GASTON COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION REGULAR SESSION 20 E Schools Shaping Our Future Gaston College Robinson Building - Room 126 201 US-321, Dallas, NC 28034 January 30, 2025 8:30 a.m. Agenda Item Meeting Date: 1/30/2025 Agenda Item Title/Topic: Agenda Adoption Type of Item: D Consent K Action Information Main Points: Consideration of Formal Agenda for Thursday, January 30, 2025. 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 Josh Crisp - Chairman Dot Cherry - Vice Chairman Lee Dedmon, Gastonia Township Tod Kinlaw, South Point Township Robbie Lovelace, Cherryville Township Brent Moore, Crowders Mountain Township Jeff K. Ramsey, At Large Janna Smith, Gastonia Township A.M. Stephens, III, Riverbend Township County/ Schools Dr. Morgen A. Houchard, Superintendent Gaston College - Robinson Building Room 126 201 US-321, Dallas, NC 28034 Thursday, January 30, 2025 8:30 a.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. Public Expression - Information VII. Approva/Correction of Minutes - Action December 2, 2024 (Organizational Meeting) December 16, 2024 (Regular Meeting) VIII. Operations Committee Report - Information IX. Curriculum & Instruction Committee Report - Information. X. Acceptance of the June 30, 2024 Annual Comprehensive Financial 1-3 4-6 7 8 9-11 12-16 17 18 19 20 Report (ACFR) - Action XI. 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 Personnel. B. Budget Amendments & Budget Transfers. C. construction/Repair Change Orders.. D. Board Policy and School Safety 21-24 25-34 35-36 37-38 46-48 49 50 -Board Policy Updates - Proposed from the 12/16/24 Meeting. --School Safety Policy Code 4200 = Proposed from the 1/6/25 Committee Meeting 39-45 E. Early Colleges Calendar 2025-2026. --AIS Digital Imaging (formerly Scribbles). F. Contracts 2 Freezer/Cooler Replacements: Catawba Heights Elementary School.. Sherwood Elementary School. Mount Holly Middle School. W.C. Friday Middle School Hunter Huss High School.. --Wide Area Network (WAN).. 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60-61 -Independent Auditors (Contract Amendment) -Sole Source Authorization - MCA (Motorola) -Annual Renewal - Data Processing (CherryRoad Technologies). XII. Superintendent's Comments XIII. Closed Session - Information. N.C.G.S. 143-318.11(a)3) Consultation with Attorney N.C.G.S. 143-318.11(a)5) Real Property N.C.G.S. 9143-318.11(a)06) Personnel XIV. Adjournment 3 Agenda Item Meeting Date: 1/30/2025 Agenda Item Title/Topic: Good News Type of Item: Consent Action R 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: Communcatons/Public Information (Superintendents Office) BOARD AGENDA INFORMATIONALITEM DEPARTMENT: Communications.Pablic Information Department TOPIC: GOOD NEWS FOR THE MONTH OF: January 2025 1. Gaston County Schools launched the "Nickels for Neighbors" campaign to raise money for seniors in the Class of2025 in Mitchell County Schools. The Principals Leadership Team coordinated the fundraising effort with help from the Superintendent's: Student Advisory Council and set a goal of collecting $25,000 to help students affected by 2. Stuart W. Cramer High School hosted the South Central All-District Band Clinic, which featured more than 300 outstanding student musicians from across the Charlotte region. The following students from Gaston County Schools were chosen for the all district band: Miles Funderburk, Ashbrook High School; Paella Nsimundele, Belmont Middle School; Cassidy Allen, Bessemer City Middle School; Molly Dillon, Stuart W. Cramer High School; Copeland Smith, Stuart W. Cramer High School; Danika Risner, Cramerton Middle School; Cyrus Baltimore, East Gaston High School; Mackenzie Hart, East Gaston High School; Zeke Tucker, East Gaston High School; Abram Comer, Forestview High School; Annabelle Radford, Forestview High School; Caiden McDaniel, Forestview High School; Ethan Snell, Forestview High School; Ford Poag, Forestview High School; Camila Vargas-Parra, W.C. Friday Middle School; Erick Rodriguer-lermandez, W.C. Friday Middle School; Ishaaq Murphy, W.C. Friday Middle School; yanna Brianne Fores, W.C. Friday Middle School; Akeyla Taylor, Highland School ofTechnology; Alex Cornwell, Highland School ofTechnology; Ayden Kisby-Jones, Highland School of Technology; Ruby Ruiz-Vargas, North Gaston High School; and Anakin Booth, 3. Andrew Jones of Gaston Early College of Medical Sciences, John Ramos of Forestview High School, and Erin Stokes of South Point High School were among the 457 Impact Educators recognized by outstanding high school senior semifinalists for the UNCI Morehead-Cain Scholarship. The educators from 40 states and 22 countries have played a significant role in shaping the lives and leadership learning oft their students. 4. Belmont Central Elementary teacher Kim Parrish was named one oft the Top 10 FSI Teacher All-Stars for December. This award recognizes her hard work, dedication to her students, and excellence ini teaching. Outside the classroom, Mrs. Parrish also leads the school's robotics team. As part ofthis honor, she received a special set of classroom Hurricane Helene. South Point High School. supplies. 5 5. The Bessemer City High School Impact Club donated supplies to the Gaston County Animal Care and Control officer. School Resource Officer Jeff Thompson organized the 6. Under the leadership of Officer Hord, the Gaston County Police organized a Christmas drive to provide gifts for 40 students at Chapel Grove Elementary this holiday season. 7. Jason Pelusio, a graduate of East Gaston High School, is the company manager for the Angelica National Tour of"Hamilton," which is playing at the Blumenthal Performing 8. The Gaston Early College High School "Rocket League" team competed in the North Carolina Varsity Esports and STEM League state championship and earned a fourth-place finish. This marks the third year the school has participated in esports. 9. Anna Claire Whitesides of North Gaston High School has been awarded the N.C. Teaching Fellows Scholarship and will attend Appalachian State University next year to drive. Arts Center in Charlotte. major in elementary education. Agenda Item Meeting Date: 1/30/2025 Agenda Item Title/Topic: Public Expression Type of Item: Consent DA Action R 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) during 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: Communcatons/PuDlc Information Superintendent's Office) 7 Agenda Item Meeting Date: 1/30/2025 Agenda Item Title/Topic: Approval/Correction of Minutes Type of Item: Consent K Action OInformation Main Points: Approval of Minutes from: December 2, 2024 - Organizational Meeting December 16, 2024 - Regular Meeting Efficient consideration of matters pertinent to the successful operation of the school system. Fiscal Implications: None Recommendation: The Board will approve the minutes presented. 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 The Gaston County Board of Education Organizational Meeting Monday, December 2, 2024 10:00a.m. MINUTES The Gaston County Board of Education metin a special called organizational meeting for the purpose of electing new officers on Monday, December 2, 2024 in the Board Room, 943 Osceola Street, Gastonia, NC. The meeting was live on Spectrum Cable Channel 21 and The Gaston County Board of Education YouTube page. Those Board Members in attendance were: Dot Cherry, Josh Crisp, Lee Dedmon, Tod Kinlaw, Robbie Lovelace, Brent Moore, Jeff Additional attendees include: Superintendent Morgen Houchard, Attorney Sonya McGraw, Superintendent Houchard called the December 2, 2024 organizational meeting to order at 10:26a.m. and served as Chairman Pro' Tempore: as set forth ini the NCI Law and Board Policy. The start time for the meeting was delayed due to the swearing-in ceremony held earlieri in Superintendent: Houchard thanked Mr. Jeff Ramsey and Ms. Dot Cherry for their service with The Gaston County Board of Education as chair and vice-chair for the previous two years. Superintendent Houchard recognized our newly elected and re-elected members = Mrs. Robbie Lovelace, Mr. Brent Moore, Mr. Jeff Ramsey and Mrs. Janna Smith. Superintendent Houchard reviewed the rules of the meeting which are: set forth by N.C. Law Superintendent Houchard opened the floor for nominations for Chairman of The Gaston Ramsey, Janna Smith and A.M. Stephens, III. and Board Clerk Dana Luoto. the day for newly elected and re-elected Board Members. and our policy. County Board of Education. Mr. Jeff Ramsey nominated Mr. Josh Crisp. Mr. Tod Kinlaw nominated himself. There were no additional nominees. Nominations were closed. The vote was called. All in favor of Mr. Josh Crisp as Chairman of The Gaston County Board of Education Ms. Dot Cherry, Mr. Josh Crisp, Mr. Lee Dedmon, Mr. Brent Moore, Mr. Jeff Ramsey, Mrs. Janna Smith and Mr. A.M. Stephens III. (7) Seven is a majority and Mr. Josh Crisp is named Chairman of The Gaston County Board of Education for the 2024-2026 term. In accordance with NC Law and Board Policy, Chairman Crisp began to preside over the Chairman Crisp opened the floor for nominations for Vice Chairman of The Gaston County meeting. Board of Education. Mr. A.M. Stephens III nominated Mr. Brent Moore Mrs. Janna Smith nominated Ms. Dot Cherry. There were: no additional nominees. Nominations were closed. The vote was called. All in favor of Mr. Brent Moore as Vice Chairman of The Gaston County Board of Education - Mr. Lee Dedmon, Mr. Tod Kinlaw, Mrs. Robbie Lovelace and Mr. A.M. Stephens (4) All in favor of Ms. Dot Cherry as Vice Chairman of The Gaston County Board of Education - Ms. Dot Cherry, Mr. Josh Crisp, Mr. Brent Moore, Mr. Jeff Ramseyand Mrs. Janna Smith (5) Five is a majority and Ms. Dot Cherry is named Vice Chairman of The Gaston County Board of Chairman Crisp opened the floor for nominations for the Office of Assistant Secretary (Clerk) Mr. Lee Dedmon nominated Mrs. Dana Luoto as Assistant Secretary (Clerk) of the Board; Education for the 2024-2026 term. ofthe Board ofThe Gaston County Board of Education. seconded by Mr. A.M. Stephens III. Nominations were closed. The vote was called and passed unanimously. Mrs. Dana Luoto is elected to serve as Assistant Secretary (Clerk) ofthe Board of The Gaston County Board of Education. Chairman Crisp announced the next Board of Education Meeting will be held on Monday, There being no further business to conduct, motion to adjourn was made by Ms. Dot Cherry; December 16, 2024 at! 5:30 p.m. seconded by Mr. Lee Dedmon; motion carried unanimously. (9-0) 10 The Board meeting adjourned at 10:35 a.m. Approved: Josh Crisp, Chairman [Corporate Seal] Date Approved: Morgen A. Houchard, Secretary 11 Gaston County Schools Board of Education Monday, December 16, 2024 Meeting 5:30 p.m. Regular Meeting MINUTES The Gaston County Board of Education met in a regular session on Monday, December 16, 2024 at 5:30 p.m. in the Board Room, 943 Osceola Street, Gastonia, NC. The meeting was live on Spectrum Cable Channelz 21and' The Gaston County Board of Education YouTube page. Those Board Members in attendance were: Chairman Josh Crisp, Vice Chairman Dot Cherry, Lee Dedmon, Tod Kinlaw, Robbie Lovelace (absent), Brent Moore, Jeff Ramsey, Janna Smith and A.M. Stephens III. Additional attendees include: Superintendent Dr. Morgen A. Houchard, Attorney Sonya McGraw, Associate Superintendents Gary Hoskins and Tonya Kales, ChierCommunications OfficerTodd Hagans, ChiefTechnology Officer Curtis Poplin and Board Clerk Dana Luoto. Chairman Crisp called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m. and welcomed everyone. Invocation Pastor Scott Lee of CrossFix Ministries Church, led the invocation. Tatum Leigh, W.C. Friday Middle School, led the Pledge of Allegiance. Pledge of Allegiance Character Trait Trait of Kindness. Agenda. Adoption - Action Jaiden Valeriano Rice a student at Bessemer City Central Elementary School reported on the Character The Board considered Agenda Adoption - Action Motion to adopt the. Agenda as presented was made by Mr. Brent Moore; seconded by Mr. Leel Dedmon; motion carried unanimously. (8-0) Good News - Information Mr. Todd Hagans recognized Ayanna Bigger from North Gaston High School, and Julien Boyce and Joshua Mendoza Vargas, both from the Highland School of Technology. These students are QuestBridge Scholars, which means they have earned a full college scholarship. Through the QuestBridge program, students are matched with a particular college or university. Ayanna's scholarship is for Amherst College in Amherst, Massachusetts; ulien'sscholarship is forthe University ofNotre Dame; and Joshua's scholarship is for Boston University. QuestBridge is a highly competitive scholarship program that eliminates financial barriers and matches some of the nation's brightest students with four-year scholarships to attend 52 of the top colleges and universities in the United States. Dot Cherry presented a Certificate of Recognition to each student. 12 Mr. Todd Hagans recognized Tionna Pettus, a senior at Bessemer City High School, who is an outstanding basketball player. Tionna has set a new record with the North Carolina High School Athletic Association. On November 20, she scored 65 points on 23-of-29 shooting and grabbed 16 rebounds, leading her team to a 77-53 victory. In doing sO, she broke the single-game scoring record Mr. Todd Hagans recognized school resource officer Jamar Kendrick from Southwest Middle School. Officer Kendrick is with the Gaston County Police Department, and recently, he was honored by the police department: ast the Gaston Countyl Police Officero ofthe Quarter. We want to take this opportunity to bring attention to this honor for Officer Kendrick because ofwhat he does each day at Southwest Middle School to engage with students, staff, and parents to maintain a safe school environment. Heis known for building relationships at the school and in the community, and this past summer, he was assigned to the Alliance for Children and Youth's summer program where he served as a role model and mentor for youth in the community. In addition to his work with the summer program, Officer Kendrick partnered with a group of men from our community to organize a back-to-school Mr. A.M. Stephens presented a Certificate of Recognition Certificate to School Resource Mr. Todd Hagans recognized eight schools that are celebrating 50 years of being an accredited institution: Belmont Central Elementary, Carr Elementary, North Belmont Elementary, North Gaston High School, Pinewood Elementary, Pleasant Ridge Elementary, South Point High School, and W.C. Friday Middle. With us to present the milestone awards from Cognia, which is the organization responsible for school accreditation, is Debora Williams, the mid-Atlantic region director for Cognia. of63, previously set by Mikayla Boykin of Clinton High School in 2017. supply drive for Lingerfeldt Elementary. Officer Kendrick. Chairman Crisp and Dr. Houchard presented plaques to each principal. Mr. Todd Hagans reported that all of us realize the devastating effects Hurricane Helene had on western North Carolina. In an effort to contribute to the recovery and relief efforts, our Principals Leadership Team in partnership with the Superintendent's: Student Advisory Council came togetherto launch our "Nickels for Neighbors" fundraising campaign. This year, Gaston County Schools adopted" the senior class in Mitchell County Schools and vowed to raise $25,000 for the Class of 2025 - that is Dr. Rebecca Huffstetler, principal of East Gaston High School and chairman ofthe Principals Leadership Team along with help from students, announced the total amount raised for "Nickels for Neighbors" was $35,537.56. On Thursday, a group from GCS will visit Mitchell County and present the collected the equivalento of5 500,000 nickels. money and letters ofencouragement: to seniors in Mitchell County. Classroom Moment- - Information Chairman Crisp recognized Mr. Chris Mills and students from Webb Street School. Webb Street School continues to enhance and improve its music program in order to offer diverse opportunities to their students. Theintegration of this program allows the students at Webb Street to engage through music and participate in activities similar to those of their non-disabled peers. The students at Webb Street showcased some of the musical skills that have been acquired through this program by performing a holiday selection. 13 Public Expression - Information Richard Boyce 112 Dorie Drive Belmont, NC 28012 RE: South Point Mascot Becky Gaither 1220 River Drive Apt. 109 Belmont, NC 28012 RE: South Point Mascot Sean Bates P.0. Box 550094 Gastonia, NC 28054 RE: South Point Mascot Marcus Hatcher P.O. Box! 550094 Gastonia, NC 28054 RE: South Point Mascot Approval/Correction of Minutes - Action Motion to adopt minutes of November 18, 2024 as presented was made by Ms. Dot Cherry; seconded by Mr. A.M. Stephens III; motion carried unanimously. (8-0) Operations Committee Report - Information Chairman Crisp announced the following members oft the Operations Committee: Brent Moore - Chairman Dot Cherry Lee Dedmon Tod Kinlaw Curriculum & Instruction Committee Report- - Information Chairman Crisp announced the following members oft the Curriculum & Instruction Committee: Jeff Ramsey - Chairman Robbie Lovelace Janna Smith A.M. Stephens Districtand School Safety and Security Update - Information Chairman Crisp recognized Ms. Bessie Harvey who presented a PowerPoint on District and School Safety and Security Plan. (View PowerPoint Below) 14 Board Policy Updates - Information Chairman Crisp recognized Attorney Sonya McGraw who reported recent changes require revisions to GCS policies. Staying current on our board policies keeps us in alignment with North Carolina State Board of Education policies and NCI law. Draft policies will be posted on the GCS web page for review by the general public. Thisi item will be on the January 30 Consent Agenda for approval. Consent. Agenda - Action The Board considered the Consent. Agenda: A. Recommended Personnel B. Budget. Amendments & Budget Transfers . construction/Repar Change Orders --Grier Middle School - New Furniture D. Contracts Motion to adopt the Consent Agenda as presented was made by Mr. A.M. Stephens III; seconded by Mr. Lee Dedmon motion carried unanimously. (8-0) superintendents Comments Superintendent Houchard thanked Dr. Huffstetler and the Principals Leadership Team as well as the Student Advisory Council for taking on the Nickels 4 Neighbors project and making it such a big success. Superintendent Houchard also thanked everyone who contributed to this cause. Superintendent Houchard announced our students took part in the Gaston Regional Science and Engineering Fair at The Schiele Museum a few weeks ago and more than 450 students participated. The. students who placed in the local competition will move on to the Region 6: Science Fair, which will be held in February, and the winners from there will have the chance to compete at the state level. Superintendent Houchard announced two of our high schools won state championships last weekend at the North Carolina High School Athletic Association's Cheerleading Invitational in Raleigh. Congratulations to Cherryville High School, which broughthome three state awards, and to South Point High School, which also earned first-place honors. East Gaston High School and Ashbrook High School also participated in the state competition, winning second and third place awards, respectively. superintendent Houchard thanked all of our school groups for participating in the recent Christmas Superintendent Houchard announced that winter break is almost here. Our mid-year exams conclude on' Thursday, December 19 which is our last day of school for the first semester. Students will be out ofs school beginning Friday, December 20, and they will return on Monday, January 6 to begin the second semester of school. Our school offices will be closed to the public beginning December 20th and continuing through January 1st. The central office will be open over the break except for the parades and supporting our community as we celebrate thel holiday season. employee holidays on December 23rd, 24th, and 25th and January 1. Chairman Crisp wished Ms. Dot Cherry and Mr. Tod Kinlaw. a "Happy Birthday". 15 Closed Session Chairman Crisp asked the Board to consider going into Closed Session under, N.C.G.S.$143- 318.11(a)(3) Consultation with Attorney, NC6591433181100 Personnel and N.C.G.S.S $143- Motion to go into Closed Session was made by Ms. Dot Cherry; seconded by Mr. A.M. Stephens III; 318.11(a)(8) School Safety Plans. motion carried unanimously. (8-0) The Board went into Closed Session at 6:46 p.m. The Board returned to Open Session at 7:15 p.m. Chairman Crisp wished everyone al Merry Christmas! Adjournment and. Adjournment) AlI business having been conducted, Motion to adjourn was made by Mr. Jeff Ramsey; seconded by Mr. Lee Dedmon motion carried unanimously. (9-0) (Mrs. Robbie Lovelace attended Closed Session The Board Meeting adjourned at 7:16p.m. Approved: Josh Crisp, Chairman [Corporate Seal] Date Approved: Morgen A. Houchard, Secretary 16 Agenda Item Meeting Date: 1/30/2025 Agenda Item Title/Topic: Operations Committee Report Type of Item: Consent Action K Information Main Points: The Gaston County Board of Education's Operations Committee meets regularly to discuss operations-related projects and issues. Brent Moore is chair of the committee and members are Dot Cherry, Lee Dedmon and Tod Kinlaw. The Committee met on January 6, 2025. A report of the Operations Committee's actions and discussions will be made at the Board meeting by a member of the Committee. Fiscal Implications: 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: Finance Associate Superintendent 17 Agenda Item Meeting Date: 1/30/2025 Agenda Item Title/Topic: Curriculum & Instruction Committee Report Type of Item: Consent Action K Information Main Points: The Gaston County Board of Education's Curriculum & Instruction Committee meets regularly to discuss curriculum and instruction-related topics and issues. Jeff Ramsey is chair of the committee and members are Robbie Lovelace, Janna Smith and A.M. Stephens III. Fiscal implications: None Recommendation: None Policy Implications: information. The Board will be informed of Curriculum and Instruction Committee discussions and Strategic Goal Alignment: Goal 1. Every student will graduate prepared for post-secondary opportunities. Submitted by: Curriculum and Instruction Committee Department: Curriculum and Instruction 18 Agenda Item Meeting Date: 1/30/2025 Agenda Item Title/Topic: Acceptance of the June 30, 2024, Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) Type of Item: Consent K Action Information Main Points: Forvis Mazars, LLP (Forvis), have completed their annual audit of our financial statements fori the fiscal year ended June 30, 2024. Ini the opinion of Forvis, the financial statements for Gaston County Schools were presented fairly in all material respects. Josh Puryear, CPA, an Assurance Director with Forvis, will review the notable items in the. ACFR as well as their compliance findings. Ahard copy oft the ACFR has been provided for your review. Once the AFCR has been accepted by the Board, a hard copy will be distributed to the County Clerk and any other interested parties. The ACFR will also be available on the District's website. Fiscal implications: N/A Recommendation: Board moves to accept the June 30, 2024, Annual Comprehensive Financial Report. Policy Implications: Policy Code: 8310 Annual Independent Audit Strategic Goal Alignment: Other: Policy or Gen Statute. See above. Submitted by: Gary F. Hoskins, CFO and Department: Finance Associate Superintendent 19 Agenda Item Meeting Date: 1/30/2025 Agenda Item Title/Topic: Consent Agenda Type of Item: K Consent Main Points: R Action OInformation Approval of the Consent Agenda by the Board for thet following items: A. Recommended Personnel B. Budget Amendments & Budget Transfers C. Construction/Repair Change Orders D.E Board Policy and School Safety -Board Policy Updates - Proposed from the 12/16/24 Meeting -School Safety Policy Code 4200 - Proposed from the 1/6/25 Committee Meeting E. Early Colleges Calendar 2025-2026 --AIS Digital Imaging (formally Scribbles) Hunter Huss High School --Wide. Area Network (WAN) F. Contracts -Freezer/Cooler Replacements: Catawba Heights Elementary School, Sherwood Elementary School, Mount Holly Middle School, W.C. Friday Middle School, -Independent Auditors (Contract Amendment) Sole Source Authorization = MCA (Motorola) Annual Renewal - Data Processing (CherryRoad Technologies) 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 2C Agenda Item Meeting Date: 1/30/2025 Agenda Item Title/Topic: Recommended Personnel Type of Item: K Consent R 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: ofs schools. Necessaryand appropriate personnel will be provided to assure successful administration Strategic Goal Alignment: Other: Policy or Gen Statute. See above. Submitted by: Dr. Morgen A. Houchard Department: Human Resources 21 Last Name Adams Baker Barton Belk Booker Boston Bradley Brown Bryant Butler Butler Carpenter Carpenter Carson Cashion Chavis Conner Conner Cookson Cope Cox Crisp Davis Duff Ellis Ellis Eurey Evans Falls Field Ford Gamble Gant Garvin Glover Golden Gummeson Haney Hatten Hill Hord Hornsby Hoyle Hulse Hunt First Name Dana Erin Erik Dawn Brionna Pamela Jazmine Kay Bobbi Kevin Ladameion Andrew Joseph Zoey Heather Bailey Carmen Tisha Meredith Judy Sherry Jami William Neesheotta Lindsay Steven Paul Jennifer Barbara Kimberly Rebecca Tina Candace Steven Remika Nicole Michael Alexis Bridget Jeron Terese Rachel Debra Amanda Angela Category Resignation Hire Resignation Transfer Hire Hire Hire Transfer Transfer Resignation Resignation Resignation Hire Resignation Resignation Resignation Transfer Promotion Hire Resignation Resignation Transfer Retirement Promotion Hire Retirement Resignation Promotion Promotion Promotion Promotion Resignation Resignation Transfer Resignation Resignation Retirement Resignation Transfer Demotion Hire Resignation Transfer Hire Resignation School Gardner Park Elementary School Webb Street School Woodhill Elementary School North Gaston High School East Gaston High School North Gaston High School Webb Street School Cherryville High School Cherryville High School Mount Holly Middle School Edward D. Sadler, Jr. Elementary School Academic Services North Gaston High School Gardner Park Elementary School Chapel Grove Elementary School Pinewood Elementary School Woodhill Elementary School Chapel Grove Elementary School Department for Exceptional Children School Nutrition Chapel Grove Elementary School Gaston Virtual Academy Facilities Pinewood Elementary School John Chavis Middle School Cherryville High School Transportation School Nutrition School Nutrition H.H. Beam Elementary School Transportation Gaston Early College High School Cramerton Middle School Bessemer City Central School Elementary Instruction Cherryville High School Carr Elementary School School Nutrition School Nutrition School Nutrition McAdenville Elementary School School Nutrition School Nutrition Department for Exceptional Children School Nutrition 22 Last Name Ivey Jennings Johnson Johnson Kerr Key Kinsey Love Lowery Lutz Mallonee Markwith McCormack Meyer Nance Neeley Nelson Nichols Nixon Nixon O'Shea Parker Perez Perez Cardoso Perrigo Phillips Potts Price Raxter Reed Richmond Sata Satterlie Simmons Smith Smith Steadman Taylor Thomassen Tremaine Wade Willis Wilson Wilson Wood First Name Kaitlyn Aaliyah Ashley Crissy Kenan Damion Lisa Jesselener Yvette Christine Dalton Jenna Kaleigh Andrea Inez Susan Curtis Amanda Dandre Teara Donald Victoria Martha Shenna Maggie Dana LaTamela Lori Suzanne Natalie Shanda Priti Erin Marla Janna Jennifer Alexa Justin Teresa Lorie Teresa Ashley Denan Destiny Jason Category Promotion Resignation Resignation Hire Promotion Hire Hire Hire Transfer Death Resignation Transfer Hire Promotion Hire Resignation Retirement Transfer Promotion Resignation Resignation Promotion Transfer Transfer Resignation Retirement Hire Promotion Resignation Promotion Retirement Resignation Hire Rehire an Hire Promotion Hire Hire Retirement Transfer Death Resignation Transfer Promotion Promotion School H.H. Beam Elementary School W.C. Friday Middle School Lowell Elementary School Catawba Heights Elementary School Technology Support Services Southwest Middle School North Belmont Elementary School Elementary Instruction Ashbrook High School Sherwood Elementary School Ida Rankin Elementary School Hawks Nest STEAM Academy Student Support Services Woodhill Elementary School Woodhill Elementary School Academic Services Webb Street School W.C. Friday Middle School Grier Middle School Holbrook Middie School Bessemer City High School Springfield Elementary School School Nutrition School Nutrition Kiser Elementary School Stanley Middle School Student Support Services Webb Street School Hawks Nest STEAM Academy Gardner Park Elementary School Belmont Central Elementary School Grier Middle School Belmont Central Elementary School Springfield Elementary School! Superintendent's Office H.H. Beam Elementary School Gardner Park Elementary School Stuart W. Cramer High School Technology Support Services School Nutrition School Nutrition North Gaston High School Grier Middle School Woodhill Elementary School Technology Support Services 23 Last Name Zemaitis First Name Janice Category Retirement School Lingerfeldt Elementary School 24 Agenda Item Meeting Date: 1/30/2025 Agenda Item Title/Topic: Budget Amendments and Budget Transfers Type of Item: R Consent R 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 2024-2025 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, CFO and Department: Finance Associate Superintendent 25 Gaston County! Schools Changes in Appropriations 2024-2025 Budget Resolution December Transfers Between Functions State Publics School Fund Function Expense Increase Expense Decrease 3,781,244 13,721 Description 51000 Regular Instructional Services 52000 Special Population Services 53000 Alternative Programs and! Services 54000 School Leadership Services 58000 School-Based Support Services 61000 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 72000 Nutrition: Services 500,065 971,040 836,229 682,476 1,272,460 23,468 64,987 115,942 351,445 267,818 52,438 69000 Policy, Leadership and Communication/Public Information Services 4,466,665 4,466,665 Explanation: These transfers adjust budgeted amounts per requests from fund managers/principals. 26 Gaston County Schools Changes in Appropriations 2024-2025 Budget Resolution December Transfers Between Functions Local Current Expense Fund Function Expense Increase 13,116 5,153 3,841 52,231 Expense Decrease 48,808 1,482 Description 51000 Regular Instructional: Services 52000 Special Population: Services 53000 Alternative Programs and! Services 54000 Schooll Leadership Services 58000 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 72000 Nutrition Services 77,770 2,793 107,168 204,001 92,703 173,472 122,380 9,094 69000 Policy, Leadership and Communication/Pubic Information: Services 29,966 471,988 471,988 Explanation: These transfers adjust budgeted amounts per requests from fund managers/principals. 27 Gaston County Schools Changes in Appropriations 2024-2025 Budget Resolution December Transfers Between Functions Federal Grants Fund Function Expense Increase 29,854 Expense Decrease 7,586 8,000 14,268 Description 53000 Alternative Programs and Services 58000 School-E -Based Support Services 65000 Operational Support Services 81000 Payments to Other Governmental Units 29,854 29,854 Explanation: These transfers adjust budgeted amounts per requests from fund managers/principals. 28 Gaston County! Schools Changesi in Appropriations 2024-2025 Budget Resolution December Transfers Between Functions Restricted Grants Fund Function Expense Increase 1,500 250,000 57,000 100,000 38,760 Expense Decrease 408,500 Description 52000 Special Population. Services 53000 Alternative Programs and Services 58000 School-Based: Support Services 62000 Special Population! Support and Development: Services 65000 Operational Support Services 66000 Financial and Human Resource: Services 69000 Policy, Leadership and Communication/Public. Information: Services 38,760 447,260 447,260 Explanation: These transfers adjust budgeted amounts per requests from fund managers/principals. 29 Gaston County Schools Changes in Appropriations 2024-2025 Budget Resolution- December Proposed Expenditures and Sources of Revenue State Public School Fund Expense Increase (Decrease) 100 Revenue increase (Decrease) 100 # 1 Function Description 31000 Revenue- State Public. School Fund 51000 Regular Instructional Services This amendment budgets fundsf for the Non-Instructional. Support Personnel allotment- Holocaust: Sub Pay Reimbursement- Allotment Revision #58-FY25 (PRC0003) 2 48000 Local Sources Restricted 51000 Regular Instructional Services 52000 Special Population! Services 53000 Alternative Programs and Services 54000 School Leadership Services 58000 School-Based Support Services 62000 Special Population. Support and Development: Services 63000 Alternative Programs and Services Support and Development: Servic 65000 Operational Support Services 66000 Financial and Human Resource: Services 69000 Policy, Leadership and Communication/Public Information. Services This amendment budgets fundsf for the Non-Contributory Employee Benefits 139,526 39,114 5,597 5,665 17,600 23,397 6,554 893 33,262 6,205 1,239 allotment- FY25 (PRC0009) 3 31000 Revenue State Public School Fund 51000 Regular Instructional Services 144,609 144,609 This amendment budgets funds for the School Technology Funda allotment- Feb- June 20241 Interest- Allotment Revision #39-F FY25 (PRC0015) 31000 Revenue State Public School Fund 58000 School-Based: Support Services Bonus- Allotment Revision #58 FY25 (PRC0046) 31000 Revenue State Public School Fund 51000 Regular Instructional: Services 52000 Special Population! Services 54000 School Leadership. Services Allotment Revision #58- FY25 (PRC0048) 4 155,548 155,548 This amendment budgets fundsf fort the Third Grade Readt toA Achieve Teacher 5 480,988 240,494 120,247 120,247 This amendment budgets funds for the Principal and Other Teacher Performance 30 State Public School Fund Expense Increase (Decrease) 356,495 Revenue Increase (Decrease) 356,495 # 6 Function Description 31000 Revenue -Statel Public School Fund 51000 Regular Instructional Services allotment Allotment Revision #50- FY25 (PRC0083) 31000 Revenue- State Public School. Fund 51000 Regular Instructional Services 58000 School-Based: Support Services This amendment budgets fundsf for the Average Daily Membership (ADM) Growth Allotment Revision #57-FY25 (PRC0094) This amendment budgets fundsf for the Career Technical Education Credential 7 4,444,755 2,444,755 2,000,000 Total State Public School Fund Amendments 5,722,021 5,722,021 31 Gaston County Schools Changes in Appropriations 2024-2025 Budget Resolution- December Proposed Expenditures and Sources of Revenue Federal Current Expense Fund # Function Expense Increase (Decrease) 16,328 Revenue Increase (Decrease) 16,328 Description 1 36000 Federal Revenue 51000 Regular Instructional Services This amendment adjusts funds for the Career and' Technical Education Allotment- FY25 (PRC0017) 2 36000 Federal Revenue FY25 (PRC0026) 3 36000 Federal Revenue 52000 Special Population Services 81000 Payments to Other Governmental Units 1,087 53000 Alternative Programs and Services 1,087 This amendment budgets fundsf for the McKinney' Vento Homeless Assistant. Allotment- 83,314 80,769 2,545 This amendment: adjusts funds for the IDEA- Section 619 Preschool Grant- -FY25 (PRC0049) 4 36000 Federal Revenue 29,215 53000 Alternative Programs and Services 29,215 This amendment adjusts funds for the Title! L, Part A Allotment FY25 (PRC0050) 5 36000 Federal Revenue 52000 Special Population! Services Allotment- FY25 (PRC0082) 6 36000 Federal Revenue (PRC0103) 8,500 8,500 This amendment budgets fundsf for the IDEA- Special Educations State improvement (28,799) 61000 Support and Development: Services (28,799) This amendment adjusts funds for thel Title Il, PartA A- Support Allotment- FY25 7 36000 Federal Revenue 52000 Special Population! Services (PRC0104) 12,428 12,428 This amendment adjusts funds for the Titlel II, Part A- English Language Allotment- FY25 32 Federal Current Expense Fund Expense Increase (Decrease) 399 Revenue Increase (Decrease) 399 Function 36000 Federal Revenue 58000 School- Based Support Services Description This amendment budgets fundsf for the Title IV, Part A- Student Support Allotment -FY25 (PRC0108) 9 36000 Federal Revenue 160,648 53000 Alternative Programs and's Services 81000 Payments to Other Governmental Units 145,323 15,325 This amendment adjusts funds for the ESEA1 Titlel I- School Improvement Allotment- FY25 (PRC0115) 10 36000 Federal Revenue 52000 Special Population Services FY25 (PRC0118) 11 36000 Federal Revenue 12,000 12,000 This amendment: adjusts funds for the Title VI, Part B- Special Needs Target Allotment- (12,038) 53000 Alternative Programs and Services 81000 Payments to Other Governmental Units (11,683) (354) This amendment adjusts funds fort the ESSERI III- Math Enrichment Programs Allotment Grant- FY25 (PRC0189) Total Local Current Expense Fund Account 283,083 283,083 33 Gaston County! Schools Changes in Appropriations 2024-2025 Budget Resolution December Proposed Expenditures and Sources of Revenue Restricted Grants Fund # 1 Expense Increase (Decrease) 20,000 20,000 Revenue Increase (Decrease) 40,000 Function Description 48000 Local Sources Restricted 51000 Regular Instructional. Services 55000 Co-Curricular Services FY25(PRC0540) This amendment adjusts funds received for thel Reimbursement from School Funds- 2 48000 Local Sources- Restricted 71000 Community! Services 5,000 5,000 This amendment budgets funds received for the Community Use Fund FY25 (PRC0704) 3 48000 Local Sources Restricted 65000 Operational Support Services 106,545 106,545 This amendment budgets funds received for the Transportation Activity Bus Fund - FY25 (PRC0706) Total Restricted Grants Fund Amendments 151,545 151,545 34 Agenda Item Meeting Date: 1/30/2025 Agenda Item Title/Topic: Construction/Repar Change Orders Type of Item: X Consent R Action h 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/repar change orders. Policy Implications: Policy Code: 9030 Facility Construction Strategic Goal Alignment: Other: Policy or Gen Statute. See above. Submitted by: Bessie Harvey, Assistant Department: Facilities Superintendent of Operations 35 36 Agenda Item Meeting Date: 1/30/2025 Agenda Item Title/Topic: Board Policy Updates Type of Item: R Consent BA Action Information Main Points: Recent changes in the law and State Board of Education Policies, and general maintenance of policies upon review by staff, require revisions to Gaston County Policies. Drafts of revised policies were placed on the GCS website for general review. See attached for complete list of policies to be revised. Fiscal Implications: None Recommendation: Board of Education approval of proposed policy updates. Policy Implications: Board of Education Policies will be updated. Strategic Goal Alignment: Other: Policy or Gen Statute. See above. Submitted by: Sonya C. McGraw Department: Legal 37 GCS Board Retreat January 30, 2025 GCSPolicy! # PLS Policy# PolicyTitle Adopt Revise Updates as Presented at December 16, 2025 Public Participation at Board Meetings 2310 3230/7370 3280/7385 3410 3530 4020 4320 4329/7311 5021 5025/7280 5150 6120 8685 2310 3225/4312/7320 Technology Responsible Use 3227/7322 Web Page Development X 3410 6140 Testing and Assessment Program Student Wellness x X 1310/4002 Parental. Involvement 4320 Tobacco Products- Students X 4329/7311 Bullying and Harassing Behavior Prohibited 5022 Registered Sex Offenders X X 5026/7250 Smoking and Tobacco Products 5150 6120 8305 Reporting to External Agencies Student Health Services Federal Grant Administration X Updates as Presented at. January 6, 2025 Meetings 4200 1510/4200/7270 School Safety 38 SCHOOL SAFETY Policy Code: 4200 Safe schools are critical to creating a learning environment in which students can succeed. Staff and students share the responsibility for taking reasonable precautions and following established safety measures to create and maintain safe schools. The following safety measures must be implemented at each school. A. SUPERVISION OF STUDENTS Students must be reasonably supervised while in the care and custody oft the school system. This supervision must occur throughout school hours, including during class, between classes, on the playground, and during recess or lunch periods; during authorized school field trips; and on school buses. Reasonable precautions should be taken to protect the safety ofstudents on school grounds and on buses before, during, and after school. Students who are subject to policy 4260, Student Sex Offenders, and are receiving educational services-on.school property must be ara times B. BD School administrtorshal strictly Visitors tothe Schools. SAFETYOF SCHOOL BUMARGSAMPCROUNDS The board recognizes its duty to provide each ofits employees with a workplace free from recognized hazards that are causing or are likely to cause death or serious physical harm. The superintendent and each building principal shall comply with all duties set out for their respective positions in G.S.115C-288()andandG.S.115C-525 toi minimize firel hazards. The principal is required to inspect school buildings, playgrounds, and equipment for health, fire, and safety hazards on a regular basis, as required by law, and to notify the superintendent immediately of unsanitary conditions or repairs needed to meet safety Any employee who observes any potential hazards must notify the principal or the All warning systems must meet building and equipment codes required by law and must be properly maintained. When necessary, proper signs indicating potential hazards or APT standards. employee'ss supervisor immediately. recommended safety precautions must be posted. GASTON COUNTY SCHOOLS 39 SCHOOLSAFETY Policy Code: 4200 D. ESTABLISHING PROCESSES TO ADDRESS POTENTIAL SAFETY CONCERNS AND EMERGENCIES 1. Responding to Student Altercations and Other Threats to Safety All school system employees have a duty to be alert at all times to situations that may pose a threat to the safety of students, employees, or visitors on school property, at school events, or in other situations in which the students are under the authority ofschool employees. Even an employee who does not have responsibility for supervising students is expected to make an immediate report if the employee observes or has reason to suspect that a situation poses a threat to safety and no administrator, teacher, or other supervisory employee is present and aware of the Teachers, teacher assistants, coaches, and other employees with responsibility for supervising students will use appropriate student behavior management techniques tomaintain order and discipline on school property, at school events, and anywhere that students are under the employees' authority., Such employees must enforce the Code of SludenConduct and address student behavior in-accordance with-the school planfor management of student behavior (seepolicy 4302, SchoolP Plan for When employees with responsibility for superyising students have personal knowledgeor: actual notice of sstudemtllerationut other situation thatposesan immediatethreat tosafety, they shall usètheir professional judgment to détermine how best toaddressthe situation to protèctthe safety of everyone in the yicinity. mepmaPcdir-alamdines in a studentis.Behavior Intervention.Plamahal. be followed to the maximum extent possible under the circumstances. For minor threats or altercations or altercations involving young children, the employee shall intervene directly to end the fight or address the safety threat ift the employee can do SO safely. An employee who encounters a situation that cannot be managed safely and effectively by that employee immediately shall request assistance from other employees or administrative staff and shall take steps to remove bystanders from the area. Only the degree of force or physical control reasonably necessary Employees should take further action as appropriate in accordance with any response protocols established by the principal or superintendent. All employees are responsible for knowing and following such protocols to the fullest extent potential threat. Management of Student Behavior)/ shall be used to re-establish a safe environment. reasonable under the circumstances at the time. 2. School Rules The principal or designee shall develop rules to help prevent accidents in school buildings, on school buses, and on school grounds. GASION COUNTY SCHOOLS 40 SCHOOL SAFETY Policy Code: 4200 3. Training ferSlaffandSidents Staff training must include detailed instruction on how to respond to a variety of emergency situations. Staff should also be able to recognize and respond to behavior, information, and related indicators that warn ofimpending problems. In addition, middle and high school employees must receive adequate training on the School personnel must teach and review with students (1) safety procedures, including fire safety procedures; (2) precautions for handling chemicals or potentially dangerous equipment; and (3)a appropriate responses to threats to school safety. Middle and high school students must also be informed oft the anonymous Training must be provided annually for all school system stakeholders (including staff, students, parents. coaches, volunteers. and community members) on how to recognize. and how and when to report, threats to the school population or operation of the school's anonymous safety tip line. safety tip line and its purpose and function. community. Safety Equipment 4. ar School employees shall provide students and visitors with safety equipment as required by laws and shall enforce school rules pertaining to wearing safety equipment. School employees shall weara and use appropriate safety equipment as required for the safe performance of their specific job assignments. Planning for Emergencies. and Conducting Fire Drills'and Other Emergency. Drills The board, in coordination with local law enforcement and emergency management agencies, will adopt a school risk management plan relating to incidents of school violence for each school in the school system. The superintendent must provide the Department of Public Safety's Division of Emergency Management (Division) with emergency response information it requests for the school risk management plan and updated emergency response information when such updates are made. The superintendent must also provide the Division and local law enforcement with schematic diagrams, including digital schematic diagrams, of all school facilities and updates of the schematic diagrams when the school system makes substantial facility modifications, such as the addition of new facilities or modifications to doors or windows. Schematic diagrams must meet any standards established by the Department of Public Instruction for the preparation and content of the diagrams. In addition, the superintendent shall provide local law enforcement with (1) either keys to the main entrance ofall school buildings or emergency access to key storage devices for all school buildings and (2) updated access to school buildings when changes are made to the locks oft the main entrances or to the key 5. storage devices. GASTON COUNTY SCHOOLS 41 SCHOOL SAFETY Policy Code: 4200 At least one school-wide tabletop exercise and drill that meets the requirements of state law andi is based on the procedures documented int the school risk management plan will be held annually at each school. Principals shall also conduct fire drills asr required by law. 6. Reporting Risks to the School Population Students should notify any staff member of any acts of violence, harassment, or bullying or any other unusual or suspicious behavior that may endanger safety. Middle and high school students may also use the anonymous safety tip line to report any risks to the school population or buildings. Ongoing student education efforts will aim at minimizing any fear, peer pressure, embarrassment, or other Maintaining a safe school environment that is conducive to learning requires staff to be proactive in dealing with violence, harassment, and bullying. Staff members must report immediately to the principal any information regarding unusual or School officials shall investigate and act upon any report! of such behavior, including, when appropriate, referring reports to the school threat assessmént team and reporting criminal activities to law enforcement, the State Board, the State Superintendent of Public Instruction, and the superintendent or designee (see poliçies 1710/4023/7230, Discrimination and Harassment Prohibited by Federal Law, 1725/4035/7236, Title IX Sexual Dsrminaton-aseNt - Prohibited Conduct and epetingee-Cnane Procedures, 264067278EX Sexual-HerasmenPrees$,-4375.7310, Staff-Student Relations, 4329/7311, Bullying and Harassing Behavior Prohibited, and 4335, Criminal ehavior,amd-72323,PseHmnieRaReHaRsmetInthe-Werkplaee. impediments to students reporting potential problems. suspicious behavior or acts of violence, harassment, or bullying. 7. Potential Threats of Registered Sex Offenders The principal of each school shall register with the North Carolina Sex Offender and Public Protection Registry to receive e-mail notification when a registered sex offender moves within a one-mile radius of the school. 8. Student Behavior Standards Students are expected to meet behavior standards set forth in board policies. E. THREAT ASSESSMENTTEAMS In accordance with G.S. 115C-105.65. the superintendent shall establish a multidisciplinary threat assessment team for each school within the school system to identify, assess, and manage behavior of students or others who may pose a risk ofviolence or harm to self or others. The threat assessment teams will include. but are not limited to, GASTON COUNTY SCHOOLS 42 SCHOOL SAFETY Policy Code: 4200 individuals with expertise in counseling, instruction, school administration, and law enforcement. When practicable, at least one school psychologist. one staff member knowledgeable about and experienced in working with students with special needs. and one staff member knowledgeable about and experienced in working with students with disabilities will be assigned to each threat assessment team. Ifaschool psychologist is not available, a licensed mental health professional may be assigned instead. A member of each threat assessment team will operate as team leader with the responsibility to ensure adherence to the threat assessment process, ensure proper documentation of reports of threats and threat assessment activities, and facilitate collaborative team discussions to The superintendent shall designate a school system administrator to oversee the school system's threat assessment program and to serve as liaison between the school system and the North Carolina Center for Safer Schools (CSS). The superintendent or designee shall also establish a committee composed of individuals with expertise in human resources, education, school administration. mental health, and law enforcement that will coordinate and monitor the threat assessment teams operating within the school system. ensure various perspectives are considered. Training - All team members will receive behavioral threat assessment and management training annually prior to the startoftheschool: year. Individualsv whoj join thet team inthe middle of the school year must receive training within 60 calendar days of joining the team. Assessment and Intervention 2. Unless the superintendent establishes a different classification system in the threat assessment protocols developed pursuant to subsection E.4 of this policy, threat assessment teams will use the levels of concern table listed in the behavioral threat assessment and management guidance issued by CSS in assessing the level ofthreat Upon determining that a student poses a threat, the threat assessment team will develop a written student support, intervention. and monitoring management plan that establishes interventions and specifies required monitoring times oft the student based on the level of concern the student presents. To effectively manage and mitigate potential risk. interventions must focus on building resilience and protective factors for the student while also addressing safety concerns. posed and forming a response to threats. 3. Information Sharing Parents of a student or minor will be notified as soon as practicable that a threat assessment willl be ori is being conducted on their child. The threat assessment team will contact the parents and provide them the opportunity to participate in the threat assessment. The team is not required to extend the invitation to participate ifthe GASTON COUNTY SCHOOLS 43 SCHOOL SAFETY Policy Code: 4200 student or minor discloses abuse or neglect from the parent. Once a threat assessment is completed, the team will provide its findings and conclusions to the parents. including any interventions the team is recommending be put in place for the well-being oft their child and the school community and any school system or community resources that may be useful for the parents in seeking help for their When the threat assessment team learns that an individual has threatened specific harm to an identifiable potential victim, the team will provide notice of the threat to the potential victim and, if the potential victim is a student or minor. provide Any information sharing by, with, or between members of the threat assessment teams will be done in accordance with the federal Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and any other applicable state or federal law. (See policy 2125/7315, Confidential Information). Members of a threat assessment team who are not school system employees must sign a written agreement to adhere to the responsibilities and requirements of FERPA before having access to student child. notice to the parents. records. 4. Threat Assessment Protocols In-consultation with CSS guidance and with established threat assessment teams within the school system. the superintendent shall develop. implement, and update threat assessment protocols and procedures that comply with the requirements of G.S. 115C-105.65. At a minimum, these protocols and procedures will delineate thei roles and duties tol be performed by designated threat assessment team members. the expertise and training of professionals who will serve on threat assessment teams. the steps to be followed in the threat assessment process, including the implementation ofinterventions. supports. and community services. the timeframe required to responsibly act upon reported concerns, and the engagement of school resource officers and/or law enforcement in the threat assessment process. and the process of documenting reports of threats and threat assessment activities. The protocols and procedures will differentiate between assessment and intervention at The superintendent or designee shall send a copy of this policy and the threat assessment protocols and procedures to CSS when approved or revised. In addition, the superintendent shall ensure that quantitative data on the activities of all threat assessment teams is reported to CSS as required by GS.115C-105.6500) the elementary, middle, and high school levels, as appropriate. and CSS guidance. Legal References: 29 C.F.R. part 1904; G.S. 14-208.18; 95-129(1); 115C-36, -47,-105.49,- 10551,-1055,10554, 105.65.-166,-167.288.289.1,307,-3903.391.1,-521,-524,25; I3N.C.A.C.7A.0301; 161 N.C.A.C. 6E. .0107; State Board of Education Policy SCFC-005 GASTON COUNTY SCHOOLS 44 SCHOOL SAFETY Policy Code: 4200 Other Resources: Practical Information on Crisis Planning: A Guide for Schools and Commmities, U.S. Department of Education, Office of Safe and Drug-Free Schools (January 2007),available at ttp:/www2.ed.ged.govAdmins/cadsatety/crisisplanning.htm!; Behavioral Threat Assessment and Management: Best Practice Guidance for North Carolina Behavioral Threat Assessment and Management Teams for Harm Prevention. N.C. Department of Public Instruction Center for Safer Schools (March 2024), available at htps/www.dpine.gv/best-practice- udance-north-caroima-ehavon-tireatassessmensment-and-management-teams-harm Adopted: 07/16/2001 Revised: 12/17/2012, 12/62013,08222016,12/82017, 12172018,06/1320132019,0621/2021, 06/20/2022, 11/21/2022 DRAFT GASTON COUNTY SCHOOLS 45 Agenda Item Meeting Date: 1/30/2025 Agenda Item Title/Topic: Early Colleges Calendar 2025-2026 Type of Item: Consent Main Points: Action Information The Gaston Early College High School and the Gaston Early College of Medical Sciences are North Carolina Cooperative Innovative High Schools located on the Gaston College main campus in Dallas. Each year, a school calendar (separate from the school calendar used by Gaston County Schools) is created for the Gaston Early College High School and the Gaston Early College of Medical Sciences that aligns with the Gaston College semester calendar - this is necessary primarily to accommodate the colege-levelcourses Iti is standard practice for administration from the Gaston Early College High School and the Gaston Early College of Medical Sciences to work with administration from Gaston that are taken by Early College students. College to develop a draft calendar. Fiscal Implications: Recommendation: N/A The recommendation is for the Board of Education to approve the 2025-2026 school calendar for the Gaston Early College High School and the Gaston Early College of Medical Sciences as presented to the Board for review and consideration. Policy Implications: NC General Statute 115C-84.2 guides the development of a school calendar; however, North Carolina Cooperative Innovative High Schools have flexibility in developing a school calendar to ensure that it aligns appropriately with the community college's calendar and semester schedule. Strategic Goal Alignment: Other: Policy or Gen Statute. See above. Submitted by: Tonya Kales Department: Academics Associate Superintendent 46 Gaston Early College High School 2025-2026 DRAFT School Calendar July2025 1 2 3 4 5 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 10 27 28 29 30 31 August 2025 September 2025 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 Su M Tu W Th F S Su M Tu W Th F S Su M Tu W Th F S 1 2 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 12 13 14 15 16 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 28 29 30 31 15 20 20 employee days November. 2025 22 employee days December 2025 1 2 3 4 5 6 October 2025 Su M Tu W Th F S Su M TU W Th F S Su M Tu W Th F S 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 1 2 3 4 1 20 15 26 27 28 29 30 31 23 employee days January 2026 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 28 29 30 31 20.5 30 16 20 employee days February 2026 23 employee days March 2026 Su M Tu W Th F S Su M Tu W Th F S Su M Tu W Th F S 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 1 2 3 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 7 8 9 10 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 4 5 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 22 employee days April 2026 1 2 3 4 19 29 30 31 19.5 18 20 employee days May 2026 22 employee days June 2026 1 2 3 4 5 6 Su M Tu W Th F S Su M Tu W Th F S Su M Tu W Th F S 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 17 18 9 20 21 22 23 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 1 2 26 27 28 29 30 22 employee days 18 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 28 29 30 13 2lemployee days Mandated Teacher Workday First and Last Day of School School Closed / Holiday Annual Leave Optional Teacher Workday 47 July 4- Independence Day (Holiday) August 4- Optional Teacher Workday August 5, 6,7, 8- - Mandated Teacher Workdays August 11 -Students' First Day of High School September 1-L Labor Day (Holiday) September 11 - Interims September 26- Optional Teacher Workday October 10- First 9-Week Grading Period Ends (43 days) October 16- Parent-Teacher Conferences (early dismissal) October 17, 20- Optional Teacher Workday October 23- - Report Cards Distributed November 7- Veterans' Day Observed (Holiday) November 13- - Interims November 26- Teacher Annual Leave November 27, 28-T Thanksgiving (Holidays) August 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 18, 19,20,21,22- College Supervision (Gaston College begins 8/25) August 25- -Students' First Day of Fall Semester Gaston College Classes October 21 - College Supervision (Gaston College Fall Break 10/16, 10/17, 10/20, 10/21) *Gaston. College doeniobieneVeteron DayonNovl 11,soin orderf for GECsGCSstotftoreceivetnspoid holiday. this holidaywill be observed OnNov7." December 16- Students' Last Day of Fall Semester Gaston College Classes "Goston.Colegewil nothave anExamy Window. GECwill have ar modiedschedule December 17, 18, 19- College Supervision (Gaston College Winter Break begins 12/17) December 15, 16, 17, 18, 19- Gaston Early College Exams GEC operate a modified: sched O December 19- End of Ist Semester / Second 9-Week Grading Period Ends (43.5 days) January I - New Year's Day (Holiday) January 2- Optional Teacher Workday January: 5- Mandated Teacher Workday January 6 - Students' First Day of Spring Semester January 8- Report Cards Distributed 7,12/18 12/19t0 complete alle exams" on January 6,7,8,9- College Supervision (Gaston College begins 1/12) January 12- Students' First Day of Spring Semester Gaston College Classes January 19 - Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day (Holiday & Gaston College Closed) February 9 - Optional Teacher Workday (President's Day Observed) February 9, 10,11-C College Supervision (Gaston College Closed) March 10 End of 3rd 9 Weeks Grading Period Ends (44 days) March 12- Parent-Teacher Conferences (early dismissal) March 11, 12, 13, 16, 17- College Supervision (Gaston College Break) March 16- Optional Teacher Workday March 19 3rd 9 Weeks Report Cards Distributed April 2, 3,6,7- College! Supervision (Gaston College Break) February 5-1 Interims March 13-A Annual Leave April 2-A Annual Leave April 3- Holiday April 6, 7- Annual Leave April 16 Interims May 14 Students' Last Day of Spring Semester Gaston College Classes ***Gaston College willr nothave an Examy Window. GECwill have a modifedschedule 12/15, 12/16, 12/17,1 May 15, 18, 19- College Supervision (Gaston College Summer Break begins May 15) 12/19to.complete alle exams*" May 15- Gaston College Graduation May 12, 13, 14, 15, 16- Gaston Early College Exams May 19 Graduation 48 Agenda Item Meeting Date: 1/30/2025 Agenda Item Title/Topic: Contracts and Expenditures >$100,000 Type of Item: R Consent K Action D Information 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 Associate Superintendent 49 Agenda Item Meeting Date: 1/30/2025 Agenda Item Title/Topic: AIS Digital Imaging (formally Scribbles) Type of Item: Consent B Action Information Main Points: Purging, scanning, and storage of EC and Student Records. Fiscal implications: Contract not to exceed $425,000. Recommendation: Board approval of contract. Policy Implications: None Strategic Goal Alignment: Goal 2. Every member of our diverse population has the opportunity for individualized instruction. Submitted by: Dr. Rebekka Powers Department: Student Support Services Assistant Superintendent 50 Agenda Item Meeting Date: 1/30/2025 Agenda Item Title/Topic: Catawba Heights Elementary School's Full Freezer/Cooler Replacement Type of Item: X Consent B Action R Information Main Points: The freezer/cooler is 30+ years old, (GCS) is having multiple issues and are unable to find replacement parts. Fiscal Implications: There were five (5) vendors invited with four (4) vendors attending the mandatory pre-bid meeting held at Catawba Heights Elementary School on Wednesday, November 20, 2024. Bidding had to go to a second round due to a shortage of bidders the first round. Only Randolph and Sons Builders, Inc, submitted a bid during the second round at a cost of $481,850. Recommendation: Award a contract to Randolph and Sons, Inc., at a cost of $481,850 for a fullfreezer/cooler replacement at Catawba Heights Elementary School. Policy implications: N/A Strategic Goal Alignment: Goal 5. Every student has the opportunity to learn in a safe school environment. Submitted by: Bessie Harvey Department: Assistant Superintendent of Operations 51 Agenda Item Meeting Date: 1/30/2025 Agenda Item Title/Topic: Sherwood Elementary School's Full Freezer/Cooler Replacement Type of Item: 3 Consent Action K Information Main Points: The freezer/cooler is 30+ years old, (GCS) is having multiple issues and are unable to find replacement parts. Fiscal Implications: There were five (5) vendors invited with four (4) vendors attending the mandatory pre-bid meeting held at Sherwood Elementary on Wednesday, November 20, 2024. Three (3) vendors submitted a bid with Randolph and Sons, Inc., providing the lowest bid at $322,733. Recommendation: Award a contract to Randolph and Sons, Inc., at a cost of $322,7331 forafulfreezerlcooler replacement at Sherwood Elementary School Policy Implications: N/A Strategic Goal Alignment: Goal 5. Every student has the opportunity to learn in a safe school environment. Submitted by: Bessie Harvey Department: Assistant Superintendent of Operations 52 Agenda Item Meeting Date: 1/30/2025 Agenda Item Title/Topic: Mount Holly Middle School's Full Freezer/Cooler Replacement Type of Item: R Consent R Action R Information Main Points: The freezer/cooler is 30+ years old, (GCS) is having multiple issues and are unable to find replacement parts. Fiscal implications: There were five (5) vendors invited with four (4) vendors attending the mandatory pre-bid meeting held at Mount Holly Middle School on Wednesday, November 20, 2024. Three (3) vendors submitted a bid with Liles Construction providing the lowest bid at $356,651.78. Recommendation: Award a contract to Liles Construction at a cost of $356,651.78 for a full freezer/cooler replacement at Mount Holly 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: Bessie Harvey Department: Assistant Superintendent of Operations 53 Agenda Item Meeting Date: 1/30/2025 Agenda Item Title/Topic: W.C. Friday Middle School's Full Freezer/Cooler Replacement Type of Item: K Consent Action K Information Main Points: The freezer/cooler is 30+ years old, (GCS) is having multiple issues and are unable to find replacement parts. Fiscal Implications: There were five (5) vendors invited with four (4) vendors attending the mandatory pre-bid meeting held at W.C. Friday Middle School on Wednesday, November 20, 2024. Three (3) vendors submitted a bid with Liles Construction providing the lowest bid at $173,801.68. Recommendation: Award a contract to Liles Construction at a cost of $173,801.68 for a full freezer/cooler replacement at W.C. Friday 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: Bessie Harvey Department: Assistant Superintendent of Operations 54 Agenda Item Meeting Date: 1/30/2025 Agenda Item Title/Topic: Hunter Huss High School's Full Freezer/Cooler Replacement Type of Item: R Consent R Action X Information Main Points: The freezer/cooler is 30+ years old (GCS) is having multiple issues and are unable to find replacement replacement parts. Fiscal Implications: There were five (5) vendors invited with four (4) vendors attending the mandatory pre-bid meeting held at Hunter Huss High School on Wednesday, November 20, 2024. Three (3) vendors submitted a bid with Liles Construction providing the lowest bid at $266,877.92. Recommendation: Award a contract to Liles Construction at a cost of $266,877.92 for a full freezer/cooler replacement at Hunter Huss High School. Policy Implications: N/A Strategic Goal Alignment: Goal 5. Every student has the opportunity to learn in a safe school environment. Submitted by: Bessie Harvey Department: Assistant Superintendent of Operations 55 Agenda Item Meeting Date: 1/30/2025 Agenda Item Title/Topic: Independent Auditors (Contract Amendment) Type of Item: R Consent K Action l Information Main Points: In March 2024 the Board approved a contract with Forvis, LLP (Forvis) to conduct the independent audit for Gaston County Schools for the fiscal year 2023-2024. Forvis replaced Anderson Smith & Wike PLLC (ASW) which had provided audit services to Gaston County Schools for a number of years. However, our primary audit partner with ASW retired and was not replaced. As a result, we signed a contract with Forvis to provide our audit services for $55,000. However, due to an unexpected increase in the hours to complete the audit the contract was amended in December 2024 to $81,300. The increase in hours was largely due to being a new customer on a unique system with some lingering issues resulting from the conversion which were resolved with the assistance of the auditors. Fiscal Implications: The revised annual audit fees for fiscal year 2023-2024 are projected to cost $81,300. Recommendation: NA 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 56 Agenda Item Meeting Date: 1/30/2025 Agenda Item Title/Topic: Wide Area Network (WAN) Type of Item: K Consent R Action OInformation Main Points: The Wide Area Network (WAN) connects all Gaston County Schools sites together and allows Internet access to all sites through our main data centers. The current contract for the WAN service expires on June 30, 2025. The new contract will begin on July 1, 2025 and continues until June 30, 2028, with five, one year optional renewals. Two bids were received from AT&T and Spectrum. The bids were evaluated based on price, prior experience, technical response, other cost factors, compliance with RFP specitications, and responder references, with price holding the highest value. Based on our evaluation, we recommend the contract be awarded to AT&T. Fiscal implications: The contracted annual rate of $288,000 for WAN services will be an expenditure that is included in the TSS operational budget. Recommendation: Award contract to AT&T for WAN services for GCS. Policy Implications: None Strategic Goal Alignment: Goal 4. Every school has up-to-date technology to support teaching and learning. Submitted by: Curtis Poplin, Chief Technology Officer Department: TSS 57 Agenda Item Meeting Date: 1/30/2025 Agenda Item Title/Topic: Annual Renewal - Data Processing (CherryRoad Technologies) Type of Item: Consent R Action Information Main Points: In 2016, the General Assembly passed School Business Systems Modernization legislation which required all NC school systems to modernize their software systems. As aresult, in August 2019, our Board approved replacing Sunpac/AS400 and several other older legacy software vendors with Oracle Cloud Services. GCS signed a five-year contract with CherryRoad Technologies (CRT) to provide Oracle Cloud Services and software support services. This contract was approved and negotiated by DPI and the fees were based on ADM. The first year of the contract (2020) was paid by DPI and the remaining four years (2021-2024) were paid by the GCS. We are entering the first of four one-year option periods which provides for a 3% increase in the annual fee. Fiscal implications: The amount due to CRT for an additional year of Oracle Cloud Services and software support is $287,106 which is paid from local operating revenues. Recommendation: Approve the annual contract extension with CherryRoad Technologies. Policy Implications: Policy Code: 3220 Technology in the Educational Program Strategic Goal Alignment: Other: Policy or Gen Statute. See above. Submitted by: Gary F. Hoskins, CFO and Department: Finance Associate Superintendent 58 Agenda Item Meeting Date: 1/30/2025 Agenda Item Title/Topic: Sole Source Authorization - MCA (Motorola) Type of Item: 3 Consent 3 Action . Information Main Points: To enhance emergency communications between our schools and Gaston County Emergency Management systems, we need to update the emergency communication capabilities in each of our schools. Mobile Communications America (MCA), known as Motorola, is the sole source vendor for these services for Gaston County. MCA has a proven track record of reliability in our District. We propose using MCA to upgrade our emergency communication capabilities to ensure compatibility with the County emergency communication systems. Fiscal Implications: The cost of upgrading the emergency communication systems will vary for each school, depending in part on the size and construction of the building. Initial estimates project the total cost to be up to $5 million. Funding for these upgrades will be provided from the $110 million 2025 school bonds. Recommendation: Approve Mobile Communications America (MCA) as a sole source provider for providing emergency communication upgrades throughout the District. Policy Implications: Board Policy: 9220 Security of Facilities Strategic Goal Alignment: Goal 5. Every student has the opportunity to learn in a safe school environment. Submitted by: Bessie Harvey, Assistant Department: Operations Superintendent of Operations 59 Agenda Item Meeting Date: 1/30/2025 Agenda Item Title/Topic: Closed Session Type of Item: Consent Action RI 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(0)6) Personnel N.C.G.S. $143-318.11(a)3) Consultation with Attorney and to receive advice with respect to the lawsuits captioned: In order 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 Education -21-CVS-5018 Brittain VS. Beason and The Gaston County Board of Education -21-CVS-5019 Long VS. The Gaston County Board of Education 323-CV-643-RUC-DCK Roger Perkins VS. The Gaston County Board of Education --Any other legal matters. Fiscal Implications: N/A Recommendation: 60 Board to consider information provided in Closed Session in accordance with G.S. $143- 318.11. Policy Implications: N/A Strategic Goal Alignment: Other: Policy or Gen Statute. See above. Submitted by: Sonya McGraw, Attorney Department: Legal/Superintendents Office 61