The Greene County Democrat

Tag: Greene County Board of Education

  • 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.

  • School board holds work session and monthly meeting

    School Board’s work session continues delineating plans and costs for GCHS Track and Field Project

    The Greene County Board of Education met in regular session, Monday April 21, 2025, with all board members present. Prior to this meeting at 4:30 pm, the board met in a work session at 2:00 pm with representatives of the Architectural Firm of McKee & Associates to address questions and concerns of the board regarding the bids for the Greene County High School Track & Field Project. This work session was originally scheduled to discuss school system policies, especially the school uniform policy. At the called meeting on April 10, Superintendent Dr. Corey Jones announced that McKee would be invited to the board meeting on April 21 to discuss the Track & Field Project with the board. No clarity was provided as to how the work session’s scheduled topic on policies was exchanged for the meeting with McKee.
    Appropriately, no decisions were made in the work session and the Track & Field Project was not on the agenda of the regular meeting, however, in his report, Dr. Jones did give a brief summary of the meeting with McKee, which provided clarifications on bids and costs. The board is continuing costs discussions with McKee. Seemingly the expected cost of the Track & Field Project will be approximately $1.6 to $1.8 million. The State Department of Education will provide a portion of the cost.
    The Track & Field Project is Phase I of the Greene County High School Athletic Improvement Plan and does not include the football field, stadium area, field house, concession stand and parking. Additional funds will be needed for the continuing phases.
    The board approved the following personnel items recommended by Superintendent Jones.
    * Retirement of Ms. Theodora Scott, Fifth grade teacher at Robert Brown Middle School, effective June 1, 2025.
    * Resignation of Ms. Asia Quinnie, Second grade teacher at Eutaw Primary School, effective May 2, 2025.
    *Additional Service Contract for Henry Miles for Assistant Basketball Coach – Girls at Robert Brown Middle School for 2024 – 2025.
    The board approved the following administrative items recommended by the superintendent.
    * Out-of-State travel for Career and Technical Student Organization (CTSO) members to visit Six Flags and the University of West Georgia on May 28- 29, 2025.
    * Contract between Greene County Board of Education and Makiva Wilson to assist in areas critical to the success of college and career readiness initiatives and dual enrollment at Greene County Career Center at a rate of $40 per hour, not to exceed 50 hours per month.
    * Quote in the amount of $1,980 from SecureTemps to purchase a sensor monitoring system for walk-in coolers and freezers at all three schools.
    * Out-of-State travel for Shirley Stewart, CNP Director, to attend the School Nutrition Association’s Annual National Conference on July 13 – 15, 2025 in San Antonio, TX.
    * Travel for Teresa Atkins and Corey Cockrell to chaperone students participating in the Discover the DR experience, in the Dominican Republic June 4 – 11, 2025.
    * Greene County Career Center to offer summer learning opportunities (CTE Camp/ACT Prep) during June and July.
    * Greene County High School’s Credit Recovery Plan 2025.
    Contract between Greene County Board of Education and Cook’s Pest Control for pest control services at Robert Brown Middle School in the amount of $$1,300 per year.
    * Payment of all bills, claims, and payroll.
    Bank reconciliations as submitted by Mrs. Marquita Lennon, CSFO.
    CSFO Marquita Lennon presented the monthly financial snapshot as of March 31, 2025. General fund balance totaled $7,931,239.56. This reconciles to the summary cash report. The accounts payable check register totaled $326,198.12. Payroll register totaled $944,441.86. Combined ending fund balanced totaled $8,255,403.33. Operating Reserve: The combined general fund reserve totaled 7.80 months; cash reserve totaled 7.49 months. All bank accounts have been reconciled. The local revenue included property taxes at $39,902.54; sales taxes at $103,138.96; other taxes at $4,859.17, with local revenue totaling $147,900.67.

     

     

     

  • School Board delays decision on bid to initiate Phase I – Track and Field Project at GCHS

    Phase 1- Track and Field Project

    The Greene County Board of Education held a called meeting, Thursday April 10, 2025 to consider a bid for athletic improvements to Greene County High School – Phase I – GCHS Track and Field Project. Superintendent Dr. Corey Jones stated that the purpose of the meeting was to lock in material and other costs for the Project in light of current US economic conditions.

    He explained that the two initial bids from Game Day, Inc at $2,244,444 and J.T. Harrison at $1,899,000 were both over budget, therefore there was a re-bid with only Game Day Inc. proposing a cost of $1,683,748.

    CSFO Mrs. Marquita Lennon, displayed the category of funds available for the Phase I Track and Field Project at GCHS: FY 2024 K12 Capital Grant – $1,100,000; FY 2025 K-12 Capital Grant $84,615.38; Fy 2024 Education Trust fund Advancement and Technology Fund – $111,900; FY 2025 Education Trust Fund Advancement and Technology Fund (Proposed) $575,000. These fund categories total $1,871,515.38.

    The board members questioned the difference between Game Day Inc.’s initial bid and the second re-bid. Dr. Jones and CSFO Lennon explained that changes and/or substitutions to the plans and specifications were reflected in the re-bid.

    Although Superintendent Jones was able to reach the Architectural Firm of McKee & Associates during the board meeting and the board was able to make inquiries at the time concerning deletions to the original Project Specs, they seemingly were not satisfied and requested an in-person meeting with Walter McKee at the next board meeting. No further action was taken on the GCHS Phase I -Track and Field Project.

    On the superintendent’s recommendation, the board did approve the quote of $27,570.62 from AngelTrax to upgrade camera/surveillance system and add windshield cameras on school buses.

  • Palace bingo facility will host simulcast racing

    Racing Commission awards operating license for pari-mutual wagering and simulcast racing

    The Greene County Racing Commission has awarded a six year operating license to Five Star Investment Company, LLC to conduct parimutuel wagering with authorization to conduct Greyhound Simulcasting and Historical Horse Racing Gaming. According to the Racing commission, only one application was submitted. The license is awarded for six years at a fee of $10,000 per year.
    The licensee will contribute 4% of revenues to the Racing Commission towards its operations and to distribute to designated entities as previously prescribed by Alabama Legislative Action. These entities include Greene County Hospital Board, Greene County Board of Education, Greene County Commission, incorporated municipalities, law enforcement, ambulance service and maintenance, other designated community organizations and programs.
    The new licensee will conduct simulcasting gaming at the Palace Gaming facility in Knoxville. Reportedly, the Racing Commission’s offices will also be located at the Palace.
    The previous license for Pare-Mutuel Wagering, Greyhound Simulcasting and Historical Horse Racing Gaming had been held by Greenetrack, Inc. and operated at its gaming facility. According to Mr. Luther Winn, former Greenetrack, Inc. CEO and President, the 
Greenetrack facilities on Greene County Road 208 and all properties, once in Greenetrack’s name, have been confiscated by the State of Alabama. The Greenetrack Gaming facility, previously co-owned by Greenetrack stockholders and the Greene County government is currently co-owned by the State of Alabama and Greene County government.
    It should be noted that the electronic bingo gaming which the State of Alabama deemed illegal at Greenetrack and precipitated its closing is the same electronic bingo gaming currently operating at other facilities in Greene County.

  • School board approves $16 million + for FY 2024-2025 budget; Sheriff Benison assists school system with gaming funds

    In its second Budget Hearing, held Tuesday, September 10, 2024, the Greene County Board of Education approved the system’s FY 2024-2025 proposed annual budget with projected revenues of $16,258,410 and expenditures of $16,151,057, which must be submitted to the State Department of Education by September 15. The budget decrease of approximately $5 million is due primarily to the exhaustion of the multi-year ESSER funds appropriated through the Congressional CARES ACT (Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act) to support school districts in addressing the impact of COVID 19. Board members present included Mr. Leo Branch, Mr. Robert Davis and Ms. Veronica Richardson.
    The system currently has 145 employees, a decrease of 20 from the previous year. State earned units support 82.33 personnel; other state funds support 31.51 personnel; federal funds support 24.49 and local funds support 6.72 – totaling 145.05 school personnel.
    Greene County Sheriff Jonathan Benison has entered into an agreement with the Board of Education to provide $60,000 per month (Gaming Funds) to assist the system in the following areas: Teacher and student aide salaries and benefits; Classroom technologies and supplies; Teacher enrichment expenses; student enrichment activities including field trips. Currently 4.5 teachers are budgeted from these funds, with two position expected to be added.
    Regarding investments, the system’s CD at Synovus Bank has a current balance of $2,547,420.76, indicating an interest growth of $124,562.78. Lennon noted that new negotiations are underway for a rate increase.
    Budgetary Highlights for FY 2025 included the following: System average daily Membership (ADM) decreased by 2.90; Funded teacher units decreased by 2.07; Classroom instructional supply funds – $900 per unit; Technology support – $500 per unit; Library enhancement – $157.72 per unit; common purchases – $100 per unit; Foundation Program increased by $417,397; Transportation funding decreased by $50,987; Capital funding increased by$5,853; Local millage match decreased by $63,055.
    The system’s Federal Funds for FY 25 will be allocated as follows: Title I – Two teachers, one aid, and the overage of the Math Coach and Reading Intervention at EPS; Four teachers, one aid and the overage of Math Coach at RBMS; Two teachers and 40% of the Assistant Principal at GCHS. Title II – Employ one classroom reduction teacher at RBMS and support professional development across the District. Title IV: Phase 3 playground at RBMS and support study abroad for GCHS scholars. Title V: Technology for Career Center and support of the Peer Helper Program.
    Child Nutrition Program revenues are budgeted at $900,000.
    Ms. Marquita Lennon also presented the FY 2024 Wrap Up indicating supplemental appropriations for the following: Alabama Reading Initiative Grant for After School funded at $50,000; Education Trust Fund supplemented at $861,900; Career Tech O&M supplemented at $19,938; Textbook supplemented at $47,704; Nurses Salaries supplemented at $26,468 – all totaling $1,000.601.
    In other business, the board approved the following personnel items recommended by Superintendent Dr. Corey Jones.
    Resignation: Jasmine Armstead, Science teacher – GCHS, effective August 7, 2024.
    Employment for the 2024 – 2025 school year:Mary McMillian – Bus Aide – GCSS; Debra Waiters – Part-time Parent Facilitator – GCSS; Marva Smith – Long-term substitute (ACCESS) – GCHS; Carla Russell – Bus driver for mid-day CTE route from GCCC to RBMS.
    Authorization of the following employees to work Concessions and Ticket Booths for the 2024-2025 school year at the Greene County High School principal’s discretion: La Tanya Cockrell; Tracey Hunter; Sarah Brewer; Twelia Morris; Sharon Washington; Mary Henderson; Wanda Gaitor; Jacqueline Edwards – Custodial Services; 3-year Contract for CSFO, Marquita Lennon, effective September 1, 2024.
    Additional Service Contracts 2024 – 2025 for the following employees at Greene County High School: (Separate Contract); Patricia Maiden – Assistant Volleyball Coach.
    The board approved the following administrative items.
    * Travel to the 2024 CTE Vision Conference December 4-7, 2024 in San Antonio, TX for the following potential attendees: (pending budget approval):Teresa Atkins; Andrea Perry; Tamika Thompson; Angela White.
    * Contract between Greene County High School and West Central Volleyball Officials Association for volleyball officials for the 2024 – 2025 school year.
    * Contract between Greene County High School and West Central Football Officials Association for football officials for the 2024 – 2025 school year.
    * Agreement between Greene County Board of Education and Integrity Event Security Providers, LLC to provide concealed weapons detection services at Greene County High School and Robert Brown Middle School for the 2024 – 2025 school year.
    * Payment of all bills, claims, and payroll.
    * Bank reconciliations as submitted by Mrs. Marquita Lennon, CSFO.
    * Purchase of a copier for central office from Dex Imaging in the amount of $14,590.

  • Board approves additional certified teachers for Robert Brown Middle School

    At its monthly meeting held Monday, July 15, 2024, the Greene County Board of Education completed its hiring of certified teachers for Robert Brown Middle School. The board approved Superintendent Dr. Corey Jones recommendations for the following personnel at RBMS: David Taylor, Jr. 7th/8th grade Social Studies Teacher; Talicia Williams, 6th grade Math TEAMS Teacher; Tavaris Lacy, 5th grade Teacher; Naomi Goodson Cyrus, 6th grade Teacher; Kathryn Soule, Media Specialist; Linda Davis as Cook. Dr. Jones noted in his report that the 7th/8th grade Science TEAMS teacher has also been hired at RBMS.
    Dr. Jones reported that Eutaw Primary School had the second highest gains in the state for 3rd grade proficiency. The school’s score rose from 58% to 90%. Perry County was 1st, with gains from 53% to 90%. “ We certainly need to applaud our EPS personnel for their diligent work,” he said. The board also hired Katina Mickens as Special Ed Teacher at EPS and Loria Henderson as Cook..
    Superintendent Jones complimented Greene County High School personnel for taking time to participate in myriad of professional training workshops throughout the summer. “ It is very good for our scholars and school system when staff continues to upgrade their skills,” he noted. The board hired Khadijah Hunter as Long-term sub (In-School Suspension) at GCHS.
    Other personnel items approved by the board included the following:
    * Resignations – Gloria McGhee, Pre-K teacher – EPS, effective July 15, 2024; Randell White, Maintenance Worker, effective July 19, 2024.
    * Recall 2024/2025 – Sara Crawford, Second grade teacher at Eutaw Primary School.
    * Retirement – Frederick Square, Alternative Learning Program Coordinator, effective July 1, 2024; Alonzo Noland, Custodian – Eutaw Primary School, effective July 1, 2024.
    * Non-acceptance of employment from Kianga Austin, 6th grade Science teacher at RBMS.
    * Additional Service Contracts 2024 – 2025 for the following employees at Robert Brown Middle School: (Separate Contract) Mr. Henry Miles Jr.- Head Football Coach; Ms. Daphne Richardson – Cheerleader Sponsor; Tavaris Lacy – Asst. Football Coach/Head Basketball Coach Girls;
    * Incentive in the amount of $500 to be paid to CNP Director for completing the Team Nutrition Training Grant (funded by ALSDE);
    * Stipend in the amount of $750 Marilyn Knott for serving as Building Test Coordinator for the summer administration of the ACAP Supplemental Reading Assessment
    3-year Principal’s Contract for Mrs. Tammy Anderson – RBMS, effective July 1, 2024
    The following administration items were approved by the board: The Superintendent recommends the Board approve the following administrative items:
    * Job description for Special Education Instructional Assistant.
    * Proposal from Albireo Energy to replace 18 cameras and update 65 licenses.
    * Quote from Clear Winds Technologies (Device Repair Service, 3 years) $94,351.25.
    * Quote from Nearpod (Learning License, 1 year) $20,402.50.
    * Quote from Notable, Inc-Kami (Learning License, 3 years) $10,867.50.
    * Quote from Classlink (Single Sign-on/Auto-rostering, 3 years) $12,548.40.
    * Quote from Follett Destiny (Resource Manager, 3 years) $18,147.45.
    * Quote from GoGuardian (Content Filtering, 3 years) $58,500.
    * Quote from Howard Technology to purchase Chromebook carts in the amount of $19,780.
    * Estimate from PowerSchool Enrollment (3 year estimate is included official quote will be available once the district is ready to proceed with the purchase.) $10,207.42..
    Quote from RTI Technologies for chromebooks & cases to be purchased at a unit price of $317.
    Quote from Curriculum Associates (I-Ready Software, 3 Years) $204,391.65.
    * Quote from Newsela/Formative (instructional resource to connect and deliver skill building strategies for students, 3 Years) $10,450.
    * Quote from Seesaw, Inc (provide standard-aligned lessons to engage students with differentiated activities, 3 Years) $19,000.
    * Quote from Imagine Learning/Edgenuity (platform will be utilized at Greene County High School to assist with credit recovery courses that adapt to each student’s unique learning journey, 1 Year) $24,072.
    * Proposal from Bailey Group (Teacher Effectiveness & Supporting Teacher Effectiveness 2024-2025) $114,000.
    * Quote in the amount $500 from EPS Learning for SPIRE Refresher Training for RBMS – Fall 2024.
    * Hourly rate increase in the amount of $25 for Ms. Denise Horton to serve as the behavioral aide for the summer learning program (June 2024) (previously approved May 20, 2024).
    * Increase in adult lunch prices for FY 24-25 to the minimum allowed by ALSDE. The increase will be $0.30 per visiting adult for breakfast, $0.50 per visiting adult for lunch.
    * Agreement of the Greene County Board of Education to be plaintiff in a proposed lawsuit in federal court to save bingo in Greene County.
    * Agreement between the Greene County Board of Education and Greene County Ambulance Service to provide ambulance services during home football games for the 2024 – 2025 season.
    * Quote in the amount of $8,200 from Little’s Trucking 1 LLC to cut down and clean the area at RBMS from the back of Career Center to the ticket booth.
    * Payment of all bills, claims, and payroll.
    * Bank reconciliations as submitted by Mrs. Marquita Lennon, CSFO.
    Request from Housing Authority of Greene County to use one bus to transport students for their end of summer field trip July 25, 2024 (to be paid by Housing Authority of Greene County).
    CSFO, Ms. Marquita Lennon, presented the monthly financials as of June 30, 2024.
    Under Points of Interest, the report included the operative Reserves as follows: 5.26 months general fund reserve; 3.63 months cash reserve, with all bank accounts reconciled. The Financial Snapshot was as follows: General Fund Bank Balance – $4,474,416.33 (reconciles to summary cash report);Accounts Payable check Register – $328,266.84; Payroll Register – $898,833.43 (total gross pay, to include employer match items; Combined Ending Fund Balance – $6,475,259.59. Local Revenue included the following: Property Taxes – $23,187.92; Sales Taxes – $96,967.85; Other Taxes – $2,231.99. Total – $122,387.76.

  • Superintendent Jones highlights students in summer continuing education programs

    The Greene County Board of Education held its monthly meeting, Tuesday, June 11, 2024. All board members were present, as well as Superintendent Dr. Corey Jones, Attorney Hank Sanders and CSFO Marquita Lennon.
    Superintendent Jones’ report began with a statement that there were no positive COVID cases in the schools for the period May 20 to June 11, 2024.
    He continued with positive news for the various schools pointing out Greene County students engaging in continuing education programs this summer.
    GCHS has11 students enrolled at Wallace Community College Selma this summer. One student is enrolled at the University of Alabama for Early College. Diamond White, a rising senior, was selected to participate in the Rural Health Scholars Program at the University of Alabama this summer. Debate Team members, Brianna Jackson, Jasmine Simpson, Arriuna Taylor and instructor Larry Barnette will attend a conference in Washington, D.C the week of June 10, 2024. Jeremiah Bullock is attending the Building Construction Camp at Auburn University the week of June 10. Kaden Roberts is participating in a two-week NASA MUREP Summer Institute at Tuskegee University, which aims to increase the number of minorities in STEM.
    GC Career Center: ACT Bootcamp was held June 3; Career Preparedness via ACCESS continues through July 18, with three students enrolled.
    RBMS will have a certified Math teacher for the 7th and 8th grades. Summer Learning is participating in the OMI Math is Art Unit.
    Eutaw Primary is hosting summer school from June 3 – 27, 2024.
    Following an executive session, the board acted on the following personnel items, recommended by Superintendent Jones:
    Resignation(s) – Sherita Carpenter, Interventionist, Eutaw Primary School; Victoria Moore, Chemistry/Physics teacher, Greene Co. High School, effective May 29, 2024;
    Voluntary Transfer of Ms. Sylvia Williams from English teacher at Greene County High School to English teacher at Robert Brown Middle School, effective the 2024 – 2025 school year.
    Transfer(s) 2024 – 2025 school year: Dexter Hinton from Modern Manufacturing teacher at Greene County Career Center to CTE teacher at Robert Brown Middle School.
    Reassignments 2024 – 2025 school year: Garry Rice from Math Specialist at Robert Brown Middle School to Assistant Principal at Robert Brown Middle School; Dr. Rosalyn Griffin from Assistant Principal at Robert Brown Middle School to Counselor at Robert Brown Middle School; Pamela Pasteur from Interventionist at Eutaw Primary School to Elementary teacher at Eutaw Primary School; Tameshia Porter from Interventionist at Greene County High School to English teacher at Greene County High School.
    Employment: Laquita Hunter, Long-term substitute, Greene County Learning Academy; (Board Member Veronica Richardson abstained on the recommendation regarding Ms. Hunter); Kianga Austin, 6th grade Science teacher, RBMS; Ashley Binion Lily – Middle School English, RMBS; Akia Williams – Elementary teacher, RBMS; Krystal Flantroy, Chemistry/Physics teacher, GCHS; Dr. Nashondra Ruffin, 7th & 8th grade Science TEAMS teacher, RBMS.
    Additional duties for Mental Health Coordinator to serve as Truancy Officer.
    Additional Service Contracts 2024 – 2025 for the following employees at Greene County High School (Separate Contract): Corey Cockrell – Head Varsity Football; Torethia Mitchell – Head Volleyball; Kiren Greene – Band Director; Paula Calligan-Leftwich – Dance Coach; Torethia Mitchell – Head Varsity Girls Basketball; Howard Crawford – Head Varsity Boys Basketball; Rodney Wesley – Head Jr. Varsity Boys Basketball; Janice Jeames-Askew – Athletic Director.
    Stipend in the amount of $1,000 for Pamela McGee, teacher at Eutaw Primary School for serving as the RTI Chairperson for the 2023-2024 school year.
    Stipend for the following teachers to participate in professional development to promote student achievement at Robert Brown Middle. The professional development will reflect the schoolwide ACIP Plan and will take place for 2 – 5 days during the months of June and July 2024: Rosalyn Griffin; Felecia Smith; Raven Bryant; Vanessa Bryant; Annie Howard; Demetris Lyles; Pinkie Travis.
    The board approved the following administrative items recommended by Dr. Jones.
    * Contract between the Greene County Board of Education and Marriott Birmingham to host 2024 Administrative Retreat.
    * Quote from Allianz Solutions for ACT Boot Camp Tutoring on June 3 – 6, 2024.
    * Quote from C & J Resources for ACT Boot Camp Tutoring on July 8 – 11, 2024.
    * Permission for Black Scholars committee to use two buses to transport students from Greene County to Stillman June 24 – July 19, 2024.
    * The revision of contract between Greene County Board of Education and Chante Myles-Rice (C&J Resources) for ACT Prep tutoring service (Previously approved November 2023)
    * Out of state field trip request for seniors to travel to Sevierville, TN for Senior Trip 2025 on May 5 – 9, 2025.
    * FY 2024 Budget Amendments.
    * Payment of all bills, claims, and payroll.
    * Bank reconciliations as submitted by Mrs. Marquita Lennon, CSFO.
    Ms. Marquita Lennon, Chief School Finance Officer, presented the Financial Snapshot as of May 31, 2024. Points of Interest: Operating Reserve – 5.44 months combined general fund reserve; 3.87 months cash reserve. All bank accounts have been reconciled. General Fund bank balance totaled $4,768.852.58. Accounts Payable Check Register totaled $373,896.01. Payroll Register totaled $927,638.22. Combined Ending Balance totaled $6,697.366.11. Local Revenue Sources: Property Taxes – $39,424.42; Sales Taxes – $112,204.60; Other Taxes – $152,001.52.
    CSFO Lennon also presented budget amendments for FY 2024, including carry-over funds and amended expenditures for Title 1 – Part A; Title I – Part A C/O; Title II (includes CSR), Title IV; Rural Education; ESSER III Reserve and ESSER III.

  • School board holds special meeting on school personnel

    The above scholars completed the requirements for the Structural Welding Certificate from Wallace Community College in Selma on Friday, May 10, 2024. Pictured left from right: Janice Jeames Askew, Scholar : Jeremiah Bullock, Nicholas Henley, Michael Gibson, Jr. Kalvin Jones, Jakaylon Bridgemon, Curtis Jordan, Zacary Rutledge, Welding Instructor, Dr, Corey Jones, Superintendent, Scholar John Cockrell, Jaylon Mitchell and LaTravis Jones. Also in attendance was Teresa Atkins, Greene County Career Center Director.

    The Greene County Board of Education held a special call meeting, Thursday, May 9, 2024 with a focus on school personnel. All board members were present as well as Superintendent Dr. Corey Jones, Board Attorney Hank Sanders, GCHS Principal Ms. Andrea Perry, Robert Brown Middle School Principal Ms. Tammy Anderson, Eutaw Primary Principal Dr. Brittany Harris and CSFO Ms. Marquita Lennon.

    Shortly after the official opening of the meeting, following roll call and approval of the agenda, Attorney Sanders certified an executive session for the board. President Leo Branch explained that the session was called to discuss personnel issues that may involve good name and character, legal matters that may involve strategy and safety. The Principals and CSFO were asked to remain in the session with the Board, Superintendent and Attorney. The executive session lasted approximately two hours.

    When the board resumed its open meeting, President Branch announced that no decisions were made and no actions taken in executive session.

    In previous board meetings Superintendent Jones did caution the board that budget cuts would be necessary for the next school year, especially in personnel. The ESSER funds which provided support for additional Academic Coaches would end this fiscal year.

    In the open session, the board acted on the following personnel items.

    * Approved resignation of Mr. James Gaines, Transportation Supervisor for the Greene County School System, effective June 30, 2024.

    * Approved supplemental contract for Janice Jeames-Askew to serve as Athletic Director for GCHS for 2023-2024.

    * Approved supplemental funding agreement for in school personnel.

  • School Board anticipates clean audit

    Superintendent Jones highlights students’ positive activities

    The Greene County Board of Education held its monthly meeting, Monday, March 25, 2024 with all board members in attendance. Prior to the official meeting the board heard an unofficial audit report for the fiscal year 2022-2023, presented by the Alabama Department of Examiners of Public Accounts. The examiners noted that the report is unofficial until it is printed and forward to the board.
    Superintendent Dr. Corey Jones presented ted the following updates of activities at the various schools.
    Eutaw Primary: The ACAP Summative test will be administered March 26 through April 12, 2024. Scholars participated in living Wax Museum, researching the contributions of famous African Americans. Educators and scholars celebrated Read Across America February 26 through March 1. Reading and Math Progress Monitoring Data meetings have concluded and all 3rd grade educators have analyzed their middle of year data and made instructional adjustments.
    Robert Brown Middle School: Spring Fling Dance was held March 1. Schoolwide Pawsitive Character Celebration awarded treats to students for their hard work. G.E.M.S Expo at UWA (4th & 5th grade scholars participated in STEM activities. Donuts with Dad scheduled for March 27.
    Greene County High School: Scholars presented a show stopping celebration celebrating African American Heritage. GCHS Juniors attended Alabama Power Youth Leadership Conference at Shelton State Community College. Seniors participated in ACT Workkeys.
    GCHS Debate Team competed at Fairhope on March 16, where two members earned awards, Tia Moore and Mekhi Braggs. On March 21-22, the Debate Team competed at Mississippi State University, where senior Tia Moore received a superlative award for her presentation.
    GCHS Seniors attended Alabama State University Tour at Sumter Central High, with 12 students receiving scholarships. The Alabama A&M University Bus Tour awarded 15 students with scholarships.
    Greene County Career Center: The HOSA Leadership Conference was held in Montgomery AL, February 29 – March 1. The Black College Fair was hosted February 29. Over 400 students and more than 25 colleges and businesses participated, Tenth grade students visited Talladega College, March 6. The Modern Manufacturing Industry Tour: Lear Corporation was held March 14.
    The board approved the following personnel items. Recommended by the superintendent.
    * Resignation of Ms. Kaleigha Jemison, Kindergarten teacher at Eutaw Primary School, effective March 25, 2024.
    * Maternity/Catastrophic sick leave for Ms. Quenterica White, First grade teacher at Eutaw Primary School beginning April 25, 2024.
    * Employment of Ms. Shameria Jordan as a long-term substitute – Kindergarten teacher at Eutaw Primary School.
    The board approved the following administrative items recommended by the superintendent. *Application for registration as a charter authorizer.
    Retroactively approve (as of 2/26/2024) base bid and alternates for HVAC installation at Robert Brown Middle School to be installed by Stateline Mechanical.
    * Bid proposal from Integrity Event Security Providers, LLC for single entry/concealed weapon search (Based on 9-months).
    * Travel to attend SREB Making Schools Work Conference – Nashville, TN – July 8 – 12, 2024, Rebecca Coleman and Tammy Anderson.
    * McKee & Associates Architect Firm for the construction of the track and first phase of the football stadium at Greene County High School.
    * Quote from Kendrick Lewis in the amount of $3,500 to build concrete ramp at Eutaw Primary School (CNP).
    * Memorandum of Agreement between Greene County Board of Education and the University of Alabama to participate in UA’s College of Education Teach in Bama initiative designed to recruit, train, and retain talented individuals in the State of Alabama.
    * 3 year contract with UKG Timeclock System in the amount of $70,297.60.
    Quote from Hammilll Recreation (Play & Park Structures) for Phase II of playground equipment and installation at Robert Brown Middle School.
    * Dual Enrollment Agreement with Wallace Community College Selma/Demopolis and Greene County High School for 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.
    * Payment of all bills, claims, and payroll.
    Bank reconciliations as submitted by Mrs. Marquita Lennon, CSFO.
    The CSFO, Marquita Lennon, presented the following Financial Snapshot for the period ending February 29, 2024. Operating Reserves total 5.93 months combined general fund reserve; 4.68 months cash reserve. All bank accounts have been reconciled. The General Fund Balance totaled $5,762,129.52 (reconciles to the Summary Cash report). Accounts Payable Check Register totaled $404,715.92. Payroll Register totaled $933,185.57. Combined Ending Fund Balance totaled $7,294,827.58.
    Lennon reported local revenue as follows: Property Taxes – $77,139.62; Sales Taxes – $98,002.40; Other Taxes – $2,127.57. All totaling – $ 177,268.59.