GASTON COUNTY  BOARD OF EDUCATION  REGULAR SESSION  8  Shaping Our Future  943 Osceola Street, Gastonia, NC A 28054  March 18, 2024 5:30 p.m.    Agenda Item  Meeting Date: 3/18/2024  Agenda Item Title/Topic: Agenda Adoption  Type of Item: Consent  BA Action Information  Main Points:  Consideration of Formal Agenda for Monday, March 18, 2024.  Roberts Rules of Order (Revised) adoption of Agenda for meeting sequence and  structure.  Fiscal Implications: None  Recommendation: Adoption of Agenda  Policy Implications: None  Strategic Goal Alignment:  Goal 1. Every student will graduate prepared for post-secondary opportunities.  Submitted by: Dr. Morgen A. Houchard  Department: Superintendent    GASTON COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION Jeff K. Ramsey - Chairman Dot Cherry = Vice Chairman  Josh Crisp, Dallas Township Lee Dedmon, Gastonia Township Dot Guthrie, Gastonia Township Tod Kinlaw, South Point Township  Robbie Lovelace, Cherryville Township Brent Moore, Crowders Mountain Township A.M. Stephens, III, Riverbend Township  County/ Schools  Dr. Morgen A. Houchard, Superintendent 943 Osceola Street, Gastonia, NC28054 Monday, March 18, 2024 5:30 p.m. Agenda Regular Meeting  Page(s)  I.  Call to Order II. Invocation III. Pledge of Allegiance IV. Agenda Adoption - Action.. V. Good News - Information. VI. Classroom Moment - Information.. VII. Public Expression - Information VIII. Approva/Correction of Minutes = Action February 19, 2024 (Regular Meeting) February 28, 2024 (Legislative Breakfast Meeting) IX. Operations Committee Report - Information. Curriculum & Instruction Committee Report - Information..  .1-3 4-10 11 12 13 14-19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26  X. XII.  XI. High School Exam Schedules - Spring 2023-2024 Traditional High Schools XIII. Annual Engagement Letter with Independent Auditors - Action.. XIV. Superintendent's Budget Request 2024-2025 - Information.  and Gaston Early Colleges - Action  XV. Consent Agenda = Action.  Consent Agenda Item (s) will be adopted with a single motion, second vote, unless a request for removal from the Consent Agenda is heard from a  Board Member.  A. Recommended Personne.. B. Budget Amendments & Budget Transfers.. .C Construction/Repair Change Orders.. D. EOG/EOC Remediation E.F Reduction in Force - Strategic Planning. F. Contracts --Microsoft Software Agreement.  27 28-36 37-38 39 40 41 42    -Student Chromebook Purchase -Google Workspace Agreement  43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51-52 53-54  --Stuart W. Cramer High School - Wall Design. -Belmont Middle School - Intercom Upfit. -Stanley Middle School - Intercom Upfit  --Hawks Nest STEAM Academy - HVAC Replacement Units. -Holbrook Middle School - Athletic Field Renovation.  Freezer/Cooler Replacement Architectural & Engineering Design Services for Hunter Huss High, Mount Holly Middle, W.C. Friday Middle, and  Catawba Heights Elementary Schools.  --Agency Contracts..  XVI. Superintendent's Comments XVII. Closed Session - Information.  N.C.G.S. 9143-318.11(a/3) Consultation with Attorney  N.C.G.S. $143-318.11(a)(6) Personnel  XVIII. Adjournment  3    Agenda Item  Meeting Date: 3/18/2024  Agenda Item Title/Topic: Good News  Type of Item: Consent  Action K Information  Main Points:  Each month, the Communications/Public Information Department compiles "Good News" about our schools, students, employees, and community partners. See attachment.  Fiscal Implications: None  Recommendation: None  Policy Implications: None  Strategic Goal Alignment:  Goal 1. Every student will graduate prepared for post-secondary opportunities.  Submitted by: Todd Hagans, Chief Communications Officer  Department: Communcations/Pubic Information Superintendents Office)    BOARD AGENDA INFORMATIONALITEM  DEPARTMENT: Communications/Public  Information Department  TOPIC: GOODNEWS  FOR THE MONTH OF: March 2024  1. Bessemer City Central Elementary and Bessemer City Middle were the overall winners at the annual RObOGASTON competition. Other school winners were Belmont Middle, middle school runner-up; New Hope Elementary, elementary school runner-up; Cramerton Middle, middle school first place robot performance; Lowell Elementary, elementary school first place robot performance; W.B. Beam Intermediate, elementary school second place robot pertormance; Stanley Middle, middle school first place project presentation; Hawks Nest STEAM Academy, elementary school first place project presentation; McAdenville Elementary, elementary school second place project presentation; York Chester Middle, middle school first place teamwork; Pleasant Ridge Elementary, elementary school first place teamwork; Robinson Elementary, elementary school second place teamwork; Mount Holly Middle, judges award; Kiser Elementary, gracious professionalism award; W.A. Bess Elementary, innovative team name; and 2. The following students won awards at the Region 6 UNC-Charlotte Science and Engineering Fair: Laren Brooks Leuschel, Robinson Elementary, first place, biological sciences; EmalynJ Jennings and Kellan Jennings, Hawks Nest STEAM Academy, second place, biological sciences; Blythe Sipe, Hawks Nest STEAM Academy, second place, chemistry; Henry Markwith, Hawks NEST STEAM Academy, first place, engineering and technology; Samuel Diamond, Hawks Nest STEAM Academy, third place, engineering and technology; Camden Hunter, Hawks Nest STEAM Academy, honorable mention, engineering and technology; Muhib Kamdar, Hawks Nest STEAM Academy, honorable mention engineering and technology; Kyle Zell, Hawks Nest STEAM Academy, third place; physics and math; Brynn Dubois, W.A. Bess Elementary; honorable mention, physics and math; Reagan Beard, Stanley Middle, third place, biological sciençes A; Prudence Hammond and Rosalyn Skidmore, honorable mention, biological sciences A; William Coss YLeon and Juda Crane, Chavis Middle, third place, biological sciences B; Jillian Schultheis, Stanley Middle, first place, chemistry; Trinity Adams and Chelsy Hernandez, Stanley Middle, fourth place, chemistry; Colin Anderson, Cyrus Baltimore, and Vincent Vernitsky, Stanley Middle, third place, engineering; David Lopez Saldivar, Stanley Middle, fourth place, engineering; Payton Bell and Cannon Ernst, Mount Holly Middle, second place, physics; Isabella Ogan, Stanley Middle, honorable mention, physics; Alexis Dobson and Bryson Yarbro, honorable mention, math and data science; Micajah Hannah, Gaston Early College, second place, chemistry; Seth Eaker, Grayson Harrington, and Helanea Killian, Gaston Early College, third place, engineering; and Lizette Reyes- Lopez and Bannock Scott, Gaston Early College, fourth place, engineering.  Robinson Elementary,spirit award.    3. Mount Holly Middle School participated in the "Polar Plunge" event and raised $3,116.50 for the Special Olympics of Gaston County. Other schools participating were Gaston Early College High School, Ashbrook High School, Stuart W. Cramer High School, Bessemer City High School, and Gaston Early College of Medical Sciences. The top fundraising coach was. Amber Radford from Ashbrook High School. 4. The following students were named to the North Carolina All-State Honors Band: Akela Taylor, Highland School of Technology, percussion; Annabelle Radford, Cramerton Middle School, bassoon; and Abram Comer, Cramerton Middle School, trombone. 5. Students, teachers, and staffin Gaston County Schools observed "Read Across America Day" on March 1 with a variety of special activities. The observance coincided with Dr. 6. Gaston County Schools held its annual Middle School Cheer Showcase on March 1 at Ashbrook High School. The following schools received recognition: W.C. Friday Middle, first place; Stanley Middle, second place; and Southwest Middle, third place. 7. The Battle oft the Books middle school winners were W.C. Friday Middle, first place; 8. The Math Elite winners were Cramerton Middle, first place; Belmont Middle, second 9. Stuart W. Cramer High School won the Battle of the Books high school competition 10. The Grier Middle School boys' team and the Holbrook Middle School girls' team won 11. Gaston County Schools athletic director Chad Duncan received the Rusty Lee Professional Development Award from the North Carolina Athletic Directors  Seuss' birthday.  Belmont Middle, second place; and Stanley Middle, third place.  place; and Southwest Middle, third place. with South Point High School finishing second. the county basketball championships.  Association.  12. Gaston County Schools director of exceptional children Meghan LeFevers was named aN Model Schools Conference Epic Eduçator. She is one of 10 educators to receive this distinction and will be recognized at the 2024 Model Schools Conference in Orlando, 13.A Amber Spargo, a math curriculum facilitator for Gaston County Schools, was chosen to receive the 2024 North Carolina Association for Middle Level Education (NCMLE) Personnel to Watch Award. She will be recognized at the NCMLE conference in Charlotte. Each year, the Board of Directors oft the NCMLE accepts nominations to honor educators who have made significant contributions to the education ofi middle level  Florida in. June.  students in the state.  6    14. Michelle McCotter of Hunter Huss High School was named Gaston County Schools Psychologist of the Year, and Rachel Canipe of Cherryville Elementary was named the 15. The following schools and employees were nominated in the Best of Gaston Choice Awards that are presented by The Gaston Gazette: Principal Chris Mills, Webb Street School; School - W.A. Bess Elementary, Bessemer City Primary, East Gaston High School, Highland School of Technology, and Webb Street School; and Teacher- Kelli 16. Sean Adams of Ashbrook High School was named al National Merit Scholarship  Gaston County Schools Service Provider oft the Year.  Smith, Bessemer City Primary.  finalist.  17.Jonathan Moore of Ashbrook High School placed sixth in the 285-pound weight class at the N.C. High School Athletic Association 3A individual wrestling championship. 18. H.H. Beam Elementary had winners in the Gaston County Conservation Poster Contest. Na'ila Lowery, kindergarten, second place; Ezra Barnett and D'Aria Antrum, second grade, second place; Ava Hill and Tahmiyyla Odom, second grade, third place; Sunni Bryant, third grade, first place; Carloa Nolasco Rivera, third grade, third place; Madeline Menocal, fourth grade, second place, Amirrah Witherspoon, fourth grade, third place; Jesselle Muhammad, fifth grade, first place; Jae'lynn Burris, fifth grade, second place; and Fanny Mendoza, fifth grade, second place. Jesselle Muhammad's work was the overall winner for the school and her work will advance to district level 19. The Bessemer City Central Elementary robotics team, the RoboBees, presented a community service project idea to the Bessemer City city council last month. Their proposal is to turn an underpass into a community art area where only positive and 20. Chapel Grove Elementary fifth grader Landon Dennis was the top fundraiser for The American Heart Association's. Jump Rope for Heart Program. He raised $566,  competition.  inclusive messages and artwork would be displayed.  contributing to the school's total ofmore than $2,000.  21. Caleb Hovis ofCherryville High School plaçed third in the 285-pound weight class at the N.C. High School Athletic Association 1A individual wrestling championship. 22. Bentley Sly of Stuart W. Cramer High School won an individual N.C. High School Athletic Association 3A state championship in the 132-pound weight class. 23. W.C. Friday Middle School teacher Ashlyn Steelman was awarded a scholarship by the North Carolina Council on the Holocaust, which is facilitated by the North Carolina Department of Instruction. The scholarship grants her an all-expenses-paid trip to Poland this summer where she will engage in immersive study ofthe Holocaust.  7    24. Gaston Virtual Academy school counselor Yeva Hall-Williamson is one of four school counselors across the state to be named an "Emerging Leader" by the North Carolina 25. Grier Middle School received baseball equipment through a donation from Dick's 26. Highland School ofTechnology junior Archer Yavelak placed first in the chemistry category at the 2024 Super Competition, which was sponsored by the UNC-Charlotte Center for STEM Education and the Department of Mathematics and Statistics. 27. Hunter Digh of East Gaston High School placed second in the 144-pound weight class at the N.C. High School Athletic Association 2A individual wrestling championship. 28. Riley Rouse, a senior at Forestview High School, completed the John Hunsucker Academic and Athletic Meeting Space to earn the rank of Eagle Scout. He created the space in memory of. John Hunsucker, ai teacher and coach who passed away in 2018. The area, designed for outdoor learning and sports meetings, benefits teachers, students, coaches, athletes, and the community. His efforts included planning, fundraising, 29. Members of the Forestview High School Beta Club, National Honor Society, and Student Council collected 75 gift cards totaling $1,155 tol be distributed to families at Levine Children's Hospital who have children awaiting a donort transplant. Since 2018, this has been an annual fundraiser for Forestview, honoring the memory of Destiny 30. Trevon Bowers ofForestview High School placed fourth in the 138-pound weight class at the N.C. High School Athletic Association 3A individual wrestling championship. 31.I Lingerfeldt Elementary instructional facilitator Katrina Ashleman was selected as a 32. Lingerfeldt Elementary celebrated African American History Month with a Black History art show and wax museum. Dot Guthrie, a Board of Education member, was the guest speaker. Families and guests were invited to admire student artwork inspired by Bisa Butler and Alma Thomas and to learn about influential African Americans through 33. New Hope Elementary set a new record by raising more than $20,000 in the Jump Rope for Heart campaign. Proceeds will be donated to the American Heart Association. 34.James WeaverofNorth Gaston High School won an individual N.C. High School Athletic Association 3A state championship in the 150-pound weight class. 35. Garrett Carpenter of North Gaston High School plaçed fifth in the 138-pound weight class at the N.C. High School Athletic Association 3A individual wrestling  School Counselor Association.  Sporting Goods.  preparing the site, and adding tables, seating, and landscaping.  Stafford in collaboration with the Destiny Lives on Foundation.  Principal Fellow Scholar to represent Gaston County Schools.  the wax museum activity.  championship.  8    36. Dewayne Davis of North Gaston High School placed sixth ini the 215-pound weight class at the N.C. High School Athletic Association 3A individual wrestling  championship.  37. Page Primary School celebrated its 50th Anniversary on Friday, March 15. Built as the replaçement school for East Belmont Elementary School, the school is named after former East Belmont principal J.B. Page. Members oft the. J.B. Page's family were present along with city and county officials and past and current staff. 38. Pinewood Elementary's principal, Kimberly Reese, was highlighted in an article by EDNC that focused on arts education and Governor Roy Cooper's visit to the school. 39. Sadler Elementary launched a school-wide reading initiative featuring the book, "The Lemonade War" by Jacqueline Davies. A website was created where videos of staff, Board of Education member Dot Cherry, Dr. Morgen Houchard, superintendent, and others reading chapters were posted online. Students are tasked with reading the book nightly with their families and answering trivia for prizes. The event will end with principal Jacob Barrand assistant principal Pharaah Putman acting out characters from the book along with a lemonade sales contest to raise funds for the school. 40. The Sherwood Elementary PTO held a Sweetheart Ball for students. In addition, the school received a $400 donation fori its special education classes. 41.As part of Read Across America Week, the Charlotte Hornets Book Bus visited 42. In partnership with the Schiele Museum, Sherwood Elementary held its third annual "Sherwood Night at the Schiele Museum," which was a free event for all students and 43. Southwest Middle School students Jahmaul Barton and Micah Burris placed first in the coding category at the Technology Student Association (TSA) western regional 44. The Mia Stokes Foundation donated baseball equipment including gloves, bats, helmets, 45. South Point High School junior Hannah Bauer earned the Congressional Gold Medal Award, which is awarded to students by the U.S. Congress for accomplishments in four areas: voluntary public service, personal development, physical fitness, and expedition 46. South Point High School senior Sadie Absher attended the IWBA classifications at the Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs, Colorado. She was one of34 athletes selected tol become internationally classified toj play wheelchair basketball.  Sherwood Elementary School.  their families.  conference.  catcher's gear, and additional items to Southwest Middle School.  and exploration.  9    47. South Point High School celebrated its annual Miss South Point High School Scholarship Pageant on March 2. Hudson Webb was crowned Miss South Point 2024, winning a $10,000 scholarship. Emma Corripio took first runner-up honors and received as $5,000 scholarship; Ava Bumgardner was named the second runner-up and won a $4,000 scholarship; and Ava Staton captured the third runner-up spot, receiving a $3,000 48. The following Stanley Middle School students were named winners in the North Carolina Student Academy of Science Virtual Regional Science Fair and have advanced to the North Carolina Student Academy of Sciences State Science Fair: Biological Science - Rosalyn Skidmore, Prudence Hammond, Reagan Beard, and Kimberly Cruz; Chemistry Chelsy Hernandez, Trinity Adams, and Jillian Schultheis; Engineering and Technology David Lopez, Collin Anderson, Cyrus Baltimore, Logan Vernitsky, and Marshall Deal; and Mathematics- Ameilia Burr. Diana Baxter 49. Webb Street School received a donation of non-perishable goods from Atrium Health and the Food Lion in Stanley for the school's "One Can Make A Difference" food pantry. 50. The York Chester Middle School band, led by teacher Julian Wilson, traveled to Orlando to take part in the Disney Imagination Campus. Selected by Disney through audition videos, students became cast members for a day and performed a variety of musical selections from different cultures in front of crowds at Disney Springs. The trip was made possible by the following sponsors: City Church, Center Baptist Church, Blessed Assurance Outreach Ministries, Mt. Pisgah Missionary Baptist Church, Gaston Community Foundation, Gaston County Sports Hall ofFame, and the Faculty and Friends  scholarship.  is the: science fair sponsor.  oft the York Chester Middle School Band Program.  10    Agenda Item  Meeting Date: 3/18/2024  Agenda Item Title/Topic: Classroom Moment  Type of Item: Consent  Action R Information  Main Points:  The Instructional Technology Facilitators work closely with our teachers to foster a classroom where students actively use technology in their learning to analyze, build, produce, and create. An East Gaston High School biology teacher and her students will share how they used stop motion animation to create videos on cell division.  Fiscal Implications:  N/A  Recommendation: NIA  Policy Implications:  NIA  Strategic Goal Alignment: other stakeholders.  Goal 3: Every employee uses innovative practices to serve all students, parents, and  Submitted by: Aaron W. Slutsky, Chief Technology Officer  Department: TSS  11    Agenda Item  Meeting Date: 3/18/2024  Agenda Item Title/Topic: Public Expression  Type of Item: Consent  Action K Information  Main Points:  The Board of Education agenda has been made available to the public for review. Citizens wishing to speak before the Board about an agenda item or other topic may do  sO during Public Expression. Fiscal Implications: None  Recommendation:  The Board of Education will establish time (30 minutes) at the beginning of the regular monthly meeting for Public Expression. Any citizen not heard during this time may be  heard at the end of the business session.  Policy Implications: None  Strategic Goal Alignment:  Goal 1. Every student will graduate prepared for post-secondary opportunities.  Submitted by: Todd Hagans, Chief Communications Officer  Department: Communcations/Public Information (Superintendent's Office)  12    Agenda Item  Meeting Date: 3/18/2024  Agenda Item Title/Topic: Approval/Correction of Minutes  Type of Item: Consent  Action Information  Main Points: Approval of Minutes of: February 19, 2024 (Regular Meeting) February 28, 2024 (Legislative Breakfast Meeting)  Efficient consideration of matters pertinent to the successful operation of the school  system.  Fiscal Implications: None  Recommendation: None  Policy implications: Validation of Board Proceedings. Strategic Goal Alignment:  Goal 1. Every student will graduate prepared for post-secondary opportunities.  Submitted by: Dr. Morgen A. Houchard  Department: Superintendent  13    Gaston County Schools Board of Education Monday, February 19, 2024 Meeting 5:30 p.m. Regular Meeting MINUTES  The Gaston County Board of Education met in a regular session on Monday, February 19, 2024 at 5:30 p.m. in the Board Room, 943 Osceola Street, Gastonia, NC. Themeeting was live on Spectrum Cable Channel 21 and The Gaston County Board of Education YouTube page. Those Board Members in attendance were: Chairman JeffRamsey, Vice Chairman Dot Cherry, Josh Crisp, Lee Dedmon, Dot Guthrie, Tod Kinlaw (absent), Robbie Lovelace, Brent Moore, and A.M. Stephens III. Additional attendees include: Superintendent Dr. Morgen Houchard, Attorney Sonya McGraw, Interim Associate Superintendent Dr. Beth Folger and Associate Superintendent Gary Hoskins, Chief Communications Officer Todd Hagans, Chief Technology Officer Aaron Slutsky and Board Clerk  Dana Luoto.  Chairman Ramsey called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m. and welcomed everyone. Chairman Ramey welcomed Dr. Morgen A. Houchard as our new Superintendent. Dr. Benjamin Hinton, Pastor ofTabernacle Baptist Church, led the invocation.  Invocation  Pledge of Allegiance Agenda Adoption Action  Superintendent Houchard led the Pledge ofAllegiance. The Board considered Agenda Adoption - Action  Motion to adopt the Agenda as presented was made by Mr. Brent Moore; seconded by Ms. Dot Cherry;  motion carried unanimously. (8-0) Good News - Information  Mr. Toddl Hagans welcomed and introduced ournews superintendent ofschools, Dr. Morgen A. Houchard. Mr. Todd Hagans recognized Giselle Barr and Joyce Zhu from Cramerton Middle School and Isabella Caicedo from Stuart W. Cramer High School. These students were winners in the prestigious Mid-Carolina Scholastic Art and Writing Awards competition. This year, we have one Gold Key, one Our Gold Key winneri is Giselle Barr of Cramerton Middle School, who is the recipient of the Gold Key for Our Silver Key winner is Isabella Caicedo of Stuart W. Cramer High School, whoi is a recipient ofa a Silver  Silver Key, and one Honorable Mention winner.  her piece titled Bartholomew." Key for her piece titled "Acceptance."  14    Our Honorable Mention winneri is Joyce Zhu of Cramerton Middle School earned an honorable mention Giselle and Isabella will have their artwork on display att the Mint Museum in uptown Charlotte from March 1 until April 14 as part oft the 2024 Scholastic Gold and Silver Key Exhibition. Mr. A.M.S Stephens III presented a Certificate of Recognition to each student.  award for her work titled Chamelieonized Chameleon."  Mr. Todd Hagans recognized Lawrence Martin --district spelling bee winner and Cassidy Allen - district spelling bee runner-up. Lawrence of Cramerton Middle School emerged from a field of 38 students to win the district competition. He correctly spelled the word - 'cataclysmic' - to earn the opportunity to compete in March at the Carolina Panthers Regional Spelling Bee in Charlotte. The top four finishers in the regional competition will receive an invitation to advance to the Scripps National Spelling Bee. Cassidy Allen of Bessemer City Middle School impressed us last year with a top-five finish in the spelling bee when she was a student at Bessemer City Central Elementary, and this year, she  finished the competition as the runner-up.  Ms. Dot Cherry presented a Certificate of Recognition to Lawrence and Cassidy.  Mr. Todd Hagans recognized Mahogany Spikes and Camryn Massey yAshbrook High School students,who won individual 3A: state indoor trackand field championships. Mahogany Spikes, who placed first in the girls' 500-meter race, and senior Camryn Massey, who broke the indoor shot put record with a throwof  45 feet and 6.25 inches to win the state title.  Mrs. Dot Guthrie presented a Certificate of Recognition to Mahogany and Camryn.  Mr. Todd Hagans recognized William Peyton, Andrew Taylor, Graham Kines, and Beckett Tabor Forestview High School students who worked as a team to win a 3A state championship in swimming. These student-athletes won the state championship in the 200-yard medley relay. They also came in third in the 400-yard freestyle relay. Overall, Forestview came in fourth at the championship swim  meet.  Mrs. Robbie Lovelace presented a Certificate of Recognition to each student.  Chairman Ramsey recognized Mr. Todd Hagans who expressed appreciation to School Board Members inr recognition ofSchool Board Recognition Month. Each year, we takep pride in recognizingand honoring the citizens who serve on the Gaston County Board of Education. Thisy year tol help us recognize and pay tribute to our Board of Education Members and Superintendent Houchard, we chose an elementary school for each Board Member and our Superintendent and had a class at the school "adopt" each Board Member. Representatives from the schools are here to present a framed picture of the class to each To recognize Chairman Jeff Ramsey, who is an At-Large Member of the Board of Education, is Linley Richmond who is a student in Amanda Matz's third grade class at North Belmont Elementary  Board Member and our Superintendent along with a special thank-you" card.  School. With them is their principal Justin Beam.  15    To recognize Vice Chairman Dot Cherry, who is an At-Large Member of the Board of Education, is Khalif Abdus-Salaam who is a student in Kaylin Weathers' fourth grade class at Gardner Park Elementary To recognize Josh Crisp, who represents the Dallas Township, is Harper Haywood who is a student in Jamie Brackett's second grade class at Costner Elementary School. With them is their principal To recognize Lee Dedmon, who represents the Gastonia Township, is Mekhi Lowery who is a student in Crystal Hall's kindergarten class at Woodhill Elementary School. With them is their principal  School. With them is their principal Lynn Stamey.  Jada Owenby.  Erik Barton.  To recognize Dot Guthrie, who represents the Gastonia Township, is Kassie White and Evonna Smith who are students in Jessie Anderson's first grade class at Robinson Elementary School. With them is their Tor recognize Tod Kinlaw, who represents the South Point Township, is Evie Tolleson who is a: student in Miranda Graham's fourth grade class at Belmont Central Elementary School. With them is their  principal Emily Poag.  principal Aimee Tolleson.  Chairman Ramsey accepted for Mr. Kinlaw.  To recognize Robbie Lovelace, who represents the Cherryville Township, is Sarabeth Proctor, Ella Avery and Hailey Canipe who are students in Amanda Buchanan's fifth grade class at W. Blaine Torecognize Brent Moore, who represents Crowders Mountain Township, is principal Dr. April Conley To recognize A.M. Stephens III, who represents the Riverbend Township, is River Guyton and Ari Williams who are students in Ashley Smith's kindergarten class at Pinewood Elementary School. Tor recognize wperintendentHouchar. is Ombree Rankin who isa studenti in Amy Giles' second grade Mr. Todd Hagans congratulated our Board of Education members for once again receiving the Gold Bell Award from the North Carolina School Boards Association (NCSBA). To receive this award, each Board  Beam Intermediate School. With them is their principal Josh White.  from Bessemer City Central Elementary School.  With them is their principal Kimberly Reese.  class at H.H. Beam Elementary School. With them is their principal Beth Crosby.  Member must earn 12 hours of training during the 2022-2023 NCSBAa academic) cyear.  16    Classroom Moment - Information  Chairman Ramsey recognized Mrs. Kathleen D'Avria. In recognition of Black History Month, Mrs. D'Avria introduced students from York Chester Middle School and Lingerfeldt Elementary School who shared what they have learned and created through music, poetry and speeches in honoring the amazing contributions ofblack Americans and recognizing pivotal events in our history.  Public Expression - Information Janet Davis 1006 N. Morris Street Gastonia, NC 28052 Kevin Eudy 1021 Orchard Grove Court Belmont, NC 28012 Re: Policy  Approval/Correction of Minutes Action  Motion to adopt minutes of January 8, 2024 (Special Meeting), January 26, 2024 (Regular Meeting) and January 26, 2024 (Board Retreat) as presented was made by Mr.A.M. Stephens III; seconded by  Mrs. Dot Guthrie; motion carried unanimously. (8-0) EOG/EOC Remediation - Information  Chairman Ramsey recognized Mr. Michael Foust who presented a PowerPoint on EOG/EOC Summer  Testing Program. (View PowerPoint) Consent Agenda - Action The Board considered the Consent Agenda: A. Recommended Personnel B. Budget Amendments & Budget Transfers C. Construction/Repair Change Orders  D. Contracts -None  Motion to adopt the Consent Agenda as presented was made by Mr. Lee Dedmon; seconded by  Mr. Josh Crisp motion carried unanimously. (8-0)  superintendent's Comments  Superintendent Houchard thanked the Gaston County Education Foundation for sponsoring another successful "Are You Smarter Than a Gaston County Fifth Grader?" competition on February 8. Congratulations to Kiser Elementary and its business partner, Next Generation, for winning the competition, and al highlight was the presentation ofa $12,800 check to the Education Foundation from Tindol Subaru as part of the dealership's "Share the Love" campaign. Proceeds from the "Are You Smarter" competition are used by the Education Foundation to support the Ron L. Ensley grants for  teachers.  17    Superintendent Houchard reminded parents that the deadline to submit a school choice application is Friday, March 8a at5:00 p.m. You can go to our School Choice webpage tol learn about our magnetschools and academies and submit an application online. Additionally,ifyoul have a child whoi is eligible for pre- kindergarten and kindergarten for next school year, you can go to our website now and register your Superintendent Houchard mentioned several events happening in our schools to celebrate National Wednesday, February 28 at 9:00 a.m., Lingerfeldt Elementary will have a Black History Wax Thursday, February 29 at! 5:30 p.m. York Chester Middle School will present "Voice of Victory,an evening of Black History in Beats and Verses". The event will feature poetry, rap and blues music, For the week of February 26, Hawks Nest STEAM Academy is promoting African-American authors as Superintendent Houchard announced that our annual RobOGASTON robotics competition will be held on Saturday, March 2 atl Forestview High School beginningat 9:30a.m. The event will feature more than 100 elementary and middle school students involved in robot programming. The competition runs superintendent Houchard announced that' Thursday, March 7 is Parent-Teacher Conference Day for our schools. Students will be dismissed early, and conferences will be held from 1:00 until 7:00 p.m. To schedule a conference, please contact your child's school or teacher. Friday, March 8 is an optional Superintendent Houchard announced that last week was Bus Driver. Appreciation Week, andi hethanked all of our bus drivers and transportation personnel for their hard work and commitment tol keeping our fleet of school buses rolling - 12,000 miles each day across Gaston County transporting more than  child.  Black History Month:  Museum and Art Gallery Walk. and an African drum circle.  the school celebrates Read Across America Week and Black History Month.  throughout the morning with the presentation of awards at lunchtime.  teacher workday, which means no school for students.  15,000 students to and from school.  Closed Session  Chairman Ramsey asked the Board to consider going into Closed Session under, N.C.G.5.9143- Motion to goi into Closed Session was made by Ms. Dot Cherry; seconded by Mr.A.M.Stephens III; motion The Board wentinto Closed Session at 6:48 p.m. and afterabriefbreak Closed Session began at 7:05 p.m.  318.11(a)(6) Personnel and N.C.G.S.S $143-318.1100)3) Consultation with Attorney.  carried unanimously. (8-0)  The Board returned to Open Session at 7:17 p.m.  Motion  The Motion was made by Ms. Dot Cherry; seconded by Mrs. Dot Guthrie that the Board  Award a contract for Associate Superintendent of Academic Services through  June 30, 2027 to the following:  18    Tonya Kales  A vote was taken and motion to approve the item as presented carried unanimously. (8-0) The Motion was made by Mr. Brent Moore; seconded by Mr. Lee Dedmon that the Board Award a one year contract extension through June 30, 2027 to the following:  Motion  Gary Hoskins, Associate Superintendent Sonya McGraw, Attorney  A vote was taken and motion to approve the item as presented carried unanimously. (8-0)  Adjournment  All business having been conducted, Motion to adjourn was made by Mr. Josh Crisp; seconded by  Mr. Lee Dedmon motion carried unanimously. (8-0) The Board Meetingadjourned at 7:18 p.m.  Approved:  Jeff K. Ramsey, Chairman [Corporate Seal] Date Approved:  Morgen A. Houchard, Secretary  19    Gaston County Legislative Meeting Wednesday, February 28, 2024 Meeting 8:30 a.m.  Minutes  The Gaston County Board of Education met in a Legislative Meeting on Wednesday, February 28, 2024. Those Board Members in attendance were: Chairman Jeff K. Ramsey, Vice Chairman Dot Cherry, Josh Crisp, Lee Dedmon, A.M. Stephens III (left meeting at 9:00 a.m.), (Dot Guthrie, Tod Kinlaw, Brent Moore and Robbie Lovelace absent). Additional attendees from Gaston County Board of Education included: Superintendent, Morgen A. Houchard, Attorney Sonya McGraw, Associate Superintendent GaryHoskins, Chief Attendees from the Legislative Delegation included: SenatorTed Alexander, Representative Kelly Hastings, Representative Donnie Loftis, Senator Brad Overcash and Representative  Communications Officer Todd Hagans and Board Clerk Dana Luoto.  John Torbett.  Chairman Ramsey welcomed everyone to the meeting. Mr.A.M.Stephens III led the invocation.  Chairman Ramsey opened the floor to the Legislators and Board Members to make introductions, state the committees they are on and other remarks concemingeducation. Items discussed included: Career & Technical Education (CTE), Careerand College Promise, Advancement Placement, Artificial Intelligence and Teacher Pay: and Retention. Chairman Ramsey thanked everyone for coming and commented that we are fortunate to have good working relationships with our local delegation and wel look forward to working  together in the future concerning education matters.  The Gaston County Legislative Delegation Meetingadjourned at 9:47 a.m.  Approved:  Jeff K. Ramsey, Chairman [Corporate Seal] Date. Approved:  Morgen A. Houchard, Secretary  20    Agenda Item  Meeting Date: 3/18/2024  Agenda Item Title/Topic: Operations Committee Report  Type of Item: Consent  Action B Information  Main Points:  The Gaston County Board of Education's Operations Committee meets regularly to discuss operations-related projects and issues. The Committee met on March 4, 2024. AI report of the Operations Committee's actions and discussions will be made at the Board  meeting by a member of the Committee.  Fiscallmplications: None  Recommendation: None  Policy Implications:  The Board will be informed of Operations Committee discussions and information.  Strategic Goal Alignment:  Other: Policy or Gen Statute. See above. Submitted by: Gary F. Hoskins, CFO and  Department: Operations  Associate Superintendent for Finance and Operations  21    Agenda Item  Meeting Date: 3/18/2024  Agenda Item Title/Topic: Curriculum & Instruction Committee Report  Type of Item: Consent  Action R Information  Main Points:  The Gaston County Board of Education's Curriculum and Instruction Committee will  report to the Board regarding current committee projects and issues.  A Curriculum and Instruction Committee member will present a report of committee  activities occurring since the last Board of Education Meeting.  Fiscal Implications: None  Recommendation: None  Policy Implications:  Board will be informed of Curriculum and Instruction projects and issues.  Strategic Goal Alignment:  Goal 1. Every student will graduate prepared for post-secondary opportunities.  Submitted by: Curriculum and instruction Committee  Department: Curriculum and Instruction  22    Agenda Item  Meeting Date: 3/18/2024  Agenda Item Title/Topic: High School Exam Schedules - Spring 2023-2024  Traditional High Schools and Gaston Early Colleges  Type of Item: Consent Main Points:  R Action  Information  High Schools are required by the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction (NCDPI) to administer final exams for all courses. The NCDPIAccountabitly Department requires that exams be taken during the last five days of the semester. The exam schedule covers the administration of state End of Course tests, Career and Technical Education exams, and teacher-made exams. The spring semester for the Early College high schools ends on May 17, 2024. The spring semester for the traditional high schoois  ends on May 22, 2024.  Early College High School exam schedule: May 13-17, 2024 Traditional High School exam schedule: May 16-22,2024  Fiscal Implications:  N/A  Recommendation:  Approve the final exam schedule as presented.  Policy Implications:  NIA  Strategic Goal Alignment:  Goal 2. Every member of our diverse population has the opportunity for individualized  instruction.  Submitted by: Rebekka Powers,  Department: Academic Services  Chief Accountability Officer  23    Agenda Item  Meeting Date: 3/18/2024  Agenda Item Title/Topic: Annual Engagement Letter with Independent Auditors  Type of Item: Consent  R Action Information  Main Points:  Anderson Smith & Wike PLLC (ASW) has provided audit services to Gaston County Schools for a number of years. However, last year our primary audit partner retired and was not replaced. As a result, ASW does not have sufficient resources to conduct our audit for 2023-2024. However, we were able to receive a quote from Forvis to conduct our financial statement audit for 2023-2024. Forvis was created through a merger with Dixion Hughes, a former independent auditor for GCS. Forvis has recently conducted audits for the five largest school districts in North Carolinaand is the 8th largest accounting firm in the US. The quote from Forvis to conduct the financial statement audit for 2023- 2024 is $49,000. Last year ASW charged $47,000 for preparing the annual audit. Forvis will also charge $2,000 for a one-time ESSER audit and $4,000 in travel costs.  Fiscal Implications:  The annual audit fees for fiscal year 2023-2024 are projected to cost $55,000.  Recommendation:  The Operations Committee recommends approval of the contract and engagement letter  with Forvis to perform audit services for the fiscal year 2023-2024.  Policy Implications:  Board policy 8310 - Annual Independent Audit.  Strategic Goal Alignment:  Other: Policy or Gen Statute. See above. Submitted by: Gary F. Hoskins, Associate  Department: Finance  Superintendent and CFO  24    Agenda Item  Meeting Date: 3/18/2024  Agenda Item Title/Topic: Superintendents Budget Request 2024-2025  Type of Item: OConsent  Action K Information  Main Points:  The school district is required by G.S. $115C-425 to operate under an annual balanced budget resolution. The 2024-2025 budget process began with a budget survey to GCS stakeholders in December 2023. Data obtained from the budget surveys was presented to the Board at the Board Retreat in January 2024. Also, Fund Managers prepared a local budget request for their area of supervision in February and March 2024. The Superintendent's Budget Request is based on information received from our stakeholders and Fund Managers. The final budget request will be presented to the Board for approval on April 15, 2024, and will be submitted to the County by May 15, 2024, as required by  State law.  Fiscal Implications:  The 2023-2024 local operating budget for GCS is $53.0 million and the respective capital outlay for GCS is $2.2 million. The Superintendents Budget Request for 2024-2025 is  $60.2 million for operating funds and $6.7 million for capital outlay.  Recommendation: N/A  Policy Implications:  Board Policy 8100 - Budget Planning and Adoption  Strategic Goal Alignment:  Other: Policy or Gen Statute. See above. Submitted by: Gary F. Hoskins, CFO and  Department: Finance  Associate Superintendent  25    Agenda Item  Meeting Date: 3/18/2024  Agenda Item Title/Topic: Consent Agenda  Type of Item: E Consent Main Points:  R Action  Information  Approval of the Consent Agenda by the Board for the following items:  A. Recommended Personnel B. Budget Amendments & Budget Transfers C. Construction/Repair Change Orders D.E EOG/EOC Remediation E.F Reduction in Force- Strategic Planning F. Contracts --Microsoft Software Agreement --Student Chromebook Purchase --Google Workspace Agreement --Stuart W. Cramer High School - Wall Design -Belmont Middle School - Intercom Upfit -Stanley Middle School - Intercom Upfit  -Hawks Nest STEAM Academy - HVAC Replacement Units --Holbrook Middle School - Athletic Field Renovation  Freezer/Cooler Replacement Architectural & Engineering Design Services for Hunter Huss High, Mount Holly Middle, W.C. Friday Middle, Sherwood Elementary and Catawba Heights Elementary Schools  -Agency Contracts Fiscal implications: None Recommendation:  Consent items will be adopted with a single motion, second and vote, unless a request  for removal from the Consent Agenda is heard from a Board member.  Policy Implications: None  Strategic Goal Alignment:  Goal 1. Every student will graduate prepared for post-secondary opportunities.  Submitted by: Dr. Morgen A. Houchard  Department: Superintendent  26    Agenda Item  Meeting Date: 3/18/2024  Agenda Item Title/Topic: Recommended Personnel  Type of Item: KX Consent  K Action Information  Main Points:  In accordance with the provisions of G.S. 115C-2760), "lt shall be the duty of the Superintendent to recommend and the Board of Education to elect all principals, teachers and other school personnel in the administrative unit." It is also within the powers of the Board to hear requests for approved leave, retirement and resignations or terminations in  accordance with employment and dismissal regulations.  Fiscal Implications:  N/A  Recommendation:  Approve personnel as recommended.  Policy Implications: of schools.  Necessary and appropriate personnel willl be provided to assure sucesstuladminstration  Strategic Goal Alignment: Other: Policy or Gen Statute. See above.  Submitted by: Dr. Morgen A. Houchard  Department: Human Resources  27    Agenda Item  Meeting Date: 3/18/2024  Agenda Item Title/Topic: Budget Amendments and Budget Transfers  Type of Item: R Consent  BA Action  Information  Main Points:  Budget amendments are needed to adjust the approved budget to reflect actual changes in revenue and budget transfers are needed to transfer money to proper expenditure  codes as requested by fund managers.  Fiscal Implications:  Makes adjustments to the 2023-2024 budget.  Recommendation:  Approval of the attached listing of recommended budget amendments and transfers.  Policy Implications:  Policy Code: 8300 Fiscal Management Standards  Strategic Goal Alignment:  Other: Policy or Gen Statute. See above. Submitted by: Gary F. Hoskins, Associate  Department: Finance  Superintendent and CFO  28    Gaston County Schools Changes in Appropriations 2023-2024 Budget Resolution - February Transfers Between Functions  State Public School Fund Function  Expense Increase 13,664 512,255 448,714 709,357 19,088 165,000 11,733 37,569  Expense Decrease  Description  51000 Regular Instructional Services 52000 Special Population Services 54000 School Leadership! Services 58000 School-Based Support Services 61000 Support and Development Services 62000 Special Population Support and Development Services 64000 Technology! Support! 5ervices 65000 Operational: Support 5ervices 66000 Financial: and Human Resource: Services 67000 Accountability Services 68000 System-Wide Pupil Support Services  834,986 $8,662 1,021,371 2,361  69000 Policy, Leadership and communication/Public Information Services  1,917,380 1,917,380  Explanation: These transfers adjust budgeted amounts per requests from fund managers/princpas.  29    Gaston County! Schools Changes in Appropriations 2023-2024 Budget Resolution- - February Transfers Between Functions  Local Current Expense Fund Function  Expense Increase 2,134,531 22,146 916,711 26,120  Expense Decrease 63,397  Description  51000 Regular Instructional Services 52000 Special Population Services $3000 Alternative Programs and! Services 54000 Schooll Leadership. Services 55000 Co-Curricular: Services $8000 School-Based Support Services 61000 Support and Development Services 62000 Special Population Support and Development Services 63000 Alternative Programs and! Services Support and Development: Services 64000 Technology Support Services 65000 Operational Support Services 66000 Financial and Human Resource. Services 67000 Accountability. Services 68000 System-Wide! Pupil Support Services  612,276 337,881 23,288 40,153 167,243 1,552,583 71,917 86,087 145,998  1,317  69000 Policy, Leadership and Communication/Public Information Services  3,100,824 3,100,824  Explanation: These transfers adjust budgeted amounts per requests from fund managers/principals.  30    Gaston County! Schools Changes in Appropriations 2023-2024 Budget Resolution February Transfers Between Functions  Federal Grants Fund Function  Expense Increase 57,747 18,324  Expense Decrease  Description  53000 Alternative Programs and! Services 58000 5chool-Based: Support Services 65000 Operational! Support Services  76,071  76,071  76,071  Explanation: Theset transfers adjust budgeted amounts per requests from fund managers/principals.  31    Gaston County Schools Changes in Appropriations 2023-2024 Budget Resolution- - February Transfers Between Functions  Restricted Grants Fund Function  Expense Increase 3  Expense Decrease 3  Description  65000 Operational Support Services 66000 Financial and Human Resource Services  3  3  Explanation: These transfers adjust budgeted amounts per requests from fund managers/principals.  32    Gaston County! Schools Changes in Appropriations 2023-2024 Budget Resolution February Proposed Expenditures and Sources of Revenue  State Public School Fund  Expense Increase (Decrease) 47,160  Revenue Increase (Decrease) 47,160  # 1  Function  Description  31000 Revenue State Public School Fund  69000 Policy, Leadership and Communication/Pubic Information! Service: This amendment adjusts thet funding for the Non-Contributoryl Employee  Benefits- FY24 (PRC0009)  2  31000 Revenue State Public! School Fund 58000 School-Based Support Services Revision #40- -FY24 (PRC0040)  638,580  638,580  This amendment budgets the School Safety Grant Allotment- Allotment  3  31000 Revenue State Public School Fund 51000 Regular Instructional Services Allotment- Allotment Revision #36- -F FY24 (PRC0048) 31000 Revenue State Public School Fund 65000 Operational Support Services  1,508  1,508  This amendment adjusts the Principal and Other Teacher Performance Bonus  4  (18,974)  (18,974)  This amendment adjusts the Transportation of Pupils allotment- FY24  (PRC0056)  5  31000 Revenue State Public School Fund 52000 Special Population! Services Allotment Revision #36-F FY24 (PRC0063) 31000 Revenue State Public School Fund 54000 School Leadership! Services Allotment Revision #36-FY24 (PRC0067)  443,588  443,588  This amendment budgets fundsi for the Children with Disabilities allotment-  6  (109,992)  (109,992)  This amendment budgets funds for the Assistant Principal Interns allotment-  Total State Public School Fund Amendments  1,001,870  1,001,870  33    Gaston County Schools Changes in Appropriations 2023-2024 Budget Resolution - February Proposed Expenditures and Sources of Revenue  Federal Current Expense Fund # Function  Expense Increase (Decrease) 42,583 1,360  Revenue Increase (Decrease) 43,943  Description  1 36000 Federal Revenue 51000 Regular Instructional Services 81000 Payments to Other Governmental Units  This budgets adjusts the Career and Technical Education- CTE Program Grant Allotment -  FY24 (PRC0017) 2 36000 Federal Revenue 52000 Special Population Services 81000 Payments to Other Governmental Units  590,962  579,174 11,788  This budgets adjusts thel IDEA- Children With Disabilities Grant Allotment- FY24  (PRC0060)  3 36000 Federal Revenue 52000 Special Population! Services 58000 School-Based: Support Services 81000 Payments to Other Governmental Units  13,500  11,797 1,285 418  This budgets adjusts the IDEA- Special Needs Targeted Assistance Grant Allotment-FY24  (PRC0118)  4 36000 Federal Revenue 52000 Special Population Services  3,000  3,000  This budgets adjusts thel IDEA- Preschool Targeted. Assistance Grant Allotment- FY24  (PRC0119)  Total Local Current Expense Fund Account  651,405  651,405  34    Gaston County Schools Changesi in Appropriations 2023-2024 Budget Resolution- February Proposed Expenditures and Sources of Revenue  Restricted Grants Fund # 1  Expense Increase (Decrease) 450,213  Revenue Increase (Decrease) 450,213  Function  Description  48000 Local Sources Restricted 68000 System-Wide Pupil Support Services allotment- FY24( (PRC0003) 48000 Local Sources - Restricted 51000 Regular Instructional Services  This amendment adjusts funds for the Non-Instructional. Support Personnel  2  1,260  1,260  This amendment adjusts the Career Technical Education- Program Support funds -  FY24 (PRC0014)  3  48000 Local Sources- Restricted 65000 Operational Support Services  606,090  606,090  This amendment budgets funds for Transportation of Pupils allotment-FY24  (PRC0056)  4  48000 Local Sources- Restricted 65000 Operational Support Services  610  610  This amendment adjusts the Cramerton Middle Schoolf funds- FY24 (PRC0380)  5  48000 Local Sources Restricted 53000 Alternative Programs and Serviçes  1,600  1,600  This amendment budgets fundsf for the ASPIRE PLUS Grant FY24 (PRC0610)  6  48000 Local Sources- Restricted 65500 Operational Support Services  46,698  46,698  This amendment adjust fundsr received for the Transportation Activity Bus Grant  FY24 (PRC0706)  7  48000 Local Sources Restricted 65000 Operational Support Services  1,500  1,500  This amendment budgets funds received for the Sale of Scrap Metal Grant -FY24  (PRC0883)  35    Restricted Grants Fund # 8  Expense Increase (Decrease) 20,000  Revenue Increase (Decrease) 20,000  Function  Description  48000 Local Sources- Restricted 65000 Operational Support Services  This amendment adjusts funds for the Duke Energy Solar Lease Grant -FY24  (PRC0884)  9  48000 Local Sources- Restricted  45,000  69000 Policy, Leadership and Communication/Public Informationservices This amendment budgets funds received for the Print Shop Grant - FY24 (PRC0900)  45,000  Total Restricted Grants Fund Amendments  1,172,971  1,172,971  36    Agenda Item  Meeting Date: 3/18/2024  Agenda Item Title/Topic: Construction/Repair Change Orders  Type of Item: R Consent  K Action  Information  Main Points:  Attached is a listing of construction and repair change orders that were submitted since the last Board meeting. Any change orders that were less than $100,000 were approved by the Superintendent or his designee in accordance with Board Policy 9030 Facility Construction. Change orders greater than $100,000 must be approved by the Board.  Fiscal Implications:  All change orders were prefunded prior to recommendation for approval.  Recommendation:  Approval of the attached listing of construction/repair change orders.  Policy Implications:  Policy Code: 9030 Facility Construction  Strategic Goal Alignment:  Other: Policy or Gen Statute. See above. Submitted by: Gary F. Hoskins, CFO and  Department: Operations  Associate Superintendent for Finance and Operations  37    38    Agenda Item  Meeting Date: 3/18/2024  Agenda Item Title/Topic: EOG/EOC Remediation  Type of Item: R Consent  B Action  Information  Main Points:  Students who do not meet proficiency on the End of Grade (EOG) and End of Course (EOC) will attend summer school. Additional learning opportunities will be provided for  the students.  Fiscal Implications:  N/A  Recommendation: school as needed. Policy Implications:  Allow students to participate in End of Grade (EOG) and End of Course (EOC) summer  N/A  Strategic Goal Alignment:  Goal 2. Every member of our diverse population has the opportunity for individualized  instruction.  Submitted by: Rebekka Powers  Department: Accountability  39    Agenda Item  Meeting Date: 3/18/2024  Agenda Item Title/Topic: Reduction in Force - - Strategic Planning  Type of Item:  Consent   Action  Information  Main Points:  NC General Statute 115-325(e)(2) and Gaston County Schools' Board Policy Code: 7820 Reduction in Force: Teachers and School Administrators require the Superintendent to present to the Board of Education a recommendation for a possible reduction in force based on 1)s system reorganization, 2) declining enrollment, and/or 3) financial exigency. Board Policy Code 7820 describes the required preliminary determination, criteria and procedures for determining when a reduction in force may be implemented.  Fiscal Implications:  N/A  Recommendation:  The Operations Committee recommends approval by the Board to implement the Reduction in Force Policy, if the criteria documented in the respective Board Policy are  met.  Policy Implications:  Policy Code: 7820 Reduction in Force: Teachers and School Administrators  Strategic Goal Alignment:  Other: Policy or Gen Statute. See above. Submitted by: Gary F. Hoskins, Associate  Department: Human Resources  Superintendent and CFO  40    Agenda Item  Meeting Date: 3/18/2024  Agenda Item Title/Topic: Contracts and Expenditures >$100,000  Type of Item: K Consent  K Action OInformation  Main Points:  The attached listing of contracts and expenditures more than $100,000 was reviewed by staff and recommended for approval by the Board, or are contracts less than $100,000  but recommended to the Board for approval.  Fiscal Implications: operational savings. Recommendation: Approval  All contracts and expenditures will be paid using bond funding, capital proceeds or  Policy Implications: Board Policy 8640  Strategic Goal Alignment:  Other: Policy or Gen Statute. See above.  Submitted by: Gary F. Hoskins, CFO and Department: Finance and Operations  Associate Superintendent for Finance and Operations  41    Agenda Item  Meeting Date: 3/18/2024  Agenda Item Title/Topic: Microsoft Software Agreement  Type of Item:  Consent  K Action  Information  Main Points: following items:  Microsoft EES (Enrollment for Education) is the Microsoft Volume licensing agreement for academic institutions with 1000 or more users. This agreement provides the  1. Windows operating system 2. Microsoft Office Suite  3. Active Directory (The software used to manage our Windows network)  4. Windows Server operating system.  Fiscal Implications: budget.  TSS Budget for $207,415.90. This is a current line item in the current TSS operational  Recommendation:  Approve the purchase of the Microsoft EES.  Policy Implications: None  Strategic Goal Alignment: other stakeholders.  Goal 3: Every employee uses innovative practices to serve all students, parents, and  Submitted by: Aaron W. Slutsky, Chief Technology Officer  Department: TSS  42    Agenda Item  Meeting Date: 03/18/2024  Agenda Item Title/Topic: Student Chromebook Purchase  Type of Item: K Consent  K Action  Information  Main Points:  Each year new Chromebooks must be purchased for Kindergarten and 1st grade students to maintain our sustainability plan. Our plan calls for refreshing approximately % of the K- 10 Chromebook fleet. We estimate needing 1,200 touchscreen Chromebooks for a total cost of $365,640. These Chromebooks will be distributed to schools based on enrollment  for Kindergarten and 1st grade students for the 2024-2025 school year.  Also, each year new Chromebooks must be purchased for students in 2nd, ,6th, and gth grade to maintain our sustainability plan. We estimate needing 7,200 Chromebooks for a total cost of $2,101,450. These Chromebooks will be distributed to schools based on the enrollment of rising 2nd, 6th, and gth grade students for the 2024-2025 school year.  Fiscal Implications:  Gaston County Schools will use a combination of ESSER, local, and state funds for the purchase of 1,200 touchscreen Chromebooks and 7,200 non-touchscreen Chromebooks.  The total cost for both is $2,467,090.  Recommendation:  The Operations Committee recommends approval of the purchase of student Chromebooks.  Policy Implications:  Policy Code: 3220 Technology in the Educational Program  Strategic Goal Alignment: other stakeholders.  Goal 3: Every employee uses innovative practices to serve all students, parents, and  Submitted by: Aaron W. Slutsky, Chief Technology Officer  Department: TSS  43    Agenda Item  Meeting Date: 3/18/2024  Agenda Item Title/Topic: Google Workspace Agreement  Type of Item: 4 Consent  R Action  Information  Main Points:  Gaston County Schools provides all staff and students a Google Workspace account. While the basic features of Google Workspace remain free, districts have the option to pay for advanced features. Gaston County Schools purchases the Google Workspace 1. Advanced security center with additional security, controls, logs, and analytics 2. Premium Google Meet, Google Slides, and Google Docs features  Education Plus edition. This provides the following additional features:  3. Priority response from Google specialists  Fiscal Implications:  There is a current line item in the TSS operational budget in the amount of $150,000.  Recommendation: Workspace Education Plus. Policy Implications: None  The Operations Committee recommends approval of the purchase of the Google  Strategic Goal Alignment: other stakeholders.  Goal 3: Every employee uses innovative practices to serve all students, parents, and  Submitted by: Aaron W. Slutsky, Chief Technology Officer  Department: TSS  44    Agenda Item  Meeting Date: 3/18/2024  Agenda Item Title/Topic: Stuart W. Cramer High School - Wall Design  Type of Item: a Consent  X Action Information  Main Points:  H2L Consulting Engineers was hired to complete engineering and design services for the failing retaining walls at the Stuart W. Cramer High School baseball and softball fields. The BOE entered into a contract with H2L in November 2022 to design a replacement for wall #4 (near baseball field) in the amount of $308,800. In January 2024, Earth Improvement Technologies (EIT) reported that wall #3 (near softball field) would have to be replaced in the next 5-8 years and that there are likely cost advantages and less disruption if replaced at the same time as retaining wall #4. The design cost for wall #3  is projected to be $256,756. Fiscal Implications:  The cost of $256,756 will be paid from funds received in the settlement with the original designer, contractor and builder of the existing retaining wall at Stuart W. Cramer High  School.  Recommendation: of retaining wall #3. Policy Implications:  The Operations Committee recommends approval of the contract with H2L for the design  N/A  Strategic Goal Alignment:  Goal 5. Every student has the opportunity to learn in a safe school environment.  Submitted by: Jack Brooks, Interim Executive  Department: Auxiliary Services  Director of Auxiliary Services  45    Agenda Item  Meeting Date: 3/18/2024  Agenda Item Title/Topic: Belmont Middle School - Intercom Upfit  Type of Item: R Consent  BA Action  Information  Main Points:  The current intercom at the school is unreliable and cannot be updated. The intercom  has been a safety issue since the new school was established.  Fiscal Implications:  Abid of$136,807 was received from Ronco Specializes Systems, Inc. to upfit the school's intercom, with SIP integration. The intercom upfit will be funded by the county bond  proceeds.  Recommendation:  The Operations Committee recommends awarding Ronco Specializes Systems, Inc. the  contract to upfit the intercom system at Belmont Middle School.  Policy Implications:  N/A  Strategic Goal Alignment:  Goal 5. Every student has the opportunity to learn in a safe school environment.  Submitted by:  Jack Brooks, Interim Executive Department: Auxiliary Services  Director of Auxiliary Services  46    Agenda Item  Meeting Date: 3/18/2024  Agenda Item Title/Topic: Stanley Middle School - Intercom Upfit  Type of Item: 3 Consent  B Action  Information  Main Points:  The current intercom at the school is unreliable and cannot be updated. There have been  multiple issues with the system over the last six months.  Fiscal Implications:  Abid of$ $130,986 was received from Ronco Specializes Systems, Inc. to upfit the school's intercom, with SIP integration. The intercom upfit will be funded by county bond funds.  Recommendation:  The Operations Committee recommends awarding Ronco Specializes Systems, Inc. the  contract to upfit the intercom system at Stanley Middle School.  Policy Implications:  N/A  Strategic Goal Alignment:  Goal 5. Every student has the opportunity to learn in a safe school environment.  Submitted by:  Jack Brooks, Interim Executive Department: Auxiliary Services  Director of Auxiliary Services  47    Agenda Item  Meeting Date: 3/18/2024  Agenda Item Title/Topic: Hawks Nest STEAM Academy - HVAC Replacement Units  Type of Item: R Consent  R Action JInformation  Main Points:  There are three (3) rooftop HVAC units that have failed at Hawks Nest. These units are  past their workable lifespan and need to be replaced.  Fiscal Implications:  Three (3) vendors were contacted regarding the replacement of these three units. Two (2) vendors submitted bids. Carolina Air Solutions was the low bidder at a cost of  $110,777.  Recommendation:  The Operations Committee recommends approval of the contract with Carolina Air Solutions to replace the three (3) rooftop units at Hawk's Nest STEAM Academy.  Policy Implications:  Policy Code: 9200 Care and Maintenance of Facilities  Strategic Goal Alignment:  Goal 5. Every student has the opportunity to learn in a safe school environment.  Submitted by:  Jack Brooks, Interim Executive Department: Auxiliary Services  Director of Auxiliary Services  48    Agenda Item  Meeting Date: 3/18/2024  Agenda Item Title/Topic: Holbrook Middle School - Athletic Field Renovation  Type of Item: X Consent  K Action  Information  Main Points:  Upon completion oft the approved Holbrook Middle Schoold drainage project at their athletic  field, an irrigation system and natural turf will have to be installed.  Fiscal Implications:  Invitations were sent to three (3) vendors with only Landmasters, Inc. submitting a bid of  $254,049. This will be paid using county bond funds.  Recommendation:  The Operations Committee recommends awarding Landmasters, Inc. the contract for Holbrook Middle School's athletic field renovation and irrigation installation.  Policy Implications:  Policy Code: 9200 Care and Maintenance of Facilities  Strategic Goal Alignment:  Goal 5. Every student has the opportunity to learn in a safe school environment.  Submitted by:  Jack Brooks, Interim Executive Department: Auxiliary Services  Director of Auxiliary Services  49    Agenda Item  Meeting Date: 3/18/2024  Agenda Item Title/Topic: Freezer/Cooler Replacement Architectural & Engineering  Design Services for Hunter Huss High, Mount Holly Middle, W.C. Friday Middle, Sherwood Elementary and Catawba  Heights Elementary Schools  Type of Item: 3 Consent   Action information  Main Points:  Little Diversified Architectural Consulting was selected to complete the Architectural & Engineering Design Services for the freezerlcooler replacement at Hunter Huss High School, Mount Holly Middle School, W.C. Friday Middle School, Sherwood Elementary  School and Catawba Heights Elementary School.  Fiscal Implications:  Hunter Huss High School ($40,000), Mount Holly Middle School ($54,500), W.C. Friday Middle School ($28,000), Sherwood Elementary School ($62,500) and Catawba Heights Elementary School ($72,500) for a total cost of $257,000. Each school will be bid  separately and have a separate contract for the actual installation.  Recommendation:  Award Little Diversified Architectural Consulting the contracts for Architectural & Engineering Design Services for the freezer/cooler replacement at Hunter Huss High School, Mount Holly Middle School, W.C. Friday Middle School, Sherwood Elementary School and Catawba Heights Elementary School for a total cost of $257,000.  Policy Implications:  N/A  Strategic Goal Alignment:  Goal 5. Every student has the opportunity to learn in a safe school environment.  Submitted by: Jack Brooks  Department: Interim Executive Director  of Auxiliary Services  50    Agenda Item  Meeting Date: 3/18/2024  Agenda Item Title/Topic: Agency Contracts Type of Item: K Consent B Action DInformation  Main Points:  On May 15, 2023, June 12, 2023, and September 18, 2023, the Gaston County School Board of Education approved contracting with the below outside agencies to provide a variety of services to support students. Through the Request for Proposal process, we moved forward with awarding contracts to at total of2 22 vendors who submitted proposals. Due to increased student needs and increased employee vacancies, the Department for Exceptional Children is asking the Board of Education to consider increasing the potential amount to be expended from $4,500,000 to $6,000,000 for this year and the remaining This was shared with the Curriculum and Instruction Committee on 3/4/2024 for information.  two years of our three-year contract.  Aequor Healthcare Services ProCare therapy Stellar Therapy Services Sunbelt Staffing Thrive Skilled Pediatric Care CTS Health EDU Healthcare Maxim Health Staffing Stepping Stones Support, INC AMN Fiscal Implications: $6,000,000.  Angels of Care Bayda BrightStar Continuum Gifted Health Invo Health Maxim Nursing MGA Quantum Speech Center  Positive Behavior Support Corp  We are seeking to continue our three-year contract with the above-named agencies with total annual implications for the Department for Exceptional Children not to exceed  Federal, state, and local funds will be used to support these contracts.  Recommendation: contract. N/A  Approve the request to increase the potential amount to be expended annually from $4,500,000 to $6,000,000 for this year and the remaining two years of our three-year  Policy Implications:  51    Strategic Goal Alignment:  Goal 2: Every member of our diverse population has the opportunity for individualized Goal 3: Every employee is capable and committed to the education of the whole child.  instruction.  Submitted by: Dr. Stacy Huffman  Department: Executive Director of Exceptional Children's Programs  52    Agenda Item  Meeting Date: 3/18/2024  Agenda Item Title/Topic: Closed Session  Type of Item: Consent  Action B Information  Main Points:  Closed sessions shall be held when required to permit a public body to act in the public  interest as permitted by law.  N.C.G.S. $143-318.11(a)6) Personnel  N.C.G.S. $143-318.11(a)3) Consultation with Attorney and to receive advice with respect to the lawsuits captioned:  Inorder to consult with the Board's attorney and protect the attorney client privilege, -19-CVS-3893 McKinney et al. VS. Goins and The Gaston County Board of Education -21-CVS-5016 Bostic VS. Phroneberger and The Gaston County Board of Education -21-CVS-5017 Lukinoff VS. Barber and The Gaston County Board of Eduçation -21-CVS-5018 Brittain VS. Beason and The Gaston County Board of Education -21-CVS-5019 Long VS. The Gaston County Board of Education -23-CVS-3066 Roger Perkins VS. The Gaston County Board of Education -23-CVS-4209 Clanton VS. The Gaston County Board of Education  --Any other legal matters. Fiscal Implications:  NIA  53    Recommendation: 318.11.  Board to consider information provided in Closed Session in accordance with G.S. $143-  Policy Implications:  N/A  Strategic Goal Alignment:  Other: Policy or Gen Statute. See above.  Submitted by: Sonya McGraw, Attorney Department: legalsuperntendents Office  54    Last Name Barnette Barton Bennett Bryant Burrell Canty Carpenter Carr Carswell Casillas Chen Christopher Craig Crane Crews Dangler Davis Davis Diaz Ellis Elrod Engel Enoch Fernandez Gabarrete Glenn Glover Halago Hallman Hardin Hartsell Hatch Hill Horton Houchard Hudson Jackson Jackson James Justice Kampmeyer Kiser Lawrence Laws  First Name Category Stephanie Dennis John Ja'Oshua Parker Sherry Morgan Isheima Hannah Ashley Elizabeth Marie Teresa Jeffrey Donna Rebecca Javon Katherine Jenay Christina Megan Rebekah Curtis Tina Eda Yolanda Travis Emmanuel Bradley Daniel Jennifer Corey Cherrita Daniel Morgen Lance Clara Devin Jill James Alix Deidre Karen Stephen  School School Nutrition School Nutrition Ashbrook High School Bessemer City Middle School Springfield Elementary School Grier Middle School Student Support Services Pleasant Ridge Elementary School Springfield Elementary School H.H. Beam Elementary School Student Support Services School Nutrition School Nutrition Facilities School Nutrition Superintendent's Office Pleasant Ridge Elementary School W.C. Friday Middle School Woodhill Elementary School Finance and Operations Finance and Operations Robinson Elementary School South Point High School Department for Exceptional Children School Nutrition Student Support Services Gardner Park Elementary School Tryon Elementary School Costner Elementary School North Gaston High School Edward D. Sadler, Jr. Elementary School Gardner Park Elementary School Pleasant Ridge Elementary School North Gaston High School Facilities Superintendent's Office Mount Holly Middle School, Bessemer Ci Middle School Springfield Elementary School! John Chavis Middle School Springfield Elementary South Point High School Robinson Elementary School Pinewood Elementary School Superintendent's Office  Transfer Transfer Resignation Hire Hire Hire Hire Hire Promotion Hire Hire Demotion Resignation Promotion Resignation Promotion Hire Resignation Resignation Promotion Hire Hire  Involuntary Termination Rehire an Employee Promotion Rehire an Employee Rehire an Employee Hire Hire Hire Resignation Transfer Hire, Termination Demotion Resignation Promotion Resignation Resignation Hire, Resignation Resignation Resignation Promotion Rehire an Employee Resignation  Garcia Acosta Julieann  School  Schoo  Add Employee Work Relationship Edward D. Sadler, Jr. Elementary    Last Name Loftis Mcgill McQueen Miller Moore Morales Morrison Nuestro O'Brien Palanuk Perkins Postell II Quinn Rainey Rhodes Richardson Richbourg Rico Ritter Roark Roberts Roberts Rogers Rust Scott Sellers Selph Shaver Smith Smith Smith Smith Stradford Stringer Strong Taylor Toll Tomes Troutman Tyler Ussery Vargas Wallace Wilkinson Williams  First Name Category  School Finance and Operations School Nutrition Ida Rankin Elementary School Forestview High School Forestview High School School Nutrition School Nutrition Lingerfeldt Elementary School Holbrook Middle School School Nutrition School Nutrition East Gaston High School Department for Exceptional Children Holbrook Middle School Carr Elementary School Human Resources Webb Street School Southwest Middle School Department for Exceptional Children School Nutrition Ashbrook High School Warlick Academy W.C. Friday Middle School Ida Rankin Elementary School Lowell Elementary School Finance and Operations School Nutrition School Nutrition H.H. Beam Elementary School Bessemer City Primary School School Nutrition Elementary Instruction School Nutrition W.C. Friday Middle School School Nutrition North Gaston High School Lingerfeldt Elementary Ida Rankin Elementary School Hawks Nest STEAM Academy Woodhill Elementary School School Nutrition Holbrook Middle School, Ashbrook High School Ashbrook High School School Nutrition  DeLaine Shanikie Donna Tameka Landis Melissa Kenya Leah Andreya Jackielou Debra James Brittani Lazelma Kayleigh Yasha Jason Diamond Amber Melissa Alecia Courtney Larry Emily Sara Toni Kristen Cristal Jennifer Kimberly Lindsay Tarryn Andrea Julie Ashley Whitney Frederick Mary Kerri Allyson Andrew Rosa Jordan Kathryn Carolyn  Retirement Resignation Retirement Rehire an Employee Hire Transfer Transfer Transfer Rehire an Employee Transfer Transfer Resignation Hire Resignation Resignation Demotion Rehire an Employee Resignation Retirement. Transfer Hire Transfer Resignation Promotion Hire Promotion. Transfer Transfer Promotion Resignation Transfer Resignation Promotion Hire Hire Retirement Hire Resignation Hire Hire Hire Resignation Promotion Transfer  Hire, Involuntary Termination Human Resources  School    Last Name Wimbush Wray Wray Wright  First Name Category  School  Kiara Rebecca Shelia Tiffany  Resignation Promotion Retirement Resignation  Bessemer City Middle School Forestview High School Gardner Park Elementary School Webb Street School