School Board Meeting and Public Hearing

reaches decadent cities call this place after one of the colorful art. Was Jews as Christ. >> What are the fastest growing sport on television? Nascar? I have to do with ancient Rome and the beginnings of a new world religions during the first century. I going a report APRIL. We 6 warning here in >> the school district of Manatee County will be an exemplary student focused school system that develops lifelong learners to be globally competitive. And then I would like to request today a moment of silence. And if you wouldn't mind keeping keeping in your thoughts, all of the children around our country in the world who are suffering due to the acts of adults that they just don't understand. Ok, and thank you for that moment. And superintendent. >> Thank you. MADAM Chair board members today, we are honored to recognize and welcome Sir. Vera Kobe engine year. A United States Coast Guard veteran who will lead us in the Pledge of Allegiance. >> MR. Kobe and served 4 years in the U.S. Coast Guard attaining the rank of Petty Officer 3rd class. His military assignments included the Coast Guard cutter, active based in Port Angeles, Washington active is a 210 foot cutter Seagoing unit responsible for critical missions such as drug interdiction, port security and lifesaving rescue operations during these MISS Missions, MISTER Coby and served as a master House House men. Helms men during life's savings operations playing a key role in protecting lives at sea. Is work. Also included work as a legal technician with Coast Guard District. One headquarters providing legal support for the Northeast region of the United States. In recognition of his distinguished Marco van received several honors, including Coast Guard Meritorious Unit Commendation Ribbon Transportation, 9.11, ribbon Coast Guard, good conduct medal and the National Defense Service Medal today. This commitment to serve continues in our schools where he proudly serves as the home school liaison at Sea Breeze Elementary schools, supporting students and families. Please join me in Marco for service to our nation and and welcoming him to lead us in the Pledge of Allegiance. We want to it. >> I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the Republic for which it stands. One nation under GOD, indivisible, with liberty and justice for Thank you, sir. Thank you so much again for your service. Its flag was flown over the U.S. Capitol and the mmr be ever Candid member of Congress has given us this to get to you and honor your service. Thank you so much. Okay. >> And now we will move on to the approval of the agenda. So I will look for a motion for the approval of agenda. So moved. >> And second, I will Okay. And there was amendments to the agenda that we're pretty brief. We Jr Ogc presentation and of course, all of the adoption of our policies. So that was the only amendment. So we made. All those in favor. We will get to our grandkids system cause him Okay. And that passes with a 5 to 0 vote. And then approval of the men superintendent. >> Yes, ma'am. Thank you. The superintendent recommends approval of minutes from the FEBRUARY. 24 2026 school board meeting. >> have a motion and a second. >> And we have. >> Also, yes, on this. Okay. MR. Kennedy is trying to get into the system up 3 times turn for waiting for one more. MISTER Cho. All right. Then it was ago and that passes 5, 0. Thank you. Board. >> And now we are on to our celebrations. We did kinda add in a little brief thing and I will bring down MISTER Chapman to run this portion of the meeting. >> Thank you. MADAM Chair PRESIDENT. Good morning. >> late last week our community lost a real legend. >> Coach Eddie Shannon, that passed last Friday. We were lucky enough to celebrate Coach Annan's 100 and 4th birthday just a few weeks ago. And in a minute, we're going to share video of that special day that we shared with him. Coach and you might know World War. 2 veteran and dedicated more than 3 decades, education and to coaching here in Manatee County is his legacy, both on and off. The gridiron is truly inspiring. And we're going to share a video right now coach at ease as Shannon tribute to his legacy here in Manatee County. >> mission 5, if you will. Military veterans, first responders, police and so and so long they're always looking honor World War, 2 veterans. There's fewer and fewer of them. But we're very fortunate that we have one that we all love that here today. People If you, we get all of We need up >> Real moon and get into below where you what And that they you will buy me little World War would be didn't need move It ended up Well, good thing be Thank you. >> So thank you, coach. And your legacy will continue to live on here in this county. So >> now I'd like to call some my colleagues here, our Omar Edwards, art, associate director strategic initiatives, Chrissy Kavanaugh, our associate director strategic initiatives. And I know we have other staff were involved in Spirit Week where they're going to talk little about what's going on this week. I know Michelle slaughters here, Lisa Taylor's here, our former colleague Perry, from the chambers here as well. So Omar, podium is yours. MADAM Chair. >> Board members, Breslin. I bring you spirit week in the best way to do this is to repeat after me. When I say lets you say go, let you know, I think we can do better. Let's Mets go. Right. So we're kicking spirit. We caught this weekend. >> a PowerPoint slide should be ready shortly before you. Spirit Week is an opportunity prior to testing that we actually get in front of our students to ensure that they're ready. A lot of times we can prepare our students for that next step. But we need to ensure that we're telling them that they can be the best that they can possibly be. So as we look at our schedule was Spirit week kicked off on Monday and several of our schools, Rogers Garden bring the real know. >> Today we have base your high school's out, the site schools, show and manage. Yeah. >> And then on when way the river Blackburn. And then on Thursday, we're going to have a salmon said elementary will. We finished the week? We met with the executive directors. We targeted certain schools that we really wanted to pinpoint. But this is a district-wide initiative. So regardless of the fact those particular schools were in every the Hartman transportation kicked it all because they have they received the students first. So they're telling students, let's go as they board the bus for the entire week because we know it all starts when they get on the bus and bring them to school departments to get excited. As I walk on the 5th floor, I asked lot of the executive director assistants like Alexa and then they tell So we just get everybody excited that age is about about this. We can get students did not fear test to not really feared to be in the best that they can possibly be. We know that we have prepared him. We know that they're capable, capable, accomplice everything that they need to. As we go back, we always in bed resiliency standards throughout our Spirit week because we know how important this is that that comes down from the Department of Education. We know and I have before you the level skills to overcome any challenges. We want to show students that even though they get knocked down, they can get up. They can brush themselves off and they rise again. B is not a bad thing. But if you can we want you to achieve I got a d in geometry. That's the best I could do. But guess what? That was like for me and I was so excited when I was able to achieve that. But you have the standards before you that's embedded this week. All of our speakers know to embed those standards. They know the drill that down to us doing is they're meeting with faculty that meeting with staff with a staff meeting. You see before you to schedule psc. They're doing some unique activities throughout the week to really get them engaged and get courage to get them motivated. So this is a key week to us and forth. And we just wanted to present this to you here today and really has questions that you MAY have. But it's exciting times for a school district and for our students that they begin prepare for the assessment period. Any questions I can for. Ms Skelton. I was just wondering if there is going to be. >> I'm sure are communications fabulous. I'm sure going to out there, but will bring us back some video, some of the activities, some of the events I I would love to see that. >> Right. And no ball goes the been a strong win. I think Ben is youth. A strong Bennett straw. Ban from my whole body and I know you Thank Thank you, MR. Home. So we've got one more presentation here, I as clerk there. We've got >> One more presentation here, which is employees celebration and to help kick this off, I think it's our good Annie plant. >> Ken Clarke. >> From Clark, Financial and any, if you could come right up to the podium here, woke up. Yeah. >> welcome joining MADAM Chair, contend Preston thank you for having us too. My name is Annie Clark and I am here representing national life groups. Life changer of the year program. Life Changer of the year program recognizes and rewards the best of k through 12. >> And school district employees both in the public and private sector. And all these employees across the United States that make a difference in the students lives by exemplifying excellence, positive influence leadership. This school year is the 15th year of our program. We've recognized over 9800 educators and school district employees and over 2600 school districts in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. When the 2025 2026 program cycle concludes, We will have awarded nearly $940,000. Just school employees. The life changer of the year. Nominate. To be selected as winner must include making a positive impact on the lives of students. Enhance their school or district atmosphere. Culture. And pride. Demonstrate exemplary leadership at the school and or district level. We just approved record of professional excellence. Shows commitment to building in nurturing in environment that supports learning. And here's to the highest moral and ethical standards. Nearly 1100 k through 12 teachers and school employees nationwide were nominated for this award. And I am thoroughly excited to announce it. Your very own Omar Edwards. Is one of this year's life changer of the award winners. Congratulations, Oman. >> If you will receive a $3,000 cash prize, half of that will go to you and half will be donated to the school District of Manatee County. Omar, you exemplify all the attributes of a national life group. Life changer and we ought to congratulate you on being recognized by your school community and selected by our committee. >> As one of this year's winners, congratulations again. Come on down the stretch get. >> I'm Tanya >> we are here to celebrate your leadership, your involvement and commitment to our community. You are the go-to person for speaking at community events and have presented on important topics such as youth empowerment, college and career readiness and they have to dress to impress program. Your words are moving and powerful. You can be found volunteering at your local toy drives Easter egg hunts health screening fairs and other community events. In addition serving on various boards. Our boys and Girls Club as well as big check. And also coaching football Palmetto Innovation are high. You are always positive, enthusiastic and ready to make a difference in our community. As a leader, you have a comprehensive approach to adverse and dedication. 2 developing strong relationships. You consistently put the needs of our children first while ensuring that both our parents and staff feel supported, recognized in value. As a life, changing your impact goes beyond the 4 walls of this building and many other schools and it can be felt by the students, colleagues, parents and administration that you With that said, I would like to share with you some of the comment that were left on your life changer of the year. Nominee profile as a testament to your work some of them >> from your one colleague tomorrow. MISTER Edwards is a servant leader that is always looking to collaborate and lend a helping hand to help students and families both inside and outside school building. MR. Edwards models, the change that he wants to see and others. So this life changer of the year award is very appropriate. Keep up the good my. From another colleague Chrissy. Every school district needs a leader like Omar Edwards. But you can't have ours. From my very first meeting with Omar a few months ago, I left with 4 pages of notes and one big question. How does one person do this much good with this much enthusiasm. Omar makes you better just by working alongside him. He shows up for students, families, colleagues and our community with a servant's heart and a standard of excellence that is so hot. His energy is steady. His integrity is constant and his belief in the potential of others is contagious. In a world that needs more incur jurors. More doers more people to stand in that gap. Are simply is that person every single that. And then we have from Isaac Bank field. We're celebrating a truly impactful individual. And the very short time we've had the opportunity to grow and knowing Oman, he has been a beacon of hope and inspiration consistently going above and beyond the call of duty. He bears a profound mark of charisma. Holby Jose spark of immense joy in the community engagement and fellowship. A tip of the iceberg. This nomination and soon many others to come is just the beginning. Our awareness to his long lasting leadership. So Omar, we congratulate you and we thank you for inviting what is meant to be a life changer and National Life Group's mission to do good. Be good. Make good. Keep up the great work, Omar, and we want to congratulate you. Are we would like to appreciate you. Just checked with this $3,000 checks. National Life 2025 26. It's as great. And now the person that really needs a lot of our award as well is his wife, because she sacrifices time away from home are so he can do good day to that face >> good man, woman. >> Okay. We do have a certificate here where you can place in your office. >> We could forward on Yeah, forth. >> 3, everybody To recharge. Without doubt. >> It >> feels reach the >> Which super the Thank you. Is. Hasn't. Definitely can gradually shuns. >> It was party are I heart secret. Canine. >> put it It is >> We're going to a >> I know neither >> Congrats With >> Ok, I will say by the reaction of MISTER Edwards, that was a total surprise. Got was one of Joe's yet we got That was one of hard to keep secrets. See him and you know, that's coming. But just got to kind of really got a surprise. So and it's hard to keep secret the it wasn't all that. I have to say the team or team now that >> And by the his reaction, he had no clue until the family came >> So we're well done well And I want to thank the foundation for doing that for for But any recognition that the school district gets from, you know, people like that. It matters. So I want to say thank you. And you know, she does for our community. Okay. And I believe concludes our all presentations for We have the yeah. I have a chair to see. No way next. Ma'am. >> Well, I have public comment after public comment right? We had one public comment that came that was emailed to all of our board member, ie. So if you please read not. Next, we have item number 9 j rotc presentation. Sorry about that. I was just a little below the line Yeah, we have a lot going >> MADAM Very excited about this presentation today. Aligns nicely the month of APRIL as every second director up high school Sharon Scarbrough introduce our distinguished guests. I've had the opportunity work with both of these gentlemen throughout my career. And I always honored just even be in the same room with them. So thank you, gentlemen, for being here today. Absolutely. Good morning. MADAM Chair, members of the dr PRESIDENT. Thank you for having us here this morning. Very, I'm always excited to share with you the wonderful things that are happening in our schools. >> And today, I get to share the the time with our leaders from the chair to see program. Colonel Philip, you and Sergeant Major Jerry staff. And we're going to present about our chair to see programs in Manatee County to help you learn more about that as you have any questions. But it definitely is one of the landmark programs in the state of Florida, if not the United something be very proud of in our area. Know we're ready to go. As you can see, the the leadership multipliers, what we feel that rtc program doesn't the many ways the impacts our community. So we're going to share some more information about that as Doctor Breslin mentioned, it is the month of the military family in Florida. And this is straight from our department of Education. So we really want to recognize our families that are part of the military and the service that commit is committed to being a military friendly state. We invite you on APRIL 15, 2 purple up in celebration of all of our branches of the armed forces to combine all of those colors into the shade of purple. That regal. Color. So now they they were right. Thank you, Tv's us trying to be a distraction. Start with that. >> And now I will be happy to turn our presentation over to the experts that we have to describe the curriculum that they're involved in. So gentlemen, for team. >> Thank you again for providing us the opportunity speak with you this morning. Take a look at the first slide. Just want to see has been a part of America's legacy ever since 1916 with the national defense and that was an anticipation of our entry into World War. One. So at America's high schools, we actually had active duty personnel and military equipment and the goal of terror to see at the time was to you know, get a pool of junior officers that would have eligibility become commissioned. Officers want to 21. But you know, we're one passes 2 passes and Jr to see really hasn't provided the Army, of the recruits that they had anticipated. So in 1960, the secretary of defense under the Kennedy administration decided to get rid of a juror to And the the public outcry was Intense. And so they wrote to a congressman people in the community were saying that charity see is indispensable. And so instead of getting rid of rtc Congress pass a law that created giraffe to see and the other services as well. They got rid of retire, really, I mean active duty and replaced him with retirees and then the mission of terror to see changed to more of his citizenship mission. >> And you see here they're 4 pillars of Gerald to see where you really didn't see this heavy emphasis on civics until after the Rodney riots in California in the 1990's. And at that time, the Department of Defense partner Live by General Colin Powell felt that junior rotc was the perfect vehicle, a platform to teach citizenship to America's you. And so then use all laser focus being placed on developing a curriculum. All focused on onset on civics. And as you some of the classes we teach Upper 10 in the civics. They've all the responsibilities of a citizen in a democracy, service-learning ethical decision making and embedded in leadership. You see life skills such as or communication financial planning goal setting every Cadets established goals. They recessed those goals we make sure that their measure will because the goal of dirt us is to make sure that these students are are able be self-directed when it comes to learning. But a big focus on teamwork leading in a multi cultural context. We also put a lot of emphasis on the development of their emotional intelligence. We their level input. The deference self esteem and so these students are able to look and understand their own emotions and even more importantly, they are able lead their peers with different personalities. And then the past 5 to 7 years, the Army has put a lot of emphasis on stem and to there's a lot of this is that this is placed on robotics, cyber awareness and and drones. >> All right. Good morning, everybody. The slide here is a snapshot of charity. See programs nationwide got a great number of deaths throughout the nation. Exceptional number of programs as well. Manatee County has over 1400 Army Jarrett. He seek a death. But the 2 main takeaways from the slide. The states that are depicted in Green are the oversubscribed programs are over subsides states as well. The blue are the under. So as an example, the state of Florida is authorized. 48 army Geraghty see programs. We have 162. Now there are also 2 and isis is national defense Cadet Corps. I'll address that later in the presentation. Exactly what that is and how that impacts us. We have a very talented group >> George. Instructors, we 7.18, total, 7 Army instructors, commission officers and we have 11 instructors not commissioned officers. >> All hold. >> All certified by by the on future to see there. Also recertified every 5 years and every other year they go to a workshop in Orlando they learn are, you know, classroom management, instructional strategies and efforts. We most of our leaders our combat veterans. Many have been senior leaders on military installations started to staff was a scene senior leave leader in Korea. We also how instructors that have a lot of experience at the university level at Manatee High School. We have Lieutenant Colonel Crawford who was the head of the military science department at Clemson University. I was the head of military science department at Louisiana State University and we have a lieutenant colonel will some parish parish who was the head of the military science Department, Hampton University. So we have a lot of experience in helping students navigate the process of earning rotc scholarships and military county appointment and also our district a very good reputation in this region. And I regional headquarters relies on our expertise Florida is a lot for manatee of an expert in repelling. He goes around and certifies other programs within state of Florida are and all the states within the southeast on rappelling. And whenever there's an issue with. Rader policy, they reach out to start his aunt and other instructors like nasa sort of brown and at at Britain River. All right. Now we're going to talk about national out. >> For months, Army charity, Sea cadets. As you can see here on the slide, have a plus 11% gpa plus 9 graduation rate. And then the plus 3.5 and they tenants like to drill down on the graduation rates. Could that the spent 3 years in Army charity see program? Has a 93% graduation rate as a kid that does for years in our to see 100% graduation rate. Now one of the benefits of a cadet that does 2 years charity. See, it's not our curriculum. If they receive a graduation waiver for hope, fine arts as well as physical education. >> We provide a variety of opportunities for students and cadets. They have an opportunity participate on our robotics teams where they have to design and build robots to to conduct or performer specific task. We have drone teams. In Amazon just recently and bought little strong team to visit facility a few miles up the road. And they talked about and talk about career opportunities for them. We also have cybersecurity teams as well where they go out. They look at vulnerabilities and virtual operating systems. >> Now the air rifle drill and I would at Raiders to the mix there. Some of the very teams that draw folks into Charity c what same time making profound changes in the lives of those individuals. When they compete when a plan when they prepare on the end here we talk about Jaycee all see which is our Cherokee see could leadership challenge. It's a four-day three-night camp that we host down can't miles Boy Scout camp in p# # Gorda every year at the end of the school year. And we take on average 250 cadets from DeSoto, Sarasota Manatee County. It's just common event where they get the opportunity to repel off a 55 foot tower. Learn water survival, Lance Survival first date as well as of Friday. The other life skills. >> It is actually excellent camp. I have visited a couple times in the summer have been invited to repel. And I really appreciate the invitation. But if anybody is interested so to make you excuse me, is always happy to have you with your wonderful hosts. If you'd like to repel, I'm happy to cheer you on. But will be on the ground. >> All right. State national dominance runs through Manatee County. We have 7 high schools with charity see programs. Yeah, we bring home. 95% of these are the championships or were finalists at championships. A matter of fact, a great number. The drill teams are going to be at Ridge Community High School this Saturday for the state championships. And so we're excited about that on the right is just a, you know, a partial list of some of the great a cost that our cadets have done. >> The slide provides an overview of the federal funding that the army provides to school district Manatee County. It provides approximately $758,000 a reimbursed arcelor instructor salaries of classroom equipment, including computers, robotics, drones, drill rifles that's valued at $405,000. Every year we receive a budget of approximately 85,004. Could that awards clothing, meals? That camp that we just talking about that for manatees county students only that costs the Army. About dollars for for that week of training. We also receive budget from the army for any operations and maintenance repair of equipment and repair parts. That's about we get about 68 $69,000 from the Army for that and for art travel to 2 conferences and recertification back costs. They're only about 20,000. >> And as charges that include competition, travel. So the competition travel is covered in our operation and maintenance soaking much of that. We receive okay. Jared to see also provides a Roddy of post-secondary opportunities for our over the past couple years, we've had 6 military academy appointments for Naval one United States military Academy West Point and one Air Force Academy appointment. We've also had 18, 18 cadets receive Army rotc scholarships. To schools such as Amber Riddles Stetson. University of Tampa usf. We have 4 Naval rotc scholarship recipient of 2 Air Force rotc scholarship recipients. That a very difficult scholarships to obtain freshly the cabinet appointments they look for scholar, athlete, some leaders. So the students have very high gpa as high a ct and sat scores. They have to participate in either a varsity sport or some type community club. Sports and participants and their leader on campus or in the community. In addition to that, we've had a lot of students that enlist from high school this past past school year. We have 40 direct enlistments until the army. That's about 20% of our students if they participate in general to see at least 2 years to get accelerated promotion in the in the military and just one note, those a four-year scholarships, most school, such as Amber Riddle Stetson University Temple. Those schools cost over $200,000 per year. And the army pace for the tuition gives them a living stipend. The university covers room and board for for the students are receiving scholarships. Nicole, good. But good MADAM Yes. >> I'm just curious when one of the people is that a juror see the becoming is a need to basic training was to the right to set a new one. Is that That's correct. There's new one. 39, that's those are the rights of the enlisted force. And so they basically get they don't have to start a new one. They started do, which is a private in the Army is right project described as opposed to what what does anyone is very basic with the driving and ppe to private so I can it's get a promotion. Rates. That's what I want thank. That's awesome. >> All right. The slide here depicts the fact that Gerald t c leaders are not just leaders within their program leaders throughout the entire campus, whether it's sga Athletics, National Honor Society, as matter of fact, right now, there are 55 g o t c cadets in Manatee County that are members of national Honor society. I think that number MAY be a little higher. Paris just inducted a few more folks into the National Honor Society. And I'd like to share 2 real quick stories. I've got a young lady getting ready to graduate. She's been the flag football captain for the last 2 years and another young man that graduated last year and is currently a midshipman at the Naval Academy was a weight lifting captain for his last 2 years at Parish. >> Take favorite. But it could use a grandmother. Your hand ahead? >> You said this before. If you have you heard the West Point with the quote. On the field as you go on to the West Point field about sports and on the field, the friendly strike. Are sown the seeds with another field. Another days will bear the fruits of victory. General MacArthur's quote, he said that when they as we go into athletic field at West Point, there's a big block there that says that. They're like the pulled out on every once in a while. But since you guys are sitting the good when they to pass along to your students since you were talking about leadership and support students are like That's all I have. Sure. >> From. And we have MISS Felton also, did you your head? Good morning morning. I taught at Southeast High School for 6 years and of course, lots of charity feet in and out of my classroom over the years. Including some that were in all of the and in your previous line of involved in athletics and the campus and and I was always very impressed how well they perform not only in the classroom but around campus and activities. And 2. This with the kids. I didn't have worry about. You know, whether or not they were going to pass my class, whether or not they're going make it out of high school because I knew they had the grounding through Geraghty see that they were going to 6 feet. That their commanding officers were looking out for them and make sure they got where they needed to go I was made a point. I mostly talked juniors and seniors. And mostly always made a point of, you know, you don't have to go college. You have options. You can go to. You technical college or another trade school, you can go to your college for your college. Are you going to the military and as the daughter and granddaughter of maybe veterans. I myself would have made it through basic. So I've considered it actually. I considered Navy after college and and the but I mean, I knew and thrive. Basic. Just to have that option available and to know that that my kiddos who were in Jr 2 feet and who are seriously looking at military careers. I knew they were going to be taking care of that. You know, I tell them I'm like they will train you and they will pay you while they train you. You know, you're going to get skills if you don't want to be career, they will give you the skills you need for other jobs in the world. And just I I've just always been so impressed with our She's a charity. See kiddos. And and how well they have done. And then looking at at your your data about how many done the service, how many of I mean, it's just so impressed. I mean, I knew Matthew Geraghty see was sent phenomenal anyone or of that for Manatee County. But I the data that you're bringing us is just wonderful and to be able to see that I probably should save these comments for the variant. But I just want to throw this out because I'm looking at the academic excellence in the campus culture and the Athletics and leadership and how well they have done. And, you know, it's just it's just such a phenomenal program. And but I want to thank you bringing this to us in for. You know, our board does a wonderful job supporting these programs are district in supporting these programs. And it's just it's just. It's really great to have you here today to be killed. Tell us the details because I mean, I know. But you know, but I appreciate you being here. This is this is really wonderful information. Thank you. >> from conducting over 200 color at school events. School districts ceremony, civic ceremonies, athletic events tutoring, mentoring. >> Students in elementary and middle schools. We typically provide well over 18,000 hours in community service. >> So current few talking about community service. I'm gonna talk a little bit about the impact of not just community service, but also the engagement that our programs and cadets months of the cadets as well as reputation that school district Manatee County Geraghty see programs have with the Army. Thanks optional reputation. Now when. You establish a request to establish a general tc program. The district puts the paperwork in, however. Lot of people don't know that you don't just automatically get a general tcu have to apply for an nbc. See which is an National Defense Cadet Corps. It looks breezy smells and feels just like a charity. See, the only difference is the district is on the hook financially until there's a transition to a charity scene. Now, that process could be quite lengthy, however, because up. We talked about the engagement reputation, the relationships with our higher headquarters. That timeline, someone gets accelerate. It. Braden River transition from an nbc c to a charity see it took just of the year. When I stabbed program and parish, it took 6 months to go from dcc to a chair otc. And again, that goes back to the impact of community service engagement and relationships and reputation of the programs here in Manatee County thank you. And so never fear. We have already begun our application process for the new high school. Thank you to cry was going to be my next my Dr Bres and I've already submitted the initial paperwork and we'll be following up with the nbc see in the timeline established by the Army. >> So as you have questions from the community about the 8th high school, we do plan to establish one more very strong or tc program to continue to enhance Manatee County. So we couldn't have a presentation without some pictures of students. That's going continue to have a lot words. But when she's not, but I just wanted, that's the really the finish of presentation. Wanted to share some of the pictures of our student of the things they do. And I know you see them out in the community. And of course, I'm sure you have questions which we're happy to answer. MR. PRESIDENT, you have go ahead. >> So felt point. Over the years that the 12 years I taught my first time is it great river by for teachers teaching and that was 2 years and not even know if they had the credentials yet. I'm not really what every weather was it brave or was it me t my later years? I remember getting up going to to school. It was still dark outside. Of course. And the only like to be on would be around the stadium me to be on the track and Geraghty seas out there grinded to doing their thing. It 6 in the morning, right? 6, 3, in the morning. There's not that many students who would ever do that for any reason. Right? And so I always admired it in my class. Just like MS. Felton said that the student never that worry about your pc students. Very similar track that word. We'll call the Karina. We'll call somebody to shake you out if we need write. If you're bad in class, what I do want to make sure everybody realizes and the public, especially. Is that on the second side here, maybe first time columns, it mentions the 180 hour course. So this isn't something That student kind of just says all want to get class my sophomore year that leave and then go do something else. This is 2 big now. You have something come in like this isn't my thing. But this is a commitment. And this is a 4 year typically commitment that they choose to do with the path that they go as elected someone to make sure that to the public knew that it wasn't. This isn't. This isn't even like extra. Is extracurricular, but it's in school. They're 7 period. They're doing And it's so I've always admired the students too, have chosen a charity. See Pat you'll be called Academies back in the day. And I don't know if we so called the cabbies and things like that. But phenomenal. Really appreciate all. You all do for district for students hopefully we'll get that. The new high school going in create another great program. So thank you very much. Thank you. Thank you MR. Taken. >> Remember when I was in the Air Force, that story comes to my mind there with the gentleman who made it all the way to write the rank of 9, which is the highest enlisted rank. You can have the military just like Sergeant major here has. He told me when he got out of high school, you remember the day he graduated. So I went home. It had kind of a difficult family life. Un only does lay down on his body, looked up at the ceiling well. What to do with my life. I've no goals. I have no desire. Don't know what to do. But he I'll go talk. The military say one around and started knocking on the recruiters doors. Local military recruiting office and ended up in the airports. >> Or That's where but voting. >> But it but in the end up having a great career in and getting it and the highs, right, the middle and they let that side that you could get. So I think the charity see just hopefully accelerate that process instead of having to wait. You can see that when you're a freshman right in especially maybe for children that are are students that are not there in difficult situations at home. This is a must. There family right. And going for one more minute. Remember watching documentary on National Geographic and they were talking about. There was called drugs and corporate event or watch that one drug sank. And I remember this very particular interview there interviewing this mother and she had a son and they lived in the South side on the south side of Los Angeles. >> And the interviewer asked this mother, she said for the to the mother, then of your Do you think that the police should come in here close down all these guys? Because it was a very gang infested neighborhood. And you would think that the immediate answer to be something like, well, yeah, what why would you want the police to come in and do that? And she thought for a second, she said. I don't know. This guy might be the only family that some of these kids have. And you guys are the opposite of that, right? Your gerrity's see programs might be really the only. Solid social organization family to some degree that some of time. So it it's good in many ways. But in that way, it's a really good thing. And hopefully it shows students that they don't have to graduate from high school and go what now? There are some opportunities, you know, the military or at least your orient them toward Europe or in toward the idea that. I can accomplish things. My life is valuable. I do have worth. And not send them to ntc or the Army or the Force the Navy or whatever they choose to do. But it's just it's it's putting them on a path and motivating them in. It's getting them going at an early stage of life and that's real important. So thanks for what you did. If think Ye. Thank you. MADAM Gentleman, I just want to take it a second to kind expand on. >> felton's point. From my from my classroom experience school campus experience that. >> Jr Junior rotc. >> To me when I was noticed this, it's really one of the most. Diverse clubs or sports teams like it's such a interesting collection of young people really. Each campus and I was appreciative that and really students who MAY be coming from. You know, background of less means you know, it will To me the start the g I build. It MAY be cause for at the g I sent tens of thousands of. Soldiers to college to whereas maybe they did not would not have otherwise gone. And my perception can correct me or confirm. It really feels like still charity, seize that opportunity for certain students to take that next step where they MAY not been able to otherwise. And then in addition. Again, just speaking from my own observation, this is charity c is really a great opportunity for young women. Leadership because we had. Probably last summer. It was the Bayshore High School Raiders team are state champions. Think was out of couple Just a couple months. Got chills like a year ago. But the county that was >> And that all that having a rough morning. But it was just, you know, one of those teams was the captain was a young and which it shouldn't strike me as different. But it did. And I just I just kind of remember that moment, even though just want to go. But so I think that's really such a great factor for kids. And like I said for for women as So that was this year. It The pillar fly threes. You don't need to turn your. I just wrote a few key words come to my mind when I saw these dollars. >> Behind that color there, there's other words you built character in some of the students might not have had it in a home life. They're respectful. And you can tell. MR. Khan is point when you go to schools, high schools, I can almost tell you which ones are in junior rotc program because they're so respectful. Discipline. They're very disciplined. And they're committed. Those were words that I wrote down through that this presentation and it all filters down for me as opportunity. So all of those pillars kind of ball up into opportunities are endless. Look at the gentleman to do the presentation. Our own school board member here, the gentleman who did our pleasure. MISTER Arda, all of those things, Lee, to opportunity. You know, you might want to do the 30 year career, but you might want to do the 4, 8 or 12, whatever. >> They're doing some 6 on Marines are 6 year cycles. So but it all these down to opportunity and a lot of that opportunity ascent for 2. Children that have different backgrounds. Or had issues during their. Junior adult say that. So we're we're very proud of the program we have here. I think most of us attended the ball. It was beautiful. Always is the there. So again. Pull out your chair, man, can I get would you like a drink man? This man that they're just it's. I'm so glad we're at the top level officers program. And I want to say thank you to you and everyone out in our high schools to run this program. I don't know when the campus I'm not going to do calling, but it would be cool. Just to watch and see how they do that. So all good for me. I just love this program more than you guys know. It's the first week of JUNE first week of JUNE. I would get the information I. >> Thank you. Emily is on the 4th. Okay. 11 to one and MADAM Chair look at those states to the board. I did a little zip lining with my 12 year-old Aris also I'm going to choose to stay on the ground, but I do have to be able to. >> comes to the camp. And if I MAY, MADAM CHAIRMAN recognized 2 other individuals in room today. Also veterans, my understanding and working on the Valor Commons project and we'll make sure our to see programs can work. That project as well as another opportunity for that engagement community wine. So thank you for being here today, And even an inch engagement and running. >> I was doing the Hassan up dinners and Palmetto. They were Jarrett, you see kids were there and they were they were working. They were right. Yeah. It was very land. Your thank you all for your service and you and you can see that it just a continual and mission in life to give back and serve as that we see from from all of our veterans who participate in our community. They're constantly giving giving back in some way and it makes us a stronger and better community. Absolutely. Thank you, gentleman. >> MADAM I'm sorry. I didn't see. >> All right. I just wanted to to back on one thing that MR. Kennedy said with regard to the young women in the program, I am not vertically challenged. But still has it as a woman in society. And particularly when I was younger, it is hard to be able to assert yourself and to be able to stand up for yourself and be able to function in certain environments in which females are not necessarily welcome and to have young women come through my classroom and then to meet the mountain in the world that have been through charity. See, and it doesn't matter how tiny they are. They are a force to be reckoned with. To know that they have gain that self-confidence and that understanding of their own worth. That they are comfortable and that. No matter what situation they're in, they were able to handle it. It's something I have found from the young women and the charity see programs and and so I really also. Having been the very quiet shy girl who did not stand up for herself to build to see that a young woman who came from a classroom with. Inspiring to me. Chairs, France pointed out that we have comments. I was at the groundbreaking for that and I am very excited, too, to think about him thought about our Charity c it involved in that. And that sounds wonderful. And and thank you that and bringing that because. I'm excited about that project to see how we can get not only are elementary school right next store, but also rjr too few programs involved in that as well. That was Thank you very Thank you. >> can anyone to let up? But I think you just did check yourself. Thank Thank you. Thank Thank you. >> item number 10 on your agenda. Consent. Superintendent. Yes, ma'am. Thank you. The superintendent recommends approval for the consent agenda for the school board meeting APRIL 7, 2026. >> It's a move. I will second. We have a motion by MISTER Kennedy in a second by MISS Both >> And that will pass. 5 to 0. Okay. >> charge and We will be gobbling the regular meeting. And then we're going to open the public hearing MISTER Chapman. >> Thanks, MADAM Chair >> This is a. >> We do this once in a while. These are policies that need to be updated per. >> Mostly legislative changes and then they go through rulemaking Most of these policies from last legislative session from 2020 5 as they make their way through Governor signature, that board of education and they finally get to school districts by the end of the year. And then we process them. You, you all advertise these policies year, FEBRUARY 24th board meeting. So they've been duly noticed out public comment and now is the public hearing to go over if anybody has any public comments about these. 38 policies that we just need to to editso. That's what this public hearing is for and then followed by a vote approve these policies to at them and are or toxin. Thank you. Thank you. Up. I would ask the gallery if there's anyone here for any kind of public comments regarding a policy set to be. >> Amended the policies and public does not need to sign in for this particular public hearing. They must come to the podium state, their name and the policy which they would like to address. So if there's anyone who would like to come forward, please do so. Now. Seeing none. I will close the public comment. And then I will close the public hearing for the policies. And now we will reconvene our regular meeting. And item number 12. We do not have that we polled. We will move on to item number 13. New business can not consent. Superintendent, thank you. MADAM Chair, the superintendent recommends the approval of the adoption and amendment of school board policies has published. >> by will take No board. Mom members signed up. And we will move on to the vote. And passes 5 to 0. Item 2 under. New business amendments with no financial impact. Those those are Mendez said he probably went through with your during your briefing. >> Superintendent. Thank you. The superintendent, the superintendent recommends approval of the budget amendments for FEBRUARY 2026. And MADAM Chair misses Sellers is here. And you would like an explanation on on the budget amendment. Morning. MADAM Chair. Nearly say chair spray and board members for the month of FEBRUARY 2026, the school district had 660 budget amendments affected by over 7,700 chart strings. >> There were 12 chart strings over 1 million, 3 related to the general fund. And these had to do with adjustments for the ap program and the ace program related to the Florida deo Beathard counts and the debt service fund. There were 4 chart strings. This was 2 a budget for the new issue for the cops. For that. That was the new money. And then also for the refunding of the cop series 2026. Be then there were also 5 chart strings in the capital Fund. Likewise, Debt service impacted. Also the Capital Fund related to the cops 2026. A and b and there was also an increase to recognize a revenue estimate in the impact fees. For 25 26. MR. >> Yeah, I want to say first, obviously we've got these amendments and things like that. But you want to. Take the time to thank you sellers as we read other boards are very local to us and not get it. We won't name any that are having some financial issues and there's some, you you can blame it on about, whatever you want. And then today, I believe back in in 2022. 23. 24 25 related the Esther plane and in terms MR. Chapman, like to say landing the plane related played really, really well. You are that you are part of that and our cfo. Thank you very much because we could be very similar to other other districts who are have to make some cuts that have to do something that's never easy. But we to play really well coming off of that, sir. I really appreciate everything you did for that. >> Well, I think you for the opportunity as well. Thank you. To do that. >> We have a motion a second. Need a motion. A site are saying that did But second that. Motion by MISTER Second by MISTER Kennedy. Yeah, I thought we had already done that. But that's okay. And those amendments passed 5 to 0. Thank you for that board. Okay. Item number 14. I hope the board member had an opportunity to look at this. This is for f s b a membership dues I wanted to bring that has a new business item for the board to discuss. So what? Get the motion a second open for discussion. I will move. We have a motion by MISS Felton. Second, a second by MISTER Kennedy. And I guess I will start remote Can I just ask what are we motioning on? What's I be specific. Move to approve the Florida School Board Association annual membership dues. >> Okay. That we pay the dues. That's was just wondering. >> And I want to just on the agenda as a new item so we can discuss it. Okay. So here's here's my. Kind of reason why I wanted to hear didn't want to just throughout consent, throw it out there and say just to prove it. It's in my opinion. And I've read everything associated with this contract. It is not all one size fits all for everybody. You can either be a member or not be a member. So and it's not all inclusive that every board member has to belong for us to participate in that. Quite expensive images from the taxpayer dollars that we pave Association. I feel. That the fsb, a dozen phenomenal job. They've helped does significantly through 2 superintendent search us. They offer quite a bit of leadership and training. I myself as a 3rd year board member have been through several of their offerings in the first year and second year. They and not understand it when you pay your dues asked just to do. But when you go to the training has added expense for the training and so I. Thank that. I don't necessarily think all 5 board members needs to participate in that you can choose to do so if you want MR. Kennedy has served on board. Several years now. And I don't know if a lot of the programming as change from the first time you went to maybe their financial class and then bargaining unit and and the other programs that they that they offer. I've been to I think all of them, maybe a minor, missed a bargaining one due to illness. I just think it's a individual decision. I don't think needs to be a whole board decision. So that's the reason I brought it up that way. It's taxpayers dollars. And if we can save a little here and there I'm all for that. And it's nothing against that. Sba. I think they do great work. Fortunately, we have one of them. One of good numbers from the association to consulting firm now. So I read all the news letters they And we're part of the greater cause torsion, too. So it's almost like we have 2 people are to organizations doing similar things. I think felton's Eli is on for that. I don't mind her go into every meeting that they schedule and getting dup certificates of been a master board. I think it's sheet. Is well deserving of doing app. As far as myself being a member, I don't need to be a member of that. I'm just going to open it up and let the rest of board speak now. So I love too. MR. Feltman first and find out. I feel like we need to continue as the board to be members, particularly as we're going to have at least one. >> New board member in in the fall as MR. Tatum is not running again for his seat. So that. They also have an opportunity to weigh in because there's so much to be gained from being part of sba, for example, the next item coming up is the annual discussion and appointment of board member and alternate to the Florida School board associations advocacy committee. If we as a board are not a member of the we do not have a seat at that table. As the the current advocacy committee representative for our board, I would like to be able to continue to do that. And I don't want to lose the ability to be part of that group because that group also in comply. Comprises members who become the legislative committee who then work on policy that the is going to target and I feel like if we are not part of the we as a board, we will lose a voice. We'll I lose my seat in the advocacy committee. I won't be able to do the legislative committee which I was asked to apply for and I would like to be able continue to do those things and speak for our district and bring issues from our district to the and then further to the legislature. I feel like it's really important. And again, with new board members come at least one new board member coming on in the fall. At the end of the election season. I feel like that's something that we really need to make sure that we are open to that. So that person is automatically. Part of the without having to go through the steps of adding them in. Maybe this is something to be considered. After that when we when the seasons filled and you know, every thing is settled after the election. But at this point, I feel like it's something that we really need to continue to be a part of. I don't want to lose our voice as part of the organization. MR. So couple >> contract. >> And what we're paying annually for the Deuce. >> My question is. Are you even? I always thought it was. >> The board member. Or the board's not a member. I didn't know you could pick. >> Shoes. >> about your id, your rain, you're out. You're out. I thought. >> It was the board as a whole. It's not we can do it individually getting my head. Okay. I know that. It cut. Let's kind of odd to me that they would even allow you to do that. This kind of because it out. Could you? How could you be at that? They say beat a school board member. We're not. If there's only 3 of us. That's not my. We know what talking about. There. I do know that. So that was that was my first question. So the the price we're having is obviously all 5 of us use you divide it out. You take 5 out. I don't I don't have a. I don't have a. A reason to leave at the sba. I do believe it's a it's they do obviously very good for us. Not only searches, but also, you know, with with. Legislative priorities except drop. So my question I mean, I guess we don't have this answer. And this is what is kind of ridiculous about each individual board member. So we have one board member, a member. We could still did. To the has not been burrs. Could we still go down as bad at all that? Yes. >> There's a member and non-member. Yeah, there's just a price difference. Interesting, right. So. When I looked at that, the member not member difference. You know it. It's a little more, but I don't think it. You can always go. When I looked at this and voice and I read the bottom line and I cannot get it to pull up here. It said, says on their individuals. Yeah, says can you pull it I had >> I had to to get to Should individual board member wish to invoke? He's okay. So there is there is a statute that that obviously we can say I don't want to be a part of this. But that it says, please adjusted going go early. Yes. If one of the board was, I don't want to be a part of it. It would be that price. I gotcha okc with that description is I mean, I personally would would I I don't know if it's a great. I would still free person. I would want to be a part of that. Sba. And I think for all 5 of a board member to be part of that fence, pa, that doesn't mean that you have to. That's just my thought about is is collectively. So then? Consortium. The other 2 consortiums Central Florida, greater is that is that. So I know. I know it's separate from at the sba, but is it? 5 members? One be out. No, no, no. For the consortium's that were part of the other 2 consortiums. Straight board. All 5 boards. But that's regardless. So we would vote hey, if if we do, we want to be a part of the Greater Florida consortium. If 3 said going to said, we would not be a part of it at all. Even at the 2 individuals want to be part of it. I'm assuming, okay. All right. I mean, i don't know. Yeah, it is cause kind strange. I didn't know that I didn't So, but I would want to be a part of it. And what board all as a whole to be a part of homes. Let me think the MR. Thank you. Chair Spring. Yeah. I I didn't realize that the one. >> per member application was was even an option. I appreciate you. Think end of this and because this is an interesting a possibility to save a little money to answer a question from the top. There is. New material at conferences but phone some of it is some of it is covered. Year-over-year because my first one was back in DECEMBER of 2014. So some of the sessions are similar, but there's always to their credit is always up, you know, legislative updates. What's going on in the world of Florida. Education is constantly changing. So there's value there. But I think to chance point, if we had 3 members who are willing to step up and say I want to be a member, obviously we want. So if we have 2 more, I would think that. Check to your point if we have a majority of our board, that is Representative sba, that would. You know there. That's a majority that represent us personally because my my attendance at the conference is, you know, kind of 50% usually go to the summer one, but not the winter wonder vice versa, whatever the case MAY be. So I don't feel like. The district needs to pay for me to be a member. But I but i certainly think it's great that each member can make the choice individually. So I would. Whatever the board majority wants to do it. I'm happy with. But for me personally, I don't think the district needs to, but at the expense of behalf. Thank you. MISTER Tatum. Musk up. You have the answer to that. What happens? So we all that. So we pay for all 5 and then I'm not here in NOVEMBER. Does it? >> As a member said, like roll over the next ok? How difficult would it be, too? Like if I didn't want to be a member, but then the next guy wanted to be a member. How difficult a the fee for the person? I think just been individual decision. A few. If you feel like that's worthwhile to you and that the cost benefit analysis of it's about what if you look at the bill is what? 23,700 and so it's about $5,000. If you do the math and you if you want to be a member, g