Greene County Democrat

Tag: Mrs. Marquita Lennon

  • Greene County Board of Education celebrates ‘School Board Recognition Month’

    Board members receive recognition from schools and Central Office

    The Greene County Board of Education held its regular meeting on January 20, 2026, in the Central Office auditorium. All five school board members were present.
    It was National School Board Recognition Month, so each of the Board member was honored with gifts from the schools and Central Office staff. This included a healthy edible bouquet of flowers, composed of fruits, from Acting Superintendent Darryl Aikerson, a globe and other gifts.
    In addition to the gifts, the Board also heard reports from the acting Superintendent, CFO on finances and other staff on curriculum and programmatic matters. The Board also approved minutes of its recent meetings on December 15, 18, 30 and January 5, which involved selecting a new Superintendent.
    Ms. Martin, Curriculum Coordinator reported on the Alabama Numeracy Act which requires that all students from K to 5th grade learn basic math skills and are able to do and solve basic math problems. The act, which is similar to the Alabama Literacy Act, requires students to have basic math skills and understanding by 5th. Grade. The act provides math coaches and summer math camps for students who need additional assistance and support in math. There are math coaches assigned to Eutaw Primary School and Robert Brown Middle School, with financing from the State of Alabama, under the Numeracy Act to assist students in Greene County meet these requirements.
    The Board held an Executive Session to discuss personnel and legal matters. The Board made the following Personnel changes:
    • EMPLOYMENTS (CLASSIFIED)
 Williams, Shirleria RBMS CNP 

    • RESIGNATION(S)
 Eubanks, Brandi RBMS Teacher Elementary 
    
• VOLUNTARY TRANSFER
 Davis, Linda RBMS to GCHS CNP Cook 
    
• RESPONSE TO INTERVENTION STIPENDS (RTI)
 McGee, Pamela EPS Teacher PK-3 
 Durrett, Carla EPS ARI Reading Coach.

    The Board also approved these Administrative Service items, as recommended by the Acting Superintendent:
    Quote from RJ Young (Sophos Antivirus License Renewal) $45,356.68

    Quote from Renaissance for Nearpod, Flocabulary and services (Learning License, 1 year) $19,530.00

    Renewal of Service and Support Agreement with Albireo Energy to continue maintenance and support of the Building Management System (BMS) and access control systems, including cameras and HVAC, at Greene County High School (GCHS) and Greene County Career Center (GCCC)

    Proposal from Bailey Group to provide Instructional coaching (ELA English Language Arts) at Robert Brown Middle for 5th & 6th grade in the amount of $15,000

    Proposal from Bailey Group to provide Instructional coaching (Math) at Robert Brown Middle for 5th & 6th grade in the amount of $15,000

    Payment of all bills, claims, and payroll

    Bank reconciliations as submitted by Mrs. Marquita Lennon, CSFO

    The Board received a financial report from CFO, Marquita Lennon, on the months of November and December 2025. For December 2025, she summarized the results saying:
    *General Fund Bank Balance $5,841,722.47
    reconciles to the Summary Cash Report
    * Accounts Payable Check Register $231,756.27
    *  Payroll Register $929,427.21*Total gross pay, to include employer match items
    * Combined Ending Fund Balance: $7,414,733.33

    Leo Branch, Board Chair announced that the Board Committee had met with Dr. Timothy Thurmond and worked out the details of his contract to be the new Superintendent beginning February 1, 2026.

     

     

  • School Board engages in Whole Board Training; holds meeting with interim superintendent

    The Greene County Board of Education met in regular session, Monday, October 20, 2025 which was also the first meeting engaging the Interim Superintendent Mr. Darryl Aikerson. The board hired Aikerson, September 24, 2025 on a contractual basis. All board members were present. The board also held its annual Whole Board Training, which is a state requirement for all board members. The Alabama Association of School Boards (AASB) conducted the training on the process of searching and selecting a school system superintendent. All board members attended, except Ms. Veronica Richardson.
    As his report to the board, Superintendent Aikerson scheduled Curriculum Coordinator, Mrs. Barbara Martin and Maintenance Supervisor, Mrs. Sharon Hardwick to present updates on their administrative areas.
    Mrs. Martin’s presentation focused on three components: Curriculum and Instruction; At-Risk Multi-Tiered System of Support; Testing and Accountability. Her report included the following: ensuring explicit and systematic instruction daily; benchmark assessment provided to students; ensuring all aspects of the Literacy Act and Numeracy Act are implemented; digital literacy is a major part of the instructional process; problem solving teams are utilized; after-school and summer learning opportunities are provided.
    Mrs. Hardwick’s Maintenance Report focused on current projects at each school facility. Outsourced projects at Eutaw Primary include duct cleaning; leak in front driveway and repair to suppression system. Robert Brown projects include awaiting new part for the elevator; installation of shades; fire alarm inspection. Greene County High: flooring issue near gym; track & field in progress; fire hydrants back on line. At Peter J. Kirksey, there is a leak underground. Greene County Water Department is assisting. Repair and/or replace HVAÇ units in Central Office.
    The board approved the following personnel items recommended by the superintendent.
    Employment: Canesha Ray Williams – Long-term substitute, Greene County High School; Adrienne Davis – Substitute Bus Aide.
    Additional Service Contracts 2025 – 2026 for the following employees at Greene County High School: (Separate Contract): Akeem Tyree – Assistant Basketball Coach; Devin Woods – Head Baseball Coach.
    Catastrophic sick leave for Carl Oliver, Lead Maintenance.
    Greene County School District After-School Tutorial Program 2025-2026:
    Eutaw Primary School: Carla Durrett-Reading Coach; Pamela Pasteur-Kindergarten; Elona Washington-1st Grade; Angela Hill-2nd Grade; Keisha Williams-3rd Grade; LaShaun Henley-3rd Grade; Carolyn Daniels-Special Services; Mary Hobson-Paraprofessional.
    Robert Brown Middle School: Vanessa Bryant-4th Grade; Demetris Lyles-5th Grade; Naomi Cyrus-6th Grade; Sylvia Williams-7th & 8th Grade; Raven Bryant-Special Services; Dorothea Childs-Special Services Paraprofessional; Pinkie Travis-Paraprofessional; Felecia Smith-Math Coach.
    Bus Drivers & Aide: Stanley Lucious; Natasha Lewis; Gerald Holloway; George Pippen; Johnnie Pelt; James Gaines; Jerdin Gray; Marsha Powell – Aide.
    The board approved the following administrative items recommended by the superintendent.
    * Capital Plan – Five Year Plan for the Greene County School System.
    * Agreement between Greene County Board of Education and Lucy Reyes for Special Education translator services for the 2025 – 2026 school year at a rate of $30.00 per hour, with a minimum of 2 hours per session.
    * Bid from Pruett Oil Company to provide petroleum products for the 2025 – 2026 school year (Only Bidder).
    * Quote from ClearWinds for Chromebook Repair Service in the amount of $32,400 (yearly renewal).
    * Payment of all bills, claims, and payroll.
    * Out-of-state travel for students and chaperones to attend The Bodies Human Exhibit in Gatlinburg, TN on December 3, 2025.
    Renewal of two Certificates of Deposit (CDs) at Merchants & Farmers Bank for the Greene County Career Center, updating the interest rate from 0.95% to 4.17% (13 Month rate) First CD – Maturity Date October 31, 2025 – $2,141.23; Second CD – Maturity Date – November 11, 2025 – $1,962.74.
    CSFO, Mrs. Marquita Lennon informed the board there would not be a financial snapshot at this meeting, since the system is in process of closing for the porous fiscal.year. October and November financial reports will be presented at the November board meeting.

  • School board approves multiple personnel and administrative items

    Greene County Career Center demonstrates unlimited career opportunities for scholars

    The Greene County Board of Education met in regular session, Monday, July 21, 2025, with all board members in attendance. As part of his report to the board, Superintendent Dr. Corey Jones invited Ms. LaMonica Little, Career Coach at the Greene County Career Center for a presentation. She gave an overview of the various activities, including trips, students were engaged in during the previous school year. She noted that Greene County High School scholars are prepared for college, work force or military. The areas of workforce training include welding, heavy equipment operations, HVAC, various medical assistants programs and more. Once students compete training and are certified in the field, they are readily offered positions of employment.
    Students are also provided all assistance available to earn scores for college entrance. Ms. Little demonstrated multiple trips students are afforded to universities, industries, state and national competitions as part of their preparation. She said that there are unlimited career opportunities for students if they will do the work. “ If a student is still at home after graduation, then that student wants to just be at home,” she said.
    Superintendent Jones also presented his 11 Goals for administrating the school system during the upcoming school term.
    Then board approved the following personnel items recommended by the superintendent.
    * Rescind recall of Shana Lucy, Third grade teacher at Eutaw Primary School
    * Rescind TEAMS Contract 2025-2026 – Lorissa Holder – GCHS, Science (1 Year Contract)
    Resignations: Jennifer Miller-Reeves, SPED para-professional – Robert Brown Middle School, effective July 1, 2025; Samon Sanders – Truancy Officer Duties, effective May 30, 2025;
    Roshonda Clark, Second grade teacher – EPS.
    Employment: Devin Woods – ISS Instructor – RBMS; Dequandra Lyles – Elementary teacher – RBMS; Victoria Moore – TEAMS Science teacher – GCHS; Akeem Tyree – ISS Instructor – GCHS; Laquita Hunter – Long-term sub – Learning Academy; Kavalyn Bryant – First grade – EPS; Angela Pruitt – Third grade – EPS; Denetria Ruffin – Second grade – EPS; Zarquashia Taylor – Health Science teacher – GCCC; Glenda Hodges – Long-term sub (Special Services) – EPS;
    TEAMS Contract 2025-2026 – Victoria Moore – GCHS, Science (1Year Contract);
    * Voluntary transfer of Demetris Lyles from 4th grade teacher at Robert Brown Middle School to 6th grade teacher at Robert Brown Middle School, effective 2025 – 2025 school year.
    * Personnel for Summer Learning for the 2025-2026 school year: Brenda Lawrence – Nurse
    Salary for Mental Health Coordinator of $40,000 to be paid in accordance with the FY 2026 Mental Health Services Coordinator Grant.
    Additional Service Contracts 2025 – 2026 for the following employees at Greene County High School: (Separate Contract): Head Girls Basketball – Torethia Mitchell; Assistant Girls Basketball – Lorissa Holder; Head Boys Basketball (Varsity) – Howard Crawford; Head Girls Track – Tracey Hunter; Head Boys Track – Howard Crawford; Asst. Flag Football – Howard Crawford;
    The following to perform after hours CCR related activities during the 2025-2026 school year, to include weekend and after school activities: Paula Calligan; Tomora Morris-Hill; Shamyra Jones; Patricia Rhone; LaMonica Little; Tweila Morris; Tamika Thompson; Lorissa Holder; Janice Askew; Drenda Morton; Tura Edwards.
    Update to additional service contract to include Flag Football.
    Additional Service Contracts 2025 – 2026 for the following employees at Robert Brown Middle School: (Separate Contract): Tavaris Lacy –Head Basketball (Girls/Boys) – Rescind (approved at June 13, 2025 meeting); Tavaris Lacy – Head Basketball (Boys); Dequandra Lyles – Head Basketball (Girls.
    The board approved the following administrative items.
    * Partnership between the University of Alabama Health Resources and Service Administration Implementation IV Project and the Greene County School District to target 5th grade students at Robert Brown Middle on helping to build positive character skills.
    * Memorandum of Agreement between Greene County Board of Education and The University of Alabama for the district’s participation in BAMA-STOP School Violence Program.
    * Agreement between Greene County Board of Education and Governors Local Workforce Areas and Sirius Workforce LLC to provide summer personnel for summer 2025 work-based learning program.
    * Agreement between the Greene County Board of Education and Greene County Ambulance Service to provide ambulance services during home football games for the 2025 – 2026 season.
    * Quote from Divot Assets in the amount of $8,500 to perform on site inventory for FY 2025.
    * Travel for Juniors, Seniors and chaperons to tour Spelman College and Clark Atlanta University on July 31, 2025.
    * Adjustment of the summer rate for teachers to $50 per hour for the CTE Summer Camp, CTE Preparation and New Year Planning in relation to the CCR Grant. 
    * Adjustment of the all-day/weekend after hours rate for CCR related activities to $250 per day.
    * Agreement between the Greene County Board of Education and H&H Educational Services, LLC to provide psychometric services for the 2025-2026 school year.
    * Contractual Agreement for Greene County Board of Education and Denise Horton to serve as Instructional & Behavioral Aide for the system FY 2025-2026.
    * Agreement between the Greene County Board of Education and West Alabama Therapy, LLC to provide physical and occupational therapy to IDEA eligible students for the 2025-2026 school year.
    * Agreement between Greene County Board of Education and Kim Herren to provide developmental delay services for pre-school children during the 2025- 2026 school year. *Agreement between Greene County Board of Education and Tammy W. Lewis MSCCC-SLP to provide speech therapy services for the 2025-2026 school year.
    * Agreement between Greene County Board of Education and Behavioral Solutions of Mississippi for Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Consultative Services (behavior services) for the 2025-2026 school yea.r
    * Agreement between Greene County Board of Education and Demisha Stough to provide gifted services for the 2025-2026 school year (Second grade Child Find).
    * Contract between the Greene County Board of Education and West Central Officials Association for football officials for the 2025 – 2026 school year at GCHS.
    * Contract between Greene County Board of Education and Corey Morton to serve as technology assistant and provide technical support for the district for the 2025 – 2026 school year.
    * Memorandum of Agreement for Special Education Services between Community Service Programs of West Alabama, Inc. Head Start/Early Head Start and Greene County Board of Education for 2025 – 2026 school year.
    * Payment of all bills, claims, and payroll.
    * Bank reconciliations as submitted by Mrs. Marquita Lennon, CSFO.
    Contract between the Greene County Board of Education and West Central Officials Association for football officials for the 2025 – 2026 school year at RBMS.
    CNP Department rate increase for meal prices and salad prices beginning FY 2025-26.
    Service Contract between Greene County Board of Education and Zachary Rutledge to develop and provide a Dual Enrichment (Welding Level I Lab) program for students at Greene County Career Center for the 2025 – 2026 school year.
    CSFO Ms. Marquita Lennon presented the financial snapshots for the period ending June, 30, 2025. Points of Interest included: Operating Reserve – 8.33 months combined general fund; 8.34 months cash reserve. All bank accounts have been reconciled. General fund balance totaled $8,832,479.71 (reconciles to the summary cash report). Accounts payable check register totaled $229,188.01; Payroll register totaled $920,638.24 (total gross pay to include employer match items). Combined ending fun d balance totaled $8,815,832.25. In local revenue, property taxes totaled $21,049.69; sales taxes totaled $145,119.39; other taxes totaled $5,831.36. Local Revenue totaled $172,000.44.
    Ms Lennon noted that all the funds are in place for the Track & Field Project (Phase I of the Sports Complex at Greene County High School). The expected cost of Phase I will be approximately $1.9 million. The State Department of Education is providing a portion of the cost.

     

     

     

  • 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.

     

     

     

  • Checkout GCCC Billboard, Greensboro St. Eutaw

    School Board approves Superintendent’s two-year contract, pending salary negotiations

    GCCC Scholars L to R:  Le’Miracle Bevelle, Kenya Amerson, Quentin Walton, Jr., Kaden Roberts, Breana Lavender, Jabari Hall, Sidney Moore.

    At its November 18, 2024 meeting, the Greene County Board of Education, on a vote of 3 to 2, agreed to offer Superintendent Dr. Corey Jones an additional two year contract, pending new salary negotiations, which will be conducted by Board President Leo Branch, Board Vice-President Veronica Richardson and Attorney Hank Sanders with Dr. Jones. The new contract goes into effect July 1, 2025 through June 30, 2027. The affirmative votes on the superintendent’s contract were given by Board members Robert Davis, Carrie Dancy and Leo Branch.The two negative votes were given by Board members Veronica Richardson and Brandon Merriweather.
    This superintendent contract is the same as the previous superintendent contract except for provisions on board relations, community relations, dates and salary increase. The additions state the following: The Superintendent shall work more effectively to keep the Board informed of developments, initiatives and issues in the District. This provision shall be specifically addressed in each evaluation. The Superintendent shall work to more effectively build relationships with the Greene County community. This provision shall be specifically addressed in each evaluation.
    The School Board agrees to notify the Superintendent in writing on or before December 30, 2027, whether or not it intends to renew the contract for an additional term commencing July 1, 2027, and the terms and conditions upon which it proposes such renewal.
    In his report to the board, given prior to the board’s action on his contract, Dr. Jones presented an update of accomplishments in the school system during his five-year tenure. Regarding facilities improvements he cited the renovations, including new roofing, flooring and facade to the Board’s Central Office; new roofing and flooring at Eutaw Primary School; new HVAC system, roofing, doors, windows, painting ting and other repairs including new Press Box, Concession Stand, and new fencing at Robert Brown Middle School.
    In financing, Dr. Jones noted that in 2019, cash balance in the General Fund Bank Account totaled $950,037.45; Cash Balance as of Nov. 18, 2024 is $6,534,608.42. He stated that the last two years of audits had no findings from the State Auditors. Under his tenure, the system developed a Bus Driver Retention Program and currently all buses in the system are air conditioned.
    Dr. Jones stated that, most significantly, for the 2023-2024 school year all schools increased in proficiency from the previous year. Once the state releases the grades, the system is expected to received a higher letter grade. That same school term, all 3rd grade scholars passed the reading proficiency test, except for two, who are special needs students. In previous reports, Superintendent Jones shared the various off-campus educational environments scholars are exposed to, including team debates at various venues in and out of state; visits to college campuses; workplace tours, museum visits, State Legislature and the National Capitol visits.
    Dr. Jones also shared his own professional development during the previous five years, including serving as a mentor for new superintendents with SSA.
    In his Positive School News Reports, superintendent Jones noted the following:
    EPS – Scholars caught Being Good and Scholars of the Month were rewarded with books.
    K-3 educators participated in Aimsweb Data meetings (Reading). They also participated in professional development hosted by the Alabama Best Practices Network.
    RBMS – PTA meeting was held Nov. 4. Peer Helpers Kindness Campaign held Nov. 11. Recognition of local retired educators held Nov. 19.
    GCHS – College Application week held Oct. 7-11. Scholars attended Open House at Tuskegee University and Alabama A&M University. Scholars. Celebrated Red Ribbon 
Week. Scholars were inducted into Honor Societies including: Mu Alpha Theta, National Honor Society, National Technical honor Society, Historia Vitae. Superintendent Jones held Scholars Round Table.
    GCCC – Greene County Career Center Billboard on Greensboro St, / State Hwy 14, Eutaw. Tiger Spirit Shop held grand opening. Scholars participated in Tuskegee Youth Summit. Scholars participated in FBLA District 2 workshop. Scholars held Tech or Treat with EPS 3rd graders. JAG scholars held initiation and installation. GCCC awarded $200,000 College & Career Readiness grant.
    The board approved the following personnel items recommended by the superintendent.
    * Retention bonus in the amount of $750 for bus driver Jerdin Grays to remain a bus driver for the system for a period of one year.
    * Resignation of David Taylor, History teacher at RBMS, effective November 18, 2024.
    The Board approved the following administrative service items recommended by Superintendent Jones.
    * MOA between Greene County Board of Education and Black Belt Regional Child Advocacy Center to provide counseling services BBRCAC clients in the Greene County School System on the first Tuesday of every month.
    * Contract between the Greene County Board of Education and West Central Officials Association for basketball officials for the 2024 – 2025 school year at RBMS.
    * 2.5% pay raise for all support staff, effective the 2024-2025 contract year. (This supersedes the original effective date of October 1, 2024, approved October 21, 2024).
    * Supplement in the amount of $750.00 for the AASBO certification that corresponds to job title and classification for secretaries and bookkeepers.
    * 3% raise for clerical staff to be effective November 1, 2024.
    * Permission for CNP Department to dispose of and sell for salvage six (6) stands that were removed from Robert Brown Middle School walk-in cooler.
    * Payment of all bills, claims, and payroll.
    * Bank reconciliations as submitted by Mrs. Marquita Lennon, CSFO.
    * Raise pay of Greene County School Board members to $900 per month pursuant to new Alabama law upon the election of the next board member.
    CSFO Marquita Lennon presented Financial Snapshots for September 30,2024 end of fiscal year and for October 30,2024 first month of new fiscal year. As of September 30, the combined general fund reserve totaled 7.59 months; cash reserve totaled 7.27 months. All bank accounts reconciled. General fund bank balance totaled $6,945,866.68; accounts payable check register -$1,119,444.61; combined ending fund balance – $7,252,327.11. Local Revenue: Property Taxes – $64,149.89; Sales Taxes – $201,172.06; Other Taxes v- $20,904.55; Amendment 743 – $60,000. Total: $346,227.20.
    Financial Snapshot as of October 30: Combined general fund reserve totaled $6.04 months. Cash reserve totaled 5.31 months. All bank accounts reconciled. General fund Bank balance totaled $5,943,900.27. Accounts payable check register totaled $613,831.91. Payroll register totaled $974,176.05. Combined Ending Fund Balance totaled $6,758,944.08. No taxes collected. Amendment 743 totaled $60,000.

  • Greene County School Board looks to restore Modern Manufacturing curriculum; Superintendent reports on academic progress

    At the regular monthly Greene County Board of Education meeting on September 16, 2024, the board heard a report from Donny Jones, Director of Alabama Works on ways the school system could restore the Modern Manufacturing program. This program prepares high school students to enter technical job fields, related to the automobile industry in the state.

    Donny Jones indicated that this program was now operating in 34 school systems in the state and as coordinated with the needs of industry, such as Mercedes Benz, Honda, Hyundai, and Toyota around the state. Students get the basics of manufacturing including safety, work ethics, hand-tools, fixtures and gauges, basic measurement, critical thinking and leadership. They can also take electives in specific technical areas, like welding, robotics and industrial maintenance, as a dual degree student at a two-year community college, like Wallace Community College in Selma.

    The dual enrollment provisions allow local student to finish high school and a two-year community college program at no tuition cost to them. Donny Jones said,” We do not want our rural students to leave their home communities. We encourage them to live in their home communities. We help them to get the training needed to take high paying jobs with local industries.”
    Superintendent Corey Jones said he was working closely with Alabama Works to bring the program, which builds on past program to Greene County by next school year.

    Superintendent Jones continued with his report on progress in the three
    branches of the Greene County school system. He noted that the Eutaw Primary School had received a $1,050 grant from Blue Cross-Blue Shield to teach children shapes. Robert Brown Middle School received $4,500 from Representative Curtis Travis for match coaches. The school also had a successful grand-parents day in September. The Greene County High School received a grant of $ 8,021.20 from Representative Curtis Travis or a September 8th ‘college fair and help on the career tech programs.
    Superintendent Jones went on to discuss academic proficiency in the school system. In Eutaw Primary, the grade 1 to 3 increased reading proficiency from 17% to 32% and math proficiency from 15% to 18%. For Robert Brown Middle School, reading proficiency went to 3.3% and math proficiency to 3.8%, leaving room for continued growth. For Greene County High School, reading proficiency was at 5.8% and math at 2.7%, as measured by the ACT test, a college admissions test. Jones commented that “many school system were trying to get a different test, than the ACT, to measure proficiency in the high school populations.

    The Board went into Executive Session to discuss employment, policy and legal matters. After the session, the Board approved the following recommendations from the Superintendent.

    On Personnel Service recommendations, the Board approved:
    Employment for the 2024 – 2025 school year
    Samon K. Sanders – Mental Health Coordinator – GCSS
    Zaddrick Smith – Physical Education Teacher – EPS (RECALL)
    Vernon Strode – Lead Maintenance – GCSS
    Lorissa Holder – Biology Teacher – GCHS

    On Administrative Service items, the following were approved:
    Five Year Capital Plan for the Greene County School System

    Contract between Greene County Board of Education and Corey Morton to serve as technology assistant and provide technical support for the district

    Proposal from Vector Security to replace door station units at RBMS in the amount of $8,940

    Estimate from Darden Communications Consultants INC for transportation communication system and monthly subscription for school buses in the amount of $10,613.60

    Proposal from Criterion Consulting LLC for Administrator Evaluation Support Services for the 2024 – 2025 school year

    Quote from Imagine Learning for purpose prep program for Alternative School curriculum

    MOU between the Greene County and The Foundation for the Art and Science of Learning (FASL) for Teams Improving Practice to provide professional development and consulting services to the district for teachers

    Science Textbook adoption committee 2024 – 2025

    Renewal terms 12-Months @ 4.10% for CD at Synovus Bank

    Quote from Divot Assets to perform Fixed Asset Physical Inventory Services District Wide in the amount of $12,710 for FY 2024

    Payment of all bills, claims, and payroll

    Bank reconciliations as submitted by Mrs. Marquita Lennon, CSFO

    Robotics in the Black Belt Partnership Agreement between Greene County Board of Education and Black Belt STEM Institute

    The summary financial report from Mrs. Marquita Lennon, CSFO indicated:

    General Fund Bank Balance $5,264,125.63
    *reconciles to the Summary Cash Report
    * Accounts Payable Check Register $2,487,446.07
    * Payroll Register $935,563.94
    *Total gross pay, to include employer match items
    * Combined Ending Fund Balance: $7,104,088.20

    Total Local Revenues from property and sales taxes, and Amendment 743 (bingo) was $154,160.77.

    After these reports and motions, the meeting was adjourned.

  • 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.

  • Leo Branch continues as School Board President; Veronica Richardson as Vice President

    The Greene County Board of Education held is monthly meeting Monday, November 13, 2023 (one week early due to Thanksgiving Holiday), and conducted its annual reorganization process.
    As the first item of business, school board legal counsel, Attorney Hank Sanders, declared all board offices vacant and called for nominations for the position of President. When there was no immediate response, he urged the board members to act on his request. Board member Robert Davis suggested that the officers remain the same. Attorney Sanders asked for a motion to that effect. Board member Veronica Richardson nominated Mr. Leo Branch for Board President; Mr. Davis offered the motion, seconded by Mr. Merriweather. The motion carried. Mr. Davis nominated Ms. Richardson for Board Vice-President; Mr. Branch offered the motion and Mr. Davis seconded. The motion carried.
    The board’s monthly meeting schedule was not formally addressed, but it is assumed that the monthly meetings will continue on the third Monday at 4:30 pm at the Central Office.
    The board approved the following personnel items recommend by Superintendent Dr. Corey Jones.
    * Supplemental Contract: Howard Crawford, Junior Varsity Basketball Coach, Greene County High School.
    * Employment: Arleen Jackson, bus aide; William Mack, full-time bus driver; Carol Caruthers, substitute bus driver.
    The board approved the following administrative items recommended by Superintendent Jones.
    * Contract between Greene County Board and West Central Official Association for Basketball Games at Robert Brown Middle School for 2023-2024 School Year.
    * Memorandum of Understanding for Dual Enrollment between Alabama State University and Greene County Schools (Sophomore, Junior, and Senior-Level Students).
    * Travel for Coach Rodney Wesley and Greene County High School basketball team to participate in the Holiday Classic, Biloxi Mississippi during Christmas Break.
    * Quote from Bioremsci LLC for mold remediation in the amount of $4,995 for Greene County High School and Resource Center.
    * Estimate from Bleachers and Seats.com in the amount of $9,148.52 to repair bleachers at Greene County High School.
    * Contract between Greene County Board and Chante Myles-Rice for ACT Prep tutoring Services.
    * Facilities Solutions Agreement between Cintas and Greene County Board for Carhartt Featherweight Coveralls for welding class.
    Payment of all bills, claims, and payroll.
    Bank reconciliations as submitted by Mrs. Marquita Lennon, CSFO.
    In his report to the board, Attorney Hank Sanders noted that at the August 28, 2023 board meeting, a board member voted on a personnel item in error. He recommended that the Superintendent offer to present the August 28 personnel items again without item E-4. Dr. Jones presented the amended personnel items and, following a motion and a second, the board voted approval. Dr. Jones then recommended approval of Personnel item E-4 from August 28, 2023 meeting. Davis offered the motion to approve; Merriweather offered the second. Branch, Davis and Merriweather voted for the motion; Dancy and Richardson abstained.
    CSFO Ms. Marquita Lennon presented Financial Snapshots for the months of September and October.
    As of September 30, 2023: Operating Reserve = 4.88M combined general fund reserve; 4.09M cash reserve. All bank accounts have been reconciled. General Fund Bank Balance = $4,151,216.82 (reconciles to the Summary Cash report). Accounts Payable Check Register = $1,988,719.83; Payroll Register = $929,804.96 (Total gross pay to include employer match items). Combined Ending fund Balance = $5,882,474.60. Local Revenue: Property Taxes = 14.133; Sales Taxes – $104.374; Other Taxes = $1,067. Total Local Revenue = $119,574.
    Financial Snapshot for October 31, 2023: Operating Reserve = 4.67M; Cash Reserve = 3.17M. All bank accounts have been reconciled. General Fund Bank Balance = $3,803,378.46 (reconciles to the Summary Cash Report). Accounts Payable Check Register = $666,469.46; Payroll Register = $916,873.41. (Total gross pay to include employer match items). Combined En ding Fund Balance = $5,606,094.26. Local Revenue: Property Taxes = $58,956; Sales Taxes = $110,736; Other Taxes = $2,920.
    Superintendent Jones gave an update on reported COVID cases in the schools, with only one case in the previous two weeks. He presented positive news from the various schools including events for Teacher Appreciation Day; Students of the month; Fall Activity Fun Days; GCHS students visits to college campuses.

  • State Department of Alabama spotlights Child Nutrition Program in Greene County schools

    Greene County High School Cafeteria Serving Line

    The Greene County Board of Education met in regular session, Monday, May 16, 2022, with all board members present. The venue for the board meeting was changed on the day of the meeting from the Central Office to Greene County High School due to water issued related to the City of Eutaw. No water could be accessed in the building. City officials notified Superintendent Corey Jones of the difficulties stating that city workers were trying to alleviate the problem, but could not assure Dr. Jones when the problem would be resolved. Most of the Central Office staff were assigned to work from home.
    As part of his monthly report to the board, Superintendent Jones had Ms. Teresa Atkins, who currently serves as Acting Director of the Child Nutrition Program (CNP) for the school district, to give an overview of the CNP operations. Ms. Atkins noted that as a federal program, the CNP must follow particular guidelines regarding basic meal requirements as well as presentation of meals. The basic meal requirements differ according to student age groups. Ms. Atkins stated that to assure that the Greene County School System is providing nutritious and palatable meals, she partnered with the State Child Nutrition Program to assist her in enhancing the total meal service for students. This resulted in providing students with various choices of fresh fruits and vegetables, meats and breads. At GCHS students may also serve themselves on the lunch line.
    Ms. Atkins explained that the CNP Program is federally funded through reimbursements. “We can only get reimbursed for the meals actually served. If a student is at school and does not take a lunch tray, the system cannot claim funds for that meal; however, if a student takes a food tray and does not eat anything on the tray, the system can claim reimbursement.”
    Atkins noted that the CNP staff tries to accommodate the particular needs of students, such as catering to students with various allergies, other medical conditions governing the type of foods they can or cannot consume and religious preferences in foods. At the start of a school year, parents/guardians are asked to complete a questionnaire on each child noting the exceptions in foods their child requires.
    The week of April 11-15, 2022, Greene County High School lunchroom was featured on the State’s Child Nutrition facebook page. Atkins said this special recognition from the State Department was the results of revamping the serving lines, training staff on how to offer students more options for both breakfast and lunch and creating an inviting atmosphere in the cafeteria.
    In continuing his report, Superintendent Jones announced that summer school is scheduled from June 6-30, 2022 from 8:00 AM until 1:00 PM, four days per week. The classes will focus on individual student deficiencies and weaknesses and credit recovery as needed. Enrichment activities will be a major focus of the summer program as well. Hopefully, educational and fun field trips will be scheduled.
    Dr. Jones also gave positive news updates on each of the schools. At Eutaw Primary educators and scholars celebrated May Day. Scholars who participated in the After-School Program visited the Montgomery zoo on Friday, May 13, 2022. Third Grade Graduation was held Monday, May 16, 2022. Educators and scholars will show their support for Mental Health Awareness Month by wearing green on Friday, May 20, 2022.
    Robert Brown Middle School observed Teacher Appreciation Week, May 2-6, with lunch and snacks provided by school partners. Faculty and students held a volley game. May 18 was Honors Day Program. May 25 is RBMS graduation.
    At Greene County High School, Cosmetology Department, over 30 students participated in the Hair Show on May 6. The track team, students from GCHS and RBMS, participated in Sectionals. Thirteen of the dual enrollment scholars received certificates in Welding from Wallace Community College Selma. Greene County High School was spotlighted in the Break for a Plate Alabama and Alabama CNP State Newsletter. Teachers and scholars participated in Community Service Project to support Branch Heights Residents impacted by the tornado. A blood drive was held at GCHS on April 22, sponsored by the Greene County Career Center’s HOSA-Future Health Professionals.
    .The personnel service items recommended by the superintendent and approved by the board are as follows:
    Non-renewal, Robert Brown Middle School: Carrie Rhodes, 4th Grade Teacher; Cyontai Lewis, Physical Education Teacher; Richard Cammon, Social Studies Teacher; LaDasia Grace, 7th & 8th Grade Social Studies; Richard Cammon, 6th Grade Teacher; Marquavius King, 6th Grade Language Arts; Glenara Faust , 5th Grade Teacher;
    Non-renewal, Greene County High School: Cassandra Freeman, Chemistry Teacher; Arthur Williamson, English Teacher;
    Non-renewal, Eutaw Primary School: Destiny Taylor, 2nd Grade Teacher; Malesha Williams, Elementary Teacher;
    Retirement: Gloria Lyons, Cafeteria Worker, Greene County High School effective May 1, 2022; Debra Waiters, Parent Involvement Facilitator, July 1, 2022.
    Medical Leave: Shirley Noland, effective February 2, 2022, thru April 22, 2022.
    Catastrophic Leave and FMLA Leave: Jennifer Reeves, starting March 28, 2022, ending May 9, 2022.
    Employment of the following teachers for Summer School June 6 – July 15, 2022.
    Greene County High School: Clifford Reynolds; Kaneeda Coleman; Tameshia Porter; Angela Harkness; Drenda Morton; Dutchess Jones; Janice Jeames.
    Robert Brown Middle School: Vanessa Bryant; Raven Bryant; Felecia Smith; Nkenge Reynolds; Elroy Skinner; Monquelle Wigfall; Leanita Hunt; Dorris Robinson; Pinkie Travis.
    Eutaw Primary School: Genetta Bishop: Gwendolyn Webb; Tara Thomas; Pamela Pasteur; Quenterica White; Montoya Hurst-Binion; Cheryl Morrow; Carla Durrett; Keisha Williams.
    Child Nutrition Program: Burnia Cripin; Sandy Wilson; Romanda Askew; Jacqueline Pickens; Rosie Davis.
    The following administrative services were approved by the board.
    * Bank reconciliations as submitted by Ms. Marquita Lennon, CSFO.
    * Payment of all bills, claims, and payroll.
    * Contractual Agreement between Greene County Board and Behavior Aide, Denise Horton.
    * Agreement between Greene County Board and Amy Quitt, Speech Language Therapy Services.
    * Approval of 2022-2023 School Calendar.
    * Approval of Summer School Program, starting June 6, 2022 – July 15, 2022.
    * Approval of 4-day work week for all extended employees beginning June 6 and ending no later than July 29, 2022.
    * Retroactively Authorization Debit Card Account at Merchant and Farmers Bank.
    * Credit Card for Travel and Expenditures.
    Purchase New Vehicle for Superintendent.


    The Financial Snapshot as of April 30, 2022 presented by Mrs. Marquita Lennon, Chief Financial Officer is as follows: General Fund Balance – $2,873,434.22 (reconciled to the Summary Cash report); Accounts Payable Check Register – $168,727.62; Payroll Register $862,388.60; Combined Ending Fund Balance – $5,538,710. Local revenue for the month from property taxes, sales and other taxes and bingo revenue totaled $202,184.