School Board Votes To Extend Director’s Contract

The Jefferson County School Board met for their Regular Monthly Meeting on Thursday, January 23, 2014 at the Patriot Academy.  The Meeting was Called to Order by Chairman of the Board Potts. All members were present for Roll Call. Chairman Potts acknowledged the Jefferson County High School Youth Leadership members present at the meeting.

School Board Member Vines made a Motion to extend the current Director of School’s contract for four years. The Motion was 2nd by Board Member Jarnigan. The motion included the current contract ending on June 30, 2014 and a new contract being issued on July 1, 2014 for a four year term. Board Members discussed legislation that is on the agenda for the State regarding instigating elected, rather than appointed, Directors of Schools. Board Members Bradley and Cavanah expressed concern at the length of the contract due to the upcoming local elections and the proposed legislation. Cavanah offered an amendment to the Motion to alter the term of the contract to a two year period. The amendment died for lack of a 2nd. Director Edmonds stated that he will not be seeking a raise above his current salary, however would not be comfortable signing a contract that did not insure employment regardless of pending legislation, due to financial and personal obligations and would like to complete the goals set for physical and academic expansion. He also requested that his annuity for the amount of insurance, which is a part of his current contract, be included in any subsequent contracts. (Edmond’s contract allows for the amount of insurance costs to go into an annuity. He has insurance elsewhere) Following extensive discussion, the Motion was Approved 6-1 with Cavanah voting No.

With appropriate Motion and second the Agenda and Consent Agenda were Approved. Under Items for Information, Director Edmonds recognized the School Board Members, who were honored with a reception preceding the meeting. Jefferson County Finance Director Helton informed the Board that he is continuing to investigate the possibility that mixed drink and cigarette tax may be dedicated to DOE use. Board Member Bradley requested detailed information on the spending path of insurance funds that have been received and stated that teachers Yardley and Seal have had extensive classroom losses and minimal recovery. Board Member Vines requested that Helton investigate the possibility of trade marking as a revenue source. Jefferson County High School Assistant Principal France addressed the Board concerning early graduation for JCHS students. Information provided showed a decline in early graduation that France attributed to increased Dual Enrollment and Advanced Placement opportunities. She stated that the primary reasons that students graduate early are to jump start college or career, as well as financially assist families.

Under New Business, with a Motion from Jarnigan and 2nd from Bradley, the Board Approved one general and one federal budget amendment. Following a Motion from Vines and 2nd from Jarnigan, the Board Approved the surplus of 6 school buses and one 1998 vehicle (not running). Chairman Potts moved the TSBA Legislative Agenda to the Work Session. With a Motion from Vines and 2nd from Board Member Rogers, the Board Approved a request to rename the Jefferson Middle School Gym the Johnny Regan Gym. Board Member Jarnigan stated that he supported the request, however there is established protocol that should be observed to avoid a situation in the future. The Motion passed unanimously and per Principal Sanford the dedication will take place the evening of the Sport’s Banquet. JCHS Vice Principal France presented the Curriculum Guide for 2014-2015, which includes additional AP classes, as well as State mandated change in some CTE courses, as well as other classes. She also presented for approval the updated program of study for the Adult High School. With a Motion from Vines and 2nd from Rogers the Adult High School Program of Study was Approved. With a Motion from Bradley and 2nd from Board Member Lowery the Curriculum Guide was Approved. Department of Education Director of Business Affairs Phagan informed the Board that Pod 2 is inhabited by students and is in the process of final finishes, and Pod 1 is expected to be functional by the return from Spring Break. All roofing issues have been addressed, at this time. The DOE is still awaiting the installation of the traffic light at the intersection of Dumplin Valley and Hwy 92 and it is expected in the Spring of 2014.