Greene County Democrat

Tag: Robert Brown Middle School

  • Greene County BOE makes moves to develop family partnerships for increased student success

    Greene County BOE makes moves to develop family partnerships for increased student success

    by Maya Quinn
    Managing Editor

    The Greene County Board of Education (BOE) met to discuss the progress of newly implemented programs and proposed contracts. Superintendent Dr. Timothy Thurman, President Leo Branch, Vice President Robert Davis, Veronica Richardson, Carrie Dancy, and Brandon Meriwether were present for the meeting.

    The Greene County school system is responsible for educating the next generation of adults to live and prosper in Greene County. However, the school cannot accomplish the imperative task alone. Successful school systems maintain optimal structure through a “three-legged stool” model: dedicated teachers, involved parents, and resilient students. Without positive guidance and partnerships with parents, the stool cannot stand.

    Meeting Summary

    In a unanimous vote, all action items (detailed after this summary) proposed by Superintendent Dr. Thurman received approval at the meeting. All payments, bills, claims, and payroll were reconciled by Chief Financial Officer Marquita Lennon, leaving the school board’s account with $157,105.76 from local revenue. The board allocated a considerable amount of funds to procure new buses for the school system.

    Dr. Thurman, Superintendent, gave a formal report of ongoing activities. He began by detailing the importance of PTA meetings at Robert Brown Middle School and Eutaw High School, noting that increased parent involvement is “critical for the school system to move forward.” He then eagerly updated attendees on the parent volunteering initiative’s training progress with parent involvement facilitator, Deborah Waiters. Any parents interested in receiving training are encouraged to call the board.

    He also announced programs for rising kindergarteners and a scholarship with Huntington College. The fully funded Judge Jumpstart Program will host 4-K students over the summer to prepare them for the upcoming school year. The “Grow Your Own” Scholarship and partnership with Huntington is to help students earn degrees to teach in rural areas. These programs are game-changers, providing resources upon entering and exiting the school system. “We’re trying to be as transparent as possible,” Dr. Thurman reminded, “we need parent participation to move forward.”

    At the conclusion of the superintendent’s report, board member and parent Veronica Richardson wanted to ensure that parents receive letters about upcoming Alabama Comprehensive Assessment Program (ACAP) and ACT testing. After spring break, testing will resume the week of April 6th.

    Approved Action Items

    •  Garry Rice will attend the Southern Regional Education Board Conference in Nashville, TN, July 14 – 17, 2026
    • Tomora Hill and two students will attend the Distributive Education Clubs of America (DECA) International Career Development Conference in Atlanta, GA, April 25-29, 2026
    • Shamyra Jones and four students will attend the Jobs for Alabama’s Graduates (JAG) National Conference in Salt Lake City, Utah, April 30 – May 2, 2026
    • The Greene County Board of Education will contract Marshanda Daniels to serve as technical support for the district for one year.
    • An E-Rate Mini Bid with Uniti Fiber for internet access points licenses, equipment, and installation in the amount of $111,816.82 (district pays 15% of the total quote).

    Following the approval of the action items, the board members entered an executive session to discuss the personnel action report. Board members did not disclose approved items in the report during the meeting. However, the local school accountant, LaTanya Cockrell-Fowler, informed The Democrat via email of Sarah Crawford’s resignation as the 2nd-grade teacher at Eutaw Primary School.

     

    Public Comments

    Understanding family relationships is a critical factor in student success. Whether it be test scores or mental health, having a sustained partnership between educators and families is essential for the school system to learn what is best for the children of Greene County. Knowledge of a student’s culture provides important information for the school system to secure the resources necessary to support students at any stage of their learning.

    Brandi Jones was the only parent not on staff or the board present. She politely introduced herself and asked a series of questions about the superintendent selection process and the need to consult external sources on strategic planning within the district. Jones considers herself a parent advocate, religiously showing up for PTA and board meetings.

    “Parents don’t realize the power that they have.” Jones commented, “There is no perfect school system. We have to work together to solve issues.” Jones is passionate about creating a parent alliance to “meet parents where they are” and ensure Greene County schools can retain their students.


    The next board meeting will be on Monday, April 20th, at 4:30 pm.

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  • Greene County schools welcome back students


    Greene County schools staff, administrators, parents, community leaders and supporters arrived early Tuesday morning at local schools to give students a most robust welcome and enthusiastic encouragement for a successful year. The greeters flashed smiles, offered hugs and waved pom poms as the young people promenaded from the school buses to the classrooms. The first day of this school year delivered on a promise of welcome, warmth and care that surely can continue throughout the term.

     

  • Board submits plan for ESSER II funds Greene County School Board approves new contracts for Superintendent Jones and CSFO Blair

    The Greene County Board of Education, at its June 28, 2021 meeting, approved the renewal of the Superintendent Dr. Corey Jones’ contract for an additional three years, beginning July 1, 2022. Dr. Jones’ current contract contains a provision that required the board to inform him one year in advance on whether his contract would be renewed, including the terms and conditions. Jones was hired July 1, 2019. The board also approved a three year contract for CSFO LaVonda Blair beginning July 1, 2021. She was hired August 1, 2018. Both contracts were approved on a three-two vote of board members, in spite of the fact that Superintendent Jones and CSFO Blair had received composite average scores, in their evaluations by the board, indicating that their performances Exceeded Expectations. The superintendent’s report to the board included a summary of the ESSER II Plan (Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief) that was submitted to the Alabama State Department of Education. According to Dr. Jones, the system’s $3,319,901 ESSER II allocation will focus on the following four components: High Quality Instructional Materials, budgeted at $476,450; High Quality Professional Development, budgeted at $81,780; Unfinished Learning Supports, budgeted at $1,561,889 and Facilities, budgeted at $1,200,000. In the ESSER II Plan each component is specifically detailed with proposed activities and follow-up as well as related costs. ESSER II funds must be expended by September 30, 2023 Dr. Jones also announced that the 2021-2022 school year will open with full face-to-face learning, baring any public health order warranting the school system to return to virtual learning approaches. “Our main concern is the safety of all school personnel, as well as our community, and utilizing every means available to provide the best learning opportunities for our students,” he stated. Jones gave updates on the renovations to the central office. He noted that the second phase will include painting and carpeting inside the facility. CSFO LaVanda Blair presented the following Financial Snapshot as of April 30, 2021: General Fund Balance – $2,886,119.30; Accounts Payable Check Register – $258,470.35; Payroll Register – $815,310.53; Combined Fund Balance – $5,777,622.22; Total Local Revenue – $1,782,544.14, including property and sales taxes and bingo revenue. Blair noted the budget amendments relative to the ESSER II – CRRSA (Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act). The CSFO also presented an overview of the streamlining process in various components in the central office, including implementation of the Follet Inventory System, technological advances, ClassWallet, KissFlow, and MySchoolBucks. Blair stated that the financial department works closely with Superintendent Jones to maintain the operating reserve; eliminate any unnecessary spending and reduce and/or refinance debt. In other business, the board ratified the listing of summer school personnel, the superintendent had been authorized to employ in the program. On the superintendent’s recommendation, the board approved the following personnel recalled for the 2021-2022 school term: •Eutaw Primary School: Gwendolyn Webb, Trakayla Brown, Tara Thomas, Danielle Sanders-Williams, Quenterica White, Domonique McDaniels, Sherita Pickens, Chandra Toney, Valarie Moore, Hillary Bruner. •Robert Brown Middle School: Alisa Allen, Brandi Eubanks, Tammy Barber, Leanita Hunt, Alison Newton, Kalyn Gray, Quentin Walton, Nkenge Reynold, Demelia Snyder, Ashley Moody. •Greene County High School: Tyler Mitchell, Elroy Skinner, Josef Stander, Clifford Reynolds. The board approved employment of the following: Monquell Wigfall, Special Education Teacher, Robert Brown Middle School, for the 2021-2022 school year; Whitney Hampton-Finch, 4th Grade teacher, Robert Brown Middle School; Gloria Watkins McGhee, Pre-K Teacher, Eutaw Primary School; Paula Calligan, Cosmetology Instructor, Greene County Career Center. The board approved Catastrophic / FMLA Leave for Larry Burnette from April 27, 2021 – August 1, 2021; Resignations of Jacob Sullivan, Robert Brown Middle School, effective June 3, 2021 and Lurena Smith, Kindergarten Teacher, Eutaw Primary School, effective June 25, 2021. The board approved the following administrative service items: * Payment of all bills, claims, and payroll. * Bank reconciliations as submitted by Ms. LaVonda Blair, CSFO. * Contract agreement between Greene County Board of Education and Albireo Energy Control * System Maintenance Program. * 4-day work week for all extended employees beginning June 7 – July 30, 2021. * Contractual Agreement between Greene County Board and Behavior Aide Eleanor Smalls. * Contractual Agreement between Greene County Board and Behavior Aide, Denise Horton. * Approval of Follett School Solutions Software. •Approval of unused school buses to be sold for scrap. The following are the board agenda items which do not require a recommendation of the superintendent. * Approval of Contract for Chief School Finance Officer. * Approval of Notice to Superintendent as Required by Superintendent Contract.

  • Greene County schools student enrollment inches up

    Greene County Schools Superintendent Dr. Corey Jones displays plaque presented to school board members at AASB District 7 meeting.

    Greene County schools superintendent, Dr. Corey Jones, gave an update on current student enrollment as part of his report to the board at its regularly scheduled meeting, Monday, September 16, 2019. Dr. Jones stated that enrollment at Eutaw Primary is currently at 349; at Robert Brown Middle School 351 and at Greene County High School 296. He noted that since this report was prepared, three more students have enrolled bringing the total school system enrollment to 999.
    “The system still has 55 fewer students than last school year at this time,” he said. Dr. Jones explained that his office is still pursuing students, not currently in the system, who were here last year to determine if they have relocated or other circumstances prevail. `“ We are still within the 20 days after Labor Day to enroll students and claim state support; however we will accept students even after that period and do our best to provide them a quality education,” stated Superintendent Jones.
    In his update on Assessment & Instruction, Dr. Jones stated that the school system is utilizing the Scantron Benchmark Assessment. He noted the schedule for testing in 2019 includes September 3-16; December 2-13; March 9-3 and March 23-27, 2020. The superintendent also noted the tentative dates for District Student Assessments.
    Dr. Jones remarked on the various incentives related to student and personnel motivation at a school; facility preservation and student achievement. The school winning the motivation award for the month will be presented a banner acknowledging the same. The maintenance staff at the school receiving the preservation award will be treated to lunch. Students will receive special certificates of achievement.
    Dr. Jones announced that the Greene County School Board received the School Board Member Academy President’s Award 2019 for demonstrating a commitment to excellence in education through boardsmanship training, presented by the Alabama Association of School Boards at the annual District 7 meeting in Tuscaloosa, September 9, 2019.
    The personnel items recommended by the superintendent and approved by the board included the following.

    • Employment: Kelvineshia Williams, Science Teacher, Greene County High School; William Mack, Bus Driver, Department of Transportation; Wenonna Peebles, Special Needs Bus Driver, Department of Transportation; Twelia Morris, Secretary, Greene County Career Center.
    • Employment with 21st Century Community Learning Centers: Andrea Perry, Director; 21st Century Personnel at Eutaw Primary School – Keisha Williams, Lead Teacher; Dominique McDaniel, Teacher; Genetta Bishop, Teacher; Pamela Pasteur, Teacher; Elona Washington, Teacher; Denise Horton, Teacher Assistant. 21st Century Personnel at RBMS – Drenda Morton, Lead Teacher; Vanessa Bryant, Teacher; Katoya Quarles, Teacher; Alisa Allen, Teacher; Annie Howard, Teacher; Raven Bryant, Teacher; Mary Hobson, Assistant Teacher; Pinkie Travis, Substitute Teacher; Ayanna Crawford, Bus Driver; Marcus Steele, Substitute Bus Driver.
      The board approved the following administrative items: School Resource Officer Contract; Payment of all bills, claims, and payroll.

  • Greene County School System awarded $900,000 grant to implement Star Academy

    At the Greene County School Board meeting held, Monday, August 19, 2019, Superintendent Dr. Corey Jones announced that the school system has been awarded a three-year $900,000 grant to implement the Star Academy Program for At-Risk 7th and 8th graders at Robert Brown Middle School beginning this academic year.
    Greene County was one of two school systems selected to receive the At-Risk-Discretionary Grant from the Alabama State Superintendent of Education.
    The Star Academy, a school within a school, employs standards-based curriculum in Science, Mathematics, English, and Social Studies. Students navigate through a rigorous progression of varied instructional methods incorporating hands-on, real-world learning experiences, individualized instruction, team instruction, and personal development.
    The program re-engages students who may have experienced personal, academic, or social challenges in their lives. It provides these students with an opportunity to recapture a sense of purpose, regain their self-esteem, and succeed academically.Approximately 80 seventh and eight grade students at Robert Brown Middle School will be selected to participate in the Star Academy.
    Participating teachers will receive staff development. Orientation sessions for parents will also be designed.
    The school system provides the faculty and the facility. The Star Academy, through the grant resources, provides the curriculum design; facilities layout, including classroom furnishings; computers and other related classroom materials and support; staff development; on site coordination and support.
    Star Academy transforms existing classrooms into new learning environments. The academy includes computers for every student, all project equipment, and custom furniture workstations that provide appropriate workspace for all of the program’s curriculum activities.
    As part of his report, Dr. Jones stated the school system is employing special efforts to increase student enrollment. The Truancy Officers are visiting families to assist in the enrollment of their children.
    Dr. Jones noted that the system will continue with the Assessment and Instruction Guide including Benchmark Assessments; Pacing Guides; Instructional Observations; Professional Development and Interventions.
    Superintendent Jones explained that he is instituting various motivation guides for students, personnel and school facilities. In this plan, individual students will be awarded for attendance and the school with the highest attendance for the month will receive a school banner. The custodial staff will be awarded for the cleanest school facility.
    The personnel items recommended by the superintendent and approved by the board include the following:

    • Family Medical Leave/Catastrophic Leave for Raven Bryant, Special Education Teacher, Robert Brown Middle School.
    • Resignation of Gloria Watkins, First Grade Teacher, Eutaw Primary School, effective August 2, 2019; Ginger Norris Glass, Language Arts Teacher, RBM; Latasha Lewis, Bus Driver, Department of Transportation.
      *Employment of Quenterica White, First Grade Teacher, Eutaw Primary School;
      Denicia Smith, Bus Aide, Department of Transportation; Sheila Henderson, Long-Term Substitute Teacher for 6th grade, RBM.
    • Supplemental Contract for Russell Rivers, Assistant Football Coach, Greene County High School; Vanessa Bryant, Head Cheerleader Coach; Henry Miles, Jr. Head Football Coach, RBM; Brittany January, Assistant Girls Basketball Coach.
      •Rescind employment of Sanjanika Prince as Long-term Substitute, Elementary Teacher, Robert Brown Middle School, did not accept position; Mattie Underwood, Bus Aide, Department of Transportation, did not accept position.
      Under Instructional Services, Superintendent Jones recommended accepting the At-Risk Discretionary Grant and implementing the Star Academy at Robert Brown Middle School for selective 7th and 8th grade students. The board approved the recommendation.
      The board approved the following Administrative Service Items recommended by Superintendent Jones.
      *Contract between Greene County Board and West Alabama Therapy, to provide Occupational and Physical Therapy for Greene County Schools, for 2019-2020 school year.
      *Contract between Greene County Board and Kim Herren, to provide Developmental Delay Services, for 2019-2020 school year.
      *Agreement between Community Service Program of West Alabama, Inc. Head Start, Early Head start, for 2019-2020 school year.
    • Agreement between Greene County Board and Mattie Strode, to provide Home Bound services for 2019-2020 school year.
    • Agreement between WeCare Therapy Services.
    • Agreement between Woods Therapeutic, to provide behavioral Aide, for Special need students.
      Payment of all bills, claims, and payroll.
    • District-Wide Time and Attendance System, to strengthen accountability of employees for payroll purposes.
    • Travel Policy Provision.
    • Class Wallet for Classroom Instruction Supply (CSI).
    • Contract between West Central Volleyball Officials Association & Greene County Board of Education for Volleyball Officials for the 2019-2020 school year.
    • Contract between Blackboard Inc. and Greene County Board of Education for District Website hosting for the 2019-2020 school year.
      In his report, Attorney Hank Sanders advised that the board consider turning over to the attorney, for further action, the Exclusivity Agreement between Lee HVBAC, et. al of Moundville and the Greene County School System. Dr. Jones offered the recommendation and the board approved the same.
      The Greene County CSFO presented a financial snapshot of the system as of June 30, 2019. The general fund balance is $1,228,849.73; the same reconciles to the Summary Cash Report; total checks written for the period – $259,806.57; Payroll Register – $855,633.73 (total gross pay to include employer match items; Combined Fund Balance – $3,727,224.02; Local Revenue – local taxes collected totaled $107,243.84; Bingo Collections totaled $45,120.

  • Board to pursue making Robert Brown Middle School an Art & Technology Academy

    At the Greene County Board of Education meeting, held Monday, June 12, 2017, Superintendent James Carter, Sr. proposed that the board consider Robert Brown Middle School becoming an Art and Technology Academy and authorized the superintendent to apply for a Magnet School grant for this purpose. Dr. Carter explained that in this arrangement art and technology would be taught across the curriculum broadening the core curriculum for students.
    Dr. Carter also stated that the Arts and Technology Academy would compliment the STEAM (Science Technology Engineering Art and Mathematics) program that will be implemented in grades 4-8 at Robert Brown Middle School in the next school session.
    In his report Dr. Carter announced that the Chrome Books Program/Tablets will be available for students, parents and teachers in the 2017-2018 school session. This is a collaboration with the Housing Authority of Greene County and Stillman College. “In the Chrome book collection students and teachers will be able to discover a series of programs that will help teachers learn to use this product effectively,” he stated.
    According to Dr. Carter, approximately 947 Chrome books and Tablets will be issued to students for use in school and to take home for continued school work. He explained that students and parents will be trained in using the Chrome books and Tablets. “We want our teachers, students and parents to feel confident using Chrome books technology in this new endeavor. The end results will be more online coaching and mentoring that helps them design learning experiences for each student,” Carter said.
    Dr. Carter informed the board that according to recent reports the third grade cursive writing proficiency percentage indicated that 85% of the students were proficient in cursive writing.
    The board approved the following personnel items for Robert Brown Middle School recommended by Superintendent Carter: School Personnel recalled at Robert Brown Middle School: Teresa Atkins – Family and Consumer Science; Jacob Sullivan – 8th grade Social Studies; Jeffrey Nolen – 7th grade Social Studies; Ms. Majorie Duncan – 5th grade teacher; Ms. Wanda Blakely – Special Education teacher; Ms. Shunetta Kirkman – 6th grade teacher. Ms. Ashley Moore was hired as 5th grade teacher at RBM

    The board approved the non-renewal of Ms. Raven Brown, Special Education Teacher at RBM and the involuntary transfer of Ms. Doris Robinson from P. E. Teacher at Robert Brown to P.E. Teacher at Eutaw Primary. The board approved the following personnel items for Greene County High School recommended by Superintendent Carter: Three-year Principal’s Contract for Mr. Garry Rice, for the period of July 1, 2017 – June 30, 2020; Fentress Means – Greene County Learning Academy; Mrs. Nancy Cole – Long-term Sub Social Studies. The board also approved a family Leave Request for Ms. Linda Little, Social Studies teacher at Greene County High.
    Dr. Bennie Pennington was hired as Lead Teacher at the Greene County Learning Academy, and Mrs. Sondra Green was approved as full time Health Science teacher at Greene County Career Tech Center.
    On the recommendation of Superintendent Carter, the board approved additional Service Contracts 2017 – 2018 for the following employees at Greene County High School: (Separate Contract): Rodney Wesley – Head Basketball Coach (Boys); Kendra Payne – Head Basketball Coach (Girls); Janice Jeames – Girls’ Volleyball Coach; Frederick Holmes – Band Director; Jerome Franks – Head Baseball Coach (Boys); Su’Kova Hicks – Head Softball Coach (Girls); Drenda Morton – Cheerleader Sponsor.
    Additional Service Contracts 2017 – 2018 were approved for the following employees at Robert Brown Middle School: (Separate Contract): Corey Cockrell – Athletic Director, B – Team Basketball; Jacob Sullivan – Assistant Football Coach; Jeffrey Wesley – Head Basketball Coach; Marjorie Duncan – Head Girls’ Basketball Coach; Dorris Robinson – Cheerleader Sponsor.
    The following personnel were approved for Seamless Summer Feeding Program to operate at Eutaw Primary June 5 – 15, 2017 and at Greene County High School June 5 – 29, 2017 at a rate of $15.00 per hour for Managers and $13.00 per hour for Cooks: Linda Underwood – Manager at Eutaw Primary; Rosie Davis – Cook at Eutaw Primary; Mary Hill – Cook at Eutaw Primary; Gloria Lyons – Manager at Greene County High; Jessica Lake – Cook at Greene County High; Youlonda Coleman – Cook at Greene County High.
    The board approved employment of the following teachers for Summer School June 5 – June 16, 2017 (Funding Source – Federal Funds): Greene County High Teacher, Kelsey Smith – Special Education, Summer school teacher.
    At Eutaw Primary the board approved employment of Jacqueline Allen as Reading Intervention Teacher and Brittany January as Math Teacher at Robert Brown Middle School.
    The board approved the non-renewal of Ms. Sherry Wright as bus driver.
    Under administrative services, the board approved the following:
    * First Reading Federal Funds – Conflict of Interest Policy.
    * Agreement between Greene County Board of Education and Criterion Consulting, LLC for professional consulting services in area of Finance.
    * Travel for Frederick Square to attend the National Conference on School Discipline in Atlanta, GA., June 21 – 24, 2017.
    * Travel for Linda Underwood to attend the School Nutrition Association Annual Conference in Atlanta, GA., July 9 – 12, 2017.
    * Travel for Sharon Jennings to attend NAESP Leadership Institute in Alexandria, VA. ,July 26-28, 2017.
    * Travel for SFC Timothy Gibbs and JROTC students to attend the LeaderSTATE STEM Camp at Mississippi State University in Starkville, MS on July 17 and July 21, 2017.
    * Four Day Work Week beginning June 5 – 9, 2017 and ending the week of July 24- 27, 2017.
    * June 29th as payday for the month of June due to the 4-day work week.
    * System to close July 3rd as part of the Fourth of July Holiday.
    * Budget Amendments recommended by the CSFO, due to the SDE by June 15, 2017.
    * Bank reconciliations as submitted by Ms. Katrina Sewell, CSFO.
    Superintendent presented the board with a draft of the Greene County Board of Education Strategic Plan for first reading. The board will review the plan at a work session tentatively scheduled for Monday, June 26, 2017.

  • Superintendent Carter gives update on school initiatives

    At the regular school board meeting held Monday, April 17, 2017, Superintendent Dr. James Carter, Sr. presented an update on some of the initiatives introduced this current school year. His report included the following summaries:
    Eutaw Primary: The Eutaw Primary School Chess Club provides students an introduction to the game of chess. Students are able to view videos on playing chess. Dr. Carter pointed out that this is a significant approach to teaching critical thinking skills in young students.
    School wide action plans in the areas of reading and mathematics have been developed and are in the implementation phase. All faculty/staff members are placing greater emphasis on phonemic awareness, fluency, writing, and open ended/constructive responses in the area of reading. All faculty/staff members are placing greater emphasis on problem solving and constructive response in the area of Mathematics.
    Progress monitoring of goals is consistently taking place. The pre-K department is currently focusing on phonemic awareness and preparing students for kindergarten skills that are covered on Dibels Next Assessment and the ACT Aspire Periodic Assessment.
    Cursive writing has been incorporated into the curriculum for grades K-3. The infusion of Black History into all subject areas has been initiated.
    Discipline Referrals are currently low.
    The Eutaw Primary School Webpage is currently updated. Eutaw Primary School has made great improvement in area of parental involvement and culture. Club/organization days are being incorporated into the master schedule.
    Robert Brown Middle School Grade 4-6: Mr. Henry Miles, Jr, has been designated chess master in training. Robert Brown Middle School students have been using a computer based website to learn the basics of chess by playing computer generated matches. Mr. Miles has already begun to build relationships with established Chess Programs in other parts of the state. These relationships are significant in developing a solid and competitive program.
    Robert Brown Middle School webpage is an ongoing process and we are working to get all teachers’ pages up to date, with updating pictures and calendars. Several changes have been incorporated to update the page from Paramount to Robert Brown Middle – a work in progress.

    Robert Brown Middle School Grade 7-8: Robert Brown Middle School is consistently reviewing data in order to drive instruction. Our students made gains/progress on the last ACT Periodical Assessment. 130 students showed increase out of 160. We celebrated by providing students with hotdogs, juice, and chips. We are continuing to focus on reading, informational text, reading across the content area, math blitz (basic math word problems, vocabulary and reading comprehension).
    Teachers are using strategic teaching and best practices in the classroom. They are assessing students by using the format outlined for the ACT Aspire test. AMSTI has been working with our math and science teachers. Teachers are reviewing mastery and non-mastery of standards and providing me with documentation and deficiency reports. The teachers have the outlined expectations for curriculum and instruction.
    In reporting other areas of progress, Superintendent Carter noted that referrals are down for this year. The 7th & 8th grade division webpage is up to date. The teachers are updating all information on their pages.
    “It has been an awesome journey this year. I am excited to see all the new relationships with the students and teachers. My team does a great job with ensuring that all students are treated equitably. Teachers were able to provide me with feedback as it pertains to this year. All the feedback was of a positive nature. We continue to work together to solve problems and be proactive in all situations. The teachers have embraced all the expectations that were outlined in reference to curriculum/instruction, discipline, culture/climate and attendance. As we continue on this journey, I expect to see even more students and adults impacted in a positive way both academically and socially,” according to Carter.
    Freshman Academy: There are currently 25 members of the freshman academy chess club. All member of the chess club are using mobile apps, which allows tutoring for students to learn the game of chess. Plans are being made to hold the first annual chess tournament in May, of this year in an effort to build interest in the game. Cash prizes will be awarded to the top finalists for participating, and to motivate them to do the same for the 2017-18 school year.
    Greene County High School: The number of students earning honor roll status has continued to increase this year. There were more students recognized for honor roll during the second nine weeks. As a whole, students this year are more concerned with their academic progress. There is also an increase in the number of seniors that have benchmarked in various subtests of the ACT. The number of students receiving office referrals has shown a decline this year. Greene County High School has fewer students committing class II and class III infractions. Student morale and student participation in other extra-curricular activities may be the source of this improved school culture.
    To date, this has been a very positive year for student behavior and achievement. We have made a lot of improvement in both areas. There are always areas that we want to continue to grow and improve.
    Track and Field: The track team has competed in two track meets thus far. The meets were held at Greensboro High School. The girls relay team placed first in the 4×200. The girls relay team consists of three freshmen and one junior. There are three additional track meets scheduled for this month. They will be held in Demopolis, Greensboro, and Selma.
    Softball: The softball team has only competed in 4 games thus far this year. They were doubleheaders at Greensboro and American Christian Academy. The team is young and determined. The team is now practicing in Branch Heights.
    Baseball: The Greene County High School Baseball team has competed in 10 games this season. The team is 0-10 thus far but has continued to be competitive. There are 15 players on the team with most being underclassmen. There are only two seniors on the team. Greene County High School looks forward to continuous growth and success in this program.
    Band: Greene County High School Band is scheduled to practice after school on Tuesday and Thursday of each week beginning Aril 11, 2017. Band camp is scheduled to run from July 24 – August 4, 2017.
    The board approved the following personnel items:
    Employment of Willie Wright as tutor and mentor at Greene County Learning Academy on as as need basis.
    FMLA request for Raven Bryant, teacher at Robert Brown Middle School.
    The board approved the following administrative service items recommended by the superintendent.
    Greene County Board of Education Information Guide for Students and Parents.
    Contract between the Greene County Board of Education and Marcheta B. Bedgood to provide assistance to CSFO on an as needed basis to prepare financial documents throughout the fiscal year
    Contract between the Greene County Board of Education and Farrell Duncombe for mentoring services at Greene County High School.
    National Writing Project’s College-Ready Writers Program Grant for the Greene County School System in collaboration with UAB Red Mountain Writing Project.
    BackPack Meals/Secret Meals Program Sponsored by Tuscaloosa Food Bank and Greene County Board of Education (No Cost to GCBOE).
    Field Trip Requests: Greene County Career Center – Bodies Exhibit and CNN Studio Tour in Atlanta, GA on April 24, 2017
    Bank reconciliations as submitted by Ms. Katrina Sewell, CSFO.
    Payment of all bills, claims, and payroll.
    Instructional items approved by the board:
    Summer School (Promotion) at Greene County High School, June 5 – 30, 2017.
    Summer School (Enrichment) at Robert Brown Middle School and Eutaw Primary School, June 5 – 16, 2017.

  • School Board names consolidated middle school for former superintendent Robert Brown

    robert brown

    At its regular monthly meeting, July 18, 2016, the Greene County Board of Education voted unanimously to name the new middle school, formed recently with the combining of Carver Middle School and Paramount Jr. High, the Robert Brown Middle School.  Dr. Robert Brown was appointed as the first African American Superintendent of Schools in Greene County and served in that leadership position from 1970 to 1980. Prior to his appointment as superintendent, by the all African American member school board, Brown served as Principal of Paramount High School for three years, following his service as a science teacher at what was previously Greene County Training School.
    According to School Superintendent Dr. James H. Carter, Jr., once new signage is obtained for the Robert Brown Middle School, the unveiling ceremony will be announced.
    At the opening of his report to the board, Superintendent Carter brought forth a young man who had completed requirements for his high school graduation by attending summer courses.

    Vince

    Shown above  GCHS Principal Garry Rice,
     Vince Mullen and Superintendent Dr. James Carter

    Vince Chevas Mullen, Jr., 18 years old, was determined to achieve his high school diploma even though he did not have sufficient credits to march with his Greene County High School classmates at the May 2016 commencement.  Mullen satisfied all course requirements through the summer school program offered in the school system, and plans to attend Shelton State Community College. He is the son of Cathleen Prater and the grandson of Ethel Giles of Forkland, AL.

    In his report, Superintendent Carter noted that the first day of school for students is Monday, August 8, 2016. Institute Program for school personnel is Wednesday, August 3 at 8:00 a.m. at Greene County High School.  New Teacher Orientation will be August 1 & 2 at 9:00 a.m. at the Board’s Central Office.
    The board approved the following personnel items recommended by the superintendent. *Recalled faculty and staff include: Erik Hendricks – Physical Education teacher at Eutaw Primary; Jerome Franks – Physical Education Teacher at Greene County High; Cordarrin Wilson – Teacher at Greene County Learning Academy; Linda Little – Social Studies Teacher at Greene County High; Romanda Askew – Cook at Eutaw Primary.
    * New employment approved:  Malenie Wakefield – Science Teacher at the new middle school; Ms. Cassandra Glover – School Nurse; Teresa Atkins – Family and Consumer Science Teacher at new middle school; Jerome Franks – Physical Education/Driver’s Education Teacher at Greene County High; Ellanise Walker – Science Teacher at Greene County High; Mary Henderson – Part-time Secretary at Greene County Career  Center; Wanda Gaitor – Part-time Secretary at Greene County High.
    * Reassignments approved: Sandra Gordon from 7th and 8th grade Reading Coach at Carver Middle School to 4th – 8th grade Reading Coach at new middle School for the 2016 – 2017 school term; LaJoycelyn Davis from Secretary/Bookkeeper at Carver Middle School to Secretary at new middle school for the 2016 – 2017 school term; Marilyn Sanford from Secretary/Bookkeeper at Paramount Jr. High School to Bookkeeper at new middle school for the 2016 – 2017 school term.
    * Resignation: Bruce Jackson – Physical Ed/Driver’s Ed Teacher at Greene County High.
    * Additional Service contract approved: for Jocephus Patrick – Track & Field Coach at Greene County High School for the 2016 – 2017 academic year. (Separate Contract).
    Other points from Superintendent Carter’s report are as follows:
    * All students will have opportunity to take AP classes.
    * More students will be encouraged to participate in dual enrollment program at Shelton State as well as the University of West Alabama.
    * Superintendent will organize a Superintendent’s Faculty Cabinet.
    * Pacing guides will be placed on-line for parents to follow.
    * Teachers will be required to develop syllabus for academic classes.
    * Student grades will be available to parents in a timely manner.
    * Professional development will be customized to needs of students and teachers.
    * Teachers and principals will be required to develop curriculum guides for all core subjects.
    * Local staff members will receive in-service training in use official curriculum documents that guide instruction.
    * Use of Chrome Books as resource to teach computer science.
    * Develop comprehensive curriculum for special needs students.
    * Actively encourage more parental involvement in education of our children.
    * Develop preventative maintenance plan for Greene County Middle School.
    * Create landscaping plan for all Greene County schools to enhance campus beautification.
    * Create menus in CNP Program that will be more inviting to students, but will meet the healthy lifestyles initiative.
    * Organize all Greene County Schools to ensure safety for students and teachers.
    Provide ACT tutoring for grades 9-12.
    In other business the board approved the following administrative services:
    * Revision of Information Guide for Parents and Students.
    * Hiring a company that deals specifically with Chillers for repair of the A/C unit at new middle school.
    * Agreement between board and Mattie J.  Strode to provide homebound instructions for identified children with special needs for 2016-2017 school year.
    * Agreement between board and Helping Hands Therapy to provide Physical, Occupational and Speech Therapy for 2016-2017 year.
    * Agreement between board and Woods Therapeutic Services, Inc. to provide Behavior Aides for the 2016-2017 school year.
    * Agreement between board and Amy Wilson Quitt to provide Speech-Language Therapy services to children at Greene County Head Start for 2016-2017 school year.
    * Agreement between Kim Herren to provide development delay services to children at Greene County Head Start for the 2016-2017 school year.
    * Agreement between board and Community Service Programs of West Alabama to provide Special Education Services to eligible children in the Greene County Head Start Program for the 2016-2017 school year.
    * Mission and Vision Statement for the Greene County Board of Education.
    * Bid submitted by Johns and Kirksey for re-roofing Peter J. Kirksey Career Tech Building in the amount $168,000.
    * Bid submitted by Borden Dairy Company as milk supplier for CNP -FY 2016-2017.
    * Bid submitted by Flower’s Bakery of Birmingham as bread supplier for CNP FY 2016-2017.
    * Payment of all bills, claims and payroll.
    Bank reconciliations as submitted by Mr. Leon Dowe, CSFO.
    The board approved the following instructional Items:
    * All students will have the opportunity to take AP Courses beginning 2016-2017 school year.
    * Develop a procedure and process to accommodate non-traditional students who request to participate in Greene County School’s athletic program.
    * Require all students and employees follow a standard and professional dress code.
    * Reconstitution of the Alma Mater/School Song at Greene County High School with the collaboration of the band director and choral music teacher.