The Greene County Board of Education held it regular monthly meeting, Monday, May 15, 2023, with all board members present. Superintendent Dr. Corey Jones began his report to the board with the Positive News of each school. He noted that across the district, all principals are engaged in leadership professional development focusing on instructional practices. He reported that all Spring State Assessments have been completed. Relating to Greene County High School, Dr. Jones stated the it has been recognized as a Chapter Member of the Alabama Junior Academy of Science by Samford University. Students are encouraged to apply for scholarships, participate in competitions and attend the science camps sponsored by Samford University.
In collaboration with CDC, the Youth Advisory Committee Team at GCHS will host the Minding Your Mental Fair on Wednesday, May 24 from 5-7 pm. GCHS 9th and 10th graders enjoyed an evening of fun at the Sneakers Ball on April 15. The high school prom was held April 21 with the theme: Golden Dreams. At College and Career Decision Day, held May 1, seniors shared their plans after high school.
On May 10, five scholars from Greene County Career Center graduated in Welding from Wallace Community College Selma. They are 11th grade students who received their Associate Degrees in Welding before graduating high school.
Dr. Christopher Crawford, a graduate of Greene County High School, works with scholars to build physiological computing applications. Dr. Crawford is conducting a study designed to help software developers understand ways to create future educational applications.
Positive News from Robert Brown Middle School highlighted the Creative Girls Rock, with girls grades 5-8, participating in the end of year brunch and activities on June3, 2023. The Young Teens Asthma Wellness Virtual Camp is designed to help students recognize the triggers, discuss feelings and understand the basics of asthma. Participants will receive camp gear for healthy eating and monitoring exercises. On May 11, the after school tutorial program visited the Georgia aquarium.
Eutaw Primary School held Honors Day for various classes: Kindergarten, May 15; First Grade, May 16; Second Grade, May 17; Third Grade, May 18. Pre-K end of year celebration is scheduled for May 19.
The board approved the following personnel items recommended by the superintendent.
Employment of the following teachers for Summer School June 5 – 30, 2023.
Greene County High School: Veronica Moore, Tameshia Porter, Angela Harkness – Special Services, Drenda Morton – Assistant, Brittany Jenkins, Janice Jeames-Askew – After Completion of Contract, Clifford Reynolds.
Robert Brown Middle School: Vanessa Bryant, Raven Bryant, Felecia Smith, Demetris Lyles, Quentin Walton, Tyletha Lord, Valencia Moore-Miller – Paraprofessional/Aide, Denise Horton – Paraprofessional/Aide, Mary Hobson – Special Services Aide, Pinkie Travis – Aide,
Eutaw Primary School: LaShaun Henley, Gwendolyn Webb – Paraprofessional/Aide, Kaleigha Jemison, Pamela Pasteur, Gloria McGhee, Keisha Williams, Montoya Binion, Charlease Smith, Carla Durrett.
Child Nutrition Program: Burnia Cripin, Sandy Wilson, Romanda Askew, Jacqueline Pickens, Rosie Davis.
Non- renewal: Tracy Hinton, Biology Teacher, Greene County High School; Alanda McEwen, Counselor, Robert Brown Middle School.
Resignation: Ralph Marshall, History Teacher, Greene County High School.
Brenda Lawrence will serve as school nurse for the Greene County schools summer Learning Program, June, 2023.
The board approved the following administrative items recommended by the superintendent.
* Bank reconciliations as submitted by Ms. Marquita Lennon, CSFO.
* Payment of all bills, claims, and payroll.
* FY 2023 Budget Amendments
* Approval for Shamyra Jones to travel to the JAG National Training Seminar, July 10 -14, 2023 in Louisville, Kentucky.
* Approval of Barbara Martin to Attend 2023 Model School Conference, Orlando Florida June 25 – 28, 2023.
* Approval of Agreement between Greene County Board of Education and Kim Herren, for Provision of Developmental Delayed Services for 2023-2024 School Term.
* Contract between Cooks Pest Control and Greene County Board, for Termite Treatment at Greene County High School.
* Approval of four-day work week for all extended employees beginning June 5, 2023, and ending July 18, 2023.
* Memorandum of Understanding between Greene County Schools and Skilled Trades of West Alabama Apprenticeship Programs.
* Approval of McKee and Associates Architects, INC. Repairs for Robert Brown Middle School Press Box.
Approval of Contract Between Greene County Board and H&H Educational Services, LLC.
CSFO, Marquita Lennon, gave the following financial snapshot report ending April 30, 2023.
The combined General Fund Reserve total 5.05M; Cash Reserve totaled 2.86M; (All bank accounts have been reconciled); General Fund Bank balance – $3,427,655.81; Accounts Payable Check register – $286,934.04; Payroll Register – $933,558.23; Combined Ending fund Balance – $6,101,091.19. Local revenue: Property Taxes – $60,694; Sales Taxes – $133,729; Other Taxes – $3,971; Bingo – $55,839; total Local revenue – $254,233. The board also approved FY 2023 Budget Amendments from categories including ESSER II, ESSER III, CNP, UAB COVID Grant, and Cyber Security.
Tag Archives: the Greene County Board of Education
Whorton Engineering, Inc. to design and manage new HVAC Project
School Board selects company to replace HVAC system at RBMS
The Greene County Board of Education met in a special call meeting Monday, May 8, 2023, to consider and act on the superintendent’s proposal regarding selection of a company to replace the HVAC system at Robert Brown Middle School. All board members were present. Over the course of this school year, the board has heard various presentations from several companies regarding their plans, timelines and costs for removing the existing HVAC system and installing a new one. The most recent presentations were given at a work session held Friday, April 21, 2023.
The board approved the recommendation of Superintendent Dr. Corey Jones to engage Whorton Engineering, Inc. to design and manage the HVAC replacement project at RBMS. Total estimate for the HVAC replacement project is proposed at $2,544,301, which includes a 10% contingency. The gymnasium at RBMS is not included in this estimate, but the superintendent stated that he will bring that to the board as an added project.
Financial support for the HVAC Project at RBMS is secured through the ESSER (Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Fund) – CARES ACT which is the Coronavirus Aid Relief & Economic Security Act, resources. As indicated in various financial reports at school local board meetings, there is approximately $2.6 million available from ESSER II and ESSER III funds which can support the HVAC Project. As per the American Rescue Plan requirements: “Permissible minor remodeling may include, but not limited to, the installation or renovation of an HBVAC system to help with air filtration to prevent the spread of COVID 19.”
The RBMS HVAC project, which satisfies the American Rescue Plan requirements, will include the following components: The old system, installed in the 1970’s, will be removed; the new HVAC system will greatly improve the indoor air quality and comfort within the building. Each classroom will be able to control its own indoor temperatures. The system will include an independent fresh air system that will properly heat and cool the outside air before it enters the space. There will be controls for dehumidification equipment to deter growth and introduction of mold and mildew. Fresh air will be filtered with MERV 13 filters; The system will include recirculation and filtration of the air already inside the facility. The new equipment will have the ability to hear and cool at any time.
At the board’s recent work session, it was indicated that an effect of this new system is a 40% utility bill savings for that plant. Most of the equipment can be purchased through Sourcewell, the State Department’s Cooperative Purchasing Program.
According to Dr. Jones, the project will begin immediately and progress as equipment arrives. He noted that the company has indicated that some equipment is already on hand.
Dr. Jones affirmed that the arrangement with Whorton Engineering was the best approach for replacing the HVAC system at RMBS. “Through Whorton Engineering, Inc. we get the best costs for the services needed and, thus, we can still allocate most of the system $1.4 million PSCA Funds (Public School & College Authority) for other needed facility improvements, including new roof and flooring at Eutaw Primary School and replacing the field house, concession stand and fencing at RBMS.
Alabama State University awards six seniors $182, 560 in scholarships
Superintendent Jones stresses positive news in school system
The Greene County Board of Education held its monthly meeting on April 24, 2023 with all board members in attendance. Superintendent Dr. Corey Jones opened his report to the board with positive news from the various schools. At Eutaw Primary, Kindergarten teacher Ms. Kaleiga Jemison was awarded a $500 from Alabama Power Foundation Classroom Grant Program to purchase classroom supplies and materials to enhance student achievement. Eutaw Primary School is in process of preparing for summer learning, with 74 scholars registered to attend.
In reporting positive news for Robert Brown Middle School, Dr. Jones noted that on March 31, an ACAP Kick Off Rally and at least 97% of RBMS scholars participated in ACAP testing. RBMS held a 7th and 8th grade basketball game on April 21 to celebrate the students attendance during ACAP testing. The RBMS cool down room has officially opened to all students. Students cNan use their Tiger Tickets to enjoy time in the area. On April 27, RBMS scholars will travel to Tuscaloosa for a tour of Stillman College.
For Greene County High School positive news, the superintendent shared that Alabama State University visited GCHS on April 17 and awarded $182,560 in scholarships to six seniors. The Debate Team traveled to Mississippi State University during Spring Break. The team performed well and received awards for Most Passionate Debaters. GCHS football players attended Brain Day at the University of Alabama, attending sessions on concussions and mental health, brain imaging, nutrition, sleep health and substance abuse. Tenth graders toured the University of West Alabama. Two seniors have signed up for the Alabama Skilled Trades Jumpstart Program; nine seniors attended WOW 2.0 and received multiple contingent job offers. One senior was officially offered a position in the Mercedes Apprenticeship program, beginning this summer.
Superintendent Jones presented a preview of the Teacher Pipeline Program, which the school district is exploring with the University of Alabama. The program addresses the shortage of qualified teachers with an approach to increase the number teacher preparation programs, support partnerships between schools and universities and incentives for teachers to work in high-need areas. Dr. Jones noted that with the system investing $4,700 per student for preparatory programs, those students could be eligible for four-year full tuition scholarships at $44,000 per student. Upon completion, the new teachers could receive further monetary incentives to return to their home communities to teach. According to Jones, no final contract is not ready to come before the board.
The board acted on the following personnel items recommended by the superintendent.
* Approved superintendent’s recommendation to non-renew Reginald Coats contract.
* Approved Victoria Moore, as STEAM Leader for Greene County High School.
* Retroactively approved Michelle Williams, full-time custodian, Greene County Career Center, with a start date of Monday, April 17, 2023.
* Approved Zarquashia Taylor, as School Nurse for Greene County Schools.
* Approved Project Grow Participants: Brittany Harris, Administrator; Marilyn Knott, Counselor; Pamela Pasteur, Reading Interventionist.
Project Grow Committee: Greene County High School -Andrea Perry; Janice Jeams-Askew Tamika Thompson; Victoria Moore; Tura Edwards.
Project Grow Committee, Robert Brown Middle School: Dr. Rosalyn Robinson; Felecia Smith;Vanessa Bryant; Raven Bryant.
The board acted on the following administrative items recommended by the superintendent.
* Payment of all bills, claims, and Payroll.
* Bank reconciliations as submitted by Ms. Marquita Lennon, CSFO.
* Approval of Greene County Board Indirect Cost Proposal FY24 Organizational Chart 2022.
Approval of Administrative Staff to Attend the 2023 Model School Conference, Orlando Florida June 25 – 28, 2023. Attendees include: Teresa Atkins; Rebecca Coleman; Brittany Harris; Dr Corey Jones; Charlayne Jordan; Marshae Pelt; LaMonica Little; Andrea Perry.
Memorandum of Understanding between Greene County Board and Young Teen Asthma & Wellness Camp,
Approval of Disposal of used panels.
Approval of University of West Alabama Stem Institute Project.
Approval of fixed Asset On-site Physical Inventory.
Approval of SAAVAS envision Math, Professional Development.
Approval of ARIS-Language Builder, Academic Readiness Intervention system.
Approval of Project Grow Summer Leadership Professional Development.
Service agreement between Greene County board and edconnect.
Contractual Agreement between Greene County Board and Denise Horton, Behavior Aide. For 2023-2024 School Term.
Approval of ESSER II Amendment – 4296.
Retro-active approval of Wanda Blakley to travel to New Orleans.
Contract between Greene County Board and Conserv Pest & Wildlife Services.
Approval of Ambit Solution, IP Intercom System Replacement.
Approval of Greene County District Recovery Plan 2023.
Approval of Bid Proposal Between Greene County Board and Security Providers, LLC.
Approval of Garry Rice to attend SREB School Improvement Conference.
Memorandum of Agreement between Greene County Board and Community Services Program of West Alabama Head Start.
Approval of Proposal, Kids First Education.
Approval CNP Supervisor Shirley Stewart to travel to Denver Colorado, CNP Conference.
Approval of Discontinuing ROTC Program.
The Financial SnapShot, as of March 31, 2023, presented by CSFO Marquita Lennon, included the following: Operating Reserve – $5.08 combined general fund reserver; $2.96 cash reserve. All bank accounts have been reconciled. The General Fund Bank Balance – $3,547,514.14 (reconciles to the summary Cash Report); Accounts Payable Check Register – $458,486.56; Payroll Register – $926,704.13; Combined Ending Fund Balance – $6,135,726.13;
Total Local Revenue – $222,699.
Alabama A&M University awards nine scholarships during bus tour to GCHS
The Greene County Board of Education held its regular meeting on Monday, March 20, 2023 with all board members present except Ms. Carrie Dancy.
In his positive news for Greene County High School, Superintendent Dr. Corey Jones stated that nine seniors received scholarships from Alabama A&M University, totaling $168,000, when the Alabama A& M Bus Tour visited GCHS on March 2, 2023. Adopt-A-School partners and community leaders read to scholars at GCHS for Read Across America Week. Act testing at the high school was successful with nearly 100% student participation. GCHS seniors attended Stillman College TIGERFEST, with several scholars showing interest in enrolling at Stillman College. GCHS Honor Society and Peer Helpers read to scholars at EPS for Read Across America Week. GCHS football team participated in community service, picking up litter and helping to repair a house.
In positive news for Greene County High Career Center, Jones noted that Career Tech Student organizations recently competed in regional and state events: National Career Association (NCA) – 4th place winner at regional events; DECA; Skills USA. The Career Center has scheduled Parent Night for April 6 at 5:30 pm at the Career Center; Awards Banquet for April 27 at 5:30 p.m. at GCHS gym; Cosmetology Hair Show for May 5 at 5:00 pm GCHS gym.
In his positive news for RBMS, Dr. Jones noted that as Teacher of the year, Ms. Vanessa Bryant was awarded the Digital Discovery Scholarship for Title I Schools. Ms. Bryant was chosen over 200 plus applicants. This is her second year winning the award.
RBMS also hosted Muffins for Mom, a living Wax Museum and their annual Black History Program during the month of February. Parents were involved in all three events. RBMS hosted its first Mardi Gras Extravaganza on March 16.
The City of Eutaw hosted a job fair for RBMS students on March 14. According to Jones, Eutaw City is a faithful sponsor of RBMS.
Superintendent Jones included in his report the school system’s testing schedule. The ACT testing at Greene County High School was held March 15 through 17; ACAP Summative at Eutaw Primary School 2nd grade is scheduled for March 28 – April 4; ACAP Summative at Eutaw Primary 3rd grade is scheduled for April 5 – April 12; ACAP Summative at Robert Brown Middle Schoo 4th – 8th grades is scheduled for April 4 – April 21.
The board acted on the following personnel items recommended by Superintendent Jones.
Approved 2023-Language Essentials of Reading and Spelling Stipend: Danielle Sanders; Quenterica White; Chandra Toney.
Approved Employment: Canesha Ray, Long-Term Substitute Teacher for 2022-2023 Eutaw Primary School; Shelia Wade, Substitute Cafeteria Worker.
* Approved One-time Supplemental – COVID Testing: Jacqueline Raby, RN, Lead Nurse, $5,000; Brenda Lawerence, LPN, $2,500; Dorothy Jones, LPN, $2,500.
Approved FMLA Maternity Leave\Catastrophic Leave: Ms. Chandra Toney effective February 13, 2023.
The board approved the following administrative service items.
* Payment of all bills, claims, and Payroll.
* Bank reconciliations as submitted by Ms. Marquita Lennon, CSFO.
* UWA Black Belt Stem Institute Stipend Agreement.
* Service Agreement between Greene County Board and Stericycle Medical Waste Disposal.
* Contract between Greene County Board and Demisha Stough, Child Find Gifted Specialist.
* Contract between Greene County Board and E-rate Technologies Wide Area Network. For FY-23 School Term.
* Agreement between Greene County Board and Stericycle Service
* Agreement between Greene County Board and ABSS Staffing Solutions
Approval of Robert Brown Middle School to travel to Atlanta, Georgia Aquarium.
The CSFO, Ms. Marquita Lennon prepared the following Financial Snapshot as of February 28, 2023. Operating Reserve totaled 5.10M combined general fund reserve; 3.24M cash reserve, with all bank accounts reconciled. The General Fund Balance totaled $3,892,135.82, reconciles to the Summary Cash Report; Accounts Payable Check Register totaled $227,189.46; Payroll Register totaled $929,917.04 – total gross pay to include employer match items; Combined Ending Fund Balance totaled $6,157,563.17. The report indicated that the system is financially stable and maintaining the state mandated operating reserve.
Greene County Schools Child Nutrition Program receives grants totaling $84,917
The Greene County Board of Education held it regular meeting, Monday, February 20, 2023 with three board members in attendance, President Leo Branch, Robert Davis and Brandon Merriweather.
As part of his report, Superintendent Dr. Corey Jones presented Child Nutrition Program Director, Ms. Shirley Stewart for an update. Ms. Stewart announced that Greene County Schools was awarded two grants from the Alabama State department of Education totaling $84, 917.66 for new cafeteria equipment. Eutaw Primary School received a grant of $70,066 for a walk-in cooler/freezer; Robert Brown Middle School received a partial award of $14,851.66 for a serving counter for cold foods. According to Ms. Stewart, the funds were provided through the National School Lunch Program Equipment Assistance Grant.
Dr. Jones also resented Schneider Electric for an update relative to the HVAC Project at Robert Brown Middle School. Schneider representatives, Larry Perrin and Todd Smith, noted that Robert Brown Middle School is currently on a boiler/chiller system that is over 40 years old and the plans are to install an up-to date electrical infrastructure which will replace all existing systems focusing on energy and operations; technology & school safety; facilities and asset planning. A key feature of the new design will allow each classroom to have individualized control regarding heating and cooling; the kitchen area will have proper exhaust and circulation of fresh air. Schneider Reps also noted that the cost of the RBM Project is likely to increase from the initial proposal to the Board of approximately $3 million. They suggested that federal grants may be available to off-set the additional costs. No further determination was made by the Board.
In other business, the board approved the following personnel items recommended by the superintendent: Resignation of Anthony Atkins, effective February 6, 2023; resignation of Shawnta Owens, effective June 15, 2023.
The administrative items acted on by the board included the following.
* Payment of all bills, claims, and payroll.
* Bank reconciliations as submitted by Ms. Marquita Lennon, CSFO.
* Agreement between Greene County Board and Finalsite Internet Technologies Website * Provider, (This company purchased our current provider, Blackboard).
* Contractual Agreement between Greene County Board and West Alabama Therapy for 2023-2024 School Term.
* Contractual Agreement between Greene County Board and Andrea Williams, Holmes to Homes Health and Rehabilitation Services, LLC, Speech Therapy Services for 2023-2024 School Term.
* Proposal between Greene County Board and HMH Professional Development Partnership, February thru December 2023.
* Approval of Rebecca Coleman to travel to Jackson Mississippi for Classroom technology.
Agreement between Greene County Board and Community Services of West Alabama, and Head Start/Early Head Start.
* Approval of Zaddrick Smith to attend Glazier Football Clinic, Franklin, TN February 24-26, 2022.
* Approval of Rodney Wesley and Howard Crawford to attend Basketball Clinic in Nashville, Tn on May 12-13, 2023.
* Approval of Greene County High School Debate Team to travel to Mississippi to compete in MMSC conference March 23, 2023.
Approval to terminate contract between Greene County Board and Helping Hands Therapy.
The board tabled an action on an Electric energy services Contract with Schneider Electric.
The CSFU, Marquita Lennon presented the following Financial Snapshot for the period ending January 31, 2023. Points of Interest: Operating Reserves reflect $5.19 M combined general fund reserve; $3.44 M cash reserve; m all bank accounts have been reconciled. General Fund Bank Balance – $4,129,273.25 ( reconciles to the Summary Cash Report); Accounts Payable Check Register – $661,672.40; Payroll Register $933,649.90; Combined Ending Fund Balance – $6,227,076.10. Local revenue: Property Taxes – $1,873,748; Sales Taxes – $154,561; Other Taxes – $3,828; Bingo – $55,839. Total Local revenue: $2, 087,976.
Board approves ESSER II Budget Amendment, Superintendent gives update on enrollment and positive school news
The Greene County Board of Education held its regular meeting on Monday, January 23, 2023. The meeting date was adjusted to the fourth Monday since Dr. King’s National Holiday fell on the third Monday. All board members were present, except for Brandon Merriweather. Board President Branch explained that Mr. Merriweather’s work schedule could not accommodate the change in the meeting date.
Superintendent Dr. Corey Jones opened his report to the board with an update on student enrollment, comparing enrollment in mid December, 2022 and enrollment in mid January, 2023.
Eutaw Primary School had 275 scholars enrolled in December and 280 in January 2023; Robert Brown Middle School had 340 scholars in December and 334 in January; Greene County High School had 259 in December and 260 in January. Comparative totals for the two months were the same, 874 scholars enrolled.
In school positive news, Dr. Jones noted that new playground equipment for Eutaw Primary has arrived and installation is in progress. EPS educators and scholars celebrated Math Week and the 100th Day of School during the week of January 16. Seven scholars have obtained 100 or more Accelerated Reader points and are part of the 100 Points Club. Pre-K scholars enjoyed a field trip to the Children’s Hands On Museum on January 20.
Positive news for Robert Brown Middle School include the following: Parents are invited to eat lunch with their children on Thursday, January 26; RBMS Teacher of the Year is, fourth grade teacher, Ms. Vanessa Bryant; the Epsilon Mu Sigma Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority is sponsoring a Valentine Luncheon for RBMS staff and teacher incentive gift cards.
Positive news for Greene County High include the following: GCHS celebrated coming off the Comprehensive School Improvement List; ACT Prep is offered twice a month on Saturdays at GCHS from 9-11 and attendance is increasing; after school enrollment has increased from nine to 35 students;
In her financial report to the board, CSFO Marquita Lennon, presented a draft of the FY 2023 ESSER II Budget Amendment. She noted that there is a carryover amount of approximately $2.5 million and funds must be expended by September 30, 2023, with the budget amended by March 15, 2023. Lennon listed other elements of the budget amendment including the following: ESSER II Committee of school personnel and community stakeholders was formed; Capital expenditures capped at 50%; Learning loss must be 20%. Key items of expenditure will include Janitor salaries and benefits; Playground Equipment for EPS; Computer Lab for RBMS; Flooring for EPS and Peter J. Kirksey; Insurance for Chrome Books; Learning Licenses; ACT Prep; Transitional activities.
CSFO Lennon presented the school system’s monthly financials as of December 31, 2022. Her Financial Points of Interest and Financial Snapshot included the following: Operating Reserves – 3.77M combined general fund reserve;1.89M cash reserve; ( All bank accounts have been reconciled); General Fund Balance – $2,266,229.97 (reconciles to the Summary Cash Report); Accounts payable Check register – $181,347.67; Payroll Register $926,501.71; Combined Ending Fund Balance -$4,529,923.07; Local Revenue – (taxes and bingo revenue) $268,768.
The board approved the following personnel items.
Employment – Ms. Delois Powell Bus Aide, Department of Transportation; Natasha Lewis, After School Bus Driver, for 2022-2023 School term. The board also approved a Retention Bonus Agreement Contract for School Bus Driver, Natasha Lewis for 2022-2023 school term. The board approved a $500 stipend for Pamela McGee for Response to Intervention (RTI) Chairperson.
Resignation – Demilia Snyder, Robert Brown Middle School Teacher, effective January 31, 2023.
Supplements for Spring Track Team Personnel – Greene County High School, Head Coach for Males – Howard Crawford; Assistant Male Coach – Rodney Wesley; Head Coach, Females – Ralph Marshall; Assistant Coach, Females – Torethia Mitchell.
The board approved the following administrative items.
* Payment of all bills, claims, and payroll.
* Bank reconciliations as submitted by Ms. Marquita Lennon, CSFO.
* Contract between Greene County Board and Ability Pilot, Student Intervention and Embedded Coaching, Kid First Education.
* Memorandum of Understanding between Greene County High School and Stillman College, Dual Enrollment, for 2022-2023 School Term.
* Amendments to ESSER II (4296) Budget to include: Custodial Salaries; Learning Licenses;
ACT Preparation; Data Processing Updates;
* Memorandum of Understanding between Greene County Board of Education and Advancing Evidence Improving Lives (AIR), CDC Youth Empowerment Project.
* Approval of Corey Cockrell to attend Glazier Football Clinic, Franklin, TN February 24-26, 2022.
* Approval of Greene County High School Seniors to travel to Destin, Florida for Class of 2023 Senior Trip.
* Bus Driver- Stillman College Upward Bound, Mr. Leslie Carlisle;
* Purchase of Computers for Robert Brown Middle School.
Superintendent updates board on school enrollment and student and employee absenteeism
The Greene County Board of Education held its regular monthly meeting Monday, December 12, 2022, one week early due to Christmas holidays. The school system will closed Friday, December 16 and re-open Tuesday, January 3, 2023 for a Professional Development Day. Students return to classes on January 5.
Superintendent Dr. Corey Jones open his report to the board with an update on local school enrollment. As of December 12, Eutaw Primary has 275 scholars enrolled, not including the pre-K class. This is 22 students less than last year at this time. Robert Brown Middle has 340 scholars enrolled, nine more than last year; and Greene County High has 874 scholars enrolled, 16 less than the previous year. Jones noted that there are various factors that account the enrollment numbers, mainly that the county as a whole is losing population.
Dr. Jones then informed the board that the system is currently monitoring absenteeism of students and employees on a weekly basis. He presented this as an additional approach toward accountability. He noted that there are more absentees of students and teachers on a Friday. “I am directing my principals to monitor all attendance on a daily basis and submit weekly reports. We have procedures for monitoring student attendance, including conversations and home visits with parents/guardians by the school system’s Truancy Officer. The principals work directly with teachers regarding attendance issues” he stated. Jones said that the Career Center has the lowest absentee rates of students and employees.
Board member Robert Davis inquired as to student absence following the recent Tornado, which left approximately 15 families homeless. Superintendent Jones responded that excused absences are noted in the record and the school system will be assisting those displaced scholars.
Dr. Jones listed positive news for each of the district schools. Eutaw Primary scholars are currently in the process of completing the Aimsweb Assessment for mid year. Educators will utilize the data to plan whole group and small group instruction.
Robert Brown Middle School Girls Basketball Team is on the road to an undefeated season. So far they have won every game this season.
Greene County High School has 92% of scholars passing the Civics Exam on the first attempt, a requirement for graduation. The remaining scholars will test again on Thursday, Dec. 15. GCHS has exited Comprehensive Support and Improvement School (CSI), which means the high school no longer falls within the bottom 6% of Title I schools within the state’s accountability system.
The board approved the following personnel items recommended by the superintendent.
* School nurses receive payment to service students involved in extracurricular activities for 2022-2023 school year as needed.
* Ms. Dorthea Smith, long-term substitute teacher, 7th/8th grade Science.
FMLA Maternity Leave and Catastrophic leave for Demilia Snyder effective December 13, 2022.
The board the approved the following administrative items recommended by the superintendent.
* Payment of all bills, claims and payroll.
* Bank reconciliations as submitted by Ms. Marquita Lennon, CSFO.
* Contract between Greene County Board of Education and Imagine Learning, for 2022-2023 School term.
* Authorization between Greene County Board of Education and Encourage ACT, for School District.
* Contract between Greene County Board of Education and Triumph Learning.
* Contract between Greene County Board of Education and Nearpod Support License Renewal.
* Contract between Greene County Board of Education and Albireo Energy Service and Support Agreement Renewal.
* Contract between Greene County Board of Education and Sophos Antivirus Software Renewal.
* Extension of contract for Mrs. Evelyn James to consult/assist on an as needed basis until the end of fiscal year 2023.
* Encourage ACT-Resources to connect students with colleges and Universities Nation Wide.
School board presented detail plans for students’ success in reading; RBM School initiates Creative Girls Rock project
The Greene County Board of Education met in regular session Monday, February 21, 2022. Dr. Corey Jones, as part of his superintendent’s report, presented Curriculum Coordinator, Mrs. Barbara Martin, who gave a detailed report on the school system’s intensive activities designed to equip students with effective reading skills. Ms. Martin elaborated on the various programs in place from the primary school level through high school. She emphasized the overall theme of ‘continuity and consistency’ of delivering and monitoring the daily reading engagements of students with one school level building on the previous.
Martin explained that the schools have a system in place that quickly identifies students who need additional attention, noting that parents are also kept informed of their children’s progress. “Parents and guardians are significant partners in assuring that their students are getting the best and all that is needed for their children’s educational growth and success,” she said.
The schools have enacted tiered levels of reading instruction with allows for intervention as needed for individual students. According to Ms. Martin, after school programs as well as summer programs are continuing opportunities for students to access extra time and attention needed for skill improvements and other academic and cultural enhancements. Portfolios are kept on all students.
She noted that teachers at all schools are engaged in intensive training to accommodate these various approaches to teaching reading.
Martin noted that it is crucial that students are engaged in participatory roles in reading classes, as well as other academic classes. “It is crucial to student’s success that their self esteem is lifted throughout the learning process,” she said.
Superintendent Jones announced a recently funded program focusing on developing self esteem in young girls and preparing them for career choices. The Creative Girls Rock project is an after school program funded by Alabama Power Company, which can serve up to 100 girls at Robert Brown Middle School. The $2,500 grant award will be used to provide all materials and supplies needed for the project. The project will be presented through Zoom, engaging noted presenters.
The superintendent also presented John Cole with American Fidelity Insurance, who described the detailed management approach his company could provide to school employees, regarding the section 125 Cafeteria Plan for Education Employees. His presentation at this time was for informational purposes only.
Jones also introduced a key mentoring approach for school principals. “ All our current school principals are new to their positions, and I noted that we have central office personnel who have served in the role of principal at some point in their educational careers and can serve as mentors, therefore, I have assigned mentors to basically give support to our principals,” he explained.
As part of his report, Dr Jones presented information on the following: the COVID positive update for the county; testing calendar for schools; current schools enrollment; summary of the Wellness Camp on Asthma held last summer (20021).
The board approved the following personnel agenda items recommended by the superintendent.
* Employment of Robin M. Campbell, First Grade Teacher, Eutaw Primary School, for 2021-2022 School Year.
Supplemental Contract – Track Team – Ralph Marshall – Coach and Rodney Wesley – Assistant Coach.
The board approved the following administrative service items.
Payment of all bills, claims, and payroll.*
Bank reconciliations as submitted by Ms. Marquita Lennon, CSFO.*
Approval of Greene County High School Debate Team Travel to Mississippi State for Team Competition.
Select Raymond James as the underwriter for the Bond refinancing.
A Resolution Authorizing the Issuance, and Making Provision for the Payment, of a Public-School Warrant (Federally Taxable), Series 2022, to Refinance the Capital Outlay School Warrants, Series 2013, of the Board, and Approving Related Financing Documents.
School board reorganizes; hires high school principal, fails to select new CSFO
The Greene County Board of Education met in its regular session, Monday, November 15, 2021 with four board members present. Mrs. Veronica Richardson was absent due to family emergency. Since November is the appointed time to reorganize, selecting board officers and meeting logistics, the board carried out it duties in this regard. With board counsel, Attorney Hank Sanders conducting the procedures, Mr. Leo Branch offered a motion to retain the same board officers and Ms. Carrie Dancy seconded. Dr. Carol Zippert and Ms. Kashaya Cockrell were retained as Board President and Vice President respectively with a unanimous decision.
Seemingly, the board will continue to hold its monthly meetings on the third Monday of each month at 4:30 pm.
Among the personnel items was Superintendent Dr. Corey Jones’ recommendation to appoint Ms. Andrea Perry as Principal of Greene County High School. The board gave unanimous approval. Ms. Perry has been serving as interim principal since Nov. 1, 2021.
In a work session held earlier the day of the board meeting, the CSFO applicant finalists were invited to provide additional information to the board members, however, at the following board meeting, action on the CSFO position was tabled. No additional information has been made available.
In a meeting earlier this year, the school board voted to sell the Birdine School property to the Town of Forkland, which had made a request to purchase. The board’s decision was contingent on the State of Alabama conveying the property to the Greene County Board of Education. With that process completed, the board agreed to sell a portion of the Birdine School property, 10.3 acres to the Town of Forkland by Warranty Deed for the sum of $2,000 per acre or a total sum of $20,600.
In his report, Superintendent Jones stated that the Office of Civil Rights (OCR) held a two-day review in the Greene County School System which resulted in five recommendations as follows: 1. Provide Professional Development to employees and students on the grievance process. 2. Convert one of the restrooms at the GCBOE to an unisex bathroom to accommodate a handicap accessible stall. 3. Raise the handicap signage to 6′ at the GCBOE. 4. Make a handicap accessible van parking at GCCC. If the recommendations (opportunities) are completed within 30 days, the district report will be free of citations. 5. Hard copy of Parent & Student Information Guide (provided onsite). It had been 28 years since OCR made a site visit to Greene County Schools.
In his maintenance update, Superintendent Jones reported that the sewer pump needed replacing at Greene County High. The estimated cost is $11,000 – $15,000. New doors for the Central Office have not arrived yet. Other repairs at the Central Office are completed, except for the final walk through by contractor and state officials.
Dr. Jones also gave an update on the Comer Capital Group that is working with the board on refinancing bonds relative to the Greene County High School. He stated that Comer Capital is soliciting underwriters which will be compiled and submitted to the board for final selection.
Other personnel items approved by the board included the following:
Employment – Wanda Gaitor, from 9 month employee to 10 month employee, secretary at Greene County High School; Anthony Atkins as custodian at Greene County Board.
Family Medical Leave – Montoya Binion, from August 10 to Nov. 1, 2021; Gloria McGhee, from Nov. 29 to Jan. 17, 2022.
Supplemental Contract – Cyonti Lewis as assistant girls basketball coach at Robert Brown Middle School.
Rescind – Supplemental contract for Elroy Skinner as assistant girls basketball coach for 2021-2022.
Other administrative items approved by the board included the following:
* Payment of all bills, claims and payroll.
* Memorandum of understanding between Greene County School board and West Alabama Mental Health Center.
* Increase girls basketball coach supplement to $3,200.
Superintendent addresses parents concerns on returning students to in-class instruction
The Greene County Board of Education met in regular session Monday, September 20, 2021. One of the key issues addressed related to the re-opening of face-to-face classes for students. Superintendent Dr. Corey Jones stated that various official health reports indicate that COVID positive cases are down in Greene County at this time. He also said that the data indicates that achievement rates are lower among students who are in virtual programs. “My main concerns are for the safety of our students and, just as important, my concern for the achievement of our students. We cannot allow our students to continue to fall back,” he explained.
Several parents were in attendance and were allowed an opportunity to express their concerns which related to cleaning routines at school facilities, availability of cleaning supplies, the cooling system at Robert Brown Middle School, alternate instructional programs for students with pre conditions, and the consideration of implementing the Hybrid Instructional Plan where the number of students in a class is reduced. Dr. Jones addressed these assuring all that the maintenance department worked additional hours each day for repeated cleaning of facilities. He stated that the school system will remain in full attendance at this time, but students needing alternative instructional methods will be considered on an individual basis. He added that parents can make such requests through the school principal or directly to him.
As part of the personnel items presented to the board, Superintendent Jones recommended the suspension of Corey Cockrell as teacher and coach for five days without pay. The board held a closed conference with Cockrell and when returning to open session, no action was taken on the superintendent’s recommendation.
Regarding other personnel items recommended, the board approved the following:
Employment: Marqavius King as 6th Grade Language Arts Teacher at Robert Brown Middle School. Resignation: Nyesha Watson as 1st Grade Teacher at Robert Brown Middle School; Jamar Jackson as Custodian at Robert Brown Middle School.
Supplemental Contracts: Elroy Skinner as Assistant Football Coach at RBMS; Cyonti Lewis as Assistant Football Coach at GCHS,
The board approved the following administrative items presented by the superintendent.
* Payment of all bills, claims and payroll.
Bank reconciliations as submitted by LaVonda Blair, CSFO.
Confirmation of Interim CSFO Contract.
* Confirmation for Limited Financial Agreement.
* Memorandum of Agreement between Greene County Board and Stillman College Foundation.
* Memorandum of Agreement between Greene County Board and the University of Alabama Dual Enrollment.
* Memorandum of Understanding between Greene County Board of Education and UAB for voluntary COVID weekly testing for students, faculty and staff, pending attorney’s review and superintendent’s agreement.
* Contract between Greene County Board and Malysa Chandler for Educational Consulting Services.
* Partnership between Greene County Schools and Alabama Cooperative Extension Services for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Education Program.