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 either 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. Lorie Conrad, District 2, >> here. >> Mr. Eric Cummings, District Three, >> here. >> Mrs. Nancy Thrower, District 4, >> here. >> Dr. Sarah James, District 5, >> here. Julia Slaughter, Vanguard High School, >> here.
>> Luke Lombardo, Westport High School, >> here. >> Attorney Jeremy Powers, school board attorney, >> here. >> Dr. Danielle Brewer, superintendent, >> here. >> All right. And I'll hand it over to Dr. Brewer, who's going to share our inspiration and lead the pledge of allegiance with us this evening, please. >> Thank you. Good evening. I would like to
introduce you all to Dr. Mike Nishkin and Mrs. Lisa Stringfellow. They're both retiring Marian County Public School psychologists. It looks like Iet Del Nodal is actually going to do the introduction um for us. Thank you. >> I'm going to do a little bit of an
introduction. Good evening. It is with a great honor that I'm here tonight introducing two outstanding school psychologists who combined have nearly 80 years of service to Marian County students and families. Dr. Mishkin, often referred to as Dr. Mike uh retired
in 2013 with over 30 years of service and then he returned a year later because he just wasn't done serving our students. In addition to supporting schools and NCPS students, Dr. Mike was well known as a practicum and internship supervisor. For a long time, he was a
sole internship supervisor for psychological services, supervising many who then stayed as long-term staff members, including myself. I once boasted that I was his last and best of course intern, but that was short-lived. After returning to work, he requested to
continue in this role, showing his love for the profession and his dedication to supporting budding psychologists whenever possible. He inspired additional psychologists, again including myself, to take on this role as well, significantly expanding and improving our program. Mr. Fellow has
served MCPS since 1991. Highly regarded by her colleagues, schools, and the families she has worked with. Mr. Ringfellow was one of the founding members of our prek evaluation team, which was one of a kind at that time. She has remained a constant on
that team throughout her career, making her our in-house prek expert, supporting other staff as that team also expanded to serve our growing needs. Despite having a background in prek, Mr. Ringfellow served as a mentor for me as well. When joining that team early on in
my career, I was fortunate enough to have shared office space with both Dr. Mike and Mr. Ringfellow from my internship through several early years. And I can attest that they have s have had a significant part in my survival and growth as a school psychologist. So
you can see just how impactful these two practitioners have been in my own career and time here in MCPS. And it would take all night to provide additional examples of their impact, accomplishments, and contributions to MCPS. We are so incredibly grateful for
their time and dedication to our department and to the students and families of Marian County. Their void will be difficult to fill, but their legacy continues to inspire many to try. So in the interest of time and with no further ado, I would like to present Dr.
Michael Mishkin and Miss Lisa Stringfellow to provide our pledge this evening. >> Would you like us to stand? Yes, please. One, two, three. >> 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. >> You may be seated. >> Thank you both for being here tonight.
Um, thank you for such a wonderful testimony from Miss Donad Doll and we'll come down later to take a picture with you both, but your commitment to Maring County Public Schools is something to be uh inspired by for sure. Thank you very much. Dr. Brewer, I believe we have some recognitions this evening as well.
>> Yes, thank you, chair. We have four large groups, so we're going to start with um Miss Brook Huau. She's the coordinator of K12 fine arts. She will provide the recognitions for our first group. Good evening, Miss Ho.
>> Good evening, Madame Chair, board members, and Superintendent Dr. Brewer. It is my privilege to welcome tonight Marian County Commissioner Carl Zalik to tonight's meeting. Commissioner Zak has been a strong supporter of our community and our students, and we are honored to
have him here this evening to recognize the winners of the America 250 Marian County Art Contest. Please join me in welcoming Commissioner Zallik as he presents the awards to these talented student artists whose work celebrates the beauty of Marian County and the history of America.
>> Distinguished board members, great to see you guys today. Uh thank you so much for your partnership in America 250 and a special thanks to member Conrad. You you've absolutely been fantastic and thank you for serving on the America 250 board. superintendent, you, your team,
your staff has absolutely been incredible. So, it's a pleasure tonight to recognize the winners of the Liberty Lives Here Art Contest, and I have so enjoyed seeing the works of art at Marian County Day uh and appreciate the school board's district uh your involvement in America 250. Communities
across the nation are celebrating America 250. Uh and as the nation celebrates the anniversary and milestone, it gives us the opportunity to reflect on our history, our freedoms, and the values that make us so special here in Marian County. We want the next
generation of community leaders to be a part of that story. And tonight's contest, and the contest is a wonderable, wonderful example of just that. Throughout their artwork, our students captured not only the spirit of the community, but also the meaning of liberty, something generations of
Americans have fought hard to protect. I want to sincerely thank every student who participated in the contest. It takes courage and creativity to share your work. Uh, and each of you should be proud of what you created. I also want to thank the teachers, the schools, and the families that encourage their
participation uh, and their students along the way. Your guidance and encouragement uh for the next generation is also inspiring. We would especially be proud to recognize the students of Maplewood Elementary, Howard Middle School, and Westport High School tonight. Speaking of Westport High
School, it was I also want to recognize the incredible Westport Drum Line and Vanguard JOTC for their amazing job in helping us celebrate Marian County Day and America 250. We're really proud of you. They represented their school and their community extremely well, and we
truly appreciate their hard work and dedication. As we celebrate these young artists tonight, I hope that we remember something important that liberty is never something we should take for granted. The freedoms we enjoy today came from sacrifice, service, and determination of those who came before
us. And it is so important for us to continue teaching future generations to cherish those freedoms, protect them, and carry those values forward. Tonight we celebrate the talent, creativity, and community pride and the bright future ahead of Marian County because of our students. Congratulations again to all
the participants. Thank you members for continuing to support America 250 and we are so excited to celebrate the four shows across Marian County on July 4th with y'all. Thank you again. >> Thank you very much, Commissioner. At this time, we would like to bring up
our three student artists who have won the contest for each individual level. We will start with the elementary level. Please welcome Luca Clark from Maplewood Elementary. >> Right. I love it. >> All right. Luca has also brought we have
uh copies of our artwork, the original artwork so that you guys can see them if you weren't able to see them on display at Marion 250. >> Look at that. All right, Luka, we're gonna have you stay standing up here. From Howard Middle School, we have Alina Decker.
And from Westport High School, we have Diego Vega Mora. >> Look at that. Any America? Yeah, >> I'm going to make one notice that Diego is only in 10th grade, >> so we can't wait to see what other art
comes out of him over the next couple years. All right, congratulations to all of our student artists. What a wonderful job. We are so grateful that commission was willing to come and support this endeavor and um financially
incentivize our young artists and all of their amazing work. So, thank you so much for being here. And we were going to come down in just a little bit and we'll take a picture at least with the artist, but please feel free to stay if you'd like. We'll be down in just a few minutes. Thank you all. Okay, at this time we have I'd like to
introduce you all to our executive director of our K12, Melissa Connor. She will provide a special recognition um for our student board representatives this evening. >> Yeah, that's a tough act to follow because I have no checks to give. So, I should have made myself go before them.
But nevertheless, uh at this time, I do want to recognize our student board representatives for their service during this school year. These students have served in an important role representing their schools and their peers while sitting alongside our board for Marian County
Public Schools. Throughout the year, they've provided valuable student voice, insight, and perspective that's helped inform the work of our district. Serving in this capacity requires commitment, professionalism, willingness to lead, especially while balancing the many
demands of their senior year. It's like they're busy or something. It was weird. As graduating seniors, this will be their final board meeting in this role. We're grateful for their leadership that they've demonstrated and their contributions they made to both their schools and our districts. So, at this
time, um I'm going to do them one at a time. And guys, sorry. I have a certificate. I have a pen for you to wear at graduation. Ariana had hers early. And then I also have your name plates. Kind of like a thousand dollar check, just different. Okay, Luke and Julia, you guys want to join me down
here? in no particular order, but I first up I have Isaac Smith. Isaac is our senior from North Marian High School and he just told me tonight that he is going to Geneva College in Pennsylvania to play
football and major in criminal justice. So congratulations Isaac. Okay. All right. Next up we have Ariana Reyes. Ariana Reyes is from Belleview High School and Ariana shared that she is
attending UNF, the University of North Florida while studying physical therapy. >> Nope, I already got you. Here you go. >> Thank you. Okay, next up we have Mr. Luke Lombardo.
Luke Lombardo is our representative from Westport High School and I think that Dr. Brewer let it slip earlier, but Luke is attending Ferman University studying neuroscience. >> Wow. >> And Mr. Rimbert is very excited about
that, too. That there's that. And oh, you can take your name plate after tonight's meeting. All right. Julia Slaughter. Julia Slaughter is our representative from
Vanguard High School and Julia is studying biomed engineering at the University of Florida. All right, we also have Shria Shria Hussein Donn from Denellan High School.
Come on up. Shria is going to my fave, UCF, the University of Central Florida, and she is studying political science. H, this may have helped a little. There you go.
>> Yes. And also, we have two who couldn't join us tonight. Marasha graduated from Lakewear Friday night, so she may have said, "Peace out." But Marasha Lefontan um from Lakewear High School. She's undecided, but she's got a couple options open. So, as soon as I know that, I'll be able to share it with you.
And then Colin Briggs from Forest High School, who we learned earlier in the month, is attending the Naval Academy. So, those are our student board representatives for 2025 2026. >> Thank you, Miss Connor. And stay close. Board members, we're going to come down
and take a picture in a few minutes, but it is an honor to serve with you each and every day. We are grateful um for Dr. Campbell having this idea a few years ago. It's really brought so much inspiration and awareness to the board and our conversations and we we wouldn't want any other way. So, thank you all for being here.
>> Thank you. Another round of applause. >> Okay. Now, I'd like to introduce you all to Jennifer Thomas. She's the coordinator over school choice and she will introduce to you our merit school awards. Good evening, Miss Thomas.
>> Good evening. Thank you, Dr. Brewer. Good evening, Chair James and school board members. As the coordinator of school choice, it is truly an honor to serve and support the outstanding magnet programs across our district. Tonight, several representatives from these
programs are here to be recognized for accompl accomplishments bestowed upon them by the organization Magnet Schools of America. Earlier this year, Magnet Schools of America announced its annual merit award recipients. This organization provides
guiding principles and a national framework of best practices for magnet programs across the country. Its five pillars of excellence serve as the gold standard for highquality magnet education. Our schools share a commitment to innovation, academic
excellence, and student opportunity while remaining steadfast in their dedication to these nationally recognized standards. Each year, magnet schools across the nation have the opportunity to apply for merit award recognition. The application
process is both rigorous and reflective, requiring schools to conduct an indepth review of their program implementation and demonstrate evidence of excellence in academic achievement, curriculum innovation, diversity, specialized
instruction, and community engagement. Historically, Marian County has had several schools willing to take on this challenging and timeintensive process. However, this year was truly a banner year for our district as Marian County
Public Schools earned the highest number of recognitions in our history. Eight schools received one of these coveted national designations. Award recipients were formally recognized and presented with their awards at last month's magnet schools of
America conference. The awards are categorized into three levels of merit. Merit Award of Distinction, Merit Award of Excellence, and Top Magnet School of Excellence. The Magnet School of Distinction designation is the second highest level
of recognition. The Magnet School of Excellence designation represents the top merit award category and is awarded to only a select group of schools nationwide. Finally, the highest honor top magnet
school of excellence is reserved for only a handful of elite magnet programs across our country. I am proud to recognize first our magnet schools of distinction recipients. Please come forward to be recognized our
representatives who are here with us this evening. First is Belleview Middle School, a firsttime recipient of the award. Denellan High School, who is this is their fifth consecutive year earning
this designation. Howard Middle School, a repeat recipient and second consecutive year earning the designation. North Marian Middle School, who is a repeat award recipient.
North Marian High School, a repeat award recipient. and Madison Madison Street Academy, a repeat award recipient. Next, I would like to congratulate and recognize our Magnet School of Excellence recipient, Belleview High
School. Belleview High is a threetime recipient of this prestigious designation and has also previously earned merit awards of distinction. We are incredibly proud of their continued dedication and hard work.
Finally, we are especially honored to recognize Marian County's first ever top magnet school of excellent excellence recipient, Vanguard High School. This was Vanguard's first year applying, making this achievement even more
extraordinary. We could not be more proud of their team for bringing home this significant honor and earning elite national recognition. We are deeply grateful to each of these school teams for their continued commitment to excellence and student
success. Every day they work tirelessly to provide the students of Marian County with opportunities to explore unique themes, engage in advanced coursework, and prepare for bright futures. Please join me in congratulating these
outstanding schools and educators on their exceptional accomplishments. >> Thank you so much, Miss Thomas. Did you have anything else you wanted to share? >> Okay. Well, we're grateful that you all are here and we want to come down and recognize you personally. So, we're going to do one more recognition and then we'll call you back up so we can
take a picture with you. But it is exceptional to have such great leaders and teachers and magnet leaders on our campuses making sure that our students are getting everything they need for um excelling and heading to amazing universities. So we're grateful for all of you. Thank you very much.
>> All right. And we have one more recognition, right? >> Yes, we do. This is a large group and we're excited to share. We're going to um introduce Mr. Rios Welsh. He's our chief financial officer. He will introduce those that are receiving that have received a perfect audit. Welcome,
Mr. Welsh. >> Good evening. >> Good evening. How's everyone doing? I'm glad to be here. I'm actually going to introduce Miss Christine Corgan. She's our internal audits auditor, internal accounts auditor, excuse me. And she has two of her staff members with her, Miss
Pat Eubanks and Debbie Moren, who are both internal auditor assistants. And so, she's going to join me. please come on up. Um, I do want to just add a few comments about the work um of our internal accounts before she takes the mic. Uh, we have a very small but
efficient crew as you can see here and lots of money, millions of dollars flowing through our schools. So, I'm very proud um that, you know, with the number of schools that we have in the district, over 50% of them are receiving a perfect audit for the 2425 school
year. With that being said, I'll turn it over. >> Good evening, Superintendent Dr. Brewer, board chair Dr. Sarah James, and board members. We would like to recognize 30 schools and programs tonight because
they have now achieved what we call a perfect audit for the 2425 school year. A perfect audit consists of having no findings for that particular school year. They have met all of our red book requirements, Florida statutes, and schoolboard policies. The certificate they are receiving tonight says, "Award
of bookkeeping excellence is awarded in recognition of achieving a perfect audit with no findings for the 2425 school year. It is signed by Superintendent Dr. Brewer and our chief financial officer, Mr. Robert Rios Welsh. each school and each secretary and bookkeeper will
receive a certificate to honor them for their accomplishments. Tonight, I want to start to say by saying congratulations to the schools and programs for this huge acco accomplishment. You have all worked very hard and we are very proud of the work
that you've done. Thank you for everything that you do every day. I would like to call up each school or program, provide them with their certificates and then follow your guidance on a photo at the end. Uh would the following individuals come forward as they are called and please stay
upfront. Um first group is alternative learning program coordinator Mr. Edward Harris and clerk Robin Bryen. Robin was able to attend this evening. Anthony Elementary School principal Miss
Gay Street and Secretary Miss Nicole Ham. Miss Amelia Bray is here in Miss Street's place due to Anthony having their fifth grade graduation tonight. There are a lot of them tonight. Um so she is filling in as she is Nicole's mom.
So she's going to celebrate with her tonight. Belleview Elementary School Principal Miss Victoria Thomas and Secretary Miss Daniela Brewster. Belleview High School principal Miss Heather Guest and bookkeepers last year,
Miss Shannon Morris and Miss Christina Sap. Assistant Principal Mr. Brad Jones is here for Belleview High this evening. Belleview Middle School principal Miss Ashley Kemp and bookkeeper Miss Tracy Gallagher. College Park Elementary School retired
principal Miss Teresa Forsight and current principal Dr. Stacy Varnner and now retired secretary Miss Christine Boyceelli who has come back tonight for this celebration. and assistant principal Miss Charie Bryant is here for college park this
evening. Dr. NH Jones Elementary School principal Mr. Robert Henel and Secretary Miss Megan Gravat she was unable to attend Danellen Elementary School principal Miss Erica Wiggins and Secretary Miss Jennifer Quincanella.
Denellan Middle School Principal Miss Shemica Murphy and Secretary Miss Carmen Arman. A Street Elementary School principal Mr. Ryan Bennett and now retired Secretary Miss Susie Rainey and she was unable to attend this evening.
Emerald Shores Elementary School. The principal who is now retired, Miss Tracy Wilkkey, and secretary Miss Chandra Kiner. So, the current principal, Miss Michelle Colbert, is here tonight to accept Miss Wilky's place. President Elementary School principal
Miss Stacy Newman's and Secretary Miss Madison Husky. She was unable to attend tonight. Greenway Elementary School principal Mr. Scott Wheeler and Secretary Miss Kelly Sullivan. Hammet Bowen Elementary School. Prior
principal Miss Tracy Crawford and prior secretary Miss Mary Kelly. And then we had a current secretary Annelise Burroughs. They were unable to attend tonight. So Miss Angela Ponder, the current principal at Hammet Bowen is here on their behalf. Hillrest School
Principal Miss Lori Manresesa and Secretary Miss Christina Slater and Assistant Principal Miss Cindy Lowe is here for Hillrest accepting for this evening. Um, I'm going to say it's families in transitions now, but we call homeless knee program director Iette Delnad Doll
and clerk specialist Becky Pin. Madison Street Elementary School, prior principal Dr. John Curley, current principal Miss Heather Leura, and secretary Miss Michelle Nolles are all here this evening. Maplewood Elementary School principal
Miss Chrissy Carter and Secretary Miss Lorie Rayold. Marian After Schools Program Coordinator Miss Karen Loreno and Secretary Miss Sarah Workman. They were unable to attend this evening and we will make sure they receive their certificates.
Marian Oaks Elementary School principal Miss Lisa Dreer and Secretary Miss Julie Chance Marian Technical College Principal Mr. Gary Small Ridge and now retired our bookkeeper of 30 years, Miss Karen
Marlin. Thank you for coming in tonight as of Friday. By the way, uh, Marian Technical Institute, which is now Bridgeway Academy, principal, Mr. Ronald Jones, and secretary, Miss Cindy Larson. She was unable to attend this
evening. Oyola Middle School, principal, Miss Renee Johnson and secretary, Miss Lorie Hunter. Reddit Collier Elementary School principal Dr. Donald Manning and Secretary Miss Jessica Pucket. Assistant Principal Miss Tina Roberts is here for
Reddit Collier this evening. South Okeella Elementary School principal Dr. Diana Ellis and Secretary Miss Valerie Landrith. Area superintendent Miss M. Melissa Kiner is here for Dr. Ellis tonight due to South Ocala having fifth grade graduation
again tonight. Spar Elementary School principal Dr. Al Carrie Ald and Secretary Miss Janna Graham. They were unable to attend tonight due to the fifth grade graduation. I picked a terrible night for all of these things to be happening, but they uh were not able so we'll get
them their certificates. and Stanton Wearsell Elementary School principal Miss Cynthia Brody and secretary Miss April Stage and Ward Highlands Elementary School principal Miss Teresa Buck and Secretary
Lana Phillips. Um, Atlanta and April both were unable to attend, but they're both the principles are both here. And Westport High School principal, Miss Ginger Cruz and bookkeeper, Miss Tammy Davis. And just to add, Tammy's been
there for 18 years and this is her first one. Big deal at Westport. It's big school, lots of money. So, it's a really big deal. Wina Park Elementary School principal Miss Victoria Hunt and Secretary Miss Jolene Hughes, they were
unable to attend tonight and we will make sure they get their certificates. Again, thank you for everything. Love you guys. Work with you every single day and thank you for everything you do. Nobody go anywhere. We're going to come down and take a picture with all of you and we just want to give you
congratulations face to face. So we'll be done in just one moment. Take a picture. Let's do the student rep next. All right. One, two, three. Can the Marian 250 art show winners
please come up for the picture? Uh, in the center. All right. Amazing. All right. One, two, three. All right. Wonderful. >> There we go.
Oh, amazing. Oh my god. Okay, come on down. Come on everybody. I don't think I'm tall enough for this. Give it to me. Yes, ma'am. I'm ready. >> Oh, really? All right. >> If I can have Julia on this side, it's
more. >> Okay. >> No, you're good. >> I'm so sorry. >> I'm right next to you. >> And you're gonna get in the picture. Amazing. Thanks. Well, that was a full kickstart with recognitions. We are so grateful we have
an opportunity to recognize our students and our staff because that is why we're here every single day to recognize them. So, uh, moving into some donations, we have $8,000 to Marian Technical College from Summer Glenn Veterans and Patriots Club to be used to provide veteran scholarships for seven students
attending Marian Technical College, $1,000 to Belleview High School from Citizens First Bank to be used in support of the senior scholarship fund, and $1,215 in tangible goods in the form of 83 boxes of chocolate. I'm I I'm not even going to
try to say the first part to Winding Oaks Elementary School from Gateway to Hope Ministries for faculty and staff during a teacher appreciation week totaling $10,215. So, thank you to our community for their continued uh sponsorship and support of
our public schools. Dr. Burr, >> I recommend approval of the agenda for the May 26, 2026 school board meeting. >> Thank you, Dr. Burr. May I have a motion on the superintendent's recommendation? >> Second. >> A motion by board member Cummings and a
second by board member Thrower. All those in favor say I. >> I. Motion passes 5-0. Now we will move into the business portion of the meeting. Miss Martinez Young, please provide the proof of publication for tonight's schoolboard meeting. >> The notice for the May 26, 2026 schoolboard meeting was placed on the
district website on May 19th, 2026. Proof of publication has been attached under board docs proof of publication. >> Thank you, Miss Martinez Young. May I have a motion to approve the minutes from the April 16th, 2026 special school board meeting? >> Motion to approve. >> Second. >> A motion by board member Conrad and a
second by board member Campbell. Are there any additions or corrections to the minutes? Hearing none, all those in favor say I. >> I. Motion passes 5-0. May I have a motion to approve the minutes from the April 16th, 2026 administrative briefing and work session. >> Motion to approve the minutes.
>> Second. >> Motion by board member Thrower and a second by Dr. Campbell. Are there any additions or corrections to the minutes? Hearing none. All those in favor say I. >> I. >> I. Motion passes 5-0. May I have a motion to approve the minutes for the April 27th, 2026 special administrative
briefing and work session? Motion to approve. Motion by board member Conrad. >> Second by board member Cummings. Are there any additions or corrections to the minutes? Hearing none. All those in favor say I. >> I. Motion passes 5-0. May I have a motion to approve the minutes for the
April 28th, 2026 school board meeting. Motion to approve. >> Second. >> Motion by board member Conrad and a second by board member Thrower. Are there any additions or corrections to the minutes? >> Hearing none. All those in favor say I. >> I. >> I. Motion passes 5-0. Moving on toformational items. The school district
uses a construction management delivery method including a guaranteed maximum price GMP to perform construction work on projects. The superintendent or designate has signed and approved the following change orders. Per board policy 6345. the superintendent or designate is authorized to approve and
execute any construction change order that will increase the construction contract by 25,000 or less or that will decrease the construction contract amount provided that the approval shall be in his or her judgment in the best interest of the board. Such a change order shall be binding upon execution by the superintendent. The superintendent
shall report each change order that he or she approved to the board at the board meeting that follows his or her approval. The superintendent's approval of the change orders will be entered into the official minutes of the board meeting. Regarding unused funds, there were unused funds on the following projects. Since the projects were delivered using a construction
management delivery with a GMP format, unused dollars, regardless of the item, are returned to the owner. The unspent monies will be returned to the owner via change orders, which will close the financial books on these projects. 8.1 Amendment number one to the construction management contract guaranteed maximum
price, GMP, for the construction of new elementary W, now known as Ross Prairie Elementary. Change order number 11, amendment number one, project 24-101. Deductive change order is 3,215,4712 cents of unused funds. Item 8.2 is a
guaranteed maximum price GMP for Winding Oaks Elementary Southwest 71st Place Roadwork change order number two, work authorization number one, project 24-102. The deductive change order is $17,998.78 of unused funds. And finally, item 8.3,
which is a notice of a scheduling a public hearing to be held on June 23rd, 2026 to adopt our school board policy updates. Miss Martinez Jang, do we have any speakers this evening related to our agenda? >> Yes, we have one speaker. >> Okay. Thank you, Miss Martinez Jang. 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 286.0114 0114 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 al also located on the same table. The completed forms were due to the school board's clerk no later than 5:40 p.m. This evening's agenda item speakers be called prior to
the business portion of the school board's meeting in the order received by the schoolboard 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 meeting attendees are expected to conduct themselves in a
respectful manner. Therefore, verbal attacks and prof 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 your
concerns. If there are matters dealing with student discipline, including expulsions, they'll be scheduled at the conclusion of the televised port 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 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 so much, Attorney Powers, and good evening to you. I forgot to say good evening to you. Miss Martinez Young, can you please call our first speaker,
>> Michael Magamal? Good evening, Mr. Magamal. You'll have three minutes. >> Uh, Michael Magamal, M A G- A M O L. Uh, good afternoon, uh, Superintendent Dr. Brewer, Chair Dr. James, and
schoolboard members. Uh on behalf of Wley Construction, I'd like to address the comments made in both the April 27th work session as well as the April 28th board meeting about the Ross Prairie Elementary and Windy Oaks Elementary projects being quote identical and the
quote exact same everything and the cost differences between the two. The truth is these projects were far from identical. Let me explain. It is well known in the industry that site development costs can vary greatly from project to project, which is the
case here. In this case, you have a project at Ross Prairie that started on a cleared site with good soil. At Winding Oaks, trees and vegetation had to be cleared. Grading and utilities were different. Sinkhole activity had to be mitigated with subsurface pressure grouting. Buildings had to be
demolished. Clay soils had to be removed and replaced. and building foundation reinforcement had to be doubled to account for the poor soils. So even the buildings were not exactly the same. These items alone added over $1.3
million in site development costs to Winding Oaks as compared to Ross Prairie. As you can imagine, cost is a function of schedule in this industry. The items mentioned before added almost two months to an already compressed schedule. When we were awarded this
project, facilities made one thing very clear. Schedule was the priority. The project was to be delivered on June 30th, 2026. No matter rain delays, hurricanes, clay soils, or any of the other items
mentioned above. As a result, for this project to finish on time, it required an accelerated schedule, which meant a six-day work week from the majority of the subcontractors. Labor on a project of this size is roughly 40% of the cost or in this case
$17 million. Eight hours of overtime a week is equal to about an 8% increase in labor. In the case of Winding Oaks, that meant $1.4 million in additional costs. That translates to a total of 2.7 million in additional costs at Winding
Oaks due to site conditions, which clearly explains the $2 million difference in cost between these projects. As a reminder, these projects are open book with facilities audited by the state of Florida and both contractors were paid the exact same predetermined
fixed fee for the work. Again, while similar, these projects were not identical or exactly the same. Winding Oaks had a much different site with which significantly impacted the cost of the project. Also, Winding Oaks was scheduled, estimated, and managed to be
delivered on time, which it was. Thank you for your time. As always, I'm available to discuss these details more uh if if needed. >> Thank you, Mr. Magal. We appreciate you coming and sharing your testimony. Is there any other speakers? >> No, Madam Chair. We off air.
>> One off air >> in the later portion of the meeting. >> Okay, sounds good. Thank you. Uh with that, we will do some public hearing. So, may I have a motion to adopt the 2026 2027 code of student conduct for the 2627 school year? >> Second. A motion by board member
Cummings and a second by board member Thrower. Dr. Brewer, the >> 2026 2027 code of student conduct for the 26 2026 2027 school year complies with the state statute 106. Wait, let me say that again. 106.07
and board policy 5500. >> I declare a public hearing. Is there anyone present who wishes to address the 2026 20227 code of student conduct? All right, hearing nothing from the audience board, is there any further discussion from you all? Board member Thor.
>> Thank you. I just wanted to share my my gratitude. I was the the board member on the code of student conduct uh development committee and I commend everyone that was on the committee, the level of professionalism,
the engagement, the spirited exchanges and the the the commitment to continuing to refine the code uh refine the language, you know, for clarity and simplicity. Um, everybody was was all in
and I think that the committee definitely delivered a product that's worth approving tonight. So, I'll be voting yes. >> Thank you, board member for our board. Is there any other further comment on the code of conduct? All right. Hearing none. All those in favor say I. >> I. >> I. Motion passes. Motion passes 5-0. May
I have a motion to approve the request for pre-qualification for general construction services 2026 2027? Motion to approve. Motion by board member Conrad. >> Second. >> Second by board member Thor. Dr. Brewer. >> The approval of the pre-qualifications
for general construction services 2026 2027 complies with board policy and Florida statutes. >> Thank you, Dr. Brewer. I declare a public hearing. Is there anyone who wishes to address the board regarding the pre-qualification for general construction services 2026 through 2027?
All right. Hearing no one from the audience. Board, do you have any further comments regarding this item? All right. Hearing none, all those in favor say I. >> I. >> I. Motion passes. 5-0. Moving on to our consent agenda items. May I have a motion to approve the consent agenda
items? >> Motion to approve. >> Second. >> Board member Conrad with the motion and board member Cummings with the second. All those in favor say I. >> I. Motion passes 5-0. Moving on to student disciplinary matters. Before addressing expulsion matters, I would like to acknowledge the board members
have received the alternative placement list for students through April 28th, 2026. Miss Martinez Young, are there any parents who've submitted a timely request to speak on their child's disciplinary matters? >> No, Madam Chair. >> All right. Thank you. May I have a motion to approve the expulsion of student JD26-219
for the remainder of the 2526 school year and the first quarter of the 2627 school year with services? >> Second. >> Motion by board member Cummings and a second by board member Conrad. All those in favor say I. >> I. Motion passes 5-0. May I have a motion to approve the expulsion of
student JD26-201E, JD26-210, JD26-212E, JD26-213, JD26-214E, JD26-216, JD26-217E,
JD26-218E, JD26-22, JD26-224, JD26-226, and JD D26-227 for the remainder of the 2526 school year and the entire 2026 20227 school
year with services. >> 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. We will now move on to our regular discussion agenda items starting with D24.1. May I have a
motion to approve the 2026-20 through 2031 strategic plan forward together? >> Motion to approve. >> Second. >> Motion by board member Conrad and a second by board member Cummings. Dr. Brewer, do you have some information you'd like to share regarding this item? >> Yes, absolutely. Mr. Ben White House
will provide a brief brief remarks on this item. As you know, we have provided um different work sessions on this item, but he will summarize this this for you. >> Wonderful. Welcome, Mr. White House. >> Thank Doug Brewer. Good evening, chair and board members. I'm excited this evening to share our strategic plan for
2026 through 2031. This plan represents months of thoughtful engagement with our students, staff, families, and community partners. This is not just a formal document is a commitment to action. At its core, this plan provides a clear focused roadmap to ensure every student
is supported on their pathway to success. The strategic plan focuses our efforts around five key priorities that allow us to address both student outcomes and the systems that support them. Together, this plan ensures we are aligned, accountable, and focused on
what matters most, student success. >> Thank you, Mr. White House. Well, we have had many work sessions and we've been able to discuss it in depth. Board, any further comments, questions, remarks about our strategic plan? All right. hearing none. I'm grateful
for the leadership from staff. You all have done some tremendous work and I am excited to see it in action um and really put the efforts from this last year on paper and move forward together. So, I'm looking forward to it. Hearing none, all those in favor say I.
>> I. >> I. Motion passes 5. D24.2. May I have a motion to approve the 2026 through 2031 Macintosh Area School Incorporated charter renewal contract? Second motion by board member Cummings
and a second by Dr. Campbell. Dr. Brewer, I believe Mr. Ays is here to provide some context. >> He is. And Mr. White House emailed the board this this afternoon um data projected data for Macintosh School. Mr. Ayes can provide brief remarks as well.
>> Good morning or good morning. >> Good evening. Um the Macintosh um area school renewal charter renewal contract is the contract which is a standard contract that is provided by the department of education. The board prior already approved the renewal application
and this is just the contract with that and I know you received information about their school grade. So I'm here to answer any questions as to what that may be or any questions you may have. >> Sure. Um I can kick it off. Um I as chair took it as point of privilege to
make sure we place this item in discussion. I thought it was important that we would at least highlight data um seeing as we're doing that for all of our traditional schools as we're having in-depth conversation. Um and so for the record I believe m the data Mr. White House shared shows um their school grade
percentage will be 14% which is a very significant F. >> Correct. >> Okay. Um and we also for the record have already shared we have no ability to not renew this contract um and not renew their charter application. Um but what will what will happen with them earning
an F grade? >> So as we spoke earlier I was took correction they will be in turnaround status with the F. Um they have only received one consecutive F. They were a C last year. So um Florida administrative code 6A1.09827 09827
does dictate that if a school that receives an F, they will have to present an academic school improvement plan once the state finalizes all school grades, a notification goes out. So, there is timeline for that. I can email you the administrative code which dictates for that. If they get three consecutive
years below a C, then they'll have to put in um a plan of either close reduce the replace the um administration or get an outside agency to run them. They're not in that status right now because they were a C last year. So, this is
just the first F they get. They did get an F two years ago, but then they got the C, so now they're back to an F. >> Right. Um, yeah, Reverend Cummings, >> just just for clarity. So, this school doesn't have to do >> Can you lean forward? >> This school doesn't have to do the
external operator thing like they did with >> No, sir. Because they that only kicks into play if they get three consecutive years below a C. >> They get three years to fail. >> If they get a second F, then the state automatically closes them.
>> Okay, Dr. Campbell. >> Thank you. and their academic plan that they have to put forth because they're projected to be an F that comes to us or >> Yes, it comes to the sponsor. They present it to the sponsor. That doesn't kick in until the state officially
um publishes the list of all the charter schools and that usually comes about the end of Septemberish once all appeals of all school grades have taken place. But even with that plan that they would present to us, we don't have a lot of teeth to do anything with it other than
just kind of almost rubber stamping it. >> We're >> which I don't like the thought of what that sounds like. >> Right. We can go back and forth with the plan. We can review the plan if we don't feel that the plan would adequately meet the needs. We can have them go back and forth and adjust the plan. But basically
the plan is I will email you the administrative code of what is required in the plan and it's fairly thin >> certainly but differently than if this was one of our traditional public schools where we could make significant changes and have
>> they're an independent public school with their own board. Yes, ma'am. >> Absolutely. So just for the community's understanding there most likely well there will be an F school in Marian County public schools that we don't have a lot of control over.
>> You mean any control over >> I mean I would say we have no control. I mean we we don't get to pick their staff. We don't get to pick how they deliver their education. And I mean it's just all a matter of process >> and it is 10 minutes away from a
traditional public school with plenty of openings. So >> and the data for Reddit Collier specifically is looking very good, very strong and lots of positive news should be coming that way. Reverend Cummings, you had something to say. >> Mr. Aris, question. In the event that um
the Macintosh Charter School decides to not go forward, we've had it where schools have closed. What's do we have a plan in place? Do we have Have we thought about that? >> Yes, sir. We we have a plan in place for any of our charter schools should they
close for any reasons? The first of all, we always keep track of who their students are, where they would be placed going forward, and we would have a plan for that. And so also there's certain rules with inventory, all that kind of stuff. And so we have things in place, not just for Macintosh, we have that in
place for all our charter schools should any of them have to close for any reason. >> And I asked that question not because I I seek to see um Macintosh close, but I think u when we're thinking about our students, we have to think about the students first. And anything's possible
with a a grade this low. >> Yes, sir. >> Thank you. >> All right. Any further comment on this item hearing? None. All those in favor say I. >> I. Motion passes 5-0. >> D24.3. May I have a motion to approve
the independent contract agreement with Stepping Stones Group LLC? >> So move. >> Second. >> Motion by board member Cummings, a second by board member Thrower. Dr. Brewer, I believe you have information you'd like to share regarding this item. >> Yes, ma'am. We pulled this for discussion because it's a 1.3 million um
price tag. As you know, the last two board meetings, Miss Williams Jones has provided at um at length information on all of our exceptional student education agreements. So, this one is one of the last ones for a few board meetings. So, she will share information on this
particular agreement. >> Good evening, board chair Dr. James, school board, and superintendent Dr. Brewer. For this item, we are requesting approval of the agency contract with the Stepping Stones Group. This agency contract will provide six speech
language pathologist, five speech language therapy assistants, three occupational therapist, and one occupational therapy assistant for the 2627 school year. And as Dr. Brewer stated the cost of this contract
is1,333,059. >> Thank you, Miss Williams Jones. Board, is there any comments or questions regarding this item? >> All right, hearing none. All those in favor say I. >> I. >> I. Motion passes 500. Thank you for being here. >> D24.4. May I have a motion to approve
the special data share agreement with Empowered of Central Florida, Inc. DBA, the rock program? Motion to approve. Second >> motion by board member Conrad and a second by board member Thrower. Dr. Brewer, do you have any additional information you'd like to share? >> Yes, we pulled this item just to
highlight the success of the rock program and to continuously um just share our gratitude for the work of the volunteers and those even behind the scenes that donate the basic living supplies that so many of our students depend on each day. So, we pulled this.
Um, we also are happy to share that our last secondary school will have their um rock opening up this summer and then we'll work towards the South Marian High School project after that. >> That is wonderful. Thank you, Dr. Brewer. Board, any other comments?
All right. Well, hearing none, I can speak for the board to say we are grateful for this partnership and the continued support from The Rock and how it meets our students needs and dignity every single day on our campuses. Uh hearing no further comment. All those in favor say I. >> I. >> I. Motion passes 5-0. D24.5. May I have
a motion to approve the piggyback agreement with Sourcewell cooperative contract number 031622-. >> Motion to approve the agreement. >> Second. >> Motion by board member Thrower and a second by board member Cummings. Dr. Brewer, you have some additional information. >> Yes, ma'am. This is a piggyback
agreement um to provide the astro turf for the site work for the long awaited um field at Westport High School. So, Mr. Tucker is available if there are any questions, but the we pulled it because of the price um involved in this contract which is $1.7 million.
>> Wonderful. And this is for the track and the field. Yes. >> Correct. >> All right. Board, any further questions or comments regarding this item? Mr. Julian BTO, did you have anything you wanted to share as a track athlete yourself? >> I think it's amazing. It's going to be really awesome for all of our athletes
and yeah, we just really appreciate everything you guys are doing. >> Absolutely. I put him on the spot, but I've run a few 5Ks with him lately, so I know that he likes to run very fast and so um I know our future track athletes are going to be very happy to have a rubberized track at Westport as well as
a turf field. Anything else from the board? All right, hearing none. All those in favor say I. >> I. >> I. Motion passes. 50 D24.6. May I have a motion to renew bid 3980GM- gasoline, diesel, and biodeiesel joint
entry entity term contract? >> Motion to approve. >> Second. >> Motion by board member Conrad and a second by board member Cummings. Dr. Brewer, you have some additional remarks. >> Yes, ma'am. The um transportation department and the city of Ocala request the approval to renew this bid. Um, this
bid provides the gasoline and diesel fuel for both the school board of Marian County and the city of Ocala. It's important to note that at this point um we have at this um point in the current bid, we've already encumbered 2.8 million and so the request is um you'll
see that the request is for approximately 5 million. >> All right. Thank you, Dr. Brewer. We all see the price of gas when we fill up every day, don't we? And boy, is there any further comments on this item? All right. Hearing none. All those in favor say I.
>> I. Motion passes 5-0. D24.7. May I have a motion to renew bid 4127 a.m. new and used books, educational material, and other related materials term contract and request expenditure increase for current current contract term. Motion to
approve. >> Second. >> Motion by board member Conrad and a second by board member Thrower. Dr. Brewer, over to you. >> We do have Mr. Rios Welsh available for questions on this item, but they are um self-explanatory on what is written in the rationale methodology. But 24.7 is
in the amount of 700,000. 24.8 is a request to increase expenditure in the amount of 4.2 million um out of our food services and then 24.9 is um a 1.9 agreement for audiovisisual enhancement products. >> All right. Wonderful. Well, we will
start with 24.7. board. Is there any additional requests for information or discussion on the item? All right, hearing none. All those in favor say I. >> I. >> I. Motion passes 50-0. D24.8. May I have a motion to request an increase in the
estimated annual expenditure for the North Florida Buying Group, NFBG, main food and supply items, and USDA commodity processing via the Elatchro County Public Schools RFP 23-24. >> Motion to approve. Second
>> motion by board member Conrad and a second by board member Cummings. Dr. Brews already provided some context. Board, do you need any further information or wish to discuss? All right, hearing none. All those in favor say I. >> I. Motion passes 5-0. D24.9 may have a
motion to approve the state of Florida alternative alternate contract source 52161500-26- Omnia-acs-ex for audiovisisual products and services. >> So move >> second a motion by board member Cummings
and a second by board member Conrad. Any further discussion um or context needed here board? >> Hearing none. All those in favor say I. >> I. >> I. Motion passes 5-0. Thank you, board. And we're going to move into our meeting reminders. The next school
administrative briefing and work session is scheduled for June 4th, 2026 at 9:00 am followed by a school capital outlay certex oversight committee meeting at 4 p.m. The next schoolboard meeting is then scheduled for June 9th, 2026 at 5:30. Miss Martinez Young, I believe you shared we have someone speaking this
evening not related to the agenda. >> That is correct. >> All right. Well, Mr. Um, attorney powers has already gone over all of the rules and regulations, so please call them up. Renee Novak, >> good morning or good evening. It's not
morning. Good evening. Uh, you will have three minutes. >> Awesome. Okay. My name is Renee Novak and I live at 4565 Southwest 7th Avenue Road, Ocala, 34471. I've never been to one of these before, so it was a great experience. I've only
seen it on Facebook with a lot of like really insightful comments from people that live here. Um, so my daughter attends Forest. It's our first year in high school and she's messaged me somewhere between like five and 600 times in the last week to pick her up because she's in the auditorium due to
testing, which I understand the attendance requirements and how testing works. But it occurred to me that it might be a great opportunity to maybe provide like mini learning sessions to high schoolers when they're like have to be at school, but there's nothing for them to do. um some practical skills
like, you know, maybe CPR certification or just small like how to change a tire, how to do a budget, just some small learning opportunities that I think most of us recognize children need as they're going into adulthood, but it doesn't really fit academic curriculum. So, I
just wanted to share the suggestion. I hope it can be considered. Thank you. >> Thank you very much for sharing your suggestion. Dr. Campbell shared a similar sentiment, I believe, in our last board meeting. So, we appreciate you coming and sharing your thoughts. Thank you very much. >> All right. Well, we will we'll move into
there's no further comment. Um, no further public speakers, right? >> No, madam chair. >> All right. Well, then we will move into our uh board committee reports, comments, and concerns. Anything from the clerk's office, Miss Martinez Young? >> No, Madam Chair. >> Anything from our attorney? >> Nothing from legal. Thank you. >> All right. Thank you very much. Uh, we
will start with our student board members and then do Dr. Burr. So, um, Julia, you want to start? Um, I just wanted to start by thanking you guys for the opportunity to speak. It's been an honor to represent Vanguard this past year. And I also wanted to recognize um, Vanguard for the vaccine they received today. I know Mr. I don't
know who else worked on it, but I know Mr. Devil and Miss Henel worked super super hard like sorry I know Mr. Devilian and Miss Hensel worked super hard um, on earning that recognition and I just wanted to recognize them for that once again and all their hard work this year and getting that. So the last issue issue I want to talk about as a student
representative is an over reliance on technology in schools. I feel like this overreiance causes three main issues. It makes students dependent on technology which kind of decreases their critical thinking abilities. It decreases social interaction between students and also between like students and teachers and it increases unnecessary surveillance. I
feel like the fact that dependence on technology increases and social interaction decreases is pretty obvious. So, I won't spend too much time on that, but I feel like people don't really talk about the fact that it causes unnecessary surveillance. Um, and I feel like like there are so many programs on teachers computers now that allow
teachers to like literally track every single thing that students do on their computers. And this paired with like the number of websites and photos that are blocked creates an environment of distrust and anxiety in schools that I believe decreases the ability of students to learn properly. And it also creates creates tension between um students and teachers that makes it
harder for teachers to like work effectively. And it kind of like hinders the relationship between teachers and students. And it kind of makes students blame the teachers for something that's not really their fault. And I think it's also hard to focus on your education when you're constantly scared of making a mistake in a classroom because the teachers are constantly watching what
you're doing. Like anything that you accidentally click on during a test could like make a teacher accuse you of cheating or whatever else. And I just feel like it kind of just causes unnecessary stress with kids who are already stressed in high school. And I feel like in this past year especially, it's been like nearly impossible for
students to do anything or say anything without their teachers or administration, like the administrators knowing about it because the programs like Lightseed. And I know that Lightseed has a lot of bugs right now, but I know like that the goal of Lightseed is to have um like teachers be able to like see whenever a student's logged in on like a computer on their
school account, teachers can see what they're doing no matter where they are. So, if I have the flu and I'm home and I'm on my I forget to like log out of my school account on my computer, my teacher can watch what I'm doing at home on my laptop while they're in school. And I just don't think that's fair to students, especially high schoolers. I think that if we're being expected to
act like young adult young adults, we should be treated that way. And I don't think that like I don't know I don't think they're going to do it on purpose, but I just think the fact that they have the opportunity to spy on kids. I don't think teachers would do that, but I think that the fact that that is an opportunity that they have and they could do it kind of stresses students out and it makes them feel like they're not being treated as young adults. And I
think it kind of just creates unnecessary tension with that. And I get that a lot of the surveillance is used to prevent cheating or for safety reasons. And I definitely get the safety concerns and I feel like that's very valid. But I just feel like in in regard to cheating, I feel like teachers who are worried about that should just like change to paper test instead of doing
online tests. If they're that worried about students using AI or going to a different browser, they could just do a paper test and that would kind of take off that stress for the teachers and also make students less stressed out and make them feel like they have more freedom. And I think it's unreasonable to ask students to kind of sacrifice all their privacy while in school. And I
understand that schools need to focus on safety and preventing misbehavior, but at the same time that shouldn't come as the detriment of student curiosity and freedom. >> Well, thank you. That as always is so insightful and and the perspective is helpful, right? Because we are not using
the curriculum like you are. Even our staff are not using it like you are. And so, um, it's very helpful to have students here and as well as on the, um, superintendent's advisory council where you guys are able to share authentic thoughts about what's going on in our schools and how it impacts their
learning. So, thank you for your for your comments. Uh, Luke, >> thank you. I would just like to start by saying thank you all for this opportunity you've given us to serve alongside you on this board and to represent our amazing schools. Being able to take part in this has truly been incredible and I'm grateful for how
you've given us a voice and an opportunity to really make a difference in this community. It's been really awesome. I would also like to thank you for everything you have done this year as a board to ensure to your greatest capacity the success of all students in Marian County Public Schools. Like you said, our position as student board
representatives does give us a really unique perspective which is amazing. We've been able to see at various levels what's discussed, approved, and then we get to go to school every day and see it put into place firsthand. And that's just really amazing. Just being able to see that and being able to talk to each other about it and to come back and
report to you guys. It's it's really amazing. And seeing how students have been given an environment to succeed is incredible and can be clearly seen through how many schools were recognized tonight for their exceptional programs. And I pray students continue to take advantage of such opportunities. and I
know there's nothing I would trade for my time as part of this amazing family that is Marian County Public Schools. So, thank you. And that concludes my remarks. >> Well, thank you both. I think we want to give you a little round of applause because that was exceptional from both of you. Thank you. All right, Dr. Brewer.
>> Thank you. And great job, Julie and Luke. It truly has been um a special time this year with both of you on the board and all the others that were here this evening. I want to comment on a couple wonderful things. We um were able to celebrate our Hillrest graduates and
our Lakewear and Belleview High School graduates this past weekend and this weekend. Well, not this weekend. We start really soon. So, starting on Thursday, um we will recognize our Danellen, then Vanguard, North Marian.
Opposite. Opposite. Yes. Danell. Yes. So, we'll do Danellen first and then Vanguard. Yeah. And Yes. North Marion and then Westport and then Forest High School. So, we have a long week ahead of us, but for so many exciting things. We also for our younger students, we have
awards ceremonies as you heard tonight. Every grade level has a different um morning or afternoon award ceremony. So, it's been great to see all of the students recognized for their achievements. I'm also, this is our last board meeting for the school year. I'm incredibly grateful for all of the work from our teachers and our
non-instructional staff members and our bus drivers and food service workers. We have said from the very beginning um of the school year that it truly takes every single person um working on our team to make sure that our students succeed. And I'm truly grateful um that
we have had such a great year. as the numbers come in. We can't share those publicly yet because we're still counting down every single student that's testing, but we are very excited um for what we have seen so far and look forward to sharing those numbers very soon. Thank you, board.
>> Thank you, Dr. Brewer. Uh board member Thrower, >> thank you. And um yes, it is graduation season is in full swing. Everything is on hyper speed, warp speed, but it's it's so much fun and and I know I'll be
greatly relieved when it's over and everybody's safe and home celebrating more with with their families and their friends and getting themselves positioned for what's next. And I say that because it was fun to see Vanguard uh I'm not sure who the young
lady was, but it was all over social media saying to the different seniors, "What's next? What's next?" and they would say where they were going and Miss Slaughter was part of that and I just got such a kick out of that. It was so cheerful and and uplifting and all the excitement that seniors are supposed to
be feeling um this time of year. And so congratulations to both with both both of you and it's been such a pleasure to have all of our student board reps on the board and and sharing from your perspective and just really contributing
so much to our work. So, thank you. Thank you to all of you. Um, I would be remiss if I didn't share that this was a Memorial Day weekend. It was a long weekend. I hope each and every one of yours was was beautiful and and peaceful
and and also reflective. Um, we're moving into the thick of graduation season and I know Vanguard, you know, your target is a 90% graduation rate. We are so close, 87%. I don't know that we'll actually make it
in time uh for Friday, but I wanted to take a minute and share with families because the calls are coming in. Um this is the first year that's the certificate of completion that you don't get to walk. But please don't give up seniors. We do
have a summer graduation and it is legitimate. It takes place right here um in this auditorium. Um you get to wear the cap and gown in the colors of your school. uh board members are here and it is a smaller version of a very
celebratory milestone that seniors that you have been working so hard to achieve. So please know that we continue to be behind you, you know, 100% there. Students don't graduate for all kinds of different reasons right on time. So
don't don't let that define you. you know, continue to push through and in the long run, nobody's ever gonna ask on a job application, did you walk across the stage in May or in >> July? >> July. So, uh, keep on keeping on and and hopefully every single one that wants
to, uh, will make it. Um, I think all of us got some communication today regarding the work study program that's been housed here for our students with special needs for the last few years. and that um that program is going
to be moving back to base campuses um that will happily receive these students. And I know that to be a fact because I've spoken with the principal at Westport and at Vanguard High School and Lake Weir and all three of those
schools had uh what was called back then community-based vocational training. there was a lot of opportunities for students on those campuses. There's definitely benefits to having had it uh here on the Bridgeway campus previously MTI and also housing a lot of our of our
employees. But I think everyone knows by now that this um building, we're doing our best to keep it going, but we uh really need to try to get as many folks off of this campus so that we can move forward with all of the plans that we're
trying to make to get everyone um in the in the safest best uh building placement. So um I've had conversation with our ESSE director and and multiple others. And believe it or not, many years ago, my first job was a a
community based vocational training assistant on a campus. And we went into town and and lo and behold, the the Hilton the Ocella Hilton Hotel has been a partner of ours all these years and is now the site for Project Search. So
again, I would encourage the teachers even though it feels like it came on very suddenly uh and it did. Um but please keep the faith and in the end it's it's it's for the kids and you will be landing in places where there will be
a lot of support. I'm confident of that and I'll continue to keep my eye on it like I always do for that population. So just kind of wanted to share my perspective as far as that goes. I think our kids with unique needs lend and give
so much to a campus and they deserve to be part of their school community as long as there's great programs for them like we have IB and ACE and technical and you name it. So looking forward to seeing in August um them in their new
spots. Um the next thing I just wanted to share is that this is so cool and it's just an example of kids do grow up. You know, it's that time of of the year where you think back, how long did I know this kid? And um this is a a particular student. His name is Sterling
Thompson. He's got great parents. Um he grew up playing baseball at Highlands Field. And so he's been playing baseball since he was about six years old. And he played on the B team for All Stars back in 2007. And my husband and his dad uh
coached that team. And uh our son Sam was on the Mudcats. I just love the the names of these minor league teams and and so on. Well, anyway, uh Sterland um grew up first he attended Forest and then he transferred to North Marian High
as a senior and he uh then was I'm sure it was a full ride to University of Florida. Did great and then was drafted by the Colorado Rockies. Well, Sterling has now been called up to the majors and got a chance to see it on TV. He just,
you know, hit a deep one into center field and it just dropped and he made a double and he is just off and going. So, you know, kids really do grow up and and they do spectacular things and it's great to have the opportunity to to celebrate them, you know, every chance
we get. And I think that's why it's so important to to try to keep it, you know, positive. um you know myself more than anybody will will acknowledge whenever we've had struggles and challenges but it's how you deal with it that that defines us and the more we
want to stay mired it makes it a little harder to move forward um and so I am deeply grateful for the amount of time and effort that the district spent to
try to make all of our dealings as transparent and honest and indisputable as you possibly can when you're dealing with mega amounts of money. you know, building schools has a
a tremendous amount of of financial potential. And anyone that is involved in these dealings, the only thing that I would say is, you know, don't make yourself a target because things like that take on a life of their own. And it
seems like it's a lot harder to overcome the negativity than it is to fix what you can and then move forward. So, I will end with saying that that's
what our kids look for with all of us as adults. you know, um there's things that happen that aren't easy, but at the same time, there's no point continuing on anyone's part to magnify
the negative. And that's what we see on social media. And in the end, it's something that I'll always try to keep in mind that the kids are watching. So, I will end with
that and end with sharing that we are here to do everything we can to help students succeed and provide the example that's going to make all of us proud of what we said, what we did, and how we did it. That's
all I have for tonight. >> All right. Thank you, War Member Thor. Reverend Cummings. >> Good evening, everyone. Um, truly this has been a productive meeting. um fastm moving meeting. I I kind of want to start on the the not so nice things that that I need
to talk about. Um tonight we we heard from um about the Macintosh area school and I I think our board did a very good job of informing the public that there are some things that happens with charter schools
that we have no control over. Um as Dr. Campbell said, um, we hate to kind of rubber stamp certain things. Um, I believe if there was more oversight for us in this situation, there would be some different
decisions um being made concerning the Macintosh area school. However, um that is above us right now. So, we kind of have to roll with the punches um until um things change for the positive or for
the negative. Of course, we hope it's for the positive. Uh we want we want the kids to succeed. We want um them to get the education that they need, but to be honest, we know that there are some issues there and that's just being straightforward and honest about the
situation. So, um I know as a district we're going to do as whatever we can to support those students. Um it's not about the school or the administration. It's more about us supporting the students and making sure they get what they need to get to be successful. So, I wanted to
start with that. Um as uh board member Thor just said, we are in the thick of graduation. Oh my gosh. Um, we had a wonderful, wonderful kickoff at Hillrest. Hillrest always has
a tearjerker of a graduation and it's um is it's evident of, as you can see, the past few weeks, we've we've approved a lot of things for those special students that we have. Even on tonight's agenda,
we approved some um spending for those. Those students are as important as any other student in our district. And um to see them at graduation and them walk um down that aisle and for them to do that last little dance going out
uh is just truly amazing. So I want to thank our district um staff, all of those that made it over Friday for that graduation. And in all of that, also saying congratulations to Miss Manessa, the principal over there who's retiring
after this year. She's put in some some some years. Um, but it didn't just cost her in years, it cost her in years and in tears uh because um there's been ups and downs, but through it all, she has been able to press through. So, I'm I'm
grateful for Miss Marissa for what she has done um at that school and for her total staff. I have a special kinship to that school having a son that came through there. So, I'm I'm grateful grateful for what they do every day. We
pe we may not see it, but that has to be one of the toughest toughest spots in this district. Um, everybody wants a classroom where all the kids sit still and and are, you know, just do everything that they're supposed to do, but you haven't taught,
you haven't, you haven't had a classroom till you've been in one of those classes at Hillrest. And, um, I've never taught in one, but I've observed them, and I know that that's it takes a unique person to be in that position. So, I thank all of the staff at Hillrest, and I definitely thank the administration,
Miss Marissa. Um, she she has earned her her her time to retire. So, I did want to say that. And then, um we went on to uh Belleview graduation Saturday morning. I I just want to say this, they
and I'll say it publicly, that was they set the bar high. They set the bar high because um it was efficient. It was timely. It was how many? 400 and something gradu >> 430 graduates. And it was done in 56
minutes. Mhm. >> 56 minutes and the sun was just coming up and I was like, "Oh my gosh, this side of me is going to burn." But before it can get too hot, we were off the stage and families were celebrating um with their students, their graduation
and their accomplishments. I do want to give a shout out to um the law enforcement because they were able to manage that traffic situation. We all know that that traffic situation over there is is not good. However, um they were able to manage it well and get folk
in and out safely. So, I thank them for that. Again, we we we're getting ready to go into all these graduations. Um I I want to say this to to the students. Um you guys, for some this may be your
last graduation ever. You may never go any further and and that's fine. Um for some this this may be the first of many graduations. All of them are important. Every student that walks across that stage is important. Um I want you to be
responsible. I want you to to have this be a memorable event and for it to be a lasting lasting lasting reflection um a lifetime lasting reflection. So we encourage you to please please do the
right things. Um please celebrate responsibly. Please don't be doing the crazy speeding and all that crazy stuff. Um um because there's a tomorrow and we want you to get to the tomorrow. We want you to do those things that are going to make you uh get to to tomorrow. And then
to those students that we've been getting phone calls, I don't know if you have I've been getting phone calls um families from families and parents um addressing um students that may not have gotten across the finish line uh in
time. We we We had been talking about this uh for months, for months that there were some changes that were going to happen and that um they a student if they did not
meet all graduation requirements that they could not u walk across the stage um that they would not get a certificate of completion um that we were not going to um fake it as as I could say kind of has
happened in the past years. Um, they had to have earned everything in place before they can walk across that stage. So, we're getting phone calls from parents and grandparents and and this it's unfortunate. It's unfortunate that they did not make it across the finish
line with everybody else. But let me say this, just because you don't finish the race with everyone else doesn't mean that you can't finish the race. It still means that you're in the race. And I I encourage you to to keep running. Um as
board member Thor just stated, we have a wonderful summer graduation. Um that's just as equally as important and meaningful as one that we may do on the football field or one that we do at the livestock pavilion or one that we do at
WC. It's just as equally as important and just as as significant as significant. Those are rights of passages that I encourage um every student to participate in just because you didn't get across the finish line with some others. Um I want to encourage
you to keep um pressing on. Um I I'll end it with this. The race is not given to the swift nor the strong, but to those who endure to the end. So I want to encourage them to keep pressing, keep running, and to endure to the end.
Thank you. >> Thank you, Reverend Cummings. Dr. Dr. Campbell. >> Thank you. Uh I'll start with uh some comments that were made earlier in the meeting this evening because they were referencing comments that I made back in April, April 27th and 28th. I did
highlight the differences in the costs between the Winding Oaks Elementary School and Ross Prairie Elementary School. And just for the public, if you haven't seen that meeting or those figures that we were given on that date, the Winding Oaks Elementary School came
at came in at 43.7 million and at the time we had been given the number of 41.4 million for Ross Prairie. So this evening we received information about about a $2.7 million difference uh equating for what that looked like as
far as the site development and the different uh changes in the land and so forth that that might have been needed the clearing of the land and I can completely respect all of those differences that we heard this evening. However, immediately following that we
also received information about the deductive change order for 3.2 two million again on Ross Prairie. And I believe, if I'm not mistaken, Dr. Brewer, we have yet another deductive change order that will be coming to us in an upcoming meeting for Ross Prairie.
So, as of right now, Ross Prairie cost us 36.9 million with another deductive change order on its way. And Winding Oaks is still sitting around 43.5 or so. So, there is a significant difference in those two costs. than I understand the
conversation that we had tonight. And so while we received detailed information about a difference in 2 million, I'm looking forward for another detailed conversation about a difference in the 3.2 that we approved this evening. Uh moving on tonight, we also approved the
strategic plan and one note that I wanted to say about it is we approved it with Dr. Eric Cummings title in the strategic plan. So, congratulations, Reverend Cummings, as your title is about to change as well. So, I just wanted to make a note of that publicly
in case uh folks weren't seeing that. I also thought it was interesting that this evening uh we talked about the turf and the rubberized track at Westport. And Luke, obviously, that's something you're not going to be able to take advantage of, but I'm going to liken it to when you're a part of this
conversation when we're approving it. So the future generations of Westport High School will be able to benefit just like when we as a school board approved the new gymnasium at Oyola Middle School that the Campbell boys who were always basketball players never had the opportunity to participate in a single
game there. So I I feel your pain, but I know it's exciting that we're able to do that for future generations of of student athletes. Uh this evening we also talked about a data share agreement with empowered of central Florida because of the rock program and as a proud board member of the empowered of
central Florida. Uh because that agreement is a no cost agreement I felt it was appropriate to go ahead and vote on it. There are is no money that changes hands in that regard. Uh but one thing that I did want to highlight in addition to the program that we have in
our schools, the the rock program that we know about 95% of what Empowered of Central Florida does is the Rock program, but the other 5% consists of a few other things. Uh there is a wrestling academy that we have. We also
have a lineman academy, not for power linemen, but for offensive linemen. And those football players, oftentimes position players have camps and things that they can do, wide receivers, defensive backs, running backs, and so empowered of Central Florida created
something specifically for those linemen. And then also, we have the opportunity to administer three different family scholarships. The Toro Townley scholarship is a brand new one. Uh we have the Jacob Casey scholarship and also the Pando scholarship. So
students have the ability to apply for those seniors every year and so uh just grateful for the opportunity that empowered has in our school system and the deep connections that we have in working together. Thank you Julia Slaughter for highlighting the over uh
emphasis in technology. Just this just today in the Sun Sentinel uh there's an article called America's techfilled classrooms are facing a backlash against school assigned devices and the subheading says classrooms have become saturated with screens and a growing
number of parents, teachers and school districts are saying it's time to scale back. I couldn't agree more in going through my graduates um just big bin of things that I've kept through all the years. I was looking through some of it
today and I was just savoring the things he had handwritten all of the the different writings that he had through the years in elementary school and I don't have any of those things from his high school or even middle school years because everything would have been
written and done online. I don't have any of his handwritten writings and and he has incredible penmanship and he was recognized for it in second grade and I would love to be able to have something like that in my hands and so I I hear you and I know that there's something
special about pen to paper which is why we often do it ourselves. Uh another thing I wanted to talk about was graduation. It was a very wonderful time to be at Belleview High
School having a graduate there. I haven't cried a tear yet. I told them I was I I was proud of myself. I haven't shed a single tear, but graduation is an amazing milestone in student lives. And this particular class, I I said it in a
in a post I made on social media. There is something unique and I don't I'm just going to call it out. having kids of varying ages. There's something special about those babies born in 2007208. Great families, great kids, great
everything. These are just kids that have it together and they're going to change the world and two of them are sitting right up here with us and we've seen the other ones this evening. This class, this group of students is going to change the world. I I believe it wholeheartedly, my own student included.
Uh so graduation is is a wonderful time to be reflective, but also one of those times to celebrate and be grateful. Uh wanted to highlight the 72-hour cooling off period that the the state
budget is now on the table, as they say, and potentially we will have the governor sign it sometime soon. We'll we'll we'll hope. I mean, he has to wait at least 72 hours. Um but hopefully we will have a budget before June 1st.
We'll see. Uh and if not, he has to have it done by July one. We know that. So um just wanting to highlight that. I don't believe I saw our appropriation in the full budget. So that means we can just come back stronger and harder next year for potentially a different
appropriation and more to come on that. This is our first official board meeting since we had the we the people. And I want to wrap up my final comments reflective of civic engagement and civic involvement. And that includes Memorial
Day celebrations or remembrances that were held yesterday. And I'll start by talking about we the people as the last six years of being a board member watching students. I believe it just started with two schools the first time that I had an opportunity to judge and
now we're up to five schools and all of the different community leaders that come out and we're in the courthouse and in courtrooms and the students being able to present. It is such an impactful opportunity for those early learners,
fifth grader, fourth and fifth graders to be able to understand what civic engagement really looks like. I strongly encourage us to continue to enhance the opportunities for our elementary school learners and bring on even more schools in the future. I know there's a cost to
that from the curriculum and the educators that are dedicating their time apart from the curriculum that is already established. It is an enhancement. It it's not a part of the regular curriculum. So those students that are participating, but you can see
the evidence of how important it is that we are training up good civil servants even as young young people in our schools. And finally, as the reflection on Memorial Day holiday yesterday, we
were able to take the day off because of sacrifices made by so many. And my mother's cousin was one who lost his life in Vietnam. And I saw his sisters posting on social media yesterday a picture of him and as a
20some young man and how different their lives would have been and our family's lives if he had not lost his life giving all for our country and our great nation. So, as we continue to reflect in a
spirit of thankfulness, just wanted to remember those families whose family members have truly given all that they could to our country and our great nation. And with that, that concludes my comments this evening.
Chair, >> thank you, Dr. Campbell. Board member Conrad. >> All right. Good evening. Thank you, Chair. I think um all my fellow board members have literally covered everything that I have written down here on my paper. So, this should be short and sweet. Um I do real quick, very
quickly, just want to say how much I appreciate all the effort that went into graduation. Um the students were very well behaved, had a great time. Um uh were really respectful. The staff, you know, um with Lake Weir was after
school on is that Friday? Friday. good. The days are running together. Thank you, Reverend Cummings. Um that was a long day for them. Um and so everybody did a great job. And I also wanted to say say thank you to Safe Schools um and
all the SRO's uh because they I felt completely safe um as a board member um going into graduation throughout graduation and at the conclusion. So just thank you cuz it was a long day for them too and it was you know we were trying out the open gate uh system for
the first time. So they were working out I don't I'll say the kinks you know going through all the bags and all thing. I see you Mr. McFaden over there nodding your head. So anyway just want to say thank you um to that whole team for making three
graduations successful so far. Um, I too am thankful for the partnership with The Rock being in and out of schools. You get to see students coming in and getting a variety of things. And that service is just um such a wonderful blessing. Our students don't
miss very much academic instruction where they run in, get what they need, we say hello, and they're on their way u back into class. So, just really thankful that that's moving forward. And lastly, the last thing I'll comment on is chairs Alec was here today presenting
the art awards, but I really miss Connor's not here unless she's in that very first. She's not. All right. I really wanted to say thank you to her. Um we have sat through many many many America 250 meetings together. Uh and
it's been a heavy lift for her. Um uh we have done a lot of extra things for the America 250 celebration and it seems like we have a lot more rules and procedures to follow than everybody else. And so she really has been, you know, troubleshooting and figuring
things out um so that we can participate and our students can participate in all of the special activities that are going on this summer. So I just wanted to give a shout out to her. Um I hope Dr. Brewer, you would tell her how much we appreciate um all the effort that has gone into uh us being able to present.
All right. Thank you so much. And that chair is all I have. >> Well, thank you, Vice Chair Conrad, and I will wrap it up. There has been so much already said, so I will not belabor the points that have been shared previously. What I will say is Lake High School's graduation on their campus was
amazing. Uh it was a great kickoff. Belleview High Schools was exceptional as always. I believe that they should teach a master class every summer to the rest of the high schools on how to execute a graduation. Uh as a staff member, I went to multiple and now as a board member and um it is exceptional
always. It never misses. It always hits. Um it is perfect. I there is no other way to describe it. And um it is timely. It is efficient. And I I am not kidding when I say they should teach a master class to the rest of the high schools on how to execute graduation. Um, and I think I'm probably echoing the rest of
the board's sentiments on that. Um, but I am a I just love a graduation on a high school campus and I'm looking forward to a time when we're able to do that um to the best of our abilities. And that leads into a brand new booster stadium would be a great place to host instead of technically World Equestrian
Center potentially. And so um we obviously had great conversation last Thursday and then tonight we approved the Westport High School project. Um, but the Westport High School project is is our first essentially South Marian is our first, but Westport High School's uh track and field is our first major
project with what the board committed, which was essentially $2 million a year every year for athletics. And we are the first board like in the history of ever to do that. And um I am I'm so grateful that my passion and Dr. Campbell's
passion and the rest of this board were able to put our thoughts together and our commitment together to prioritize athletics because what we know is student athletes um some of the reasons the only reasons they come to school are because of sports just like our students in their career in technical education which we have spent tons of money is
from referendum and otherwise to prioritize. We have to continue to enhance the reasons why students are coming to school and athletics is one of those reasons. So Mr. Tucker, I want to thank you. You're still sitting here. and I want to thank you for your leadership in athletics as our district athletic director. I for one am very
excited to see this project come to fruition. He has told me the plan uh for uh football games if they can't play them in August uh or early September. And it's going to be another hurricane free season. So we won't have any rain
delays. It's going to be wonderful. So, we are incredibly grateful for your leadership in athletics and the continued focus to equitably distribute our resources to ensure that all of our students have access to exceptional facilities. Um, and then finally, I just want to I mention a few things. Dr.
Campbell, you did mention that that deductive change order from today was an additional deduction, but that is not an accurate statement. So the email we got April 28th was a anticipated deductive change order which landed at 3.215
million which is what we approved tonight and that was included in the price that was quoted which was 41.45 million. Now there may be an additional change order coming but it's not going to 36 million. So I wanted to make sure that record got corrected. Um and so
with that we will conclude this meeting. Uh, let me find my script. Miss Martinez Young, do we have any speakers for off air? >> No, Madam Chair. >> All right. Well, there being no further business, may I have a motion to adjourn? >> Motion by board member Conrad, second by board member Cummings. All those in
favor say I. >> I. >> I. Motion passes 5-0. And this meeting is adjourned at 7:25. Thank you. The next