Board Meeting

agenda: THE SCHOOL BOARD OF SARASOTA COUNTY, FLORIDA Landings Administrative Complex 1980 Landings Boulevard Regular Board Meeting October 20, 2026 6:00 PM

1. Call Meeting to Order Invocation: Rabbi Michael Cohen, Temple Sinai

2. Pledge of Allegiance Student Representative: Vallerie Kappelmann, Wellen Park High School JROTC: Wellen Park High School Arts Highlight: Woodland Middle School Dance

3. Approval of Agenda

3.1. APPROVAL OF AGENDA

That the Sarasota County School Board approve the October 20, 2026 agenda as submitted on October 13, 2026 with the following changes: Added to agenda:  Addendum to the Human Resources Personnel Report

4. Presentation: Jewish Federation of Sarasota and Manatee

5. Superintendent's Report

6. Public Comment - Agenda Items

7. Approval of Minutes

7.1. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Public Hearing to Adopt Final Millage and Budget - Sep 15 2026 - Minutes - Public.pdfLinked attachment: Public Hearing to Adopt Final Millage and Budget - Sep 15 2026 - Minutes - Public.pdf Official source: https://sarasotacountyschools.community.diligentoneplatform.com/document/5988c49a-bdd9-46fe-b8aa-060e53397dd7 Public Hearing to Adopt Final Millage and Budget Tuesday, September 15, 2026 at 5:00 PM Landings Administrative Complex 1980 Landings Blvd. A. Call to Order The Board Chair convened the Public Hearing to Adopt Final Millage and Budget Meeting at 5:01 p.m. Present: • Bridget Ziegler, Chair • Robyn Marinelli, Vice Chair • Liz Barker • Karen Rose • Tom Edwards – Absent B. Statement Regarding the Final Millage Rates and Budget 1. STATEMENT REGARDING THE 2026 FINAL MILLAGE RATES AND BUDGET On July 21, 2026 the Board authorized to advertise the 2026 proposed millage rates and 2026-27 tentative budget. The Notice of Proposed Tax Increase, Budget Summary, and Capital Outlay Notice were duly advertised on the District’s and Sarasota County’s publicly accessible websites beginning July 24, 2026. The Board approved the proposed millage rates and 2026-27 tentative budget on July 28, 2026. The Sarasota County School Board’s 2026 taxable assessed property values represent a 1.52% increase from the 2025 certified tax value. The 2026 proposed Required Local Effort Millage rate of 2.681 mils represents 6.64% decrease from last year’s rolled-back millage rate. The total 2026 proposed millage rate represents a 3.56% decrease from last year’s rolled-back millage rate. The Required Local Effort millage must be levied by the School Board if the district is to participate and receive any Florida Education Finance Program (FEFP) funds in fiscal year 2026-27. The

operating millage is required to hire staff for the school district, pay negotiated salary and fringe benefits to staff, the cost of fuel, electricity, and other goods and services. C. Public Hearing Regarding Final Millage Rates and 2026-27 Budget Speakers: • Carol Lerner • Deb Hays • Michael Hovland D. Adoption of Final Millage Rates 1. ADOPTION OF 2026 FINAL MILLAGE RATES ESE524 2026-27 Final.pdf That the Sarasota County School Board adopt the following millage rates as presented: MILLAGE LEVY 2026 PROPOSED MILLAGE RATE Required Local Effort 2.681 Basic Discretionary 0.748 Capital Outlay 1.500 Voted Operating (Referendum) 1.000 TOTAL Millage Rate 5.929 Moved by: Karen Rose Seconded by: Robyn Marinelli Aye: Liz Barker, Robyn Marinelli, Bridget Ziegler, Karen Rose Absent: Tom Edwards Approved 4-0

E. Adoption of Final Budget 1. ADOPTION OF THE 2026-2027 BUDGET All Funds Summary.pdf ESE139 2026-27 Final.pdf Final 2026-2027 Adopted Budget Book - Board Electronic Linked.pdf That the Sarasota County School Board approve the 2026-2027 Fiscal Year Budget. Moved by: Karen Rose Seconded by: Robyn Marinelli Aye: Liz Barker, Robyn Marinelli, Bridget Ziegler, Karen Rose Absent: Tom Edwards Approved 4-0 F. Adjournment The Chair adjourned the Public Hearing to Adopt the Final Millage and Budget Meeting at 5:18 p.m. We certify that the foregoing minutes are a true account of the Public Hearing to Adopt the Final Millage and Budget Meeting held on September 15, 2026 and approved at the Regular Board Meeting on October 20, 2026. ____________________________________ Terrence Connor, Secretary ___________________________________ Bridget Ziegler, Chair Board Meeting - Sep 15 2026 - Minutes - Public.pdf Monthly Work Session - Oct 06 2026 - Minutes - Public.docx

That the Sarasota County School Board approve the meeting minutes.

8. Approval of Consent Agenda

8.1. APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA

That the Sarasota County School Board approve the Consent Agenda.

9. Consent Agenda

Academic Services

9.1. APPROVAL OF THE CONTRACT AGREEMENT BETWEEN ADVANCE EDUCATION-COGNIA INC. AND THE SCHOOL BOARD OF SARASOTA COUNTY, FLLinked attachment: APPROVAL OF THE CONTRACT AGREEMENT BETWEEN ADVANCE EDUCATION-COGNIA INC. AND THE SCHOOL BOARD OF SARASOTA COUNTY, FL Official source: https://sarasotacountyschools.community.diligentoneplatform.com/document/604c5f1a-9d40-489d-b55f-bd6669cde40e Title APPROVAL OF THE CONTRACT AGREEMENT BETWEEN ADVANCE EDUCATION-COGNIA INC. AND THE SCHOOL BOARD OF SARASOTA COUNTY, FL.

Recommendation That the Sarasota County School Board approve the contract between Advance Education-Cognia Inc. and the School Board of Sarasota County, FL.

Description Cognia provides a rigorous, research-based accreditation process that evaluates district systems to ensure continuous improvement and student success. Through diagnostic reviews, stakeholder feedback, and performance data analysis, Cognia identifies strengths and growth opportunities, helping districts align practices, improve outcomes, and demonstrate a commitment to educational excellence.

Gap Analysis Sarasota County Schools demonstrates many strengths, including a clear vision, effective leadership, and high-quality instruction across numerous classrooms. However, focused efforts will be made to align initiatives with the district’s Strategic Plan and to close the achievement gap by ensuring all students have access to rigorous, high-quality learning experiences.

Previous Outcomes Improved Student Performance – Higher achievement levels and more consistent instructional practices across schools. Stronger Leadership Systems – Enhanced principal and administrative leadership, with clearer accountability and decision-making processes. Better Resource Alignment - More strategic allocation of funding staff and technology to support district priorities. Enhanced Professional Learning-Targeted professional development aligned to identified gap and district goals. Improve Stakeholder Engagement – Greater communication, collaboration, and trust among teachers, families, and the community. Established Continuous Improvement Processes – Schools and the district developed sustainable systems for monitoring progress and making data-informed adjustments.

Expected Outcomes Improved Student Achievement – Instructional practices, curriculum alignment, and support systems are strengthened to enhance learning outcomes. Accountability, and strategic vision aligned with district goals. Data-Driven Decision Making – Systems for monitoring performance, assessing effectiveness, and guiding improvement are fully implemented. Efficient Use of Resources – Financial, human, and technological resources are aligned to support district priorities and operational efficiency. Stronger Organizational Culture – Increased collaboration, communication, and stakeholder engagement foster a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment. Established Continuous Improvement Processes – Schools and the district developed sustainable systems for monitoring progress and making data-informed adjustments.

Strategic Plan District Accreditation is aligned with all 5 pillars and priorities. Every Student AchievesPriority 1: Establish a solid foundation Priority 2: Equip students for life Priority 3: Ensure continuous advancement

Every Student SupportedPriority 1: Design strong student supports Priority 2: Respond to student needs Priority 3: Provide enriching learning experiences Priority 4: Build student-centered relationships

Every Employee ValuedPriority 1: Recruit, recognize, and retain talent Priority 2: Provide professional growth opportunities Priority 3: Foster a culture of collaboration and inclusion

Every School EquippedPriority 1: Create high-quality infrastructure Priority 2: Align technology in support of learning Priority 3: Ensure safe schools and classrooms Priority 4: Maintain sustainable financial practices

Every Community EngagedPriority 1: Strengthen partnerships Priority 2: Improve communication Priority 3: Connect students, families, staff, and the community

Financial Impact

Fiscal Year Fund Source Fund Center Functional Area Amount

2026-2027 1101 9053 7200 $61,600.00

Contact RYAN CHASE, Executive Director of Professional Learning and Innovative Programs, 941-927-9000 RACHEAL O’DEA, Chief Academic Officer, 941-927-9000

Attachments Contract

2026-2027 Advance Education - Cognia Inc Contract.pdfLinked attachment: 2026-2027 Advance Education - Cognia Inc Contract.pdf Official source: https://sarasotacountyschools.community.diligentoneplatform.com/document/cb789d85-c2c2-47fa-9c55-d0b522ba1f0a THE SCHOOL BOARD OF SARASOTA COUNTY, FLORIDA FINANCIAL SERVICES 1960 LANDINGS BOULEVARD, SARASOTA, FL 34231 PHONE (941) 927-9000 FAX (941) 927-4017 CONTRACT FOR SERVICES BY INDEPENDENT CONTRACTORS (See page 2 for important information and required acknowledgements)  Instructions: This contract must be signed and approved by all parties before the services may commence. If the independent contractor is to receive payment for travel, the payment cannot exceed the travel allowances permitted under Florida Statute 112.061. This contract must be approved by the School Board of Sarasota County, if it is in the amount of $50,000 or greater and by the Superintendent’s Cabinet if the independent contractor will receive aggregate payments in the amount of $10,000 or greater for the fiscal year. The dividing of contracts in order to circumvent any dollar value threshold will result in notification to the School Board. Independent Contractor Name (Print) Address City State Zip Last 4 Digits of SSN XXX-XX- and/or Federal Identification No. Contact Person Contact Phone DESCRIPTION SERVICES RENDERED The School Board of Sarasota County, Florida, hereinafter called the School Board, and the above-named Independent Contractor, agree as follows: The School Board shall pay the Independent Contractor for the following services To be performed during the following time period Payment shall be made (with submission of an approved invoice to the District) as follows FINGERPRINTING Do the duties associated with this contract involve direct contact with students, access to school grounds when students are present, or access to District funds? F Yes F No If Yes, you must report to the School Safety and Security office for fingerprinting at your expense. Every Contractor must register with and use the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s E-Verify system to verify the work authorization status of all employees hired during the term of this Agreement and must, upon request, provide evidence of compliance with this provision. Subcontractors shall provide Contractor with an affidavit stating the Subcontractor does not employ, contract with, or subcontract with an unauthorized alien. See Section 448.095, Florida Statutes, for all requirements. I have read the second page of this document and initialed the required acknowledgements. I certify that I am not an employee of the School Board of Sarasota County, Florida, and that I will perform the duties as indicated above. I shall provide evidence of the services performed to the requesting cost center head. I agree to release and hold the School Board of Sarasota County, Florida, and/or its employees, agents and volunteers harmless from and against all claims, judgments, costs, or other expenses arising out of bodily injuries or property damage resulting from my performance of the services specified in this contract. The State of Florida and its political subdivisions are governed by Florida Statute 768.28. This contract may be terminated without cause by either party on twenty (20) days written notice with neither party owing the other any further payment or performance. Independent Contractor Signature of Acceptance Date Cost Center Head Name (Print) Cost Center Head Signature of Acceptance Date Cost Strip(s) and Amount(s) An IRS Form 1099 will be issued for all transactions covered by Federal regulation. ADDITIONAL APPROVALS If the independent contractor will receive aggregate payments in the amount of $10,000 or greater for the fiscal year indicate: Executive Director Name Cabinet Approval Date If total amount of this contract is $50,000 or over, indicate: School Board Approval Date Agenda Item No. Distribution: Original – Independent Contractor Electronic Copy Attached to Contract in Financial System RET: Master, 5FY aft completion/termination, GS1-SL 65 053-97-FIN Dupl., OSA Rev. 1-13-2021 Page 1 of 2 Advance Education - Cognia Inc. 9115 Westside Parkway Alpharetta GA 30009 20-8613765 Sarah Decotis 561-584-3018 Cognia provides a rigorous, research-based accreditation process that evaluates d

That the Sarasota County School Board approve the contract between Advance Education-Cognia Inc. and the School Board of Sarasota County, FL.

9.2. APPROVAL OF THE CONTRACT FOR PROFESSIONAL LEARNING SERVICES BETWEEN THE SCHOOL BOARD OF SARASOTA COUNTY, FLORIDA AND THE FLORIDA CENTERLinked attachment: APPROVAL OF THE CONTRACT FOR PROFESSIONAL LEARNING SERVICES BETWEEN THE SCHOOL BOARD OF SARASOTA COUNTY, FLORIDA AND THE FLORIDA CENTER Official source: https://sarasotacountyschools.community.diligentoneplatform.com/document/21fe154d-8010-41b5-9243-4de1f7e1921e Title: APPROVAL OF THE CONTRACT FOR PROFESSIONAL LEARNING SERVICES BETWEEN THE SCHOOL BOARD OF SARASOTA COUNTY, FLORIDA AND THE FLORIDA CENTER.

Recommendation: That the Sarasota County School Board approve the Contract for Professional Learning Services between The School Board of Sarasota County, Florida and The Florida Center.

Description A series of in-person and virtual professional learning sessions to the Student Services department staff; specific to the identification, treatment, behavioral and mental health needs of children impacted by prenatal exposure to drugs and alcohol. The Opioid Recovery Grant funds have been budgeted for this proposal.