Good evening and welcome to the May 12th, 2026 meeting of to the Maring County School Board. This meeting is now called to order. Mirroring and modeling the way our students begin each day, I ask that we observe a moment of silence at this time. Please join me. I now welcome our student board member
Sherea to read our board commitment statement. We are the Marian County School District Leadership Team. When we come together to work, we are efficient, effective, and productive. Our three most important characteristics are dedicated,
transparent, and individuality. To work together, we must demonstrate respect, confront reality, and be accountable. We will always put students first. we will leave a legacy of success. >> Thank you, Sherea. For the courtesy of
those listening to the meeting, I'm requesting everyone in the audience to please turn off their electronic devices or put them on vibrate. Public comment will now be accepted during two portions of each meeting for up to 30 minutes for each portion. The first will take place prior to the board vote and will be
specific to the night's agenda. And the second will be for items on which the school board customarily takes action and will occur after the board completes the business portion of the meeting. Anyone wanting to speak regarding an agenda item must complete a blue form. Anyone wanting to speak regarding a non-aggenda item must complete a yellow
form. Both forms are available before each meeting and on the district website. Forms are due to the board clerk by 5:40 p.m. and can be submitted via email or in person. Public speakers will have three minutes to complete their comments and no more than 10 speakers will be scheduled in each public comment portion unless the board
votes otherwise. Good evening, Miss Martinez Young. Will you please call the role? >> Dr. Allison Campbell, District 1, >> here. >> Mrs. Lori Conrad, District 2, >> here. >> Mr. Eric Cummings, district three, >> here. >> Mrs. Nancy Thrower, District 4, >> here. >> Dr. Sarah James, District 5, >> here.
>> Sherea Hussein Daram Danellan High School >> here. >> Attorney Jeremy Power, school board attorney, >> here. >> Dr. Danielle Brewer, superintendent >> here. >> Thank you, Miss Martinez Young. Dr. Brewer, will you please share who's going to lead our inspiration and the pledge of allegiance for us this evening?
>> Yes. Good evening. I'd like to um introduce you to our executive director of human resources, Mrs. Wanteneia Morant. >> Good evening and thank you, Dr. Brewer, Chair James, and board members. Tonight, we are proud to recognize an outstanding group of interns who have already begun
making a difference in Marian County Public Schools through their dedication, passion, and commitment to students. This recognition is especially meaningful because these interns have officially committed to continuing their journey with Marian County Public Schools as permanent teachers. I'm
excited to introduce Mrs. Tanya Nun, human resources and recruitment coordinator, and Mrs. Don Maldonado, professional leadership and learning program specialist, who will share additional information and recognize this awesome group of educators. >> Good evening.
Good evening. On April 28th, during our Move with Marion event, a total of 20 future educators signed their teaching contracts alongside the superintendent and their future principles, marking the
beginning of an exciting new chapter in their careers. We're so excited as six of them have joined us tonight. Their decision to remain in Marian County Public Schools reflect both their commitment to education and the strong connections they have built within our
district. To all of our interns being recognized tonight, thank you for choosing Marian County Public Schools for choosing to serve our students and community. When we call your name, please come forward to be recognized and remain
standing in front of the deis. After all the names have been read, we will ask everyone to be seated briefly before inviting you back for a group photo with the board. Thank you very much,
>> Miss Stephanie Cordiero Garcia, Miss Bar Mary Venucci, Miss Annette Cohen, Miss Ardina Baker Gear, Miss Christa Golden, and Miss Sarah Cole.
>> Wonderful. Let's give them a round of applause while they all come up. At this time, we would also like to recognize one of our interns, Miss Sarah Cobb, proudly graduating from the College of Central Florida with her bachelor's degree in early childhood
education. She is also a graduate of Westport High School. Teaching has always been a part of who she is and feels that is truly a calling from God. From volunteering in her mom's classroom to working as a dance instructor at Balcony, she has always had a passion
for helping others learn and grow. She is excited to continue her journey as a third grade teacher at College Park on the same team with her mom, Miss Lorie Culp, a school that holds a special place in her heart. She is truly a great example of growing our own. Miss Cobb
will now come forward to lead us in an inspiration and pledge. >> Wonderful. And before you do that, ladies, there's a little Good evening everyone. Move with Marion has been an incredible program that has helped me shape my journey towards
becoming an educator. Through this experience, I've had the opportunity to complete meaningful internships through my College of Central Florida experience at Hamone Elementary, South Ocala Elementary, and Marian Oaks Elementary. God eventually called me to teach third
grade with my mom at College Park Elementary where 22 years ago she was pregnant with me and now I'm teaching with her. Each placement has strengthened my passion for teaching and given me valuable hands-on experience in the classroom. I've known I wanted to be
a teacher since first grade when I would line up my stuffed animals and teach them just as like in a real classroom. Even at a young age, teaching was already a place on my heart. It's more than just a career for me. It's truly a calling. I am grateful for this the support and guidance and opportunities
move with Marian has provided as I continue pursuing this dream. Now, please stand for the pledge of allegiance with me. 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. >> Please be seated. >> Thank you, ladies. And make sure you stay close because we're going to take a picture once we finish all the recognitions. But on behalf of the school board, what I will say is we are so grateful that you chose to not only
intern in Marian County Public Schools, but then chose to stay with us and grow with us as we continue to grow as a district and finding young uh qualified teachers who are really just in love with the field of education is um something that we're always looking for. So, we're grateful that you all were
here tonight to be recognized. Uh Dr. Brewer, I believe we have um Miss Morant to talk about um some MCPS longevity as well. >> Yes. And it's um super it's timely because as we enter as we welcome our new interns into our school system, we also are recognizing those that have
given so many years. We have some tonight that she'll recognize that have 40 years um with Marian County. So it's quite a timely recognition. So thank you, Miss Nor. >> Thank you. And good evening again. It is my pleasure to stand before you again today to recognize another outstanding group of educators and support staff who
have reached remarkable milestones in their careers. In education, years of service are not just counted in time. They are measured in lessons taught, lives touched, and future shape. This evening, we are honoring the employees who have been with us for 25 or more years. Out of 161 employees being
recognized this year, 56 are joining us tonight. And together, they represent an incredible 1,610 years of service to the students of Marian County. Tonight we are celebrating milestone anniversaries of
25, 30, 35 and 40 years. These recognitions are reserved for employees who have reached a fiveyear service milestone this year. Honores, when we call your name, please come forward to receive your certificate and remain standing in front of the stage. After all names have been read, we'll ask
everyone to be seated briefly and invite you back later for a group photo with the board. We have a lot of folks to celebrate. So we ask that you hold your applause until the until the end of each group. So we will start with 25 years this year. Cynthia Buddenburgg with Ward
Highlands Elementary. Kevin Christian, public relations. Jeffrey Cook, Saddlewood Elementary. Ginger Cruz, Westport High. Craig Kushenberry, Forest High. Amy Davis, Belleview High. Lorraine Fuller, Wyoming Park
Elementary. Kathy Gordon, Anthony Elementary. Christine Holland, Romeo Elementary. Carrie Jud, South Okeella Elementary. Wendy Lopez, Spar Elementary. Donald Manning, Gretic Collier Elementary. Pamela McDonald,
South Ocala Elementary. Lisa Morris, Marian Technical College. Viviana Prietto, South Ocala Elementary. Deborah Rocher, Hillrest. Aretha Samuel, Legacy Elementary. Kimberly Scott, 8th Street
Elementary. Coney Solomon, Vanguard High School. Linda Spencer, Early Learning. Matthew Tarantino, Danellen Elementary, Torina Taylor, Winding Oaks Elementary, and Lorie Cobb, College Park Elementary.
So we'll continue recognition with 30 years of service this year. Stephen Ays, student assignment and records. Deborah Kurthers, finance and accounting. Lisa Koy, grants and federal programs. Sandra Daly, career and technical education.
Amelia Dukes Cannon, Westport High. Christy Dunning, Marian Virtual. Susan Eatman, Marian Oaks Elementary. Phyllis Hodes, Maplewood Elementary. Clartha Jackson, ESC curriculum. Jennifer Leech Cotton, Howard Middle. Cynthia Len
Leandowski, Oakrest Elementary. Tracy Mahoney, Hammet El Bowen Jr. Elementary. George Mallister II, Okellis Springs Elementary, Charice McClennon, Forest High, Verne O'Neal, Transportation.
Julie Peterson, Romeo Elementary, Brenda Panics, ESC curriculum. Traxxy ShoeN, Infrastructure. Patricia Sigman, Shady Hill Elementary, Gary Smallidge, Ther Maran Technical College. Lisa Smithy,
Saddlewood Elementary. Christina Stefans Stfansky, excuse me. Staten Stanton Wirst Elementary. Anna Stream Mallister, Shady Hill Elementary. James Trevio, Vanguard High, Donald Tucker, Athletics
and Activities, Floorweather's Grant and Federal Programs, and Michelle Wetsz Madison Street Academy. And we know it's a lot, but we're taking time to recognize each and everyone because this is definitely important. A
few more. So looking at 35 years, Michelle Danley, Dr. NH Jones Elementary, Christina Ellers, 8th Street Elementary, Donna Han, East Marian Elementary, Laura McCutchen, Hillrest,
Jennifer Polers, Forest High, and Babette Ross. Anthony Elementary and celebrating 40 years, Sherry Simmons in finance and budgeting. And although she is not able to attend today, we would also like to recognize
our most tenured employee with MCPS um who has been celebrating this year, Miss Lana Phillips, who is currently serving as the secretary at Ward Highlands Elementary with 55 years of service. And before we close, as they're ex um
finishing the certificates, I would like to acknowledge our transportation department employees because they are out still ensuring our students arrive safely home home safely this evening. They were unable to attend tonight's recognition. However, we will be visiting them at a later time to present
their certificates and recognize them personally. We sincerely thank them for their dedication and proudly celebrate their achievements alongside all of tonight's honores. To all of our honores, we thank you for believing in students, for working tirelessly behind the scenes, and for showing up each day
with purpose, heart, and dedication. You represent the very best of who we are. So, join us in another well-deserved round of applause, and then we'll ask you to turn around. The board has a few comments for you. Well, and we're going to come down and take a picture because we don't need to
recreate this twice. So, we're going to come down and take a picture because there is a lot of you. But I will speak for the board to say that we are incredibly grateful for each and every one of you here as well as the ones that are not here. Your commitment to Marian County Public Schools, even on the hard days and the easy days and the Sunday sunny days and the days when it rains at
dismissal, all of the days in between, we're grateful that you show up every single day to make it happen in Marian County Public Schools. So, we're going to come down and take a picture with you all. And while you're coming, we'll let you know that those who weren't able to make it, we are going to still deliver their
certificates for recognition as well. >> And Yamal is taking the picture. No, no, no, no pressure. Damaly is Oh, pastor, you got to be a pro. All right. I'm congratul
We do. We have one more recognition. I believe Mr. Tucker is here to provide our last recognition for the evening. >> Good evening, Chair Dr. James, board members, superintendent Dr. Brewer, we are here tonight to express our sincere
appreciation to the ACA of Florida Ocala and West Marian hospitals represented tonight by Miss Caitlyn Wilson Butler and Mr. Bill Thompson for their generous contribution and partnership with the American Heart Assoc Association in
donating CPR uh training kits to nine of our MCPS high schools. The AHA is represented tonight by Miss Shelby Bobbit and Mr. Mark Johnson. I would also like to recognize the representatives of our nine high schools that are here tonight to accept these
donations. And if I've called your name, if you can come stand down front and as I call your name from the school representatives, you guys will come down too. Uh from Belleview High School, represented tonight by Mr. Mr. David Styra, Dunellan High School, Miss Ashley
Carowway, Forest High School, Mr. Chris Scandlin, Lake High School, Miss L'Oreal Diaz, North Maran High School, Mr. Matt Johnson,
Ocali Charter High School, represented tonight by Mr. Steven Ays, South Marian High School, Mr. Kim McAteer, Vanguard High School, Mr. Luke Bender, and Westport High School, Mr. Billy Renfro.
These kits, one of them right here beside me, these are valued at $1,500 each. They helped bring HCA's investment total to $20,000 for the 2526 school year and a $60,000 total
over the past three years. This investment in our students goes far beyond providing equipment. It equips our students and staff with the confident and skills to respond in critical moments. We know that immediate CPR can double or even triple a person's chance of survival during cardiac
arrest. And by placing these kits in our schools, we are investing in a generation that is prepared to save lives in our classrooms, on our campuses, and throughout our community. We are truly grateful for this partnership and for their commitment to the safety and well-being of our students and community. At this time,
uh, Shelby Bobett would like to come forward and say a few words. >> Good evening. My name is Shelby Bobett. I'm with the American Heart Association, and I'm here today, um, to present the nine CPR in schools training kits to the Marian County School District high
schools, generously sponsored by HCA Florida Healthcare. Sudden cardiac arrest is the number one cause of death in student athletes, and it can happen without warning on the field, in the gym, or in the classroom. When it does, every second matters. Immediate CPR can
double or triple a person's chance of survival, but only if people nearby are prepared to act. Florida law requires students in 9th and 11th grades to receive at least one hour of CPR instruction. These CPR and schools training kits make meeting that
requirement simple and effective by giving teachers everything they need to train students in handsonly CPR, AED awareness, and life-saving response. These kits don't just fulfill a mandate. They empower students to become potential lifesavers and help create
safer schools and stronger communities. Thank you again to HCA Florida Healthcare and to you for your commitment to student health and safety. >> Thank you. >> Well, thank you all for your commitment um financially and otherwise to supporting Maring County Public Schools,
our athletes, and our students safety. So, we're going to come down and take a picture um and be able to recognize you all personally. Thank you. And then after this picture, we will take the intern picture while we're done. Dr. Campell, Kevin, See you thrower.
I see name tags, but I'm not gonna say anything about them. Here we go. One, two, three. Couple more. Mr. Thompson, you have a camera for me. One, two, three. Stay there. Couple more. If our interns could come forward or
recently interns turned into employees. I will not get Get in there. Get out. >> Here we go. One, two, three. Couple more. >> I got mine, too. Thank you. Well, that was a beautiful 30 minutes full of recognition. I think we all
agree there's no better way to start than recognizing our staff and our students. So, we are grateful to start every meeting like that. Um, on to recognizing some of our donations. We have $1,436 to Vanguard High School from West Marian
Moose Lodge 2356 in memory of Vanguard High School track coach Fred Smith. $1,000 to Westport High School from Citizens First Bank to be used to provide a scholarship to a class of 2026 graduate who will be attending a Florida college. $16,749.80
to Dr. NH Jones Elementary School from Dr. NH Jones parent organization to be used to purchase for the 2026 2027 school year and CPR kits declared value of 1,500 each totaling $13,500 will be used to enhance CPR and
life-saving training across eight or nine high schools and eight eight traditional high schools in Ocali Charter School totaling $32,685.80. Thank you all for your continued contributions uh to Maring County Public Schools to help us be as successful as
possible for our students of Maring County. We will move on to the business portion of our meeting. Miss Martinez Young, could you please provide the proof of publication for tonight's school board meeting? Miss Martinez Young, is your microphone on? >> Okay. >> Will you read it into the record one
more time? >> Thank you. >> The notice for the May 12th, 2026 schoolboard meeting was placed on the district website on May 5th, 2026. Proof of publication has been attached in board docs under proof of publication. >> Thank you very much. May I have a motion to approve the minutes from the April
14th, 2026 school board meeting? >> Motion to approve the minutes. >> Second. >> Motion by board member Thrower and a second by board member Conrad. Are there any additions or corrections to the minutes? Hearing none, all those in favor say I. >> I. >> I. Motion passes. 5-0.
>> Miss Martinez Young, do we have any speakers this evening uh related to the agenda? >> All right. Um then I want to say welcome to attorney powers. Will you please read the rules governing persons who wish to address the school board this evening? >> Yes, ma'am. Thank you. In compliance
with section 286.011 011 floor of Florida statutes. The school board has adopted uniform procedures for public speakers who wish to speak at this evening's meeting, either regarding one of today's agenda items or a matter relating to the operations of the school district. These procedures will ensure
the public has a reasonable opportunity to be heard on school board and school district matters. A written summary of these procedures is available from the table in the lobby. Public speaker forms are also located on the same table. These completed forms were due to the
school board's clerk no later than 5:40 p.m. This evening's agenda item speakers will be called prior to the business portion of the schoolboard meeting in the order received by the school board clerk. For items not listed on the agenda, speakers will be called at the end of the
business meeting. Before you begin speaking, please state your full name for the record and spell your last name. Each speaker will have three minutes. When the speaker has one minute remaining, the speaker will receive a visual notice to complete his or her comments. Speakers may not yield their
time to other people. Speakers and other meeting attendees are expected to conduct themselves in a respectful manner. Therefore, verbal attacks and profanity are strictly prohibited. The board is here to listen to your comments only. You may be directed to an administrative staff member following
the conclusion of your comments for further assistance to address any concerns. If there are matters dealing with student discipline, including expulsions, they'll be scheduled at the conclusion of the televised portion of this meeting. Parents may address the board regarding a disciplinary matter at
that time. To ensure student privacy, only a parent or guardian may use a student's first or last name. Identifying references to other students is also prohibited. A speaker's speech does not reflect the endorsement, sponsorship, position, or expression of
the school district. Thank you for your attention to the board's requirements. Madam Chair, that concludes my explanatory remarks. >> Thank you, Attorney Powers. Um I believe the superintendent is going to provide just clarification on the agenda item this public speaker attached. >> Good evening, chair. After further review, this item does not appear to be
on a consent or a pull discussion item. So this um public speaking session will take place at the end of our regular board meeting. >> Okay. So we will save it until after our board business, but no need reason to read our attorney remarks twice. So we'll we'll count these as read into the
record. Uh we will move on to our public hearing then for now. I declare a public hearing. Is there anyone who wishes to address the board regarding any of the two titles for the two courses recommended for adoption this evening and that we will be voting on separately per statute. Instructional materials are adopted
according to a process defined in our Florida state statutes 106.28 as well as board policy 2521. Two titles for two courses are being recommended for adoption this evening. >> May I have a motion to approve the public hearing for the 2526
instructional materials for world languages Spanish 1. So move >> second >> motion by board member Cummings and a second by board member Campbell. Uh all those in favor say I. >> I. Motion passes 5-0. May I have a motion to approve the public hearing for the 2025 2026 instructional materials
for world languages Spanish 2. >> Motion to approve. >> Second. Motion by board member Conrad and a second by board member Campbell. All those in favor say I. >> I. Motion passes 5-0. >> Board. There was an additional public hearing on pre-qualification for general
construction services for 2026 2027 which has been moved to May 26, 2026. All public notification will be adjusted accordingly. >> Thank you, Dr. Brewer. We're going to move into our consent agenda. May I have a motion to approve the consent agenda items?
>> Motion to approve. Second >> motion by board member Conrad and a second by board member Thrower. All those in favor say I. I. >> I. >> I. Motion passes 5-0. Before addressing expulsion matters, I'd like to acknowledge the board members have received the alternative placement list for students through April 10th, 2026.
Miss Martinez Jang, are there any parents who have submitted a timely request to speak on their child's disciplinary matters? >> All right. May that I have a motion to approve the expulsion of student JD26-188E for the remainder of the 2526 school year and the first, second, and third
quarters of the 2627 school year with services. >> Motion to approve the expulsion. >> Second. >> A motion by board member Campbell and a second by board member Conrad. All those in favor say I. >> I. >> I. Motion passes 5. May I have a motion to approve the expulsion of student
JD26-196, JD26-198, JD26-199E, JD26-202E, JD26-203, JD26-205, JD26-206 for the remainder of the 2526 school
year and the entire 2026 2022 school year with services. Motion to approve. >> Second. >> A motion by board member Conrad and a second by board member Campbell. All those in favor say I. >> I. >> I. Motion passes 5-0. We will now move on to the discussion regular agenda
item. May I have a motion to approve the independent contractor agreement with Citrus Hearing Impaired Program Services, Inc.? >> Motion to approve. >> Second. >> A motion by board member Thrower and a second by board member Cummings. Dr. Brewer, do you have information you'd like to share regarding this item? >> Yes, ma'am. We have quite a few um items
that are we are asking Miss Anna Williams. the director of exceptional student education to come forward to um provide brief remarks on the total amount for these next items 24.1 through 24.7 equals $9.6 million. The funding source
for these um ESC contracts um include our ESSE student allocation federal grants um and she will elaborate on more of that. Thank you, Miss Williams Jones for being here tonight. >> Thank you. Good evening, Dr. James, board members and Dr. or superintendent.
Um, as we look at the related services and supports that are provided for students in Marian County Public Schools, we currently have over 9,000 um students who are receiving some type of service, whether that is speech, OT, um, occupational therapy, physical
therapy, um, supports for students who are visually impaired, supports for students who have hearing impairments. And so this grouping of agenda items um that are on the board this evening really cover the contracts that support those particular services. So, when we
look at the independent contracts that are on the board agenda tonight for speech and language uh therapy supports, there are 11 independent contractors and that um dollar amount is a total of
1,63,432.50. When we look at the number of independent contractors that are um with contracts on the agenda tonight, there are eight total for physical therapy services totaling $954,200.
When we look at the contracts for occupational therapy services, there are 12 being presented to the board tonight um at a total cost of 1,172,687.75. when we
look at the um number of contracts that support um our hearing impaired services. Um and when you look at the services that we provide, I guess I'll take a step back. Some of them are independent
contractors. So it is a sole proprietor, an independent speech therapist, physical therapists or occupational therapists seeking contract with the board that is providing a particular service. We also have contracts with agencies and so an agency will provide
um service providers across those broad categories in order for us to meet the service minute needs um for the services that are identified on a student's IEP. And so um the Citrus Hearing Impaired Contract is one of those agencies that
provides a variety um of interpreting services for us. and that contract cost is um $1,995,000. In looking at the other agencies that are a part of the contracts being
presented this evening, those agencies provide a combination of occupational therapy, physical therapy, and speech and language services. Um so with community rehab agency the cost of that contract is 1,666,912
for special communications that contract is $1,336,58525 and Princeton Staffing Solutions and that contract is1,455,483 $325. So the total of all of the contracts
being presented to the board this evening is the a little over 9 million that Dr. Brewer has shared with the board. >> Thank you, Miss Williams Jones. Uh board, I will open it up. Does anyone have questions, comments that they'd like to share? I know obviously she shared about a variety of items that
we're going to go through and vote on, but I imagine questions related to any of the items would be appropriate now. Is that okay, Miss Williams Jones? >> Absolutely. >> Okay. uh board member Thor, >> thank you and and thank you always for uh being here and and sharing the
information and also the the cost, you know, for supporting our students and no matter where they come from, we're going to do our best to support them every single time. And I would be interested to know um as far as the the proportion of independent contractors and agencies
um compared to uh employees that that we hire that are under our umbrella because I believe it's shifted over the years. I believe it has, but I would like to have that confirmed at at some point. So in order to address that um when we
look at occupational therapists, physical therapists and interpreters, all of those providers are external to the district, meaning they are in contract with us. Um but no in-house in that area. um speech and language. We
have seven that are district employees that provide that service, but all of the rest of them are um community providers that contract with us in the district. Um I'm not sure when that shift occurred um in terms of moving
those related services more into the community than um employees with the district because it was something that was already in place. But I can tell you that the um competition um from the medical field, medical
providers who are able to employ some of the same professionals that we utilize for our students in the schools um impacts the way in which we're able to hire and support um those specialists to
provide the services to our students. >> Great. Thank you. And um I know that when we hire our own employees and there's a comprehensive benefits package that goes along with that that also adds up and it's wonderful to have that available support in the community to to
come in and and support our students. So thank you. I appreciate it. Thank you. >> Thank you. I and I will just add I think it's going to be continued and this has been a focus of Dr. Brewer and previously Dr. Gullet continuing to make sure that our IEPs are written at a
strength that is going to be delivering financial reimbursement to the district for the level of services we're providing for the student. Um obviously if if you're a community member listening this is a lot of money spending on supplemental services that are beyond the traditional educator. And
so, um, there is money that comes in from the state to support the ex, uh, extra supports for students. Um, but it's partly on our shoulders to make sure that we're writing our IEPs correctly so that they're written to the strength. But I think one of the things
that I've learned, especially as we've talked budget, um, Miss Williams Jones, I'm sure it's probably top of mind. What is the number for how short we are based on the money we received back from the state for ESC services? It's like 25 29 million >> $29 million. So we spend $29 million
more than what is um what we receive in ESSE funding to make sure that our students are receiving their necessary supports each and every day across the district. Um doc Dr. Campbell. >> Thank you. And and as the community is hearing this conversation, please be aware also that a lot of the money comes
from federally through the idea grant and that has been written into law and has never been fully funded to the level that it was supposed to be when it was written into law decades ago. So, as we continue to advocate not only at the state level, but also federally, that's the conversation that we're having with
the Congress people to say if we could at least start funding this, I think it's funded at about 40% of what it was supposed to be. And you know, even getting it to 50% would change a huge impact uh because they wrote it into law and we're continuing to struggle. So,
and so we're as strategic as possible, but um from a deaf and hearty hearing perspective, we had some in-depth conversations about sign language interpreters. Um fun fact, that was my foreign language in college. And so I was I was amazed at how much sign language interpreters are making. Um and
uh you know we can't just move a student to a different school so that they can be banked with other students who are deaf and heart of hearing so that our resources are most appropriately spent because what's best for students is to attend if possible the student the school that they're zoned for. And so we try and be as strategic as possible but
ultimately we fall short almost $30 million annually to meet the needs of our students and that money comes from somewhere. So that money comes from our general fund, which is then money that can be used for other things, including raises for teachers, etc. Um, and so it in a in a season when we're talking a lot about budget, I think it's really
important to continue to have a transparent conversation about money. So I just wanted to make sure I put that into record. >> Yes, Reverend Cummings, >> add on to that. I did want to add on to that. This is one of those um situations where we we we hear this word in the
community, underfunded um mandates. This is one of those where we have to do certain things for our students. We have to make sure that they get the supports they need it that they need to be successful, but this is one of those where um we get funds, but we just don't get enough.
>> Correct. >> The community needs to know that um we we're not going short on our students. They still get the services in spite of us not being properly funded in those areas. >> Absolutely. We're just moving the money from one pile to another to ensure that we're meeting the needs for our students
who are the most needy and have the most significant needs because ultimately um they deserve exactly what their IEP says and they're legally bound to receive it. So, we're going to deliver it. Board member Conrad, anything? >> Dr. Campbell, make a note. We've been talking about how short we are on transportation. Um but we need to add
ESC funding to that also. >> So, we'll be we'll have a head start for next year on our legislative list. All right. Was there any further discussion about this first item? All right. Uh, all those in favor say I. >> I. >> I. Motion passes 5-0. Board, I'm going to go ahead and go through these. I'll ask for a brief discussion, but if
there's no discussion, we'll move through to the vote. May D24.2. May I have a motion to approve the independent contractor agreement with Community Rehab? >> Move. >> Second. >> A motion by board member Cummings, a second by board member Thrower. Any discussion? >> Hearing none. All those in favor say I. >> I.
>> I. Motion passes 5-0. D24.3. May I have a motion to approve the independent contractors agreement with physical therapists? >> To approve. >> Second. >> A motion by board member Thrower and a second by board member Conrad. All those in favor say I. >> I. Sorry, any discussion? I guess that was a little late. My bad. D24.4. May I
have a motion to approve the independent contractors agreement with speech and language pathologists and speech and language pathologist assistance. >> Motion to approve. >> Second. >> Motion by board member Campbell, a second by board member Thrower. Any discussion? All those in favor say I. >> I.
>> I. Motion passes 5-0 D24.5. May I have a motion to approve the independent contractor agreement with occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistance. >> Motion to approve. >> Second. >> A motion by board member Conrad, a second by board member Cummings. Any discussion? All those in favor say I. >> I.
>> I. Motion passes 5-0. May I have a motion to approve the independent contractors agreement with Special Communications LLC? >> Motion to approve. >> Second. >> A motion by board member Conrad, a second by board member Campbell. Any discussion? All those in favor say I. >> I.
>> I. Motion passes 5-0. D24.7. May I have a motion to approve the independent contractor agreement with Princeton Staffing Solutions LLC? >> Motion to approve. >> Motion by board member Cummings. >> Second. >> Second by board member Campbell. Any discussion. >> All those in favor say I. >> I.
>> Motion passes 5-0. D24.8. May I have a motion to approve the compensation amendment number one to the construction manager contract guaranteed maximum price GMP for construction of new technology and information services center change order number two amendment number one project 24-100
to approve >> second. >> That's a motion by board member Cummings and a second by board member Conrad. Dr. Brewer, I believe you have some information you'd like to share regarding this item. >> Yes, Miss Angela Usher will provide remarks, but this is a positive. We always like um when prices go in our
favor. So, Miss Usher, go ahead. Explain this one. >> Okay. Thank you, Dr. Brewer. Good evening, Chair James. Board members, this is a compensation amendment agreement to the GMP you all approved on January 13. Um, we had taken out the
money to try to do owner's direct purchase to for the mechanical system, but due to some delay in getting this vendor approved, they were bought over, we could not do it. So this is not an addition to the GMP. It's just putting
the money back in which is 638,314. And this was important to maintain our schedule that we could not go out for ODP. >> All right. And did you have remarks on any of the additional items, Miss Usher? >> Yes. Um you'll go through all of them. Okay. >> Sure. We can. What? Um, you can give
remarks on all three if you'd like and then we can take the vote if that works. That whatever works. What did you want to >> That's fine. Go ahead. Go ahead. >> Okay. The other one is the elevator lift at Vanguard High School. We have been working with this um contractor Well,
for a while. Um there was some delay in getting this done. So, the contractor came back with a settlement of 20,000 and a new um substantial completion date of October 17, 2025. Certainly, we work with him trying to
get some more based on the the delay, but due to some of our contracts saying TBD, it was difficult to accomplish. >> Absolutely. And then the North Marian High School water. >> North Marian High School. This was in the five-year capital plan that you approved last year. We had in there $1
and a half million dollars for this. This school is over 60 years old. All the pipes are cast iron and rusting. So, we have to do this project. We'll do it in two phases. This is GMP1 for 698, and $145.
It will be completed by July 2026. Um, I know there's a concern about the pavers. I've spoken to m to um the principal and some of the staff there from long ago. They're really passionate about it. But we will work with them. We'll see what we can save. We'll see if
we can do um stamped um concrete and even putting some insets and inlays to show the North Maran High School logo so it just won't be plain concrete. >> Thank you, Miss Usher. All right. Well, board, we will start. Is there any um
discussion on the first item which is the um change order to put the money back in to purchase um for the new technology and information center? Any discussion? Board >> advocate against that. >> Okay. All right. Hearing none. All those
in favor say I. >> I. >> I. Motion passes 5-0. D24.9 may have a motion to approve construction of an elevator lift at building 4 for Vanguard High School settlement project 23-138. >> Motion to approve. >> Second. Motion by board member Conrad, a second by board member Cummings. Board,
was there any further discussion on this item? Uh, board member Thrower. >> Thank you. And, um, seeing as how Vanguard is in my district, um, this is a project that had been pretty closely monitored and there was a can't remember the name of the hurricane, but one came
through and the shaft got flooded and that's kind of when it was brought to my attention that was just going longer. Um, so there was uh quite a few challenges just with that whole project. And so I'm just really glad that it's done now because it was difficult for
Vanguard having to put kids that needed certain classes but couldn't use the elevator to get there, you know, in in different places, but made it through and and we're at the end. So thank you very much for your great work on this buttoning it all up and you too, Attorney Powers. >> Absolutely,
>> Dr. Brewer. I'm sure and everyone else. >> Any further discussion board? All right. Hearing none. All those in favor say I. >> I. >> I. Motion passes 5-0. D2410. May I have a motion to approve the guaranteed maximum price GMP for the North Marine High School water main replacement
project 25-106. So >> move. >> Motion by board member Cummings and a second by board member Thrower. Is there any further discussion on this item? I'll just say to Miss Usher's point about the cherished papavers. Um I was at North Marian High School today and I
feel confident that um Dr. Brewer and her staff are going to try to acknowledge the history of the pavers and the importance of them in the community and also clearly explain our budget restrictions and where we are and
just some of some things come down to cost and understanding what we can afford for a project and so um I think that we'll be able to find some middle ground. So um I felt comfortable with the conversation I had today with the principal. So was there any other discussion from the board?
Okay. Hearing none. All those in favor say I. >> I. I. >> I. Motion passes 5-0. >> Uh, thank you, Miss Usher. Uh, moving on to D24.11. May I have a motion to renew bid 4125 AH food service large equipment term contract.
>> Second. >> Motion by board member Cummings and a second by board member Conrad. Dr. Brewer, I believe you have information you'd like to share regarding this item. >> Yes, as this is a large um ticket item, we do have Mr. Rios Welsh. He's our chief financial officer. He will provide brief remarks on the agreement to renew
the bid for the large equipment and food services. Mr. Walsh. >> Good evening, Mr. Ryz Walsh. >> Good evening, board. Uh, Chair James. Uh, let me just pull up my notes here real quick. Um, this particular item I
have to pull it up. See For your record, it's a $4 million item. >> Uh, give me the give me the number again. I'm sorry. >> B2411. >> I'm sorry. >> B2411. >> One second. I'm sorry. >> We were moving too fast for you, Mr. Rio, as well.
>> Yeah, I will. >> Miss Dr. Would you like to >> I can I can share some information. I do apologize. I'm trying. This is um a large item. This purchase is to provide a base catalog for large cafeteria equipment for use in cafeterias throughout the district. The food and
nutrition services department utilizes this bid to purchase new or replacement cafeteria equipment that will increase food safety, enhance equipment to current standards, increase cooking capacity and storage, and improve the overall level of service. >> Thank you, Dr.
>> Thank you. I do apologize and >> no worries. Mr. Rios Walsh, is there anything else you wanted to add? >> No, no, I think Dr. Brewer. >> Okay. And this funding source is from food service. So, it comes from the food service budget. >> Uh, that is correct. It's a separate fund. It's not coming from the general fund. >> All right. Thank you, board. Was there
any further discussion on this item? All right. Hearing none. All those in favor say I. >> I. Motion passes 5-0. D2412. May I have a motion to approve the aptagy agreement? >> Motion to approve. >> Second. A motion by board member Conrad and a second by board member Campbell.
Dr. Brewer, you have some information to share. >> Yes. And I I do want you to know this is the first time our director of public relations has spoken for an agreement out of his 25 years in Marian County Public Schools. So, we are very excited
for him to announce this um or ask for your approval for this agreement. And I won't steal his thunder. So, at this time, welcome, Mr. Christian. Yes. >> I don't know if that's a good record or a bad record, but regardless, good evening to each of you. This agreement provides a new communications platform
for our entire school district. We started using mass communications way back in 2003 with Alert. Now, in 2015, we moved to Skylert, an add-on module to Skyward, our student information system
and financial accounting software. And now in 2026, we hope to move to Aptagy, a comprehensive communications platform featuring an all-in-one single dashboard experience. Additional modules will help address and improve student attendance,
chronic absenteeism, and provide direct communication between teachers, parents, and families, all in a secured and monitored environment accessible for public records and legal purposes. This three-year contract includes
on-site and online training for district and school-based users. It also includes the development of a custom mobile app that is not required but can be downloaded so students, parents, families, employees, and others can utilize a single location for all of
their school communication needs. This app will be free and available in the major app stores. This agreement will also provide a next generation tool for our district and school communications that should generate higher delivery rates, increased engagement, and we hope
stronger communication satisfaction and deliverables. The API platform will also replace outdated services no longer meeting the current needs of our audiences and our community. And finally, the two other existing contracts for related projects
and products will no longer be needed. Those cost savings could significantly offset the first year cost of this contract. We reached out to the following districts for their endorsements of the aptagy platform before bringing this agreement to you
tonight. Elatchua, Clay, Duval, Martin, Putnham, and Sarasota. We also consulted with the current national school communicator of the year from INSPRA who uses and recommends the aptagy platform. So with that said, I'm happy to address
any questions or concerns you might have. >> Thank you, Mr. Christian. Uh board, I will open it up for discussion. >> Sure. As our resident communication expert, Dr. Campbell, >> I don't have any questions or concerns, but I am very grateful that we are
adopting something like this board. I had the opportunity to already record our faster facts, so I got a little heads up on on all the things that Mr. Christian was going to say just a moment ago. And the fact that for families to understand, this is going to take the place of essentially what a lot of
teachers have used as class dojo. It's going to take the place of Skyert messaging. It's going to just really replace all of the things and put it all in one-stop shop. And I'm certain that you're also grateful that it's going to help with public notice information and all the um all of that. And so it it's
just a wonderful platform. And as we talked in our last strategic plan, the communication really was the foundation of everything that we needed to do. And I know that's the direction we're taking this new strategic plan. So with a tool like this, this is exactly what we need to get us to that next level. So thank
you, Mr. for being before us for the first time in 25 years. >> Yes. Uh board, any other questions or comments? >> Feel like we should come up with a few more questions just to grill >> to grill him. >> I will say I think it's important and
we're going to make sure we have proper messaging, but um we are there will be no more class dojo. And as an elementary parent, I can tell you there's a lot of a lot of people love class dojo. And the primary reason um that we needed to move in a different direction is from a security perspective. And Class Dojo is
not actually um in alignment or in agreement with the Marian County School Board. And the things that are shared on Class Dojo are not um protected and secure. And ultimately that should be what's most important. And so we are going to have a standard messaging system moving forward. And I look
forward to um I'm sure very curated and structured rollout of all of that communication. So, anything else? Bordon board member Thor, did you have anything? >> The first thing I wrote down was RIP class dojo. >> Yes. >> Is that is that really true? >> Really is true.
>> And and I do understand why and and truly having a single platform, point of contact, everything that's really putting us into the right century. So, good stuff. >> Yes. Well, and and speaking to that again as as just to kind of finish that
conversation, while Class Dojo has been a great tool that families have used, every communication that a family has with a person in Marian County public schools should be subject to public record. And Class Dojo did not allow us
to produce public records of that communication. And so now moving to a system like Apttog where everything is tracked, everything with the data share agreement is all intact, it's going to help not only our one-way communication to them, but all of the two-way
communication where we also have it available for public record. >> Yep. All right. Well, board, if we are ready to move forward with a vote, all those in favor say I. >> I. Motion passes 5-0. Congratulations, Mr. Christian. >> Thank you, board. And if I can, I want to thank Attorney Powers and the
technology department, Data Share. This this has been a heavy lift and I appreciate the efforts that have been um placed in the priority with this contract. >> Thank you. >> All right. Well, we move uh into 25.1. May I have a motion to approve the 2627
budget presentation timeline? >> Motion to approve. >> Second. >> A motion by board member Campbell and a second by board member Conrad. Dr. Brewer, I believe you have some information to share. >> Yes, we're going to try this again. Mr. Rios Welsh is going to broad brief remarks on the budget timeline. Thank you, Mr. Welsh.
>> Thank you. Uh, no laptop this time, just good oldfashioned paper. Okay, I'm old school. I do apologize for that uh uh previous >> Okay, we got your back. >> Thank you. Uh, so let's uh jump into the budget presentation timeline. Um, you board members uh have the timeline. Uh,
it should look very familiar uh to you. Uh, but I did want to address two things. Uh, first, budget development is still ongoing. Um we meet every Tuesday uh in executive leadership at 2:30 and we've been working feverishly um to get
the budget uh into balance and so that work um is ongoing. Uh the other thing I wanted to mention uh to follow up on um the previous comments related to ECE and some of the contracts particularly the $9 million that we discussed earlier today. Uh we will have in the summer a
work group where we will be bringing together a small group of folks to continue to look at that book of work. Um and so it's important as you've highlighted that we continue to look at that and that work um will be ongoing and will continue uh this summer. Um, as
it relates to the budget presentation timeline itself and compliance with the truth and millillage requirements, um, we have a couple of items and I'll walk you through. You guys have the calendar. Uh, but I did want to take a moment to really, uh, go through and highlight some very important dates. So, obviously their responsibilities um, for the board
and the superintendent in terms of delivering the annual budget. Um, and the main thing is that we are compliant with chapter 101.42 42 and 51, respectively, for both the superintendent and the school board's responsibility to provide a budget to
DOE that is improving the district overall year-over-year. Right now, the legislature is still in session. Um, as you guys know, they've reconvened and so they're continuing to do the good hard work of getting the appropriations bill passed in Tallahassee. Uh moving down
the schedule, you'll see there June 1st is really that first date where uh the property appraisal shall deliver uh to the superintendent an estimate of the total 2026 total assessed value for non-exempt property. And then moving down on July 1st, uh within 24 days, the
property appraisers shall deliver to the taxing authorities the certification of those said values. Uh the board has 24 days to certify the value to prepare for the tenative budget in compliance with state state statute and then on the 21st the superintendent will submit to the
board the tenative budget which as indicated earlier is currently ongoing. On July 24th we will advertise um in the newspaper and our website the hearing of the tenative budget within 29 days of those values being put out. uh and that
will be posted on the district's website. The real big first date will be July 28th and that's uh no less than two days and not more than five days um of the tenative budget uh hearing being advertised uh and we will have a board
meeting. I think that's already scheduled uh where we'll actually go through and recognize the tenative millillage and tenative budget. And then on the 29th, the school board within 35 days will certify the value um and advise the
property tax appraiser of the recomputed proposed millage rate. And then moving on down into the month of July, uh we have three big dates uh scheduled. Um during that time period, August 6th, we
will review in a work session the tenative uh general fund um portion of the budget. And then on the 13th and the 20th, we will review all remaining funds. Um and the 20th is really a
placeholder in case we need additional time or the board has other questions or topics uh of discussion that it would like to delve into. And so we reserve pretty much the 6th, the 13th, and the 20th of August all four uh work sessions
dealing with the budget. Uh bringing us to a close, we have a final hearing on September the 8th um in which we will formally um adopt the millage rate. And uh moving on to the 9th, uh we will be
able to provide no later than September 11th a budget to the Department of Education. Uh and that pretty much rounds us out with the timeline. It looks very familiar um to what we did last year. Uh
and again, that August 20th date is an if needed date for a work session. So it's not um scheduled, but it is there in reserve. All right. Well, thank you for sharing those remarks. We um look forward to your work in this and obviously our responsiveness to the legislature
because ultimately we're waiting on the legislature to make a decision about the budget and then we will respond accordingly. Um I believe we all feel confident that we are going to be more conservative than the legislature is so that we will find ourselves in a better position once we receive the budget, not
a worse position. So I for one feel very confident in the work you're doing and the leadership in that department. Um board, I open it up for any other discussion or comments regarding this item. >> Just a brief comment, chair. Um Mr. Rios Welsh and Dr. Brewer, thank you. Um it was my request that that be read into
record and so I appreciate you taking the time. I know we have it all in front of us and it's on board docs for the public to review, but I really wanted it to be shared verbally out loud for the community. So, thank you for taking time to do that. You know, the narrative in the community, um in the newspaper,
online, there's a lot of uncertainty. So, I just I wanted to be able uh for everyone to hear um where we are and where we're headed. So, thank you very much. I appreciate you. >> Thank you, Vice Chair Conrad. Any other remarks? >> All right. Well, we look forward to productive budget season. Hearing no
further discussion. All those in favor say I. >> I. Motion passes 5-0. And finally, D25.1 may have a motion to approve the personnel items for 2026 2027 fiscal year. >> Motion to approve. >> Second. Motion by board member Campbell and a second by board member Conrad.
Reverend Cummings, you pulled this item and would like to have further discussion. >> Um, I recuse myself. >> All right. Is there any other discussion about this item? >> I think you called it 25.1. It's 25.2, correct? >> Am I correct? >> Oh, sorry. I'm just reading from the script. You're correct. It's 25.2. I
apologize. The item is 25.2. Is there any other further discussion about the personnel item? All right. Hearing none. All those in favor say I. >> I. Motion passes four with one recusal. Thank you, board. We will now move into meeting reminders. There is an early
re-entry special board meeting at 7 am followed by an administrative briefing and work session on May 21st at 9:00 a.m. And the next school board meeting is scheduled for May 26th at 5:30 p.m. And so now we're going to move into the persons requesting to address the board not related to the agenda items. I know we have a few speakers this evening,
Miss Martinez Jung and Attorney Powers has already read the rules governing the public um public comment this evening. So, Miss Martinez Jang, can you please call the first speaker, >> Mr. Steven Lilac? >> Good evening, Mr. Lilac. Always a pleasure to see you.
>> So great to see so many familiar faces. Good evening, Dr. Brewer, Dr. James and schoolboard members. My name is Steve Lillac and I'm here representing the Marian County Youth Mental Health Alliance. We are a new nonprofit and our mission is to empower the youth in our community with the education and
resources needed to strengthen their mental health. May has been selected as the month where we bring awareness to mental health, work to reduce stigma, educate the public, and provide support for mental health conditions. This is vital because today's students are
navigating a world that moves faster, expects more, and rarely pauses. Between the constant pull of social media, the pressure to meet rising academic standards, and the weight of expectations, both internal and external, our students are carrying more
than we often see. And while we work tirelessly to prepare them academically, we must be just as intentional in preparing and protecting their mental fitness. This becomes even more important as the following statistics tell a story. One in five youth in US
are experiencing or will experience a mental health condition at some point in their lives. And while great progress has been made, one in three teens still report lacking reliable access to mental health education and resources. But there is some good news as well. For
those youth who do receive mental health education and support, 72% report they have increased communication with their family members and peers. 71% share that they are better able to express their feelings and 67% report an increase in
their social skills. I want to thank the Marian County Public School mental health and wellness department for leading the work with the youth in our district. The work they do on a daily basis ensures our students receive the social emotional education and resources they need. As a community partner, they
welcome our efforts. One example of this is by encouraging studentled groups that promote mental health advocacy and support awareness on our campuses. And we were pleased to see that this was included in the district strategic plan that was presented at the board workshop
last Thursday. In closing, a student who is mentally well is not only more prepared to learn, they are more prepared to lead, to persevere, and to thrive. So, let's continue to create environments where students feel seen, supported, and
strengthened, not just for the demands of today, but for the realities of tomorrow. Thank you. >> Thank you very much, Mr. Lilac. Miss Martinez Jang, who's our second speaker, >> Mr. Todd Panzer, Good evening, Mr. Panzer. >> Good evening. How are you? Uh, good
evening, school board chair, Dr. James, Superintendent Dr. Brewer, and Maring County's public school representatives. My name is Todd Panzer, Panzer. I am the governor appointed board chair of the Early Learning Coalition of Maring County. I'm here tonight to further the board's awareness about
ELCMC and specifically the VPK program. I'm using the word we in a very familiar form uh because I am standing here as a representative of ELC ELCMC. Um but the work and the accomplishments are actually attributed to the team
which includes the CEO Latricia Sims um the CPO Elizabeth Yola, the executive team, the managers and the employees of ELCMC. ELCMC is a statemandated nonprofit organization. Some of the services that we provide include school readiness, SR,
VPK, voluntary pre kindergarten, childcare resources and referral services, developmental screenings, and also provider training and support. ELCMC meets and exceeds all of the state mandates for our SR and VPK programs.
So, not only are we not are we doing a thorough enough job, we are excelling at providing our high quality SR and VPK access for our early learners of our community. We're not only an advocate, we are a good partner with the Maring County Public School System and the
community by linking VPK eligible children with both public and private VPK providers. There were 94 VPK sites this past fall. There are only four this summer. We continue to do everything within our
ability to ensure that the parents are aware of their VPK opportunities. We have reached out specifically to unused certificate holders five times so far as we continue to reach out multiple times weekly with attempts scheduled all the way throughout the month of June. There
are a plethora of reasons why certificates go unused. I do not presume to know them all, but I do know that we make it abundantly clear that we want our parents to enroll their children in VPK. We cannot force the use of enrollments. All we can do is provide guidance and reminders. To be
intellectually honest, I do not believe frustration lies with ELCMC nor Marian County Public School System. We have held no less than 24 community events that had VPK as a focus to make the community aware of VPK as well as the
other services that we provide. We have also been working with the division of early learning de and our regional ELC counselor regarding the family educational rights and privacy act furpa data sharing partnership agreement DSPA memorandum of
understandings and how they apply within the Florida statute 10002 point and all that it includes which sets the framework with how we are legally bound regarding data sharing. The consensus at this moment is
that we need to update theou with Marian County Public Schools to delineate and define protocols, safeguards, confidentiality, compliance, storage, etc. >> Your time is expired. >> Just wrap up your last paragraph, Mr. Panza. >> Thank you. Uh, and how it's shared.
Specifically, I'm discussing the VPK certificate holders so that there could be a partnership between all of us and the community to facilitate greater attendance of VPK. As soon as we receive more specific language regarding that guidance, a meeting will be set and requested, excuse me, with Dr. Brewer,
the superintendent and Mrs. Beck, the director of early learning for Maring County Public Schools to work on implementation of a revised and then we can discuss further outreach opportunities as well. I close my comments to say that ELCMC highly values
our symbiotic and same goal focused relationship with Marian County Public Schools early education for the success of our children and ultimately our community as a whole. I look forward to further discussion, problem solving and strengthening of our relationship regarding our early education for our
children. Thank you. Thank you for the extra time. >> Thank you, Mr. Panzer. And we had one more speaker this evening, Mr. Daniel Wilson. Good evening board members. My name is Daniel Wilson. U W I L S O N. I just uh
come tonight to see if y'all was aware of a company coming >> I'm sorry. Just will you lean them forward a little bit just so we can hear you? Thank you. >> Sorry. Um, I was uh just come I just come to see if y'all was aware of a company out of Gainesville that's come down to um Ocal and they want a special
use permit to put a food depacking company north of town next to Fezden Elementary. They're 450 ft away from them. I don't know if anybody's rung that y'all's attention. >> Our attorney has. >> Okay, good. All right. Well, I just um
you know the I'm just here speaking for the faculty and the students. I'm a neighbor and I know they sometimes can't get involved, but I just want to make sure that express our concern for the kids' wellbeing. >> Absolutely. Feel free to take all your time. I just want >> I know, but I'm not good at speaking.
So, I just wanted to show up and make sure it's been brought to y'all's attention. Yeah. If you ever driven by or lived by or you know by a landfield that that smell and them buzzards is not there because the furniture and stuff
like they're there because of the food. And in our meeting that we had with the uh advisory committee, the folks couldn't guarantee there wouldn't be any smell and they couldn't guarantee there wouldn't be any um increased rodent activity. So, I just wanted to make sure
y'all was aware of that because y'all can y'all could stop that because the kids is what counts. So, thank y'all. Appreciate your time. >> Thank you very much. We appreciate you coming forward. And just for the community's um awareness, attorney P did send us an email on this item um in the
last day or two um regarding this particular item and how it could impact Marian County Public Schools. So, we're all over it. All right. Does that conclude our public comment? >> Thank you. All right. Um well then we will move into board committee um comments and concerns. Miss Martinez
Young. >> Nothing, Madam Chair. Thank you. >> All right. Attorney Powers. >> I do not have anything additional. Thank you. >> All right. Uh Shrea. >> Oh, wait. >> Here. Here it goes. >> Um good evening. Um this is going to be
my last meeting. So, I just wanted to say I'm really grateful for this opportunity that I've been given to be up here. Um, I just want to say thank you to Mr. Martin on and all of the Denellan staff that um chose me and thought I was a really good representative of Dellan High School and
my community, my small town. Um, I'm really grateful for this opportunity to be up here to speak on all my students. So, graduation season is coming up. Um, yesterday
or about a week ago, I had my last band concert. Um, yesterday, uh, we don't really do anything after, but as I'm not doing anything in that class, >> still showing up. Um, I was able to hear
the rest of my band, band members, my band personally. uh play pomp and circumstance which is the graduation music as all the graduates walk down >> practicing for graduation still. >> Yes.
>> It was really really sad for me to hear my band play pomp and circumstance without me. Really weird feeling. uh for the last three years I was able to play pomp and circumstance for my other seniors and I am now the senior that has
to listen to my band play. Um for me band has been a really moving part of my life. I just wanted to say that as a senior
um when you're finding something that moves you and you're passionate about keep pursuing it even after high school. I know that I am when I'm going to UCF to be a marching knight. As I'm moving to Orlando and moving out of my small town, I will I won't ever
forget Denelon and the great achievements it's come to. how much my band has grown from the time it started. Um, moving on kind of uh, more graduate
senior stuff. I just wanted to say that I couldn't have done this on my own and that I really wanted to credit my mom. Um, yeah, I wouldn't be anywhere without her right now. She
has helped me come a really really long way. She isn't from the states, so she risked her life way back when. Uh moved here and came here to have a better life for me or to help me out and my younger
brother. So, I'd really like to credit her and all of her challenges to make my life better. She's not here, but if she was, I know she'd be crying. >> Um, yeah. So, just that and then like
all the other parents of other seniors or other kids like we really appreciate support from parents all the time. I know for many athletes or band members obviously anywhere in that time frame parents are always going to show up and
support and we just want to say that we really appreciate you and that's just about it for what I have. >> Well, that was pretty beautiful. So, um I appreciate your testimony and and just sharing how much um I think we sometimes
in the public for sure we don't necessarily acknowledge and credit the things that are not quote unquote academic that are the reasons and sometimes the only reason students are showing up to school every day. And so we've continued to prioritize that as a
board and make sure that some of those things that are the only reason a kid is showing up like band or diesel mechanic or any of those special programs that that is on the hardest day the one thing you're looking forward to and is there for you. And so we're grateful for you
sharing that testimony. And this is exactly why we have student board members, right, Dr. Campbell? Because sharing your perspective gives us frame and allows us to continue to stay rooted in what's most important. So, >> oh, >> you're more than welcome. >> Oh, I didn't say this, but obviously I
want to talk more about band because I'm like the biggest band geek ever. But my favorite event for the last four years is going to be OMF. If you don't know what that stands for, it's Ocala Marching Band Festival, which is a Marian County um come together of all
the schools and we all perform our marching band shows. And I just want to say that's been my favorite event to see all the other Marian County schools. Usually we don't see together like all the time, but when we do, it's so special. We all come together, we take pictures, we all celebrate each other,
and it's amazing. >> We love it. All right. Well, thank you for your comments and I we probably will not see you again until graduation. >> We'll see you on May 26th. >> Oh, yes. On our last board meeting, we're recognizing all of you. So, we'll see you then and then we will see you at graduation after that. Wonderful. All
right. Uh, board member Thrower. Oh, Dr. Brewer, I'm sorry. >> Yes. I um and this is it's just really neat. Um, I want to recognize her comments because we also have Helen Hollandbeck in the audience with us this evening and I'm so glad she could hear
the how special Denellan is because she spent how many years over 30 years in the Denellan schools and she was here tonight recognizing her daughter Christy Dunning who was recognized for 30 years in Marian County Public Schools. So, the Danellen area was well represented
tonight. So, great job with your comments. Um, I'll share a few comments. We are very excited about the school reports, the data that we are seeing that students are still testing, but we are um seeing some positives with our English language arts and our
mathematics. Students are still testing math and science and of course all of our end of course exams um such as the algebra and geometry, biology, US history. In addition to that, we also have some of our high school students testing their global exams such as our
IB, AP, ACE exams. So, we have quite a bit of knowledge still being tested. So, we're excited to see all of the students um all all of their performance on the test. I need to confirm something for you board. Um, just so I can put into
the record, we um, a few months ago we had I asked for confirmation on the value adjustment board. I just wanted to confirm that board member vice chair Conrad was selected to represent Marian County School Board. >> Yes, ma'am.
>> And um, Dr. Gwendelyn Dawson was also named for Marian County Public Schools representation. >> Correct. Do we all agree on that? >> All right. So, we will send the updated letter to the county commissioners with tonight's board meeting date and the time to reflect that. So, thank you for
confirmation on that um item. I also just have two items to um let you know about. I shared in the weekly memo, but I want to say out loud if you are in the Disney Springs area this weekend, the Shady Hill Harmony um students will
perform at Disney Springs. It is free to the public and they will be live at 10:30 a.m. Yes. And also that same night our messes, our exciting messes will take place and that event is sponsored. Coach Edwin Hall takes the lead on that.
It's not a Marian County public school event, but our students participate. So, we are grateful for the his leadership with the MSPs and the event this year will take place at Forest High School at 6 PM. So please we welcome you all um
and if you cannot be there follow his social media accounts because there will be lots of pictures that will be shared. So those are my comments this evening chair. >> Thank you Dr. Burb now board member Thrower. >> Thank you. Um gosh, Sherea, we we are
really going to miss you and you were one of the more quiet ones in the beginning, but it's interesting, you know, um we get the chance to witness in real time our our school board member
representatives. um and you've had that chance to really experience and see, you know, the the business of of the school district. And so it meant a lot, you know, your your quiet, dynamic presence
just has really shown. So, thank you again for for joining us and looking forward to honoring all of you on the 26th. Is it? Yes. And then of course with graduation soon afterwards. Um yes, there's a whole lot of testing going on.
Um I had the pleasure of being at Vanguard um for their sack meeting and um Principal Wade shared that the you know data is looking really good and something that I know is going to mean a
lot to all of us just because of my continued gratitude for our focus on attendance for the reason of accessing high quality instruction. you know, you you can't teach an empty seat, no matter
how great of a teacher you are. So Vanguard has really proven with their freshman success academy and I hope that other high schools I know they're all doing different things to help welcome the freshman class but it appears that
Vanguard is really on to something because not only is their academic data looking good um but also last year 46% of their ninth grade class had chronic
were or considered chronically absent. 46%. That's mindboggling to me, you know. Well, this year it is down to 19%. >> So, I think that deserves a round of applause truly. >> So, they have been working uh very hard
and and the kids are succeeding. discipline referrals are down and and I know we've talked so much about if we can just get them to school uh then we can start helping them make great things happen. And so I'm I'm pretty excited for the end of this school year and and
to hear the testing data that comes back and and compare it to attendance data and and truly be able to prove that correlation. Um also very much looking forward to Oakrest Elementary School. They are
having their uh community partnership uh with the Black Stallion Reading Project this Friday at 9:00 am and their farm partner is actually the city of Ocala's Mon police unit. So that's pretty neat.
I think about the kids that'll be, you know, coming into Ocala to, you know, hang out at the splash pad or the farmers market or the light up ocala or the Christmas parade or just down there Marian theater doing whatever and they'll be able to say, you know, I know that horse, you know, I know the, you
know, the the cop that's riding them. I just think that that'll be such a nice community connection. And um hearing from LA Truman from the Black Stelling Reading Project, she wanted to share that uh some from the mounted units are volunteers and a few are paid officers.
Uh we envision the mounted officers and their horses will visit the school a few times um during the school year. It's a community collaboration. Also, we will be deputizing the fourth graders to read. So that's just the kind of stuff that
makes my heart sing as as a school board member when we see the involvement, you know, like the deep and a authentic involvement of of what people really enjoy doing it and sharing that with the kids and in so many different ways and hopefully giving them exposure into activities that, you know, maybe they
never even thought of or maybe even thought that it would never be for them. So pretty cool stuff. And I will end by saying thank God for today's rain. Um, anyone that is a farmer or even has a garden, uh, couldn't have been happier to see it coming down this afternoon.
So, and I know our water table and our springs are grateful. So, with that, I will conclude my comments. Thank you. >> Thank you, board member Thrower. Um, Reverend Cummings, >> um, my comments will be very, very brief. We're we're in the we're in the
the last quarter, uh, last few days. I just want to encourage our students to to make sure that they finish very very strong. We've heard some encouraging things from our superintendent concerning uh uh testing.
Um parents, I encourage you to make sure these kids are uh there on time and and great breakfast and great night sleep. All those things make a difference in um kids being successful. um to our student
board member. I want to say uh she didn't talk much. She saved it to the end. Uh she saved it all to the end. So, uh great job. Uh you got your voice tonight. You got your voice tonight. So, congratulations to
you and all your accomplishments and the things that you're going to do. And we we we look forward to celebrating uh our graduations with all of with you, all of your classmates, this class of 2026. So, um just looking forward to the next few weeks. It's an exciting time. It's a
busy time. Um you'll see us all over the place. Um and you'll see now you you won't see us in some places because we we haven't we haven't perfected cloning yet. So, but uh just know that we we definitely are proud of the things that are happening for um these students.
>> Thank you, Reverend Cummings. Dr. Campbell, >> thank you. Just a couple of comments. Shrea, you almost had me in tears over here thinking about my own graduate uh upcoming. I I don't want to think about that yet. Uh but as a member of the Florida School Music Association board, I'm grateful for how much band has
impacted your life and the lives of your fellow band members. And I love that the opportunities that our students sometimes have, like you said, about the festival where you all get together and you can hear from each other and learn from each other and take pictures with each other and all the fun things that
happen. We think of that only as like Christmas parade season, but you don't even get to talk to each other much then because everything is so separated out, but uh just really grateful that the experience that you've had and and sharing that. I think that's powerful and impactful. And uh all of our arts
are funded through the referendum. So, thank you community for renewing that referendum over the last several years because we have all of our art, music, PE um educators that are funded out of that referendum. So, we're we're
grateful for that supplemental education and we don't believe it as a supplement even though we have to pay for it like it's a supplement. Uh but I also wanted to uh acknowledge Mr. Lilac for being here. I I love the idea of the Youth Mental Health Alliance. Our student
board representatives often speak about mental health challenges and I can see potentially our student board representatives being a part of uh that and maybe like that partnership occurring just immediately as soon as they're named. It might be a good relationship um that we could we could
build there. Uh, also yesterday, schoolboard members had the opportunity to join with other senior elected officials and and county and city managers and agency administrators at the emergency operations center where we had some state officials come in and do a training for us that is now required
by state law for us to receive a training talking about emergency management. Don't want to think about emergencies that we sometimes have in this community. We're often only in the EOC during hurricane season. Uh but it was good to be there on a nonhurricane
day to have the opportunity to learn from our fellow um learn from the state officials who were there to be with us and learn the differences in and how we might do things in comparison to what other uh districts are doing and and
other communities. I did want to touch on uh just two other quick things. When I grateful again for the early learning coalition folks for being here this night this evening and I understand that we have been pretty vocal of late about
VPK and our focus on early learning and what we can say and we shared today. Dr. Brewer spoke at Governor's West this morning did a wonderful job by the way. Thank you for for sharing. I participate in those Governor's West meetings every
month, but it was great. We had a we had great attendance. We had about 30 or 35 people on that Zoom call and that's way heavily attended for for that one of those meetings. Uh but in in that we were able to talk about the anecdotal data that we collected at the beginning of the last year or beginning of this
school year in August talking about the kindergarteners when they came into our schools. How many of them did not know their first and last names? How many of them were not potty trained? How many of them did not know how to follow two-step directions? How many of them didn't even
know what school was or a teacher or any and and we're talking large percentages of our 3,000 kindergarteners? About 30 to 40% uh had struggles with a lot of those questions uh for the first week or so. And so that's a real good gauge of
how our community is sending students ready for kindergarten. Now whether we're saying that's because we don't have enough VPK sites or because families are choosing not to use their VPK certificates or whatever that looks like, I'm here for the conversation. And
so I'm I'm glad that the Early Learning Coalition was here to state their case. Unfortunately, they're not here now to hear the response I'm willing to give publicly. Uh but we're here for the conversation. And so I know this board is focused on ensuring we can do
anything we can to make sure the community is aware of products that are coming to Marian County Public Schools. And I know that sounds really callous to call a four or 5year-old a product, but we are able to do amazing things with
students when they reach us. But if they were even more prepared when they enter our doors, how much more could they grow? So that's where I wanted to leave that conversation. And the last thing that I wanted to ask is in reference to
the uh question the gentleman brought forth about the plant potentially filing for a permit by Fezendon. Attorney Powers, is there anything that we as a board should take action on to send a letter? something that we should reach
consensus about this evening. That is a strongly worded letter uh in support of a denial for that type of permit. And that was just the only other question I had. Chair, >> fortunately for the the the work of the attorney's office largely happens when
matters like that on automatic with the exemp with the exception of actually filing suit. So um by Friday I will be having uh a letter already prepared for the to the other attorney for them outlining our objections and uh that
will then become part of the record for the special use permit. So um I of course am I've got basic information. Um, I am going to be researching that further and outlining what our objections would be and uh those are not
items that I need a board meeting or board consensus to develop. That's work that I do every day. So, >> okay. But I I I presume based on the fact that uh it will have an impact and the impact is an unknown impact um that
they're uh given that this special use permit is time-sensitive um I'm going to start off with noting the objections and then the responses can begin from there. So as those are attorney to attorney conversations, if
there are recommended guidance, guidances that you would give elected official to elected official conversations, I think I welcome that for sure. We can pick up the phone and call our counterparts who might be approving such permit. And so uh
>> do we have the date that it's on their agenda? If yes, >> thank you. And um I don't even know if you've had a chance to see this, Attorney Powers, that I had emailed an update like minutes before this meeting. Um and it sounds like there's going to
be a meeting June 2nd at at 10:00 a.m. about the about the permit. >> All right. Um June 2nd at 10:00 a.m. Okay. That is a Tuesday. >> From a very interested and passionate citizen, so I'm hopeful that that date and time are, you know, accurate.
Um, and so attorney powers, if we could just confirm that date and time and then potentially um I would love if if I know I'm not available, but if one of us could have representation at that meeting to represent the board potentially so we can talk about that um at a later time, but just um board member Thor, help us circle back to that
maybe in our work session next Thursday um so we can make sure we stay on top of it. >> Sure. And I'll I'll also mention one last thing unrelated to that. Oh, sorry. Go ahead. um and board in the past when these situations arose and we just had the same situations in Dunellum um the board
did send a letter over to the city council in opposition to uh and the county commission in opposition to that special use permit. So, um I think it's in in good timing and good um business
that we do as a board basically state how we feel about the situation and our opposition to it or for however you feel but u personally I'm against. >> So, and I think just for clarification purposes >> um but what we sent regarding Denellan
was a little bit more formal than what you're speaking about attorney powers. >> That's correct. What as of right now, I've been uh in communication with the attorney for um for the other side on this and special use permit and they've indicated that they would like to have
some basis of whatever objections we have by Friday so that they can begin to plan and prepare. That will then formulate our next steps from there. if need be for us to get it onto an agenda. I'll be emailing the board everything that I learn and find out in the
meantime. So, we do have until June 2nd before it comes before the county commission, but there may not be a need for us to draft a resolution or there may be a need for us to draft a resolution. The bottom line is that we can still state our objection and I can
in fact appear on behalf of the um Marian County School Board in order to note those objections as well if needed. >> I'm just thinking um would it board would you feel comfortable with adding a quick agenda item to the work session next Thursday? We haven't published that agenda yet. So we can have a placeholder to just have a brief discussion about
this item publicly and attorney powers can provide us an update and if we want to go ahead and state a formal stance on it and draft a letter in opposition, we can do it. All right. Okay. So, Miss Martinez Young, if you'll Dr. Brewer, if you'll make sure that item gets added, that would be great. Thank you. Anything else, Dr. Gamble?
>> The only thing I just wanted to mention, you all may have received the legislative update today from the Florida Schoolboards Association, but the special session is underway and the prek12 education joint budget conference met today at 3:00. The House has sent
over an offer and let the negotiations begin. >> Wonderful. May the odds be ever in our favor. May the odds ever be in our favor. >> All right. Anything else? Dr. Campbell that. >> Okay. >> My comments. >> Board member Conrad. >> Okay. Thank you. Good evening, everyone.
Um I just want to start with a quick uh thank you, Miss Morant. I love the way that we started our meeting this morning with um recognizing our interns uh and then also recognizing our staff members that have been with us for the long hall. And so what a great pairing um
that was this evening. So, thank you for your thoughtfulness um in preparing that. It was really a special way to start the evening. Um I wanted to also share that I'm really um excited about the Apatagy. Did
I say that correctly? >> A Say it again. >> Aptagy. >> Aptagy. Aptagy. Um I'm really excited about the that we've passed that contract. um looking forward to um a unified way particularly of communicating with our parents and
families. Um so just really excited about that. I'm excited that Kevin you were able to share that with us. Um and I loved the part of that presentation too of all the research you know all of the counties and districts that you checked in with um that they are already experiencing success success with that.
So very hopeful um about that board. I also just wanted to make a brief uh comment uh about graduation online today. There was quite a bit of chatter um about the the cost of graduation and some purchase of
graduation tickets. Um and so I just I just wanted to provide a little bit of clarification um for the community to think about how much Marian County has grown since we were all young people. those of us that went to school here and we were raised here and we went to
graduation probably in our in our high school um field. And so that has changed dramatically. Um our schools are are packed full. The numbers are double or triple or what they were um when I went to school right here at Forest High
School. Um so we have we have added costs than what graduation used to be and that entails renting a facility. It also requires SRO's to be at every graduation. And I believe last year we had 16 SRO's at every graduation. And
so, um, while I understand, um, that may be an added burden, you know, at the end of this, um, school year, I'd ask that you just, uh, be thoughtful, um, in your conversation, um, as
times have changed, just like going to the grocery store or getting gas, anything else you're doing, the the the cost has increased uh, tremendously. So, um, I just wanted to, um, share that, uh, really with the community because you all are all, everyone that's here is
already aware of that. So, um, and I too, I'll just close with this, am so grateful for the rain today, this thrower. Um, you know, I was looking at some data the other day. It's been, uh, the biggest draw we've had since the
year 2000. So, it's really been so dry. Just thankful our football fields and everything is getting getting some rain. So, I just wanted to end on a positive. So, I'll I'll stop right there, but thank you, Chair. >> Thank you, board member Conrad. All right. And I will wrap us up. Um I will
start by um piggybacking off of Reverend Cummings comments. And so, and in this season of May, there is something every single day, multiple times a day. And so, um I feel confident that sometimes you will see all five of us and sometimes you may see one of us. And we
are dividing and conquering, trying to make sure that we are present for everything, but we can all not be everywhere at every moment. And so, please know that um if we could, we would, but we are trying our best to divide and conquer. We have shared a calendars now for all of the events so
we can try to make sure that at least one of us is somewhere. And some of us have major events happening for our own students. You know, Dr. Campbell has a graduate this season, too. And so, our families take priority as well. So I just wanted to make sure everyone knows that we are trying our best to be present um as many places as we can be.
I wanted to recognize um Sherea what a great way to end your comments and I I wanted to give recognition to in our work session last last our last work session um student board member Luke was here to actually speak um and give presentation to the board right for the
strategic plan. And so, um, I'm just so incredibly grateful for this opportunity that's been given to our students to to be on the board, provide representation, and now speak to the board from from the podium on items that are impacting the entire work of the district for the next
five years. And shout out to Luke. I was at the Mother's Day 5K this um, past Saturday, and he is a fast little guy. Um, he ran a 5K in 15 minutes and 46 seconds, which was a personal PR of his
by I think he said 18 seconds. So, he broke under 16. But, um, that is like incredibly fast. We passed mile one. My my husband and I ran it with our daughter and we passed mile one at about the 10-minute mark and I said to my husband, "Luke's probably done with two
miles." And he sure was because he was running a five minute mile. So our students are doing amazing things not only in the classroom but in and out of the classroom in the band room on the track field and so just what a great testimony that these students who are
coming before us are also working in all facets and then going on to do a tremendous things in our community. So I wanted to give him a recognition. Uh I had a great visit to North Maran High School today. Mr. Johnson and I were able to talk about a lot of things, but I I know that there's a lot of chatter
about graduation and so I I too what I would love to get to graduation is always a hot topic, right? Um and I am super hopeful that we're going to have just a beautiful tranquil graduation at the livestock pavilion. Um but if it if it is not tranquil, I certainly will hope we will transition to our high
school football field because that would be a way less expensive opportunity. Um and so we'll see how that goes. But what I would love to see is um some level of of common practices among the schools because
there is different expectations at different schools and wherever you live um things look a little different and there are different amounts of students and and different costs and all of the things. But um I can't say that I don't disagree that if my kid gets to graduation I should get two two tickets
for free maybe you know two tickets on the house. Um and so I know that $2 or $1 doesn't seem like a lot and it's not a lot but um I also think that not having a cost burden for a parent to attend graduation is something to consider. So, um, I know it's not
necessarily in our purview, but I would welcome a conversation about it and an opportunity to reflect once we get through all of our graduations and see how they all go, which I'm praying they go tremendously well. Uh, finally, I will um just touch on the ELC and their ability to come forward today and share
some testimony about what they're doing for voluntary pre kindergarten specifically because that is what impacts us the most. What I will say is this. As a teacher in the classroom, if I taught a lesson and then I did a informal or formal assessment and all of my students did not perform well or most
of them did not perform well, that would be a reflection of my teaching, not a reflection of my students ability to learn because that would mean I didn't deliver the information correctly. And so as we are continuing to expand our efforts to reach our community, if we are doing a tremendous effort and we are
still struggling to reach our community wherever they are, that would mean that we have to continue to fine-tune the way we're delivering it and reaching our families, which some of them are in such far places in our community. And so I want to continue, just like Dr. Dr. Campbell said to be a partner with the
coalition and meet our families where they are and deliver voluntary pre kindergarten access to them where they are as best as we can because what we know is a student who attends voluntary pre kindergarten is uh going to do a better job in kindergarten. They are not only more prepared for the kindergarten
experience but they are academically performing better on PM 1, two, and three because they are prepared to learn when they come into the schoolhouse. So, I look forward to continuing to foster a productive relationship where we can make sure that we're reaching families where they are. With that, I will
conclude my comments. Um, Miss Martina Young, do we have any speakers that wanted to um address off air for student disciplinary matters? >> No, Madam Chair. >> All right. Well, then there being no further business, may I have a motion to adjurnn? >> To adjourn. >> A motion by board member Campbell. >> Second by board member Thrower. All
those in favor say I. I. >> I. Motion passes 5-0. This meeting is adjourned at 7:20 p.m.