountability. leadership where words
and actions truly align. Thank you. >> Thank you. Um up next we is there anyone else for uh open publicly comment? >> Hearing none. Next we have superintendent announcements and comments. Dr. Griffin, you have any comments this evening? I know you kind of went earlier.
>> I did. I just want to add that I'm excited about the data conferences that we're about to have with students, the student goal setting conferences across the district. Many of the students uh were excited about seeing their scores and seeing where they landed with the data. And so teachers across the
district will be working with students to show them the different areas where they landed in terms of MSTEP, SAT, and MAP and then help them set their goals according to the strands for their strengths and their growth areas. So I'm looking forward to students finally have an opportunity to be informed about
where they landed in their data and then meeting those goals that they've set across those different assessments. That that concludes my announcement. >> All right. Up next, we have board member announcements and comments. Trusty Door, >> you can choose to pass if you'd like.
Okay. Trusty uh Gavin, I want to thank everybody who did come out and who are viewing on online. I want to thank my colleagues. We had some very important conversations and we're
unified in our resolve. And I want to thank everybody who spoke their mind even though everyone has their own opinions about how the district should be run. I want
to say this. I think it's very important for us starting at the top to move forward in a mindset of grace. We're all holding something that nobody
knows we're holding. And as leaders, it's going to be very important for us to build our capacity. And I'm talking about from the top, starting here at the board. And we're
working on that. Our students are dealing with some stuff. The staff, the administration, superintendent, and the board, and our community. And so I'm calling
for a space of healing, love, yes, accountability, yes, making it right. Yes, admitting when we're wrong, but also a commitment to personal development,
a commitment to working it out, a commitment to following the process when there's a refusal to work it out. We've all made mistakes. We've all fallen short. And
in the past, everybody's been out for blood. That hasn't worked for our community. We have to show what peace looks like. And that means putting our egos aside, putting our pride aside, and listening
to our people regardless of our title. When we start doing that, that's when our true miracles are going to happen. And that's when we are going to have the testimony that they never thought was possible in Ben Harbor. I see this as a
moment for that miracle. I see this as a moment for that testimony. But it is going to require for us to allow each other to forgive and to create a plan for making it right with one another and
really showing what we are capable of. I can see it as a vision within my mind and my heart, but it's going to be up to us to make it happen on every leadership level. Thank you.
>> All right, Trusty Rocket M. >> I concur with Mrs. Gavn, Miss Gavin. Um, I think the first steps forgiveness. None of us walk on water. We're all
humans and being human we make mistakes and so um I think if you would put yourself in positions different positions how you would feel if those things happened to you and then
my other saying is what would Jesus do. So with that being said, um let's all unity. When we're one, we have a firm foundation, but if we are divided, we the house will fall. So if
we can all come together, as Mrs. G Miss Gavin has said, we can have continue to have the best school district in Michigan. and not only in Michigan, in the United
States, and not only in the United States, in the world. >> Thank you, Vice President Burns. Well, back in 2006, I got to see Martin Luther King III, Reverend Joseph Lori. I um got in the
plane. It was my first time in the plane and we were taking off and it was a thunderstorm. Never fly when it rains and thunder because it's a you don't want to experience it. But it was bumpy. And then when we got to the Pontamac River, I said, "Oh my gosh, I'm about to die." Cuz I looked out the window and it
was water. And then we got to smooth and we were able to sell. You know, we were able to go into the little airport landing thing. Transitions is never easy. It tests you. It stretches you and sometimes is shaky. The very ground you
stand on. But I learned that transition though it can be painful is also beautiful because when God starts shifting us then you begin to see what you couldn't see before. You get to see it. You start seeing truth. You start seeing growth. You start seeing purpose
rise out of pressure. Change is not meant to destroy us. It's meant to develop us. Growth doesn't come from comfort. It comes from challenge. And right now we are in a season of challenge but also in a season of becoming.
Let me clearly state this. Bitterness is not a beautiful thing. It's ugly. It's draining and it keeps us changed to yesterday. We cannot build a new future while carrying the weight of the past. We have to let it go. The grudges, the
gossip, the negativity and make room for healing and for hope. Because if we don't move forward, we stand in the way of what God is trying to do for us. Now, let me stand before you tonight and say it from my heart. I support our superintendent, Dr. Griffin, in the
direction we are headed. Supporting someone doesn't mean agreeing 100% of the time. I tell Dr. Griffin the good, the truth, the bad, the ugly in my thoughts. But that's what real leadership is. And that's what real partnership looks like. Truth spoken in
love. Because when you are truly hearing about the mission, you don't set silent. You engage. You build. I know. You build. You help steer. And you you help steer the ship and not sink it. Dr.
Griffin has been called for such a time as this. She stepped in a role where few would have took the courage to. She has been met with storms. Yet, she continues to stand tall. She's not perfect. None of us are. But she's purposeful. She's
prayerful and she's pressing forward for the sake of our students, staff, and the city. The Bible says in Ecclesiastics 3:1, "To everything there is a season and a time to every purpose under the heaven. This is our time. Our time to grow, our time
to rebuild, and our time to rise. God has placed every one of us here for such a time as this. Not to tear down, but to build up. Not to divide, but to unite. not to dwell on what was, but to focus on what we can be. So, I'm asking you
all, let's work together in good faith. Let's put the students first and let's accept accountability and let's understand that together we can restore the roar and build a bitten harbor that can be and that once was.
Thank you for everyone that came out and I want to say again, Dr. Griffin, I support you 200%. Um, and to the entire Bitten Harbor community, I listen, I see, and I'm hearing you. Um,
and to the board, I thank you for the conversations that we have had and how we were able to work and run things off of each other. And, um, I thank you, Madam President. It is 8:32 and we're moving. >> All right. So, I'll keep my um my
comment super brief. I just want to uh indicate that I agree with uh everything that's been stated by my trustees this evening. I want to make sure that it's fully clear that I am supportive of Dr. Griffin and her leadership. Um I voted to select Dr. Griffin and so my um
responsibility as the president is to support her um to ensure she could be the best superintendent that she can for Bon Harbor area schools and I plan to continue to do that. It is my desire that um the board of education, our administrative leaders um as well as our
teachers and our principles etc. that we all are the best version of ourselves, the best leader um to our staff that we can be in tone, in love, and in leadership so that we may guide individuals in a way that highlights the strengths of all as we would want to be
guided regardless to whether individuals are able to present their best versions to us. And so that would be my encouragement to my board and um all of our administrative leaders at Ben Harvey Area Schools. I know that it is a uh peculiar season, but I have no doubt
that we're able to uh get through if we all linked up together. So, that will be all that I have tonight. I'll ask if there is a motion to adjurnn. >> Madam President, make the motion to adjurnn. >> Is there a second and support? The motion has been made by Vice President Bowens and supported by Trusty Door.
Questions, comments, or concerns? Hearing none, Miss Singer, can you please call the vote? >> Robinson, >> yes. Vice President Bowen. >> Yes. >> Trustee Gavin. >> Yes. >> Trustee Rat Martin. >> Yes. >> Trustee Doyle.
>> Yes. >> All right. We are journed as of 8:34 p.m.