Greene County Democrat

Tag: CSFO Marquita Lennon

  • Board approves personnel adjustments for FY 2025

    Greene County School System continues student uniform policy

    The Greene County Board of Education met in regular session, Friday June 13, 2025. The meeting date was adjusted so board members could attend the annual Alabama Association of School Boards Summer Conference, scheduled the week of June 15.
    As part of his report to the board, Superintendent Dr. Corey Jones stated that the Greene County School System would continue its uniform policy for the upcoming 2025-2026 school year. He explained that a survey had been sent on May 23, 2025, to school parents to get their input on whether the system should continue or abolish the student uniform requirement. Jones noted that, to date, there were less than 10% responses to the survey. The superintendent acknowledged that the surveys were designed for online responses, therefore, other approaches for responding to the survey may be needed. “Until more information is gathered, the board’s uniform policy will remain in effect,” he said.
    Superintendent Jones also reported that the ACAP reading scores for 3rd graders were received and 11 scholars did not make passing scores. These scholars are currently in summer school and will be eligible to take the reading test again. He noted that all the 8th graders at 
Robert Brown Middle School will advance to the Greene County High School.
    Jones said that although the school system’s report card grade has not been released yet, he did have information indicating that the 11th grade scholars improved on the ACT exam.
    The board approved the following personnel items recommended by the superintendent.
    * Recall Shana Lucy, 3rd grade teacher, Eutaw Primary School.
    * Rescind non-renewal of Dawn Cook, 6th grade teacher at Robert Brown Middle School.
    * Resignations: Dawn Cook, 6th grade teacher – Robert Brown Middle School; Dorothy Jones, School Nurse.
    Employment of Roshonda Clark – Second grade teacher at Eutaw Primary School for the 2025 – 2026 school year.
    Employment of Shalanda Collins – LPN for the system for the 2025 – 2026 school year.
    * Voluntary transfer of Talicia Williams from 6th grade Math TEAMS teacher at Robert Brown Middle School to 7th – 8th grade Math TEAMS teacher at Robert Brown Middle School, effective 2025 – 2025 school year.
    * Voluntary transfer of Robin Campbell from 1st grade teacher at Eutaw Primary School to Kindergarten teacher at Eutaw Primary school, effective 2025 – 2026 school year.
    * Summer feeding CNP workers for Eutaw Primary School at a rate of $19.00 per hour for managers and $17.00 per hour for cooks for six hours per day for four days a week, June 2 – 30, 2025. (Eutaw Primary School will used as a satellite kitchen.);Youlonda Coleman, Manager; Mary Hill, Cook; Loria Henderson, Cook.
    Additional Service Contracts 2025 – 2026 for the following employees at Robert Brown Middle School: (Separate Contract): Henry Miles – Head Football, Assistant Basketball (Girls/Boys); Tavaris Lacy – Assistant Football, Head Basketball (Girls/Boys); Felicia Smith – Cheerleader Sponsor.
    Participation/attendance in the Black Belt STEM Institute Program for implementation of the program at Robert Brown Middle School for the following teacher: (Funding Source: UWA Black Belt STEM Institute): Talicia Williams.
    School Resource Officers for Summer Learning Program at a rate of $15.00 per hour: Eutaw Primary School – Elston Carpenter; Robert Brown Middle School – Jim Knox; Greene County High School – Sidney Carpenter; Alternate as needed – Steve Davis.
    Additional Service Contracts 2025 – 2026 for the following employees at Greene County High School: (Separate Contract):Corey Cockrell – Head Varsity Football; Torethia Mitchell – Head Volleyball; Patricia Maiden – Assistant Volleyball; Tracey Hunter – Head Flag Football; Kiren Greene – Band Director; Paula Calligan-Leftwich – Dance Coach; Drenda Morton – Cheerleader Sponsor; Janice Jeames-Askew – Athletic Director.
    Stipend in the amount of $500 for Marilyn Knott, Counselor at Eutaw Primary School to give the ACAP Supplemental Reading Assessment during the week of June 23 – 27, 2025.
    Stipend in the amount of $100 for Carolyn Daniels, Special Education teacher at Eutaw Primary School to give the ACAP Supplemental Reading Assessment during the week of June 23 – 27, 2025.
    Bus Drivers to transport students to Stillman College for the Blackbelt Scholars STEM program that runs from June 23 – July 18, 2025: (Funding Source: Black Belt Scholars): Teresa Hill; Marilyn Finch.
    Transportation personnel for Summer Learning Program at rate of $25 for morning route and $25 for afternoon route for the equivalent of $50 per day: Arleen Jackson – Bus Aide.
    Transportation personnel for Summer Learning Program at rate of $50 for morning route and $50 for afternoon route for the equivalent of $100 per day: (Bus Drivers): Eddie Coats; George Pippen; Carla Russell; Gerald Holloway; Jerdin Grays; Natasha Lewis; Ayanna Crawford; Marcus Steele; James Gaines (SUB); Johnny Pelt (SUB).
    TEAMS Contracts 2025 – 26 for the following: Funding: ALSDE – Dutchess Jones – GCHS, Math (1 Year Contract); Krystal Flantroy – GCHS, Science (1 Year Contract); Lorissa Holder – GCHS, Science(1 Year Contract) Nashondra Ruffin – RBMS. Science (1 Year Contract); Talicia Williams – RBMS, Math (1 Year Contract); Kaneeda Coleman – GCHS, Math (Year 4, Expires June 30, 2027).
    The board approved the following administrative items.
    Amended contract between Greene County Board of Education and Educate to Excellence. *Agreement between Greene County Board of Education and Wallace Community College Selma/Demopolis to establish a Dual Enrollment for Dual Credit program, which enables eligible high school students to enroll in college-level courses through the College to dually earn credits for a high school diploma and a postsecondary educational credential.
    Service agreement between Greene County Board of Education and SchoolDog Solutions to participate in the SchoolDog Pilot Program (Funding Source: SDE).
    Quote from Tennessee Valley Metal to replace/repair awning at Robert Brown Middle in the amount of $43,687.
    FY 2025 Budget Amendments.
    Quote from Forefront Education to purchase required software approved by ALSDE for the Fractional Reasoning Screener that is to be given to 4th and 5th grade students in the amount of $2,280.
    Quote from M & H Construction to replace the flooring in front office of Robert Brown Middle School in the amount of $11,500.
    Payment of all bills, claims, and payroll.
    Bank reconciliations as submitted by Mrs. Marquita Lennon, CSFO.
    Agreement between Greene County Board of Education and Quitt Consulting to provide speech-language therapy services in the system for the 2025-2026 school year.
    Elevator Project at Robert Brown Middle School, contingent upon review and formal approval by the Department of Construction Management.
    CSFO Marquita Lennon presented the following financial snapshot ending May 31, 2025.
    Operating Reserve: 7.47 months combined general fund reserve; 7.53 months cash reserve. All bank accounts have been reconciled. General Fund Bank Balance totaled $7,945,266.66, (reconciles to the Summary Cash Report); Accounts Payable Check Register totaled $342,782.30; Payroll Register totaled $928,488.68 – (total gross pay, to include employer match items). Combined Ending Fund Balance: $8,012,836.21. Local revenue sources: Property taxes – $50,357.05; Sales taxes – $93,776.64; Other taxes – $7,901.32; Total – $152,038.01.
    CSFO Lennon also presented budget amendments for Fiscal year 2025, including carryovers from the previous year, for which the system is allowed two years to expend.
    Attorney Hank Sanders reported that although some bingo facilities have resumed operations in Greene County, contracts for community disbursements have not been worked out. Sanders also stated that Historical Horse Racing and Simulcasting is regulated by the Greene County Racing Commission, not the sheriff’s office.

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

  • Superintendent submits end-of-school personnel and program adjustments

    Greene County School System gets Clean Report from State Examiners Office

    The Greene County Board of Education held its monthly session, Monday, May 19, 2025 with all board members present, with the exception of Mr. Brandon Merriweather.
    The first presentation to the board was the FY 2024 State Audit Report given by Ms. Shelly Patrenos of the State Examiners Office. The audit review focused on Title I Federal Program and the Child Nutrition Program. Ms. Patrenos applauded the board and staff for having a ‘clean report.’ She commended CSFO Ms. Marquita Lennon for  the excellence and transparency of her work. The full State Audit report will be available to the board by the end of June.
    The board acted on the personnel and administrative items, presented by Superintendent Dr. Corey Jones, which signal the usual procedures for ending the regular school term and initiating programs and project for the summer session.
    The board approved the following administrative service items recommended by the superintendent.
    * Quote from Glenwood to teach a 2-day MCS class for up to 10 staff members in the Greene County School System in the amount of $3,300.
    * Agreement between Greene County Board of Education and Stericycle for biohazards pick up services for a pickup fee of $53.33 a month.
    * Quote from Allianz Solutions for ACT Bootcamp June 9 -12 for up to 25 students per session in the amount of $8,100
    * Quote from C & J Resources for ACT Bootcamp July 7 – 10 in the amount of $4,060.
    * Permission for Black Scholars Committee to use 2 buses to transport students from Greene County to Stillman College June 23 – July 18.
    * Code Explorers Partnership agreement with the Alabama State Department of Education’s Computer Science for Alabama Initiative and Southeastern Center of Robotics Education (SCORE) at Auburn University for the following teachers: (Teachers will receive compensation via the program): Carolyn Beck – Kindergarten; Danielle Sanders-Williams – 1st grade; Montoya Binion – 2nd grade; Walter Taylor – 2nd grade.
    * 4-day work week for all extended employees beginning June 2, 2025, and ending July 26, 2025.
    * Payment of all bills, claims, and payroll.
    * Bank reconciliations as submitted by Mrs. Marquita Lennon, CSFO.
    * Certified bid from Game Day Athletic Surfaces, Inc., the only bidder, in the amount of $1,683,748.00 for athletic improvements (Phase I Track).
    Superintendent to hire legal representation for personnel matter.
    The personnel service items approved by the board included the following:
    * Retirement of Trudi Finley, Kindergarten teacher at Eutaw Primary School, effective June 1, 2025.
    * Resignations of Lorrisa Holder, Science TEAMS teacher, effective June 3, 2025.
    Employment of Lorrisa Holder, Career Counselor at Greene County Career Center (10-month). * Letters of termination for “Additional Services” contracts to the following employees: (Separate Contract): Greene County High School – Janice Jeames-Askew – Athletic Director; Corey Cockrell – Head Football Coach; Zaddrick Smith – Assistant Football; Tracey Hunter – Head Girls track; Torethia Mitchell – Head Girls Basketball & Volleyball; Patricia Maiden – Assistant Volleyball; Rodney Wesley – Assistant Boys Basketball (JV), Head Baseball; Howard Crawford – Head Boys Basketball/Head Boys Track; Lorrisa Holder – Assistant Girls Basketball;Kirin Greene – Band Director; Paula Calligan – Dance-line Coach; Drenda Morton – Cheerleader Sponsor. 
    Personnel for Summer Learning program at a rate of $50 an hour for Educators and $25.00 an hour for Aides, June 2-30, 2025, Monday – Thursday, 8:00 am -1:00 pm. Eutaw Primary School: Pamela Pasteur; Pamela McGee; Keisha Williams; LaShaun Henley; Gwendolyn Webb – Aide; Mary Hobson, Special Services Aide; Carla Durrett. Robert Brown Middle School:Vanessa Bryant; Demetria Lyles; Talicia Williams; Raven Bryant; Felecia Smith. Greene County High School-Credit Recovery: Janice Jeames Askew; Drenda Morton – Aide; Angela Harkness; Jacqueline Edwards, Custodian.
    * Non-renewal of the following employees: Eutaw Primary School– Shana Lucy, Third grade Teacher; .Katina Mickens, Special Ed. Teacher. Robert Brown Middle School – Dena Jordan, 7th/8th grade Math TEAMS teacher; Cedric Murry, 7th/8th grade Business teacher; Dawn Cook, 6th grade teacher.
    * Personnel for CTE Camp to be paid at a rate of $40.00 per hour – June 23 – 27, 2025: LaMonica Little; Shamyra Jones.
    Personnel to participate in AMSTI training sessions on July 29 and 30, 2025 from 8:30 am-3:30 pm with a stipend to be paid to educators at $37.50 per hour: Robert Brown Middle School – Annie Howard; Demetria Lyles; Vanessa Bryant; Akia Williams; Henry Miles; Tavaris Lacy; Breshayla Hoskins.

    CSFO Marquita Lennon presented the following financial snapshot for the period ending April 30, 2025. General fund balance totaled $8,116,154.66 (reconciles to the summary cash report.) Accounts payable check register totaled $322,328.95. Payroll register totaled $931,658.39 (total gross pay to include employer match items). The combined ending fund balance totaled $8,243,402.36. In operating reserves, the school system has 7.79 months in combined general fund research; 7.79 months in cash reserve. All bank accounts have been reconciled. Then local revenue report showed $124,171.05 in property taxes; $86,572.81 in sales taxes and $5,040.96 in other taxes, all totaling $215,784.82.
    Superintendent Jones’ report to the board gave overviews of the various closing of school activities. He also noted that the Eutaw Primary ACAP test scores were complete, but the results are still in embargo, not officially released. Jones proudly stated that the scholars demonstrated 100% growth improvement.

  • Superintendent Jones shares school system’s budgeting process at AASB Conference

    The Greene County Board of Education met in regular session Monday, March 17, 2025 with all members present except Ms. Carrie Dancy. Superintendent Dr. Corey Jones began his report to the board with a summary of the recent Financial/Budget Presentation shared at the Alabama Association of School Boards (AASB) Annual Spring Conference held in Florence, AL, February 27-28, 2025. Board President Leo Branch and board member Robert Davis also attended the conference.
    Dr. Jones noted that the invitation from AASB was an opportunity to showcase the team work that is needed to operate a school system, especially the financial component. “A key component is building relationships and trust in budgeting and finances, Dr. Jones said.
    The presentation, entitled Proactive vs Reactive Budgeting – Navigating Financial Stability Post-ESSER, contained the following elements:
    * Proactive budgeting requires proper planning, staying in control of resources. Reactive budgeting is responding to events or problems as they occur, often in a crisis.
    Necessary to focus on the importance of controlling funds for long-term benefits.
    Building relationships and trust in budgeting and finances. “ Our District prioritizes involvement with all stakeholders when developing a budget and maintaining financial health, he said.
    Superintendent Jones’ report showed that the school district received over $9 million in ESSER Funds from 2022-2024. The final funds expired September 30, 2024 with the district utilizing the entire amount to upgrade curriculum tools including additional instructional staff for intervention and providing smart boards and hotspots for students; upgrading facilities including a new HVÅÇ system for Robert Brown Middle School and providing students with air conditioned buses. Jones said that many benefits were gained from ESSER Funding, but the District now focuses on a sustainable future.
    Dr. Jones also gave an overview of the ACAP Practice Test in Reading and Math for the 4th through 8th grades. The practice test indicate instructional areas teachers and administrators must focus on to assure students’ improvement and success. The ACAP Test are scheduled for April.
    CSFO Marquita Lennon provided the Financial Snapshot for the period ending February 28, 2025. The operating reserves totaled 7.98 months and the cash reserves totaled 7.70 months. All bank accounts have been reconciled. The general fund budget totaled $8,120,338.91. (This reconciles to the summary cash report). Accounts payable check register totaled $389,641.42; Payroll register totaled $939,400.36, with the combined ending fund balanced totaling $8,424,516.40. In local revenues, property taxes totaled $71,136.85; sales taxes $97,201.68; other taxes $12,641.27; Amendment 743, $60,000. Local revenue totaled $240,979.80.
    The board approved on e personnel item recommended by the superintendent- the retirement of Mrs. Angela White, Career and Technical Counselor at Greene County Career Center, effective February 28, 2025.
    The following administrative items were approved by the board.
    * Permission to sell used district office chairs at $15 each and to dispose of salvage chairs.
    * Retroactive approval for March 10, 2025, quote from Uniti Fiber to upgrade and install 49 network switches at EPS and RBMS in the amount of $38,617.31. (FY 2025-2026 E-Rate Mini Bid. Optional equipment not accepted as part of the bid).
    * Air travel and overnight stay for chaperones and two students to attend the National DECA Competition in Orlando, FL April 26 – 29, 2025.
    * Travel to SREB Conference in New Orleans, July 15-18, 2025, for 10 faculty/staff (to be paid from CCR Grant; 11 faculty/staff to be paid from federal funds.
    * Travel for Shamyra Jones to attend JAG National Training Seminar in Louisville, KY, July 14-18, 2025.
    * Science textbook adoption (6 years).
    * Quote from Savvas Learning Company to purchase science textbooks, Grades K-12 in the amount of $130,790.63 (6-year purchase).
    * Permission to sell three Transportation Department vehicles as is by sealed bids
    * Payment of all bills, claims, and payroll.
    * Bank reconciliations as submitted by Mrs. Marquita Lennon, CSFO.
    * School Calendar 2025 – 2026.
    * Contract between the Greene County School system and Alicia Hodge-Scott/Educate to Excellence LLC, to provide special education services to the Greene County School System for the 2024 – 2025 school year.
    * FY 2025 Special Education Teacher Supplement per guidelines outlined by the Alabama State Department of Education.

  • School Board reviews Greene County School System’s AASB 2023 snapshot data

    The Greene County Board of Education met in regular session, Monday February 24, 2025 with all board members present. Although there were no personnel items on the agenda, the board did retire to executive session, certified by Attorney Hank Sanders, for discussion of personnel matters and legal matters that may require strategies.
    The board did approve the following administrative items recommended by Superintendent Dr. Corey Jones.
    Quote from Kelley Wassermann to provide onsite assistance prep for USDA Administrative Review of Child Nutrition Program.
    Payment of all bills, claims, and payroll.
    Bank reconciliations as submitted by Mrs. Marquita Lennon, CSFO.
    In his report to the board, Superintendent Dr. Jones gave updates on the positive news from each school, including scholars achievements, faculty and staff preparations and professional development and the growing PTA movement in the school system.
    Jones also shared Greene County School System’s Snapshot Report prepared by the Alabama Association of School Boards (AASB). He noted that this AASB report includes fiscal year 2023 data.
    * Schools -5; Students ADM – 859; Full-Time Employees – 173.
    * Number of Route Buses – 18; students bused – 578; buses 10yrs old or less – 89%. (The school system acquired several new buses in 2024).
    * School System Revenue – state funds (41%) $8,588,607; federal funds (33%) $6,966,364; local funds (26%) $5,564,329; local 10-mill match $4,069,089.
    * School System Spending – state spending totaled $9,138,590; local spending totaled $2,664,586.
    * Per-Pupil Expenditures total $19,821; Alabama average – $13,071.
    * Cost of one month’s operation/general fund -$1,006,770; number of months reserve balance -5.82. These expenditures do not include debt service and capital outlay. The AASB report for 2023 contained more details and can be accessed at the Board’s Central Office.
    CSFO Marquita Lennon presented the monthly financials as of January 31, 2025. Points of Interest included operating reserve: 8.25 months combined general fund reserve; 7.94 months cash reserve. All bank accounts have been reconciled.
    Financial Snapshot included general fund bank balance – $8,207,418.90 (reconciles to the Summary Cash Report; accounts payable check register -$264,370.59; payroll register – $924,589.52; combined ending fund balance – $8,518,789.67.
    Local revenue included property taxes – $1,968,837.11; sales taxes -$112,147.88;
    Other taxes – $2,820.98; total local revenue – $2,083,805.97. There was no distribution relative to Amendment 743, since reportedly charity bingo in Greene County is closed.
    Robert Brown Middle School Principal, Ms. Tammy Anderson and Assistant Principal Mr. Gary Rice presented to certificates and gifts to each board member in recognition of School Board Appreciation Month, recognized in January. The board members expressed appreciation of their support.

  • School Board approves FY 2024 budget in excess of $20 million including remaining $5 million in ESSER funds

    The Greene County Board of Education met at its Central Office for its scheduled Budget Hearing #2, on Monday September 11, 2023, at 3:00 pm, which was followed by a special call board session at 4:00 pm. The Budget Hearing #2 provided FY 2023 Wrap-Up, Investments, Key Factors Affecting Budget Process and FY 2024 Budget Objectives and Highlights. The FY 2023 Wrap-Up indicated the supplemental appropriations funded totaled $935,656. Investments balance, as of September 30, 2022, was $2,369,225.75 at a 0.10% rate, however, CSFO Marquita Lennon indicated a new rate of 5% on investments has been negotiated for FY 2024.
    The board’s proposed budget revenues for FY 2024, including the remaining the $5 million in ESSER III Funds, (Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief) total $20,405,939. Expenditures are indicated at $20,308,588.14, with a projected FY 2024 ending General Fund Balance of $4,746,747.09. The FY 2024 budget components reflect State Funds at 36% – $7,357,509; Federal Funds at 37% – $7,564,055 and Local Funds at 27% – $5,484,375. ESSER III Funds must be obligated by September 30, 2024.

    Budgetary Highlights include the following:
    * The System’s Average Daily Membership decreased by 30.65 (Pre-School class counts not included in the ADM); Funded teacher units decreased by 2.07; Foundation Program net increase by $140,631; Transportation funding increase by $46,041; Capitol funding decreased by $5,853; Millage local match increased by $249,870. (CSFO noted that the State Department will contribute $99,148 which can be applied to millage match).
    * The system has 161 employees this year, a decrease of 3 from prior year. Current school enrollment is 858 students: Eutaw Primary – 271; Robert Brown Middle – 333; Greene County High – 254. The Budget #2 Report stated the following: “Out of the $1.82 million of local salaries budgeted, approximately $800,000 is budgeted for teacher salaries and benefits over the number of units that we have earned. This is equivalent to 10.96 (11) teachers…the system must streamline and operate within our earned units, due to ending of ESSER III Funds and possible reduction in gaming funds.” As of now the Greene County Board of Education is not receiving gaming funds.
    * Major local funding for the system includes County Ad Valorem at $695,000; 4 Act 1999 at $600,000; Sales tax 2% at $500,000; Motor vehicles at $35,000; Helping Schools at $4,000;
    Indirect Cost at $392,000. Totaling $2,261,000.
    * The CSFO noted that plans are already in process for streamlining FY 2025 Budget.

    Board’s Special Call Meeting
    In its special call meeting, the school board approved the following personnel items recommended by Superintendent Dr. Corey Jones.
    •Retroactively placing Ms. Barbara Martin on the salary matrix as Instructional Coordinator as of 8/29/2023 according to education and years of experience.
    Administrative items approved by the board are the following:
    *Approve Annual Budget for Fiscal Year October 1, 2023, through September 30, 2024.
    *Lowest bid in the amount of $824,500 from Stateline Mechanical LLC to provide HVAC equipment for the Robert Brown Middle School HVAC project.
    * Educational Consultant Agreement between Dr. Lucretia Prince and Greene County Board of Education for consulting and coaching services for building administrators.
    * Deposit of $50,000 to Synovus Bank CD.
    *Contract between Greene County Board of Education and Greene County Sheriff Department for Resource Offices for the 2023 – 2024 school year.

  • Superintendent gives update on HVAC replacement RBMS; summer maintenance work; administrative contracts approved

    The Greene County Board of Education held its monthly meeting on June 12, 2023 with all board members present. Superintendent Dr. Corey Jones opened his report with an update on the HVAC Project commencing at Robert Brown Middle School. At a special call meeting on May 8, 2023, the board entered into an agreement with Whorton Engineering, Inc. for the replacement of the entire Heating and Cooling system at RBMS at a cost of $2.5 million. Dr. Jones stated that Whorton Engineering has performed onsite observations and documentations of all HVAÇ equipment located at the main building. The company has also done a 3D Laser Scan of the building to verify field conditions. Jones noted that this is critical since there are no existing drawings of the facility. The company also completed a scan of the gym. Whorton Engineering has submitted current delivery dates for equipment and materials from proposed vendors. Financial support for the HVAC Project at RBMS is secured through the ESSER (Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Fund) – CARES ACT which is the Coronavirus Aid Relief & Economic Security Act, resources
    In Positive news from Robert Brown Middle School, Jones said that students in the after-school tutorial program visited the Georgia Aquarium. The school held its fun day May 19. Summer Learning Program began May 23 with 90 students registered.
    Greene County High Positive News included Ms. Victoria Moore, Physics and Chemistry teacher receiving a $1,000 classroom grant from the Southern Company.
    Dr. Jones gave summer maintenance updates on the various schools. At Eutaw Primary School all tasks were completed except for installing cut off valves. All maintenance work at RBMS was completed. Maintenance tasks at Greene County High School will be completed by June 23 and tasks at the career Center will be completed by June 27.
    The Board approved the following personnel items recommended by Superintendent Jones.
    * Correction of name error for Summer School Employee for Greene County High School, Veronica Moore should be Victoria Moore.
    * Amend Resignation: Shawnta Owens, Principal, Robert Brown Middle School from June 15 to June 30, 2023.
    * Resignation: Ephraim Russell, Band Director, Greene County High School effective June 2, 2023; James Davis ROTC Instructor, Greene County High School.
    * Non-Renewal: Maquavius King, 3rd Grade Teacher, Robert Brown Middle School; Jasmine Smith-Mental Health Coordinator; Brittany Jenkins, Math Interventionist, Greene County High School.
    * Employment: Tina Cherry, as Janitor for Summer School at Eutaw Primary School, starting June 5 – July 3, 2023.
    * Correction of name error for Summer School Employee for Greene County High School, Veronica Moore should be Victoria Moore.
    * Supplemental Contracts: Greene County High – Spring Football, Corey Cockrell, Head Football Coach; Zaddrick Smith, Assistant Football Coach.
    * Rescind Summer School Child Nutrition Program: Burenia Crispin; Sandy Wilson; Jacqueline Pickens; Rosie Davis.
    * Summer School Child Feeding Program: Youlonda Coleman-Manager; Deborah Taylor – Assistant Manager; Romonda Askew – Frontline Staff; Mary Hill – Frontline Staff.
    * Approval of Salary for Dr. Brittany Harris for receiving a Higher Degree.
    * Proposed Salary Increase for Child Nutrition Program Summer 2023, for summer only. Manager’s Salary from $15.00/hr. to 18.00/hr.; Assistant Manager salary from $15.00 to $17.00/hr.; Frontline Staff salary from $15.00/hr. to $16/hr.
    * Approval of FMLA Leave for Mr. Elroy Skinner, Math Teacher effective May 3, 2023.
    *Approval of finance staff and secretaries/bookkeepers of the Greene County Board of Education receive a one-time AASBO certification supplement for FY 23: LaTanya Fowler – Payroll Certificate & Local School Financial Management Certificate; Sarah Brewer – Payroll Certificate & Local School Financial Management Certificate; Makane Morrow – CSFO/Professional Certificate & Local School Financial Management Certificate; Sarah Hall- Local School Financial Management Certificate; Mary Henderson – Local School Financial Management Certificate; Tracey Hunter – Local School Financial Management Certificate; Tweila Morris – Local School Financial Management Certificate; Marilyn Sanford -Local School Financial Management Certificate; Wanda Gaitor – Local School Financial Management Certificate.
    The board approved the following administrative service items recommended by the superintendent: Payment of all bills, claims, and payroll; Bank reconciliations as submitted by Ms. Marquita Lennon, CSFO; Approval of out-of-state travel to attend ACTE Career Tech Vision 2023 Greene County Career Center (Angela White, CTE Counselor and LaMonica Little Career Coach); Approval of, Birmingham Restaurant Supply for Installation of Walk-in Cooler/Freezer; Approval of Disposal and Surplus of outdated damaged technology devices and parts; Approval of Extreme Patio Covers Company, to install Awning at Eutaw Primary School; Approval of Man for the Job Renovations Company to renovate Greene County Alternative School; A-Plus 1 Home Renovation Company, for the Painting of Robert Brown Middle School; Approval to move the Manufacturing Program to the former Automotive space at Robert Brown Middle School; Approval to move Computer Science and Business Skill Development to Robert Brown Middle School; Approval of Superintendent, Evaluation; Approval of CSFO Evaluation;Approval of Contract between Greene County Board and Walter McKee for Roofing and Flooring at Eutaw Primary School; Purchasing of Pre-K Playground Equipment for Eutaw Primary School.
    CSFO Marquita Lennon presented the school system’s Financial Snapshot for the period ending May 31, 2023. The system’s general operating reserve is $4.8 million, with the cash reserve at $2.80 million. All bank accounts have been reconciled. General Fund Balance – $3,365,593.94; Accounts Payable Check Register – %500,892.62; Payroll Register – $922,710.53; Combined Ending Fund Balance – $5,885,721.40. Local Revenue: Property Taxes – $27,994; Sales Taxes – $116,208; Other Taxes – $12,587; Bingo Revenue – $55,839; Total Revenue: $ $212,628.

  • Board approves ESSER II Budget Amendment, Superintendent gives update on enrollment and positive school news

    The Greene County Board of Education held its regular meeting on Monday, January 23, 2023. The meeting date was adjusted to the fourth Monday since Dr. King’s National Holiday fell on the third Monday. All board members were present, except for Brandon Merriweather. Board President Branch explained that Mr. Merriweather’s work schedule could not accommodate the change in the meeting date.
    Superintendent Dr. Corey Jones opened his report to the board with an update on student enrollment, comparing enrollment in mid December, 2022 and enrollment in mid January, 2023.
    Eutaw Primary School had 275 scholars enrolled in December and 280 in January 2023; Robert Brown Middle School had 340 scholars in December and 334 in January; Greene County High School had 259 in December and 260 in January. Comparative totals for the two months were the same, 874 scholars enrolled.
    In school positive news, Dr. Jones noted that new playground equipment for Eutaw Primary has arrived and installation is in progress. EPS educators and scholars celebrated Math Week and the 100th Day of School during the week of January 16. Seven scholars have obtained 100 or more Accelerated Reader points and are part of the 100 Points Club. Pre-K scholars enjoyed a field trip to the Children’s Hands On Museum on January 20.
    Positive news for Robert Brown Middle School include the following: Parents are invited to eat lunch with their children on Thursday, January 26; RBMS Teacher of the Year is, fourth grade teacher, Ms. Vanessa Bryant; the Epsilon Mu Sigma Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority is sponsoring a Valentine Luncheon for RBMS staff and teacher incentive gift cards.
    Positive news for Greene County High include the following: GCHS celebrated coming off the Comprehensive School Improvement List; ACT Prep is offered twice a month on Saturdays at GCHS from 9-11 and attendance is increasing; after school enrollment has increased from nine to 35 students;
    In her financial report to the board, CSFO Marquita Lennon, presented a draft of the FY 2023 ESSER II Budget Amendment. She noted that there is a carryover amount of approximately $2.5 million and funds must be expended by September 30, 2023, with the budget amended by March 15, 2023. Lennon listed other elements of the budget amendment including the following: ESSER II Committee of school personnel and community stakeholders was formed; Capital expenditures capped at 50%; Learning loss must be 20%. Key items of expenditure will include Janitor salaries and benefits; Playground Equipment for EPS; Computer Lab for RBMS; Flooring for EPS and Peter J. Kirksey; Insurance for Chrome Books; Learning Licenses; ACT Prep; Transitional activities.
    CSFO Lennon presented the school system’s monthly financials as of December 31, 2022. Her Financial Points of Interest and Financial Snapshot included the following: Operating Reserves – 3.77M combined general fund reserve;1.89M cash reserve; ( All bank accounts have been reconciled); General Fund Balance – $2,266,229.97 (reconciles to the Summary Cash Report); Accounts payable Check register – $181,347.67; Payroll Register $926,501.71; Combined Ending Fund Balance -$4,529,923.07; Local Revenue – (taxes and bingo revenue) $268,768.
    The board approved the following personnel items.
    Employment – Ms. Delois Powell Bus Aide, Department of Transportation; Natasha Lewis, After School Bus Driver, for 2022-2023 School term. The board also approved a Retention Bonus Agreement Contract for School Bus Driver, Natasha Lewis for 2022-2023 school term. The board approved a $500 stipend for Pamela McGee for Response to Intervention (RTI) Chairperson.
    Resignation – Demilia Snyder, Robert Brown Middle School Teacher, effective January 31, 2023.
    Supplements for Spring Track Team Personnel – Greene County High School, Head Coach for Males – Howard Crawford; Assistant Male Coach – Rodney Wesley; Head Coach, Females – Ralph Marshall; Assistant Coach, Females – Torethia Mitchell.
    The board approved the following administrative items.
    * Payment of all bills, claims, and payroll.
    * Bank reconciliations as submitted by Ms. Marquita Lennon, CSFO.
    * Contract between Greene County Board and Ability Pilot, Student Intervention and Embedded Coaching, Kid First Education.
    * Memorandum of Understanding between Greene County High School and Stillman College, Dual Enrollment, for 2022-2023 School Term.
    * Amendments to ESSER II (4296) Budget to include: Custodial Salaries; Learning Licenses;
    ACT Preparation; Data Processing Updates;
    * Memorandum of Understanding between Greene County Board of Education and Advancing Evidence Improving Lives (AIR), CDC Youth Empowerment Project.
    * Approval of Corey Cockrell to attend Glazier Football Clinic, Franklin, TN February 24-26, 2022.
    * Approval of Greene County High School Seniors to travel to Destin, Florida for Class of 2023 Senior Trip.
    * Bus Driver- Stillman College Upward Bound, Mr. Leslie Carlisle;
    * Purchase of Computers for Robert Brown Middle School.