I call this meeting of the Penllis County School Board to order. Please note, Miss Edmund is unable to be here today as she is presenting the Consortium of the State School Boards Association conference. Miss Long is
unable to attend as well as Miss Meyer who is attending via Zoom. Uh, Miss Meyer, are you able to hear us? We will circle back to check on that later. >> Yes, I can hear you. >> Thank you, Miss Meyer. We can hear you as well.
>> Thank you. >> The invocation will be shared by Aman Aen uh of the Collective Empowerment Group of the Tampa Bay area. The invocation will be followed by the pledge of
allegiance led by uh chair Laura Hine and the national anthem performed by the Tarpon Springs Leadership Conservatory of the Arts Advanced Show Choir under the direction of Gabriella Santos. Please stand and remain standing until
the end of the national anthem. >> Good morning. >> Good morning. Shalom Pax Visalamlaykum. Peace be unto you. Please let us pause uh pause together in a spirit of
reverence and reflection with God's name merciful benefactor or merciful redeemer. Oh God of wisdom, compassion, and truth, known by many names and honored through many traditions, we gather at this meeting this morning of the Penllis
County School Board. As spring begins in this season that reminds us of renewal and growth, we give thanks for the gift of free public education and for the sacred trust placed in those who guide our schools. Our Lord and Creator, give
us the strength to always be regardful of your presence in our midst and your everflowing graces in our lives. Give us the strength to recognize and acknowledge indisputable truths whenever they are manifested and made plain to our minds, our eyes, our ears, and our
hearts. Oh Lord, guide and help us as we fulfill our inherited responsibilities as patriotic American citizens, working together to form a more perfect union, ensuring domestic tranquility, sustaining our unique democratic
republic, preserving our inalienable rights, guaranteeing liberty and justice for all. Our Lord, we give thanks for the board chair, vice chair, the superintendent and administration for all of the staff and employees from the highest to the lowest paid whose dedication and
sacrifice make our education system operate successfully year after year. Gracious God, we acknowledge the complex issues facing this district and community such as enrollment shifts and possible school closing or closings or
consolidations, funding uncertainties, the perennial achievement gap, questions about curriculum and instructional materials, the challenges of AI and emerging technologies, and on and on. Oh God of our weary years who never
tires and who's never lost a battle. Help us as faith leaders, as parents and grandparents, as community members on the watchtower to more fully engage especially with our children, with our students, our future so that they come
to treasure the tremendous opportunities extended to them. Grant patience, humility, thoughtful discernment, mutual respect, and wisdom as these servants deliberate the many weighty issues they must address. Yet,
oh God, allow them to return return home to their families at peace and contented with what they have done. Bless this meeting to bring hope and progress for us all. We pray. Amen and amen.
I 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. Say
by the dawn early light. What so proud we held at the twilight lasting stripes and bright stars through the fight. For the ramparts we watch were so
gallently streaming. And the rockets red glare. The bombs bursting in air gave proof through the night that our flag was still there. Oh, say does that star
spangled wave or the land of the free and the home of the brave.
Thank you. Please be seated. Everybody already is. Uh, Miss Santos, will you please introduce your next song? >> Absolutely. So, this is the advanced So, Ensemble from the TSLCA choirs and we will be singing Adashtra by Jacob Narvarude. This is a piece that we took to solen ensemble in which they received
superior ratings for. So, Adore the hospital. Aost to the stars. To the stars. When you're tired and troubled and you
have lost your way, don't let hard times lead you astray. Though you may be weary, just know you're not alone. For the stars will guide
you. will look. Leave all behind. But better spell. To the stars,
to the stars, to the stars, to the stars. To the stars. The sun will fall.
Leave all behind. The best hospital to the best hospital. Star. Thank you so much, Miss Santos. That was a beautiful performance. Lovely way for us to start our morning. Um, and thank
you, Emmanil, for your lovely invocation. We are now moving on to item 1.5 and the video students soar together at Generation Lead Summit. It's my pleasure to welcome you all here
today for the Generation Lead Conference at USF St. Pete. >> I'm here at the leadership summit to learn about different types of leadership skills and how I can better myself as a leader, >> how to influence others in our community, and how to make our school a better place for all the students who go
there. I've had a great time. This has been a really good activity for our brains. >> The escape room. I love problem solving. I love puzzles. And that was kind of the mix of all the above. I think the collaboration, I think, being able to listen to everybody's ideas was really
good. And the nice touch of flying a drone at the end. >> Our first activity was the parachute. We had great communication. My team collaborated the best there, taking in everybody's ideas and making it happen.
>> Making parachutes was awesome because we worked as a team and we managed our way through obstacles. >> A leader is a person that encourages others and think about everybody's opinions and make sure everybody's voices are heard.
I think lead by example is definitely the most important thing a leader can do. >> Being someone that other people can look up to. >> Help people and allow them to make mistakes, but guide them to where you want them to get to. >> Being an open communicator, being open
for not only people to come talk to you, but also you having the initiative to go talk to people and figure out what you need to fix and how you can improve your surroundings. Always be strong, confident, and never give up. >> When someone's down, the leader usually
picks them back up. I learned that you got to like trust who you're with. Respects the people around them and puts others first. >> To not overshadow and to allow yourself to be a part of a bigger picture.
>> Being a leader is one of the most fulfilling things you can do. together. >> Oh, thank you. That was so much fun. I know myself and uh various board members attended different portions of that um event. It's great to see all of our kids
just learning in different innovative ways. And as Mr. Henrikoy says, if it's fun, they'll go to school. Uh and it was a lot of fun. Um, and I look forward to seeing how they implement these things in their classes. Uh, now we move on to introduction of professional and community organization
reps. Uh, Miss Mascarinus, uh, will you please make the introductions? >> Good morning, Madame Vice Chair, members of the board, Mr. Hendrick and staff. It is my pleasure to introduce the following representatives of community and professional organizations. Representing the North Panelis League of
Women Voters, Jean Reynolds. from the Panelis Arts for a Complete Education Coalition, Helen French and Maria Cantonis. Today we have a presentation from the Student Rights and Responsibility
Committee. Please welcome student Gabrielle Zitto from Tarpon Springs High School and her principal, Lisa Fatolites. Good morning members of the board, Mr. Hendrickk and staff. My name is Gabrielle Zitto as a and as a senior in
the Tarpon Springs High School ACE Cambridge program, as well as the leader of multiple clubs, honor societies, and sports teams at my school, it is my pleasure to present the TSHS students rights and responsibilities committee report. Last school year, we had a 98.3%
graduation rate, continuing to aim for our 100% goal. TARP offers a multitude of differentmies and programs, as well as a variety of industry certifications, many of which are beyond the opportunities I highlight today. In 2026, TSHS was named a magnet school of
distinction. And in 2025, 86% of our graduating class earned at least one college credit and/or an industry certification. The renowned Tarpon Springs Leadership Conservatory for the Arts, continues to boast achievements in band, orchestra,
and chorus ensembles. Our students, many of which have been in the program since middle school, have especially shown out in recent years. In October of 2025, our outdoor performance ensemble won Orlando regional overall grand champions at the Band of of America.
Following this, in January of 2026, the jazz ensemble was one of 20 bands nationwide selected as a finalist at the Essentially Ellington competition, ultimately winning the Emerging Elling Honor Band, as well as a variety of outstanding awards in saxophone,
trumpet, and trombone at New York City. Chorus and syndicated sound made waves too as the 2026 finals grand champions at the Fairfield Crystal Classic. When they are not practicing or competing, many TSLA students are honoring their leadership skills in the Tri Music Honor
Society through community outreach. Alongside their high school diploma, students in the Veterinary Sciences Academy complete 250 plus hours of internship experience to earn their veterinary assistant certification. Therefore, students going straight into the vet industry are paired with local
clinics before they graduate. Additionally, those in the program who would like to kickstart their undergraduate education often transfer veterary courses to St. Petersburg Colleg's veterinary technician program. Particularly motivated students join Tarpon's vet club to gain additional
hours of practice outside of class. The doggy daycare program is a beloved staple at my school, connecting the academy with the entirety of TSHS. The ACE Cambridge program prepares our students to excel at the undergraduate level. By taking advanced, globally
recognized courses, students earn their ACE diploma, qualifying them for Bright Futures Florida academic scholars award. Such courses also count as college level credit at many institutions. Students in this program often choose to take advanced placement and dual
enrollment courses as well, academically pushing themselves to go beyond high school education. Chefs in the Jacobson Culinary Arts Academy are constantly working hard through their studies, work experience, and volunteer hours. While earning their American Culinary Federation Certified
Fundamental Cook certification, many students are also being awarded prestigious honors and scholarships. It is no surprise that the ACF deems our academy exemplary program status. In May of 2025, Tarpon Chefs took first,
second, and third place status at the Skills USA competition. In February, Sunost News covered three of our chefs for their profound community connection service program to be showcased at SkillsUSA 2026. I work with one of the students, Sydney
Young, in the community outreach program that I run myself called Be the Change, located at the Union Academy. The program provides free tutoring and complimentary meal support to underprivileged youth within Tarpon Springs in the surrounding area. Both Sydney's and Mai's projects are additional examples of our school's
continued dedication to service. Through the National MUATHa and Hispanica Honor Society chapters, which I preside over, as well as clubs such as Key, Save, Environmental, and Interact, students are consistently giving back to Penelis County through outreach.
The many honor societies, clubs, and sports teams at Tarpon sharpen the blade of our student body, representing our school at the district to global level. I would like to say thank you to the school board and Mr. Hendrickk for the opportunity to share Tarpon Springs High School's continued achievement. As a
result of my experiences at Tarpon, I feel confident in the path I will take through my undergraduate studies, career, and the future impact I will make on the world. Thank you. Thank you, Gabrielle. And Gabrielle is a validictorian of Tarpon Springs High School's graduating class this year. So,
we have greatness in our room. But, um, thank you for the update. And, Miss Fatalitus, I know you are very proud of your school and your students. So, thank you for coming and giving us that presentation. Um, we move on to uh 2.1 possible
changes to the agenda. Mr. Mr. Hendrik, are there any changes to the agenda? >> Madam Chair, there are no changes today. >> Thank you, board members. We move on to item 3.1, adoption of the agenda. May I have a motion and a second to adop to adopt the agenda? >> Second.
>> I have a motion from Miss Kaine and a second from Miss Blackburg. All those in favor? >> I. >> Any oppose? Okay. Um that is uh motion passes 5 to zero. Moving on to 4.1
presentation of the proclamation designating March 2026 as music in our school's month. Uh may I have a motion and a second to approve item 4.1. >> A motion by Miss Kane and a second by Miss Blackburg. Mr. Hendrik, will you please read the item?
>> Would be my pleasure. Madam Chair, I want to call up Aory Spencer, our prek12 specialist for the performing arts. And I think as you heard earlier today, music is alive and well in our schools. I think we have music performance assessments this week for some of our high schools. We had the Ignite Arts
Festival just last weekend. Lots going on every month, but this month we honor music in our schools. Mr. Spencer, >> thank you, Mr. Hendendrick. Thank you, everyone. Yes, music is alive and well and a very busy time. And I know it was mentioned in the presentation for student rights and responsibilities, but
just another congratulations to the Tarper and Chorus program who just attended the Fairfield Classic in Ohio this weekend um and took grand champion status. So it was very um very exciting and my first toe into show the show choir world. So it was very interesting
experience um so congratulations to them. Of course, as mentioned, each March, the National Association for Music Education supports the National Celebration of Music in Our Schools Month, recognizing the vital role that music plays in a well-rounded education.
Our district continues to celebrate the spirit of the idea of united through music. Recognizing the power of music to connect us all, music brings people together, fostering a sense of belonging and a shared experience. It shapes how students understand themselves and the
world around them, nurturing creativity, curiosity, and of course, self-discovery. Throughout March, we continue to celebrate the strong and thriving music programs in Penllis County Schools where students and educators are both united through music.
Penelis County Schools promotes music in our schools months in many ways, but um Mr. Mr. Hendricks stole my thunder a little bit but celebrating the completion of five all county concerts um including more than 1100 students being featured from across the school district recognizing jazz orchestra and
coral programs that recently participated in their music performance assessments in addition to the first of two band music performance assessments happening this week today and tomorrow demonstrating the high level of achievement across many of our student
musicians and as a result of referendum funding, Penelis County continues its work to expand and strengthen music programs across our district, including now at the prek level, which is huge because that does not happen in many districts, ensuring that many students have access
to high quality music education for all. The performing arts department, for its part, celebrates the music in our schools month by continuing to support and grow our many educators and their efforts to advance music education throughout the school district. We
recognize that music is invaluable as a component of a child's development and complete education. We remain committed to finding new ways to keep music education accessible and relevant to our students, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to experience the
transformative power of music. Thank you for your consideration of this proclamation. >> Thank you so much, Mr. Spencer. Miss Kaine, will you please read the proclamation? >> Absolutely. The proclamation for music in our schools month, March 2026.
Whereas music education is a part of a well-rounded education for every student as outlined in the Every Student Succeeds Act. And whereas the study of music contributes to young people's development through heightened skills in listening, reading, self-expression, and
creativity. Whereas music education in schools includes a broad range of types of music and active musical experiences. Whereas music and the other arts significantly enhance the morale and quality of the school environment and whereas it is stated object the stated
objective of the public school to prepare children for productive role in our society. Whereas the national association of music education has designated March as music in our schools month. Now therefore, the school board of Penllis County does hereby recognize
March 2026 as music in our schools month and endorses this observance as an opportunity to support the purposes and practices of music education and encourages teachers, parents, students, and citizens to participate. Signed the 11th day of March, 2026.
>> Thank you, Miss Kaine. Uh board members, any discussion? >> Yes. Yes, Miss Kane. I just want to say thank you so much for all the hard work and all of the amazing opportunities that we have throughout Penel County Schools for music. I truly believe it is an imperative piece of education that
should be part of our core education from a state level down and as we continue to um support it. All of the musicians in our district work so very hard every single day to ensure that students have opportunities to participate in this and to develop those life skills that are so important moving
forward besides just their academics. Thank you so much. >> Thank you, Miss Kaine. Um, I wholeheartedly agree. Um, we have a motion from Miss Kane and a second by Miss Blackburg. All those in favor say I. >> I.
>> Thought I would let you know. >> I. Any opposed? The motion passes five to zero. Thank you. 4.2 Presentation of the proclamation designating March as youth art. Youth Art Month. May I have a motion and a
second to approve item 4.2? >> I have a motion by Miss Hine and a second by Miss Blackbird. Uh Mr. Hendrik. >> Thank you, Madam Chair. I'll call up Jonathan Ogle, our visual arts supervisor. And you know, the arts always get along so well that they partner together in the month of March
to celebrate in our visual arts. You see a lot of artwork around the room today. Lots of exhibitions and field trips going on. I've seen this week as well. So, Mr. Ogle, take it away. Thank you. Uh good morning, Madame Vice Chair, school board members, Mr.
Hendrickk and staff. Uh happy youth art month. This year's national theme is the world needs art. Fortunately for our students, Penllis County Schools fully understands that art is not a luxury, it's a necessity.
Thank you for your continued dedication to a world-class visual arts education for all students. As our art teachers and students celebrate youth art month at their schools and throughout the community this month, I have several points of pride I'd like to share with
you. District leadership has ensured that every elementary student receives weekly visual arts classes from certified art teachers. This year, thanks to the PCS referendum, all preK students are also receiving arts
enrichment experiences at their elementary schools. Our secondary students have access to daily art courses through their electives at their schools. And thanks to district and school leadership, there are a number of state approved visual arts courses to
choose from, including two-dimensional art, three-dimensional art, advanced placement art and design, digital art, creative photography, and more. Panelis County is now referred to as the arts coast, and for good reason. We are
fortunate to live in an arts oasis with widespread community support for the arts and many arts enrichment opportunities for our students. Penllis County has strong partnerships with many local art museums, art centers, galleries, and art organizations for
student experience field trips as well as hosting over 20 annual district student art exhibitions. As you fre see from this sampling around us, art award-winning works um are featured
from some of those shows here uh this morning. Beyond our PCS art shows, students have additional uh showcase opportunities in which they regularly earn the top awards such as the Florida Art Education
Association statewide student art assessment exhibit, the Panelis Education Foundation's Rising Stars Art Scholarship Competition, the Gasprilla Festival of the Arts Young Artist Expo, and the Scholastic Art and Writing
Awards. Gold Key awarded artworks in the Penllis County Art Region for Scholastic Art Awards is currently being blind adjudicated at the national level. We will find out who our national medalists
are on March 25th. Last year, 16 PCS students earned national gold and silver medals. In just the last 10 years, Penelis County students have earned 137 national awards. This is a reliable indicator of the
highquality art education students have been receiving at all levels from certified art teachers in art rooms across our district. On behalf of the visual arts department and our district's art teachers, thank you once again for your full support of the
visual arts through this proclamation. >> Thank you. Miss Blackburg, will you read the proclamation? Thank you. Youth Art Month. Whereas the study and production of visual art leads to a fuller, more meaningful life. And
whereas visual arts education provides substantial education benefits to all elementary, middle, and high school students. And whereas visual arts education cultivates students creativity, develops problem solving and critical thinking skills, and brings to
life what is learned in other subjects. And whereas visual arts education teaches sensitivity to beauty, order, and other expressive qualities, as well as provides a deeper understanding of many cultures, various beliefs, and
history. And whereas our national, state, and local leaders have acknowledged the necessity of including visual arts experiences in every student's education. And whereas our local art museums, centers,
galleries, and arts organization partners work with our public school district to expand opportunities for students to experience and be inspired by the many artistic and cultural treasures found here in Penllis County. And now, therefore, the Penllis County
School Board does hereby recognize March 2026 as youth art month. And we encourage all residents to support the youth in our community in their intellectual and creativ creative development through artistic endeavors and offer support to our committed
elementary, middle, and high school visual arts educators. Signed this 11th day of March, 2026. >> Thank you. Uh board members, any discussion sign? >> Good morning. Thank you and thank you for being here. I'm certainly in support
of this proclamation. Um, as a parent, I've now seen our arts program from elementary school into middle school and now into high school. And I just want to thank you and Penelis County Schools for that opportunity for my children and everyone's children, but we also see it
in the extraordinary work shown throughout the local museums in our region as well. I mean, the work is quite capable. Um, so from, you know, music and dance to visual art, I'm very grateful. I thought I would share with you, you mentioned that this year's um
theme was the world needs art and indeed it does. And I would say one of the reasons our family had the opportunity to visit um the New Lou Museum in Abu Dhabi several years ago. And when you go to that museum, it's got art of the east
and art of the west all shown together. And it shows this amazing common inspiration, common hope between people around the world. And they expressed that, they expressed that hope and inspiration through art. And it was
truly stunning. But the thing that stuck with me most was not the actual visual artwork in the museum, but I was crossing this um interior bridge that overlooked the, you know, shining sea and and it had glass and it had letters on it and it said, "The shortest
distance from man to man is art." And that is so true. You hear a song, you see a work this morning, when we share that together, it brings us together. So art inspires human connection and that is certainly what the world needs. So
just wanted to highlight that today and let all of you know who are here who work in the arts. Thank you and I appreciate you. >> Thank you. Any other board members? >> Thank you so much, Mr. Vogle. Um I have a motion uh from Miss Hine and a second
from Miss Blackburg. Uh all in favor? >> Uh any opposed? Motion passes five to zero. Thank you so much, Mr. Vogle. We will now move on to 5.0 uh excuse me 5.1 meeting procedures. Miss Hal, are
there any speakers? >> Yes, ma'am. We have one speaker this morning. >> Thank you. >> Our speaker is Mark Clu. He's speaking to items 7.4, 7.5, 7.6, 7.9, and 7.13.
>> Thank you. Good morning, Mr. Clutho. >> Mark Clutho Largo 7.456 Plato. Boy, he must be turning over in his grave
in this day and age. Oh boy. using his name. That's blasphemous. And then we have 7.9 bid policies and procedures,
the strategic priority, fiscal operational responsibility. Not all we have to do is look across the street at that new building. It should look like these
doesn't resemble anything like these buildings. 1960 Winston Churchill said we shape our buildings thereafter they shape us. So,
what does the headline read? Bird losses accelerate in an ominous sign for the environment. The steepest drops from 1987 to 2021
were in Florida, Texas, Louisiana, and Arizona. Overall drops in bird population measured from 1987 to 2021 were sharpest in warm and warming areas,
suggesting that warming climate may play a role. Well, here's the thing. You make those stupid buildings like that one there, that building up there at Clearwater High School, what do you
do? You warned the climate. Who's responsible for these birds? And it won't be just the birds. All these childrens that you say you
care about. What's their future? It's not going to be pretty. No, it's going to be hell. You people are criminals. >> There are no more speakers for agenda
items. >> Item 6.0, unfinished business. There is no unfinished business, so we will move to item seven. Uh, consent agenda, item seven. May I have a motion and a second to approve the consent agenda? >> I I have a motion from Miss Blackburg
and a second from Miss Hine. Um, all in favor? >> I thank you. All opposed. Motion passes five to zero. Uh we'll move on to non-consent agenda
item 8.1 setting a public hearing and authorizing the advertisement of the public hearing to consider the amendment to policy 5120 assignment within district. This is the first reading. Sorry I can I get a motion and a second?
>> Thank you, Miss Hine. and a second by Miss Blackburg. Um, Mr. Hunter, will you please introduce the item? >> Yes, ma'am. Uh, so board members and and members of the public, at the last school board meeting, the board took action to vote to close Cross Bayou Elementary School for next school year. And as was discussed at that time, it
would cause a corresponding change in district policy for the grid atlas, which is the uh zoning for students who attend schools. As we discussed with families at Cross Bayou and in multiple public meetings, our proposal was to divide the former Cross Bayou zone into
two schools, Bardmore Elementary School and Panella Central Elementary School. And so the policy before you today as I have Lyanna is director of strategic planning and policy is to walk you through what that looks like and to set the date of the public hearing. Mrs. E is
>> good morning madame vice chair, board members, superintendent Hendrickk, staff and community. In item 8.1, we're recommending amendment to policy 5120 assignment within the district. These recommendations are a result of the board vote on February 24th to close
Cross Bayou Elementary School at the end of this school year. The schoolboard policy 5120 is being revised to support in support of operational efficiency and the proposed amendments reflect updates to the grid atlas. The grid atlas divides the county into 1,123
grids which are used to create the school zones. The grid has been adjusted to accommodate the closure of Cross Bayou Elementary and the revised grid divides Cross Bayou Elementary's current zone into two and adds those into adjacent into the adjacent zones for
Bardmore Elementary and Penllis Central Elementary. The schools are located 5 miles or less from Crossal and they have a natural dividing line along 66th Street. The proposed amendments ensure efficient district operations and would be effective for the 26 27 school year.
We recommend setting a public hearing for April 28th. Thank you. Uh board members, any discussion? Seeing none, I have a motion from Miss Hine and a second from Miss Blackburg to approve item 8.1. All in favor?
>> I. >> Any opposed? The motion passes five to zero. Thank you, Miss. >> Thank you. >> Uh item 9.1 items introduced by superintendent Mr. Hendrick. >> Thank you, Madam Chair. Um excited to share that our next listen and learn is
coming up in April, but I want to thank the city of St. Petersburg, Dr. Shiron Brown, and Mayor Welch for our most recent listen and learn, which was held in partnership with the city of St. Petersburg around community partnerships. The city shared a number of programs that they have put in place to support youth in the community and we
appreciate their engagement. The next one is on April 22nd and again is geared towards positive staff experiences and we look forward to hearing from employees at that event. Last week we celebrated our superintendent academic challenge champion Palm Harbor University High School who has now repeated two years in a row as the
champions. Holland High School finished in second. East Lake finished in third. And from the overall competition, an all-star team is selected to go compete at the state level, which will be in April, where our students will try to defend our state championship from last
year. Last weekend, the panel's history day regional competition occurred. It was held at Largo High School and we had 175 student projects from 28 middle schools and high schools across the district, private and public schools. Students examined the annual theme from
the National History Day Fair of Revolution, Reaction, and Reform: America's Journey in 250 years. From the competition, 42 Penelis County students advanced to the State History Day competition in Tallahassee this May. We
wish them best of luck. And speaking of best of luck, this morning, in about 29 minutes, the St. Petersburg High School girls basketball team will compete in the final four in Jacksonville, advancing to the final four for the first time in school history. Good luck to the Green Devils this morning. And
yesterday, the Bokea boys high school basketball team made it to the final four and lost in Jacksonville, but a great run to the final four. Congratulations to the Pirates as well. Just about two weeks ago, students in Penelis County, 20 schools participated in the third annual ball hockey tournament sponsored by the Tampa Bay
Lightning. The event took place at the brand new Sprrows Horizon Sports Park in Penllis Park. And if you have not been there yet, you're in for a treat. Uh amazing new sports facility. Forest Lakes Elementary School finished as the runner up, losing to a school from Pasco County. And Carwise Middle School won
the middle school division, winning for the third year in a row, the Carwise Sharks. We thank the Lightning for their participation in host of the tournament as well as their work in our schools which exposes students in PE classes to hockey. You heard earlier from Mr.
Spencer about the show choir from Tarpon Springs High School. I also want to wish best of luck to the wind ensemble and wind symphony who over spring break will be participating in the 2026 New York Invitational Music Festival held at Carnegie Hall. Just four schools were
chosen from their recordings to participate and those students from Tarpon Springs will have a great opportunity. This is the fourth time the ensembles have been to Carnegie Hall in the last 30 years and we wish them best of luck. And in case you haven't heard, next week is spring break and we wish
our students and families a great, healthy, relaxing spring break. But just in case they're missing school, we do have our spring break challenge. You can find more about it on our website and students can log into Clevver to participate. There are incentives and prizes to keep learning going over the break. We look forward to seeing
everyone back on March 24th. And the superintendent standout this meeting as we celebrate employees across the district who have demonstrated core values is Mr. Kevin Pace, a theater teacher at Gibbs High School. He's recently noted for his exceptional technical theater director and being a
teacher leader where he not only leads the technical theater at Gibbs High School, but also helps when the uh auditorium, the grand theater at Gibbs is used. And he recently uh participated in the Ignite Music Invitational, helping to organize event spaces, stayed
late for featured performance, and all the while running his dress rehearsals for Gibbs High School's productions. Thank you, Mr. pays for the work you do each and every day and all of our employees in Penelis County. Thank you, Madam Chair. >> Thank you, Superintendent. Uh, item 9.2,
uh, intro items introduced by the schoolboard attorney. Mr. Kaperski, >> I have no report today. Thank you, ma'am. >> Thank you. Item 9.3, items introduced by the board. Board members, >> Miss Hine. >> Yes, thank you. Um I just want to start
with I know we often address the legislative session that's in progress. So um the current legislation is schedu legislative session is scheduled to end this Friday. Um uh the information that we have says that there have been a far
lower number of bills passed this year than in recent years. A total of 43 so far. Um certainly a number of them do impact education. So there are things that we are following and we'll get updates on um here. But one thing that has not passed and hasn't been done
which is you know a prime duty of of the legislature is passing the state's budget. So the uh state senate and the state house have both submitted draft budgets several several weeks ago um but then have not conferenced and have not discussed them to come to terms on them.
So it is anticipated that there must be a special session for them to um agree on a budget. As we know last year the budget didn't come out until the very end of June and we're a July one year which makes it quite difficult. Um so um I think there's more updates to come on that. Um Mr. Jefferson I know that
you're looking at it closely our CFO and and we'll be discussing it at the next workshop um is my understanding. I look forward to that. I would just let people know in general the the overall the average of the two budgets state budgetwide is $114 billion budget. That
is actually down a few billion dollars from the last couple of years. But overall it's still up $20 billion from six years ago only six years ago. Our state budget is $20 billion higher and it's primarily because of two particular areas. and one is healthcare and
Medicaid is up about $10 billion in that time. And then K12 education is up $5 billion in that time. Now, you would think we'd be celebrating and jumping for joy, but as I've mentioned before, that money is not up to public schools.
That money is choosing to fund um other school options, private and home school options. And so, but it is a significant increase. And just as we look for our school boards to manage our tax dollars with um responsibility and publicly report them, we should be asking the
same of our state legislature. And so we have not seen any discussion on whether they are going to implement some of the recommendations from the auditor general's office um regarding the management of that now 5.5 billion dollars um that goes outside of the
public school system. Um, so during this budget session is an opportunity to still request that they get their financial house in order visav the scholarship program. And so I'll be personally talking more about that, but I just wanted to share with all of you that while you might hear news that the
legislative session is ending, the budget is still very much um something that will be worked on in the next couple of months. Um, back to our local level, which I think is so important. You know, sometimes you feel like you can't control all a lot of the big things that are happening on, but you know what? We can be local and we can be
a neighbor and we can be involved in our schools. And that is one of my favorite things to be part of the PTA, to be part of the SAC, and to engage with teachers and students and principles and ask what I can do to help. How can I help you? That is the one question that we can be
asking our professionals and leaders at our schools because they are amazing at their jobs. Um, so we are going on spring break. I wish everyone a great spring break. I'm very much looking forward to it. Um I hope our teachers and administrators get a really nice break and certainly come back ready to
go. I just want to say thank you for what you do every day. When we do get back though, uh parents, there's something on your plate and that is PTA nominations and SAC nominations. You will be asked to nominate people to be on the board of your school uh PTA and SAC. And I just I very sincerely, if
you're watching, I want to encourage you to raise your hand and do that. It matters. It makes a difference at that school level to be in involved there. Okay. So, thank you. I wish everyone a very good spring break. >> Thank you. Anyone else? No.
Be careful uh putting your hand up for that PTA position because it could lead to a school board um member position in your future. Um I'm sure all of us experience that. Uh item 9.4. But I'm sorry. Yes, please join your PTAs and your sacks. We strongly encourage it.
Um, item 9.4, review of the board request, Miss Woodford. >> No board requests. >> Okay, thank you. >> All right. Um, final item is 10.1, adjourn the meeting. I will hereby adjourn this meeting of the Penllis County School Board.
We will now move on to public participation. Miss Hal, are there any speakers this morning? >> Yes, we have two speakers this morning. >> Thank you. We will now move on to public comment on the general business of the district. Please note that the views and comments of the public speakers are
their own and not endorsed nor sponsored by the school board or district. We cannot ensure the accuracy of statements made but will review the concerns that are raised and take appropriate action which may include clarifications or the referral of speakers to the proper staff
member for assistance. The board is committed to a standard of civility and decorum in conducting our meetings. This includes refraining from clapping or making audible noises during or after a speaker's comments. We appreciate you assisting us in maintaining a civil and
constructive environment. Additionally, please note that although board members or superintendent Hendrik may leave the dis briefly, there are speakers in the back room and we will continue to be able to hear your comments. Thank you, Miss H. >> Thank you. Our speakers this morning are
Helen French and Mark Clu. If you can, there are two uh lecterns. You can go up to either one. >> Good morning, Miss French. >> Good morning, vice chair, board members, superintendent Hendrickk and community
and staff. My name is Helen French. I'm the executive director of the St. Petersburg Arts Alliance, and I'm also um on the ACE committee, and I'm representing them here this morning. Thank you for your leadership of Panelis County Schools for recognizing two
important national celebrations this morning. Youth art month and music in our schools month. These recognitions send a powerful message that creativity, expression, and the arts are essential to a complete education for every single
student in our county and across the world. Throughout this month, we celebrate the extraordinary work that is happening in classrooms, studios, rehearsal halls, performance spaces all across the district. Thousands of students are exploring their own
creativity through visual art, band, orchestra, chorus, theater, and my personal favorite, dance. Dia's experience helps students build confidence, collaborate with others, and develop creativity and problem solving. that's that are skills that carry them
far into the future beyond the classroom and beyond the borders of where they live. I would like to recognize the leadership of Superintendent Kevin Hendrickk. Mr. Hendrick has been recognized statewide for his support of arts education, having been named
Superintendent of the Year by both the Florida Art Education Association and the Florida Music Education Association. Congratulations and thank you. These honors reflect a deep commitment to ensuring that the arts remain a vital
part of education for every student. This is also a historic year because for the first time, a superintendent and the corresponding school board have both been recognized by the Florida Music Education Association in the same year
for your support of music education. Thank you. On behalf of Arts for Complete Education, we wholeheartedly thank you for your continued leadership for recognizing Youth Arts Month and Music in Our Schools Month. Your support
ensures students across Penelis County continue to learn, grow, create, and thrive. And for that, the entire arts community send you a round of applause and heartfelt thanks. Thank you.
Marluth Largo. War is a racket. General Smemedley Butler. You got the letter from my attorney. Your attorney over there lied. Said he
never got it. The 11th Circuit Court made a ruling that says you people are full of it. You can't trample on my First Amendment
rights. You are just so stupid. fear of harm by saying read the book. How is that a threat? You stupid morons.
How is that a threat? I think you need to look at this letter again. You people are on notice. It won't do any good for you to talk to him. Just make a stupid move. That's all
it'll take. Yeah, but uh we don't have the uh junior war mongers here today. Is that because the uh wonderful
US military killed those little school girls over there in Iran. Well, what a great job. What a great job.
Oh, this country is going to hell in a ham basket. And you just continue to pile on that agilation. This is
There are no more speakers this morning. >> Thank you. This concludes the proceedings for today. Everyone have a wonderful spring break.