Good afternoon everyone. Welcome to the reorg meeting and regular school board meeting of the Martin County School Board. I'd like to call this meeting to order and we're going to have a moment of silence. Thank you. We will now say the pledge of >> allegiance
to the flag of the United States of America to the republic nation indivisible. It is now my pleasure to introduce the Felix A. Williams Elementary School
Sailfish Singer Chorus led by Colleen Dockerty. Welcome everyone. Thank you for coming. [applause] >> Never seen this room so full. Yes. The first song that they're going to perform is our Felix A. Williams
Elementary School song and it was written by two students that used to go to the school, Jacqueline and Sarah Anson. And then we're going to perform um a sneak peek, two songs from our holiday musical that's coming up. We're doing December in Our Town and it features five different holidays that happen in the month of December and
we'll be performing that on December 16th. The first song will be light the candles that's about Hanukkah and the second song will be La Fiesta, the Las Posadas um Hispanic tradition. together. [music] Master.
[music] [music] Never again [music] friends. We are friends. [music] >> [applause] >> Light the candle tonight
for our victory and our freedom. sing. I can't see what I feel like cate
Hey, [applause] it's a fiesta. Particular. Happy birthday. Daddy, yes. If you are happy to
Happy party. Happy love. >> [applause] >> Could we get a picture with the chorus? Would you mind? >> Okay. Thank you. You did a wonderful job. Thank you.
[applause] >> [applause] >> Thank you so much. You did a great job. Wait for the room to wait That will leave three people.
feel like he's testing our limits to see throw them out or something. >> Yeah. One lady left. Miss Falls, will you call the role, please? >> Dr. Morardi, >> here. >> Mrs. Roberts, >> here. >> Mrs. Powers,
>> here. >> Mrs. Russell, >> here. >> Mrs. Purchet >> here. >> Okay. I would like a motion to approve the agenda with the following addendums. Items added 9.04 to personnel recommendations 20.09
revision of graduation testing dates. Items updated 6.02 11.01 11.02 11.03 11.04 20.01
20.03 20.08 20.09. Items removed 20.06 06 school choice and controlled open enrollment. >> Move approval of the agenda with the changes. >> Second.
>> All those in favor? >> I. >> Motion approved unanimously. >> We will now have the reorganization by the superintendent as acting chair until the reorganization is complete. >> Thank you, Madam Chair. At this time,
I'd like to bring our attention to item 3.01, 01 election of our new chair. Um, at this time I am making a call for nominations for chair. >> Motion for Marshia Powers. >> Second. >> I have a motion uh by Mrs. Russell for
Mrs. Powers. A second by Dr. Morardi. All in favor? >> I. >> Pass unanimously. Congratulations, Mrs. Powers. >> Congratulations. Thank you. >> All right. Item 3.02. 02 election of our vice chair. At this time, I'd like to
call for nominations for vice chair. >> I'd like to nominate Lee Roberts as vice chair. Um, I would like to withdraw, please. Thank you. >> Okay. I'd like to nominate Brian Morardi.
>> Nomination for Dr. Morardi as vice chair with a second by Mrs. Russell. All in favor? >> I. Motion carries unanimously. Congratulations, Dr. Morardi. >> Thank you. >> At this time, I'd like to move us to
item 3.03 for us to set the regular meeting dates and times. I call for a motion and second to set the regular meeting dates and times for the third Tuesday of each month at 4 pm. Um, >> just one point of clarification, the
count the schedule of meetings included the one the meetings that were changed because of spring break. So that's what we're approving as well. So all of those changes that were listed >> for spring break. Correct. >> Perfect. I move approval. >> Second. >> I can we have discussion, please?
>> Yes. >> Thank you. Um, so we had Marca and Brian. Um, I have a problem with uh changing the January to the fourth Tuesday. That's when FSBA is going to be in
Tallahassee. So, I I I don't know who needed >> that was that was me. U the Chamber of Yeah, the Chamber of Commerce is in Tallahassee that the third week. So, um I'm open to the second week or another
week, but that third week I'm in Tallahassee. Um, okay. Well, I'll just I'll figure it out. >> I mean, I'm fine with the second week. Do you Is that an issue for anybody? >> I can't do the I'll be out of town the second week. So, >> that's fine. I'll figure it out. I'll just drive late.
>> But is if everybody's going to FSBA, we've got to find some sort of resolution, too. >> I don't know who else going besides me. So, >> I think I'm going. >> I thought I saw that on travel. I haven't put in travel yet, but may be
going. >> It'll just mean driving late on Tuesday after the meeting. >> But, um, I know that FSBA doesn't start until noon on Wednesday because I just looked at that today because I was looking at those date changes. It doesn't start until noon on that
Wednesday. And then the legislative meetings are scheduled for Thursday afternoon. >> So, I was scheduling some for Wednesday morning. So that's why. But it's okay. I mean, I can just drive late Tuesday night. I mean, after the meeting. How many hour? It's only like five hours, right? >> Four hours.
>> How many hours? Tallahassee, it's six. >> Five hours. Yeah, you can >> 7 8 9 10 11 12. >> You can make it in. Yeah, that'll be And at night there'll be less traffic. So >> five, five and a half. It depends on how you drive. >> Can we do a Monday that week?
>> Um I'm okay with that. >> I'm fine with that, too. Honestly, it's like Tuesday doesn't have to be the day. I mean, it is a it is a crazy um yeah, that month is just really crazy. And I know children's week is also in
February, so it's >> there's a lot going on. >> That we have to >> Yeah, Monday would work if that works for everybody. >> Monday the 26th. >> What time are you guys looking at? I'm I'm in the office on Monday till 6.
Is five o'clock a possibility? I could do five. Pleasure of the board. >> Doesn't matter to me what time it is. >> I'm hearing a request for five o'clock on Monday, January 26th. >> I'm good with that.
>> Let me just make sure. >> Mrs. hours check >> Monday the 2. Yeah, that's fine with me. Okay. Um and then I'll have to call in on December 9th. I'll be traveling that day, but I can call it. That's a
workshop. I'll just call in that day. I think we can accommodate that maybe. Yeah, we should probably do a practice run before just so that >> you know. >> Okay. So, if the chair can get us a practice run and [laughter] >> Thank you.
>> If you just make a note, I'm calling in on that day. >> Okay. So, I have a call for a motion and a second to set the regular meeting dates and times for the third Tuesday of each month at 400 p.m. minus the Monday, January 26th at 5:00 pm. The motion was
made by Mrs. Powers and seconded by Dr. Morardi. All in favor? >> Hold. There's other exceptions in in those dates. It's not always the third Tuesday. >> So, as presented in the draft that easy >> with the ex as presented in the draft
of Yes. >> Okay. >> And that's my motion. >> Right. >> Motion by Mrs. Powers, second by Dr. Morardi. All those in favor? >> I >> I >> Motion passes unanimously. Thank you. >> Item 3.04, 04 seeking board approval to
direct the superintendent to file the proceedings of the reorganization with the department of education within two weeks to include the schedule for regular meetings and the names and addresses of all district school officers. >> So moved. >> Second.
>> Have a motion by um Mrs. Roberts, a second by Mrs. Powers. All in favor? >> I. >> Motion carries unanimously. At this time, the school board reorganization meeting is adjourned and the time is 4:20. Thank you. >> Perfect.
>> Which >> Well, we can let's just um we'll leave it the way and we can switch at the next meeting. I'm okay with that. You >> sure? >> Yeah. Yes, of course. >> Do you want the gavl? >> Oh, >> yes. >> And you run the uh JS
beaker. >> Yeah. Let's just take a quick >> recess. Okay. Five minute break and then we'll move around. Okay. meeting of the Martin County School Board Leasing Corporation.
This is our annual meeting of the membership and the board of directors. um at this per our corporation's bylaws, it requires at the annual meeting, which is this meeting um of the board of directors that we hold our annual
reorganization meeting. So at this time, I will take a motion to approve uh the appointment of school board members as the corp corporation board of directors. >> So moved. >> Second. >> I have a motion by Miss Roberts, a second by Dr. Morardi. All those in
favor? >> I. Any opposed? Motion carries unanimously. I will now um entertain a motion to approve the appointment of the officers, the chair, Marshia Powers, vice chair, Brian Morardi, and the superintendent as
the secretary treasurer of the corporation. >> So moved. >> Second. >> I have a motion by Miss Roberts, a second by Miss Pritchette. All those in favor? >> I. >> Any opposed? Motion carries unanimously. Now item 4.0. 03. I will entertain a
motion to approve the minutes of the Martin County School Board Leasing Corporation meeting held November 19th, 2024. >> Motion to approve? >> Second. >> I have a motion by Miss Pritchette, a second by Miss Roberts. All those in favor? >> I. >> Any opposed?
Motion carries unanimously. Okay. If there's no further business, we will adjourn this meeting of the Martin County School Board Leasing Corporation. Meeting adjourned. Okay. Now we will um convene the regular school board meeting.
Is there a motion to approve the consent agenda? >> So moved. >> Second. >> I have a motion by Miss Roberts, a second by Miss Russell. All those in favor? >> Roberts. >> Oh, Miss Pritchette. >> Hi there. >> You guys, you guys get me. Miss Pritchette. All those in favor?
>> I. >> Any opposed? Motion carries unanimously. Okay. Now we have board member discussion. Um, Miss Pitchett, you have an item. >> The resolution to celebrate America's
250 year semiquinnent. >> Yes. I would like to read read the um resolution if that's all right. >> Perfect. This is a resolution of the Martin County School Board to celebrate
America's 250th year semiquincentennial. Whereas the United States of America will commemor commemorate its 250th anniversary on July 4th, 2026, marking a historic milestone in the nation's
history. Whereas on July 4th, 1776, the Second Continental Congress formally adopted the Declaration of Independence, asserting the American colony's freedom from British rule and laying the foundation for the principles of the nation's independence and
self-governance. Whereas by understanding historical texts, students can gain valuable insights that will enable them to be informed and active members of their communities. Whereas sharing our American journey will instill patriotism and pride in a
generation of youth who seem to be losing sight of America's values and exceptionalism through its struggles and triumphs. Whereas to understand the sacrifices and struggles of the generations before them, we should teach that freedom is not free and honor our
active and fallen heroes by learning from veterans and their stories of heroism. Now therefore, be it resolved, the Martin County School Board is dedicated to celebrating the 250th anniversary of the greatest nation on earth by teaching the principles of
America's exceptionalism, which are based on liberty, self-governance, and national law. These principles outlined in the foundational documents of the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution are essential for K12 students to understand civil society and
the principles of the rule of law. Be it resolved, the Martin County School Board encourages the superintendent, educators, staff, parents, and students in the Martin County School District to actively develop commemorations to reflect upon their America 250 journey
celebration. And be it resolved that the Martin County School Board commits to allocating funding for age appropriate patriotic education across all K through 12 grade levels. This includes developing curriculum, civic activities, events, and studentled commemorations.
The superintendent will also establish a minimum time for students to actively participate in lessons and events in coordination with the 250th anniversary of the United States. Be it finally resolved that the Martin County School Board invites the community to join us
in celebrating and reflecting on our nation's remarkable journey. By honoring the exceptional qualities passed down through generations, we can instill a sense of solidarity and strength in our youth. Through celebrating and emphasizing the principles of liberty,
justice, and self-governance that make our country worthy of honor and dedication for generations to come. adopted by the Martin County School Board on November 19th, 2025. Thank you.
>> Thank you. Um going to have to change the um the bottom Diane to switch out the the um chair and vice chair. >> Can we move this to um an actiononly
item since it's advertised um to approve the resolution? >> Yes. >> Okay. So, we'll move this to action. >> Okay, great. Thank you. >> And we'll go ahead and approve it at this meeting. >> Okay, >> perfect. >> Thank you. >> Okay,
next up we have our student representative. >> Thank you. I'll be starting off today with Jensen Beach High School for the November rep uh the November notes. So for Jensen
Beach High School, several student clubs and organizations came together to create over 250 Thanksgiving baskets for Elevate Hope ahead of the holiday. Jensen Beach High School is also in the process of opening its food bank. Donations are already being made to help
struggling families make sure they have food when in need. On Monday, November 10th, Jensen Beach High School recognized all their military sta military veteran staff members with a ceremony in the courtyard in a gift bag. The Jensen Beach AFJC has
been very busy volunteering to help feed local community members and participating in the Steuart Veterans Day parade. On November 13th, the Jensen Beach PTSA recognized the reflections contest winner with an awards ceremony and banquet in their honor.
Congratulations to the swim and dive team for their amazing performance at regionals last week. These 13 athletes participated in the state championships this past Friday and Saturday. For the two times medley relay, Juliet Scuderi,
Elizabeth Barnhart, Khloe Morgan Stern, and Sienna Budski. Sorry if I pronounced that wrong. For the boys 200 freestyle, we have Boon Stoneberg. The boys 550 freestyle, Justin Scury. Skirere.
Girls diving is Madison Newman and Bella Finnman. Boys diving is Colin Stumbo. Girls 100 Fly, Elizabeth Barnhart. Girls 100 Freestyle, Juliet Scooter. Boys 100 freestyle, Justin Scooter.
Boys 500 freestyle, Boone Stoneberg. Boys two freestyle relay, Boone Stoneberg, Thomas Osborne, JJ Freeman, and Justin Scooter. And for the girls for freestyle relay, Sienna Udinski,
Elizabeth Barnhart, Natalie Scarkeella, Juliet, and Juliet Scooter. For the boys for free relay, Boon Stoneberg, Parker Woods, JJ Freeman, and Justin Scuder. All right, for Martin County High
School, I am very happy to announce that all MCHS fall sports teams made it to districts, regionals, or states this season. The Tiger football team was named district champions. The boys swim team are overall combine 3A regional
champions. For boys golf, Tyler Lillianfeld and Joshua Halpurn are regional qualifiers. For girls golf, Abby Halpern is a regional qualifier. For volleyball, they are district champions and they made it to the region semifinal.
Additionally, girls cross country finished fourth at districts and qualified for regionals. Maline Busam and Elizabeth Rapaort led the girls while the boys team also or well the boys team also qualified for the
regional meet and they were led by Robbie Zkinder and Cameron Lawan. Finally, congratulations to our district champion boys bowling team who have now advanced to the state tournament. A special shout out to Matt Gambots and Sienna Seio who finished as the highest
scoring bowlers in the boys and girls divisions respectively. Now for the beginning of winter sports. Girls soccer started their season strong with an 8 to zero win over John Carroll led by Luciana Lit with four goals. She
did it again the next night, scoring all three in a three to zero victory over South Fork. Special shout out to Lyanna Diaz for earning player of the game honors with two assists. The MCHS Sunshine Committee recognized the employee of the month for October
and named Mara Ortiz, our incredible Spanish teacher and Spanish honor society adviser. Thank you to the AFJOTC for their communitywide participation in various Veterans Day events. Cadets pres
presented the colors at Palm City Elementary and appeared alongside the MCHS Tiger Regiment and the Tigeretses for the Veterans Day parade on November 11th. In performing arts news, MCH drama MCHS drama completed an impressive weekend run of Shuddtersome Tales of
Poe. Congratulations to the amazing drama students and their director, Miss Porceli. And congratulations to our MCHS Tiger Regiment who earned straight superiors at MPA. We are beyond proud to recognize the 152
Martin County High School students who earned their ACE Cambridge diploma during the June exam series. Our leadership class is partnering with class of 2028 to host a parents night out where parents can drop off their elementary level students on December
6th. And finally, we would like to celebrate Miss Leon, who was just announced teacher of the year for our district, and she is one of our wonderful Martin County High School teachers. Our winter lunch festival, winter pep rally, and our winter spirit week will
take place during the last week of school in December December before break. We are also preparing to promote our student involvement and support for all of our winter sports. Finally, for South Fork High School, the Bulldogs hosted their first ever outdoor
marksmanship competition for air rifles on November 9th. A total of seven teams and 33 marksmen competed. A huge shout out to the Bulldogs team commander, Cadet Julysa Jones, who placed fourth out of 33 in the prone position. This
month, the Bulldog cadets supported five separate Veterans Day events across Martin County. These included parades, color guard demonstrations, and speaking to students. On November 1st, Cadet Lieutenant Colonel Li Liberty Landeros
and Cadet Aiden Roy had the distinct honor of serving as Honor Flight Guardians for the Southeast Honor Flight Network. The Army JOTC Bulldog Battalion is partnering with House of Hope on this year's service learning project.
South Fork's annual trunk or treat event involved a supply drive for the Humane Society of the Treasure Coast and they were able to deliver them in October. South Fork beat their own record for baskets donated to the Elevate Hope Thanksgiving [snorts] basket drive. We don't know the winning school in the
competition until Thursday, but South Fork is hopeful to take home the turkey trophy for the third year in a row. South Fork is also currently organizing our winter their winter spirit week class competition, holiday gift drive, and student sections for the upcoming basketball season. That is all for this
month. Thank you guys. Thank you, Delaney. Next up is our uh district update with Derek Low. Not yet. Okay, there we go. Uh, Madame Chair, board members, Superintendent Maine, my name is Derek Low. Uh, it's an honor to bring you this month's district
update, um, kicking things off. Uh, this year, or this month rather, marks one year since the launch of our All-In Martin podcast, uh, when we, uh, what started as a way to connect with our community has now reached its 12th
episode. and we're proud to celebrate certainly how far it's come since then. In this latest episode, our host Kirsty Germaine sits down with our incredible digital learning team to explore how AI is being used responsibly and effectively across our schools. From
lesson planning to student research, AI is becoming a valuable tool in helping both teachers and students work smarter, not just faster. We're proud to be a district that embraces innovation, giving students access to the AI tools with thoughtful guard rails that encourage learning and creativity while
also preventing misuse. You can listen to the All-in Martin podcast on our district website, martinschools.org, Spotify, YouTube, or Apple Podcasts. And we encourage everyone to check it out if you haven't already. Our
district's inaugural series of STEM center field experiences is off to an incredible start. Several field trips for the school year have already taken place just next door at the SPAM robotics center right here in our district office. This program gives students a chance to step outside the
classroom and immerse themselves in robotics, engineering, and STEM career pathways. Really bringing those concepts to life. Modeled after the success of our environmental study center field trips, the STEM center experience connects what students learn in class to real world applications through
interactive challenges, demonstrations, and team-based problem solving by sparking curiosity and creativity. In this way, we're helping students develop the skills and the confidence that they'll need for future success in the modern workforce. Let's take a look back
at one of our recent field trips. Heat. Heat. Heat. Heat. N. [music] Heat. Heat. [music] We're also incredibly proud proud to share that four of our schools have been
recognized amongst Florida's top 500 elementary and middle schools by US News and World Report. Jensen Beach Elementary made an impressive climb to number 182, up nearly 50 spots from just last year. Bessie Creek Elementary also
rose significantly to number 189 in Palm City uh City Elementary made its debut on the list at number 476. At the middle school level, Hidden Oaks earned the number 226 uh statewide. These rankings also reflect strong
academic performance with many of our schools showing 70 to 80% of students performing at or above proficiency in both math and reading. Our schools continue to prove that an A-rated school district doesn't rest. It keeps moving forward. And this recognition is a
direct result of the hard work, collaboration, and commitment to excellence shown every day by not only our students, but also our staff. That concludes this month's district update. until next month. You can find us on our district app. Also, uh social media
profiles for Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, wherever you scroll. >> Thank you. >> Thank you, Derek. Um next up is the uh Superintendent Mains update. >> Thank you, Madam Chair. Um before I
begin, I just want to uh thank the Fouy Sailfish uh singers chorus again. Uh they did a a wonderful job. I know the audience has left, but for those of you that are watching streaming our future middle school and high school, uh, chorus and performing arts students. So,
uh, thank you to Fouy, and for providing them the opportunity to be here this evening. I also want to, uh, explain our chief, um, chief of staff's absence, Miss Jennifer Dashazo, tonight. We want to congratulate her son, uh, recent graduate of South Fork High School last
year. uh sworn was sworn in this morning by the United States Marine Corps and is on his way to uh boot camp if he's not already arrived early this morning. So congratulations to Cameron Dashazo and to Chief Dashazo for for that. So
a little personal shout out because we can do that. All right. [laughter] So uh with that I would also like to keep the congratulations going. Uh this past month, the district named our 2526 principal of the year and assistant principal of the year. I'd like to
congratulate both principal Lauren Rabner from Palm City Elementary and assistant principal Jamie Laws from Jensen Beach Elementary. Both of these outstanding educators were chosen because of their outstanding long-standing dedication to student
success, staff support, and community engagement. Their names will now be submitted to the Florida Department of Education to represent us at the state level this spring. We're incredibly proud to have them on our team and we know they will represent Martin County
well. Uh let's now watch a brief video of the moment that we were able to surprise them with this announcement. >> We have some very very exciting announcements. So, this is definitely going to be the highlight of my day. And we are going to begin by announcing our
Martin County School District [music] Assistant Principal of the Year. It is my absolute honor and privilege to announce Miss Jamie Law. [screaming] You have done an incredible job leading [music]
your school and supporting the students of Jensen Beach Elementary School with passion and just love and patience. You are a big reason that that school is so accepting of your ESC population.
It is my honor and absolute pleasure to announce Miss Lauren Ravener as principal of the year. She does everything with excellence, attention to detail, very passionate
about the students in her building, the community and the family. And it is an absolute honor having you represent us. You will represent us very well. Congratulations to them. We will have both of them in attendance at our next
uh board meeting so that we can congratulate them here and take some pictures. Uh I believe that we've got a real shot this year both at the elementary assistant principal level and the elementary principal level. We got real close last year. Uh this year I
think we will will take it over the top. So congratulations to both of those phenomenal leaders. This past weekend, the district also had the opportunity to celebrate and name our teachers of the year alongside the Education Foundation of Martin County. During the annual awards ceremony, Martin County High
School Shondaanda Leon was named the district teacher of the year and will pres will represent Martin County now at the state level competition. The event also honored winners Cassie Melhot from Steuart Middle School, the district's middle school teacher of the year, and Alexis Gray, Palm City Elementary, the
district's elementary teacher of the year. Felix A. Williams for the second year in a row claimed the coveted spirit award. I'd like to once again thank the education um the education foundation of Martin County for hosting the annual event. Uh the evening highlighted the
community's deep appreciation for our educators who uplift and inspire students every day. So, thank you uh to all of those that were able to attend. And last, but certainly not le least, I'd like to mention how grateful I am as
well as the board uh to have been able to participate in this year's uh veterans um parade. And we are greatly appreciative to all of our veterans and the sacrifices that they have made for our nation. Although students were off
from school this year on Veterans Day, many still participated in the Steuart Veterans Day parade, proudly representing the district through their JOTC programs or their band programs or various clubs. Several elementary schools were also able to participate.
And I know that I speak on be not only on behalf of myself but the board that as we were walking down uh that Ocean Avenue that morning, it was extremely uh made all of us proud to be able to see the number of students and their families that came out to line the the
streets and watch the parade and give thanks to our veterans. So uh let's take a look at this year's Veteran Day celebration. Today we join together to show our respect and gratitude to the brave men and women who have served in the United
States Armed Forces. through [singing] the night. >> So veterans are important because they show they show our nation, they show our army, they show the United States. If they weren't brave, then we
wouldn't be standing here right now. >> God, indivisible with liberty and justice. Liberty and justice for all. I believe that it's important to honor all the men and women who have served our country so that they can to protect
the freedoms that we have as a as a nation and who are willing to serve. It's a great commitment and we can certainly do a small event like this to tell everyone thank you. I'm a very emotional person and it's very moving. >> It makes me feel so good and so happy
that my children, my grandchildren can be involved. >> Veterans are true examples of leadership and love for our country. >> Happy Veterans Day. >> Madam Chair, at this time this concludes my superintendent's update.
>> Perfect. Thank you. Um, are there any questions for staff on the other information only reports? Okay, seeing none, we will move on. It is 4:51. Um, it is time for public comment or
close to time for public comment. I only have one. I will make sure that we call again at 5 p.m., but I have we'll go ahead and get started. I have um Joel Reyes. First up, let me just read this really quick, too. Citizen input is vital to
the improvement of our district. Most times, your remarks may be listened to without comment from board members or the superintendent. This does not mean they are heard with any less intensity or concern. Where appropriate, the superintendent and staff will investigate your comments and report back to you and the board with an
answer. We thank you for taking the time and having the concern to make our district better. Your presentation to the board should not exceed three minutes. Letters or statements from others not present can be given to our clerk who will be sure that each schoolboard member and the superintendent receive a copy. To keep
our record straight and authentic, our policy does not permit permit you to read the statements of others into the record. Okay. >> Good afternoon. Um, that was a great performance we witnessed just a few moments ago from
that chorus, but it wouldn't be possible without the teachers who make it happen every day and just for all the work they put in day in day out. And now around this time two years ago, 2023, the retention committee released its
findings that 42% of Martin County teachers left over a span of four years. And about 27% of those were firstear teachers and 48% had been teaching in this district for under three years. That's in comparison to Palm Beach
County, which experienced a turnover rate of about 7%. U Port St. Lucy schools about 4% in Indian River about 5%. And it's really pretty alarming. Uh I know Mr. Maine it happened
or you became the superintendent right about the time that was released and I wonder now if the retention has gotten any better in Martin County, but it really wouldn't surprise me if it hasn't. We've seen so many things happen. Just a few weeks ago, the
incident in Indiantown Middle School with three students hospitalized after consuming THC gummies and teachers just put up with so much every single day that it's very difficult for them to continue to work. A lot of them cited in
the report they didn't feel they had enough support from the district, from the board, and that they weren't compensated fairly. So my question tonight is if the that same committee has been working on compiling findings about why teachers are leaving still. Uh
two years ago I had nine teachers and six of them are gone from Martin County High School. So I wonder if the committee is continuing to keep track of that and if it will be released in the next two years. So it'll have a span of
four years total. also what more is being done for our teachers. That's all I have to say. And we're coming up on Thanksgiving time to be grateful for the teachers and the administrators who put in so much work to keep our schools safe and to
educate our students. Thank you. >> Thank you. >> Okay, we are moving on. I know I did skip over board member information share because there was nothing there. If anybody has anything that they would like to share at this point, we can or we can wait till board member comments.
Okay. Um, moving on to item number 1401, which was the resolution read by Miss Pritchette. So, I would entertain a motion to approve that resolution. >> Second. Have a motion by Miss Roberts, a second by Miss Russell. All those in
favor? I. >> Any opposed? Motion carries unanimously. Thank you very much. Um all right, moving on to item 20.01, school board travel. Um I will entertain public comment if
there's anyone here that would like to speak on this item as required by Florida statute. We need to announce that. Seeing none, do I have a motion to approve? >> Move. Second. >> I have a motion by Miss Roberts, a second by Miss Russell. All those in favor?
>> I. Any opposed? Motion carries unanimously. Item 20.02 which is ratification of the ask of ASKME's tenative agreement inou for fiscal year 2526. Are there any questions or do I have a
motion to approve? >> So move. >> Second. >> Have a motion by Miss Roberts, a second by Miss Pritchette. All those in favor? >> I. >> Any opposed? Motion carries unanimously. Item 20.03 03 which is uh the non-bargaining salary increase for
fiscal year 2526. Any if there's any questions or do I have a motion move? >> Second. >> I have a motion by Miss Roberts, a second by Miss Pritchette. All those in favor? >> I. >> Any opposed? Motion carries. Union Miss
Lee. Item 20.04 is our our schoolwide improvement plans. Do I have a motion? So move >> second. Have a motion by Miss Roberts, a second by Miss Pritchette. All those in favor? >> I. >> Any opposed? Motion carries unanimously.
Item 20.05, school advisory council memberships. Do I have a motion? >> Motion. >> Second. >> I have a motion by Miss Roberts, a second by Miss Pritchette. All those in favor? >> I. >> Any opposed? Motion carries unanimously.
Item 20.06 has been removed. Item 20.07, window hardening project. Do I have a motion? >> Second. >> I have a motion by Miss Roberts, a second by Miss Pritchette. All those in favor? >> I. >> Any opposed? Motion carries unanimously.
Um item 20.08 are requisitions um to be approved over $100,000. Do I have a motion? Have a motion by Miss Roberts, a second by Miss Russell. All those in favor?
>> Any opposed? Motion carries unanimously. Item 20.09, which is revision of graduation/ testing dates for 2526. Um, this was just for the public. This was done in order to accommodate the
testing schedule. So students weren't didn't have to return to school after graduation for um a high stakes test. Move to approve 20.09. >> Second. >> A mo I have a motion by Mr. Morart, Dr. Morardi, a second by Miss Pritchette.
All those in favor? >> I. >> Any opposed? Motion carries unanimously. Okay. Um item all the items in 21 are a first review um by the school board and and
we'll entertain a motion to approve the advertising. First off, are there any questions on any of these policies? Um, so at the pleasure of the board, we can take them all at once or we can do them one by one. >> Move approval of the advertising for all
of them. >> Second. >> I have a motion by Miss Roberts, a second by Miss Pritchette. All those in favor? >> I. >> Any opposed? Motion carries unanimously. Item 22, which is public review of
schoolboard policies. Is there anyone from the public who would like to speak on any of these um policies that are being presented to the board? Okay, seeing none, um are there any questions from the board on any of these
policies? And again, at the pleasure of the board, we can take them all at once or we can go one by one. I'll move approval of all of them, but could you read the policy names into the record, please? >> Okay. So, Miss Roberts has moved approval of
the following policies. 0124, standards of ethical conduct 2522, challenges to adoption of use of instructional library or reading list materials. Policy 2800, educational services for
students in Department of Juvenile justice education programs. This is a new policy. 5460, which is graduation requirements. 5463 credits from other schools. 5465
general education development or GED tests. 6105 Authorization to use faximile signatures. 6610.01 contracts for operation of vending machines on school property. This is um
being rescended. 7101 building permits and the code enforcement office. 7400 safety and health is being rescended. 7410 is maintenance.
8419 emergency closing of schools is being rescended. 8420 emergency management, emergency preparedness and emergency response agencies. 8480 disruption of school is being
rescended and policy 9271 is personalized education program for students and this is a new policy. >> I second Miss Roberts motion. >> Okay. I have a motion by Miss Roberts, a second by Miss Pritchette. All those in favor? I
>> I >> Any opposed? Motion carries unanimously. Okay. We now have open to the board. >> Oh yes. >> Yes. It's 501. If there's anybody else from the public who has not already spoken that would like to speak at our
time certain spot of 5:00 pm for public comment. Okay. Seeing none, um we'll we'll move right into open to the board. Who would like to go first? Miss Pritchette. First off, I want to thank everyone for the support they gave me during my year of
being chair. It was a lot of fun. I stumbled a lot, but I feel like I landed on my feet, and I really appreciate everybody's support. And I want to wish congratulations to you, Miss Powers, and to you, Dr. Mararti, and I hope that Derek will get a picture of the new uh
chair and vice chair, and the rest of us. That's it. Thank you. >> Thank you, Dr. Morardi. >> Yes. Uh, I want to congratulate our outgoing chair, Miss Pritchette, for a job well done. And I want to congratulate our new chair, Miss Powers.
Good luck this year. You're going to need it. Um, [laughter] no, no, I'm just kidding. Uh, the FA singers were fantastic today. Congratulations to them. Um,
we were able to several of us from the board and uh the superintendent and staff were able to attend a lunchon with leadership Martin where the culinary team at Martin County High School uh prepared a lunch for us and I just wanted to give kudos to them because the
meal was absolutely fantastic and uh they're doing a great job over there raising future chefs and leaders. Um, so it was just outstanding. Um, me and I think everyone here was at the education foundation's teacher of the
year celebration. I just want to give kudos to Lisa Rose and that organization. It was a fun night. Uh, great celebration. Great to see all the teachers uh, together and celebrating. And, uh, congrats to all of the nominees
and the winners. And finally, I just want to wish everyone a happy Thanksgiving break and hopefully you have a safe and wonderful time with family and friends. >> Roberts, >> sure. Um, I want to thank Martin County High School for their presentations that
they did for the Edgar Allen Po thing. It was very spooky. And Jensen Beach High School for their presentation of Clue. I also enjoyed the performances at Steuart Middle School and Indiantown Middle School. I'm a little bit disappointed that we didn't have the talent show at Martin County High School like was scheduled, but that will come
back, I'm sure. And congratulations to all of our students that won something at Martin County Council for the Arts, Marty's Awards. I would also like to take a moment to thank CC Scoffield for her vision for the photography awards um ceremony that she put together and Mark
Cowles for him his implementation of that vision. I think it was very well done and I think the students really um received a lot out of it and a kudos to the three musicians who came and brought some live music and um and the singers that came from South Fork that sung.
Thank you >> to say congratulations to our new chair and vice chair. Thank you Miss Pette also for what you've done for the last year and happy Thanksgiving to everyone. I hope you have a great time with your family and get some rest. >> Perfect. Thank you. So, I have a couple
things. I want to say thank you to Amy. Um, thank you for your leadership over the past year. Um, it's not always an easy task um leading the board and um it does require a lot more time and commitment and I really appreciate um everything that you've done over the
past year for the board. So, thank you very much. Um um like everybody, the Veterans Day parade was just amazing. And as the superintendent said, um it was brought a lot of joy seeing families on the sidewalk watching and clapping
and cheering um and being a part of the parade and honoring our veterans. And um I was very honored to be able to participate alongside my fellow board members. Um, and again, congratulations to all the teachers of the year and all
the teachers that were there. It was such a fun night. I I guess one of my um I got pulled out onto the dance floor by Palm City Elementary uh performers. It was really fun. Um yeah,
lifelong dream fulfilled. [laughter] It was [snorts] great. It was really fun. Um, I also want to say a very special congratulations to our own um, Chief Dashazo and her son Cameron. And for those of you that don't know
Cameron, he is a true testament of perseverance and really staying um, the course for what he wanted to achieve. And he did. And he had some disappointments along the way, but in the end um, he kept his eye on the prize
and he is now serving our country. very honorably and we are so proud of him at the Martin County School District and all of our students that serve in our armed forces. And then finally, I just want to wish everyone um a very happy Thanksgiving. I hope everyone enjoys um
a little time away from the office and with your families and are able to relax and enjoy and be thankful for all that we have and all that we have to come. So, thank you all very much. Um Superintendent Maine. Thank you, Madam
Chair. Um, I just wanted to address if I could for a couple of minutes. I first off want to thank you very much for coming up to the podium and speaking uh both last month and this month. You are very wellspoken. You are articulate. Um,
and it's it's a good model for students in the district uh to be able to come up and respectfully uh speak uh about what it is that's on your heart and what it is that's on your mind. So, I do appreciate that. We value that and look
forward to that for our students because that's what we teach you to do. Um, but with that, I do want to address some of the data that that you presented tonight. And I encourage you uh before the evening is over or at a time that's convenient for you to set up a time to
meet with uh our executive director Jeff Raymond of HR um to talk about some of your ideas, some of your concerns, some things that maybe we can go a little deeper on when we talk about uh teacher or staff retention. Um and then also
want you to know that every month um we present an HR monthly update in the board agenda. Tonight is it is on slide um four for all of those that are that are watching in the HR update. We
do report data all the way back from 22 to 23. Um and we do show our retention rate for all of those years. Uh, I will also let you know that as we track that data over time, over the last three years, our retention rate here in the
Martin County School District is 86%. Um, and so and that has gone up a percent or two each year over the last couple of years. So, I do encourage you uh to look at that data. That data is shared. It is an expectation of mine that our HR department is monitoring
those uh data elements so that all of us can make good decisions based on that data that we're that we are experiencing or that we receive. Um the exit interviews from teachers are very important and not just from our teachers
but from our staff. And you are absolutely right. Some of those exit interviews do glean a lack of support or feeling a lack of support. And so we are going to continue to move forward in the teachers that we do see leave the district uh to continue reaching out
across um the aisle and really finding out what it is that they felt like they were lacking from the school that that they taught at or worked at. Um I will also say that recently just published the Palm Beach County School District on
average uh has over 900 teachers per year uh that leave the Palm Beach County School District. So, this is a state of Florida problem. In fact, it's a national problem. And we have to work together uh to continue making sure we're creating environments in which our
teachers and our staff want to stay. So, I would encourage you to continue that dialogue both with me and with Executive Director Raymond uh and and find ways that we can help bridge uh that gap and keep our our great teachers here in in Martin County. So, so thank you. I
appreciate your your time this evening. Um, I also uh want to just thank uh outgoing chair Pritchette uh for your year of leadership. I appreciate it. It is difficult as as board chair P uh suggested a lot of different things that we have to navigate, but it's been an
excellent year and I appreciate your support in our work together and also um congratulations Mrs. powers and I look forward to uh what I think will be an exciting year of more progress and growth uh for the Martin County School District and for everybody who's
watching and to all of our teachers, faculty, and staff, have a wonderful Thanksgiving. We have a lot to be thankful for and blessed. Thank you. >> Okay, seeing no more business before the board, this meeting is adjourned. Thank you all.
Oh, yeah.