GASTON COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION REGULAR SESSION County gaoy Schools Shaping Our Future 943 Osceola Street, Gastonia, NC 28054 March 17, 2025 5:30 p.m. Agenda Item Meeting Date: 3/17/2025 Agenda Item Title/Topic: Agenda Adoption Type of Item: Consent Action Information Main Points: Consideration of Formal Agenda for Monday, March 17, 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 Jeff K. Ramsey, At Large Tod Kinlaw, South Point Township Janna Smith, Gastonia Township Robbie Lovelace, Cherryville Township A.M. Stephens, III, Riverbend Township Brent Moore, Crowders Mountain Township Bor County Schools Dr. Morgen A. Houchard, Superintendent 943 Osceola Street, Gastonia, NC 28054 Monday, March 17, 2025 5:30 p.m. Agenda Regular Meeting Page(s) I. Call to Order II. Invocation III. Pledge of Allegiance IV. Agenda Adoption = Action. 1-3 V. Good News - Information 4-9 VI. Classroom Moment. 10 VII. Public Expression = Information 11 VIII. Approval/Correction of Minutes - Action 12 February 17, 2025 (Regular Meeting) 13-19 February 28, 2025 (Legislative Meeting) 20 IX. Operations Committee Report = Information 21 X. Curriculum & Instruction Committee Report = Information, 22 XI. High School Exam Schedules Spring Semester 2024-2025 Traditional High Schools and Gaston Early Colleges = Action. 23-25 XII. Superintendent's Budget Request 2025-2026- Information 26 XIII. Consent Agenda = Action. 27 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. 28 B. Budget Amendments & Budget Transfers. 29-38 C. Construction/Repair Change Orders. 39-40 D. AIG Plan 2025-2028. 41 E. Summer Program Plan 2025. 42 F. Innovation Schools Strategy 43 G. Board Policy Updates -Policy 4170 - School Assignment 44-60 H. Contracts. 61 -District Chromebook Refresh. 62 Cassrom/nsructiona Technology - New Grier Middle, 63 2 -Google Workspace 64 -Chiller Replacement = W.A. Bess Elementary School. 65 -Chiller Replacement = Bessemer City Middle School. 66 --UVA PLE (Partnership for Leaders in Education) 67 XIV. Superintendent's Comments XV. Closed Session = Information 68-69 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. $143-318.11(a)(6) Personnel XVI. Adjournment 3 Agenda Item Meeting Date: 3/17/2025 Agenda Item Title/Topic: Good News Type of Item: Consent Action Information Main Points: Each month, the Communications/Public nformation 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 oost-secondary opportunities. Submitted by: Todd Hagans, Chief Communications Officer Department: Communications/Public Information Superintendents Office) 4 BOARD AGENDA NFORMATIONAL ITEM DEPARTMENT: Communications/Public Information Department TOPIC: GOOD NEWS FOR THE MONTH OF: March 2025 1. New Hope Elementary School and Cramerton Middle School were the overall winners at the annual RoboGASTON competition. Other school winners were Belmont Central Elementary and Tryon Elementary earned first and second place, respectively, in the Team Work category for elementary schools. In the middle school division, Cramerton Middle School took first place, followed by Stanley Middle School in second. For Project Presentation, New Hope Elementary School claimed first place with McAdenville Elementary School finishing second. Mount Holly Middle School secured first place in the middle school category while W.C. Friday Middle School placed second. In Robot Performance, Rankin Elementary School earned first place, and Sadler Elementary School took second. Grier Middle School captured first place in the middle school category with Belmont Middle School finishing second. Additional awards included the Coach's S Award presented to Matthew Woods of Belmont Middle School; the Spirit Award given to Lowell Elementary; the Innovative Team Name award earned by the W.A. Bess Elementary Sea Dogs; and the Gracious Professionalism award, which went to Pinewood Elementary. 2. Gaston College, in collaboration with the Gaston County Art Guild, hosted the Senior Art Show at the Jeanne Rauch Art Gallery. Merit awards were presented to Janaiya Glenn of Bessemer City High School, Ellory Lamp ofStuart W. Cramer High School, and Amaiya Endsley of Bessemer City High School. Honorable mentions were awarded to Jasany Johnson and Carolina Lara-Terrones, both from East Gaston High School. Carolina Lara-Terrones was recognized twice for her outstanding work. John Gonzalez-Ochoa of Hunter Huss High School received the prestigious Gaston County Art Guild Award. 3. The Gaston County Schools Academically and Intellectually Gifted (AIG) Department hosted the middle school Battle of the Books and Math Elite competitions. In the Battle of the Books competition, Belmont Middle School placed first followed by W.C. Friday Middle School in second and Cramerton Middle School in third. In the Math Elite competition, Cramerton Middle School took first place followed by Belmont Middle School in second and Southwest Middle School in third. 4. The Gaston County Schools Academically and Intellectually Gifted (AIG) Department hosted the high school Battle of the Books competition on February 28. Stuart W. Cramer High School took first place followed by Gaston Early College High School in seçond. 5 5. The following students have advanced to the North Carolina Science and Engineering Fair, with virtual judging on March 25 and in-person judging on March 29 based on their performance at the UNC-Charlotte Region VI Science and Engineering Fair. In the Elementary Engineering and Technology category at the regional competition, Braxton Allen, Belmont Central Elementary, first place, while Henry Markwith from Hawks Nest STEAM Academy earned third place. Sawyer Ford from Hawks NestSTEAM Academy took first place in Elementary Physics and Mathematics at the regionals. In Junior Biological Sciences A, Connor Abernathy, Marshall Deal, and Walter Thompson from Stanley Middle School placed second, and Emma McGinnis of Belmont Middle School placed second in the Chemistry category. Senior Biological Sciences B saw Olive Campbell, Charlotte Hearne, and Laurel Campbell from Gaston Early College High School also earning second place. Anderson Hammon, Karson McDonald, and Schafer Nunn from McAdenville Elementary placed third in Elementary Biological Sciences while Luisanna Suarez from Pinewood Elementary earned third place in Elementary Chemistry. Evelyn Daly from Hawks Nest STEAM Academy took third place in Elementary Earth and Environmental Sciences. In Junior Earth and Environmental Sciences, Chance Barron, Chandler Jordan, and Christian Rivera-Lopez from Stanley Middle School placed fourth. Michael Borum Gray from East Gaston High School earned fourth place in Senior Biological Sciences A, and Jayden Sullivan and Caiden Buckner from Gaston Early College High School placed fourth in Senior Engineering at the regional competition. 6. The following students received recognition at the UNC-Charlotte Region VI Science and Engineering Fair: Avery Anderson, Annsley Schultheis and Becka Anderson of Stanley Middle School along with Sofia Jimenez, Inari Joseph, and Hayden Trinh of Gaston Early College High School received the American Chemical Society Award. Chance Barron, Chandler Jordan, and Christina Rivera-Lopez from Stanley Middle School received the Environmental Protection Agency Award while Reese Sexton from East Gaston High School was honored with the Society for In Vitro Biology Award. Both awards were presented by the ISEF Regional Award Organization. Additionally, Aidan Wood of Belmont Middle School earned the Thermo Fisher Scientific Junior Innovators Challenge Award. 7. The following students received honorable mention at the UNC-Charlotte Region VI Science and Engineering Fair: River Adams and Will McClean of Hawks Nest STEAM Academy in Elementary Biological Sciences; Marissa Lynn of Hawks Nest STEAM Academy in Elementary Chemistry; Blythe Sipe of Hawks Nest STEAM Academy in Elementary Earth and Environmental Sciences; Jericho Martin of Pleasant Ridge Elementary in Elementary Physics and Mathematics; and McKinley Ward and Mason Back of John Chavis Middle School in Junior Physics. 8. The following schools participated in the Gaston County Special Olympics "polar plunge" and raised the following amounts: Mount Holly Middle, $3,127.46; Gardner Park Elementary, $1,805; H.H. Beam Elementary, $330; Sherwood Elementary, $250; Robinson Elementary, $150; and Ashbrook High School, $90. 6 9. Gaston County Schools held the annual Middle School Cheer Showcase at North Gaston High School on February 28. The following schools received recognition: Holbrook Middle, first place; Stanley Middle, second place; and a tie for third place between Belmont Middle School and Cramerton Middle School. 10. Students, teachers, and staffin Gaston County Schools observed Read Across America Day" the week of March 3 with a variety of special activities. The event coincided with Dr. Seuss' birthday. I1. The Ashbrook High School JROTC program has had a busy and successful season with several new initiatives and community engagements. The inaugural drone team has launched with 10 drones requiring coding and designed for racing. The newly-formed Raider team recently competed in their first event at Fort Mill High School. More than 20 cadets volunteered at RObOGASTON, assisting with parking and cleanup. The cadets have also collected more than 1,000 bottles ofGatorade and cans of soup for the ongoing Cancer Services drive. Flight Bravo cadets are receiving ground school instruction from a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI), and the program is currently fundraising to purchase an FAA-approved flight simulator to log flight and instrument hours. In addition to community service, the cadets presented a flag to a local veteran and Ashbrook alumnus and proudly marched in the Veterans Day Parade. 12. Eight fourth- and fifth-grade students from H.H. Beam Elementary showcased their classroom research during the Rotary Club of Gastonia' S midday meeting. Their presentation titled "The Magic ofH.H. Beam' : highlighted projects they have been working on throughout the school year. 13. H.H. Beam Elementary recently launched its "Bulldog Pantry," 99 a service that provides food items to support school families in need. 14. Belmont Central Elementary fourth-grader Adalyn Kolbash organized a sock donation drive for the Salvation Army and worked with school counselor Francina Newby to promote the drive by creating flyers and a poster. 15. The Belmont Middle School's seventh and eighth grade band earned a superior rating at the Music Performance Adjudication (MPA). In addition, the eighth grade band and chorus will perform at the Disney Imagination Workshop. 16. Bessemer City Central Elementary highlighted the creative talents ofits students with a breakfast-themed art show. With help from art teacher Hillary Koon, fifth graders made ceramic cereal bowls filled with handmade cereal and clay pancake platters. Fourth graders created clay donuts while third graders made three-dimensional coffee mugs. The event also featured a pancake dinner and an iced coffee bar for everyone to enjoy. 17. Cherryville High School student Lillie Colson and Lila St. Romain from Gaston Early College High School were chosen to perform in the North Carolina Western Regional Orchestra at Appalachian State University. 7 18. The Cramerton Middle School eighth grade band reçeived a superior rating at the Music Performance Adjudication (MPA). 19. Logan Watkins, a senior at Stuart W. Cramer High School, was awarded the prestigious Elizabeth McRae Scholarship to attend Lees-McRae University. The highly- competitive and generous scholarship covers full tuition for four years of undergraduate study. 20. Stuart W. Cramer High School junior Bentley Sly won his third consecutive individual wrestling 3A state championship in the 144-pound weight class. 21. Stuart W. Cramer High School sophomore Jakalri Galvin earned third place in the boys' long, jump competition at the N.C. High School Athletic Association 3A Indoor Track and Field Championship. 22. East Gaston High School junior Brayden Smith placed third in the 2A individual state wrestling championship in the 157-pound weight class. 23. The W.C. Friday Middle School band received a superior rating at the Music Performance Adjudication (MPA). 24. Alex Cornwell, a student at Highland School of Technology, earned first chair in the all-state band for snare drum and general percussion. 25. The Hunter Huss High School boys basketball team advanced to the 3A Western Regionals, but fell short against Ben L. Smith High School. Jaleel Smith led the Huskies with 19 points and 15 rebounds while Antonio Worthy and Ziayir Phillips contributed 14 and 10 points, respectively. 26. New Hope Elementary raised a record-breaking $21,240.62 for the American Heart Association as part ofthe Kids Heart Challenge. Students who raised more than $250 were able to participate in a dodgeball game with teachers. 27. North Gaston High School students Aaliyah Love and Amara Howard were chosen as delegates to the N.C. Youth Legislative Assembly, which is a mock legislative session where high school students voice their opinions and vote on issues concerning local, state, and national government. 28. North Gaston High School junior Barrett Stroud enlisted in the National Guard and will serve while attending North Gaston' 's Leadership Academy as a senior next year. 29. Three North Gaston High School seniors earned top-five tinishes at the 3A individual state wrestling championship. James Weaver placed fifth in the 150-pound weight class, Dewayne Davis finished fourth in the 215-pound division, and Tripp Norwood secured fifth place in the 165-pound class. 30. Robinson Elementary principal William Winston agreed to camp out on the school's roof after the students and staff raised $10,000 during the PTO fun run. 8 31. The Farm Bureau in Dallas awarded a $4,740 grant to Will Washington, ajunior at Forestview High School, for his Eagle Scout project, which includes building four 12x8 greenhouses and several raised beds at Robinson Elementary. Elementary science curriculum facilitator Dr. Laura Clawson outlined the K-5 science and social studies standards and explained how gardening supports the curriculum. 32. South Point High School senior Rachel Tolbert placed third place in the girls' 500- meter event at the N.C. High School Athletic Association 3A Indoor Track and Field Championship. 33. South Point High School treshman Ammon Scott placed fifth in the 3A individual state wrestling championship in the 144-pound weight class. 34. Woodhill Elementary, in partnership with Second Harvest Food Bank ofMetrolina and Atrium Health, provided groceries, including dry goods, chicken drumsticks, fresh fruits and vegetables, eggs, bread, and juices, to families in need. More than 230 vehicles went through the drive-thru food pickup, which was held for a second time this school year. a Agenda Item Meeting Date: 3/17/2025 Agenda Item Title/Topic: Classroom Moment Type of Item: Consent Action 3 Information Main Points: Information will be shared about the Teacher Cadet program at Hunter Huss High School. Teacher Cadet is a course of study offered in high schools that exposes students to the teaching profession as a potential career. Students participate in traditional classroom activities and also receive the opportunity to gain hands-on experience by working alongside teachers in GCS elementary schools. Many current GCS teachers completed the Teacher Cadet program while they were high school students. Fiscal Implications: N/A Recommendation: N/A Policy Implications: N/A Strategic Goal Alignment: Goal 1. Every student will graduate prepared for post-secondary opportunities. Submitted by: Dr. Bryan Denton, Executive Director Department: Academic Services 10 Agenda Item Meeting Date: 3/17/2025 Agenda Item Title/Topic: Public Expression Type of Item: Consent Action X 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: Communications/Public Information Superintendents Office) 11 Agenda Item Meeting Date: 3/17/2025 Agenda Item Title/Topic: Approval/Correction of Minutes Type of Item: Consent Action Information Main Points: Approval of Minutes from: February 17, 2025 (Regular Meeting) February 28, 2025 (Legislative 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 12 Gaston County Schools Board ofl Education Monday, February 17, 2025 Meeting 5:30 p.m. Regular Meeting MINUTES The Gaston County Board of Education met in a regular session on Monday, February 17, 2025 at 5:30 p.m. in the Board Room, 943 Osceola Street, Gastonia, NC. The meeting was live on Spectrum, Cable Channel 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, 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, Chief Communications OfficerTodd Hagans, ChierTechnology Officer Curtis Poplin and Board Clerk Dana Luoto. Chairman Crisp called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m. and welcomed everyone. Invocation Deacon Bill Melton of St. Michael Catholic Church led the invocation. Pledge of Allegiance Jasmine Greene, Mount Holly Middle School, led the Pledge of Allegiance. Character Trait Addyson Powers, Catawba Heights Elementary School, reported on the Character Trait of Good Judgment. Agenda Adoption - Action The Board considered Agenda Adoption - Action Motion to adopt the. Agenda as presented was made by Mr. Brent Moore; seconded by Mrs. Janna Smith; motion carried unanimously. (9-0) Good News - Information Mr. Todd Hagans recognized the spelling bee winner and the runner-up. Our spelling bee champion, Paul Sayegh ofBelmont Middle School emerged from a field of38 students to win the district champion. Nixon Sipe from Cramerton Middle School was the runner-up in the district-wide spelling bee. The tip four finishers in the regional competition will receive an invitation to advance to the Scripps National Spelling Bee. Mrs. Janna Smith presented a Certificate of Recognition to Paul and Nixon. Todd Hagans recognized the overall elementary, middle and high school students who were the overall winners at the Gaston Regional Science and Engineering Fair which was held in December at the Schiele Museum. 13 Jax Jenkins and Connor Pursley of North Belmont Elementary School took overall honors with their project titled "Galactic Sugar Crystals". Matthew Wilcox of Kiser Elementary School earned overall honors with his project titled "Blade Angle". Kelvin Aguilar Gonzalez and Sabastian Caro from Grier Middle School who were the overall winners in the middle school division with their project titled "The Impact of Air Pollution on Plant Health and Photosynthesis" Sofia Jimenez Beltran, Inari Joseph and Hayden Trinh from Gaston Early College High School were the overall high school winners with their project titled "Testing Impurities in Feminine Products". Mrs. Janna Smith presented a Certificate of Recognition to all students. Todd Hagans recognized back-to-back state champions form Forestview High School - William Peyton, Andrew Taylor, Graham Kines and Beckett Tabor. These students capped off their senior season by winning their second consecutive state swimming championship in the 200-yard medley relay. In addition, Beckett placed third in the men's 100-yard freestyle at the 3A state championship. Mr. Tod Kinlaw presented a Certificate of Recognition to all students. Todd Hagans recognized the South Point High School 200-yard freestyle relay team - Miles Ferguson, Daniel Lane, Noah Legnosky and Grant Hinnicutt claimed their first-ever state championship. Mr. Tod Kinlaw presented a Certificate of Recognition to all students. Todd Hagans recognized state swimming medalists in individual events. lla Turner of South Point High School, earned second place in both the women's5 50-yard freestyle and 100-yard freestyle events at the3A state championship -Carter Johnson of East Gaston High School placed second in the men's 200-yard freestyle and third in the men's 100-yard breaststroke at the 1A/2A state championship Steven Wyatt of Cherryville High School earned second place in the men's 500-yard freestyle at the 1A/2A state championship Wyatt Smith of East Gaston High School placed fourth in the 1A/2A state diving championship Austin Major of Stuart W. Cramer High School placed fourth in the men's 50-yard freestyle at the 3A state championship. Mr. Tod Kinlaw presented a Certificate of Recognition to all students. February is Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month and Todd Hagans recognized Dr. Rusty Parker, Beth Williams, Chastity Stamey and Diane Gibson CTE Department. CTE helps students learn important academic, technical and job skills to prepare the, for their future careers. Students in our CTE programs take part in real-world, hands-on experiences that make learning more meaningful and exciting. Chairman Josh Crisp presented a Recognition Plaque to the CTE staff. To recognized National School Counseling Week Todd Hagans recognized our led counselors: Tim Hardin, Sadler Elementary Mark Reep, W.B. Beam Intermediate 14 Lindsay Weathers, Belmont Middle School Jordan Johnson, East Gaston High School Jennifer MacDonald, Stuart W. Cramer High School Mathieu Chapman, Highland School ofTechnology Shenice Bailey, Director ofC Counseling Mr. A.M. Stephens III presented a Recognition Plaque to the counselors. Todd Hagans recognized the ten schools that led the way in our 2024-2025 fundraising campaign for the United Way of Gaston County. This year we reached an all-time high with a total contribution to our local United Way of $131,861.92. We want to express our appreciation to everyone who gave a contribution and participated in our fundraising efforts. Below are the top ten fundraising schools: Southwest Middle School Principal Melissa Knick and Judith Ayala (Principal Fellow) contributed $10,002.48. Ms. Dot Cherry presented a Recognition Plaque to Southwest Middle School. North Gaston High School Principal Page Willis and Assistant Principal Waheeba McCray contributed $6,01.5 Ms. Dot Cherry presented a Recognition Plaque to North Gaston High School. Holbrook Middle School Principal Torben Ross and coordinators Tamika Houston and Teara Nixon contributed $5,913. Ms. Dot Cherry presented a Recognition Plaque to Holbrook Middle School Cramerton Middle School Assistant Principal Michael Hewitt contributed $5,900. Ms. Dot Cherry presented a Recognition Plaque to Cramerton Middle School. Belmont Middle School Principal Dr. Josh Bromley and coordinator Samantha Wallace contributed $4,891. Ms. Dot Cherry presented a Recognition Plaque to Belmont Middle School. Woodhill Elementary School Principal Andrea Meyer contributed $4,050. Ms. Dot Cherry presented a Recognition Plaque to Woodhill Elementary School. Carr Elementary School Principal Rebekka Duncan contributed $3,816. Ms. Dot Cherry presented a Recognition Plaque to Carr Elementary School. 15 Mount Holly Middle School Principal Curtis Mitcham and Assistant Principal Deon Kennedy contributed 3,340.15. Ms. Dot Cherry presented a Recognition Plaque to Mount Holly Middle School Highland School of Technology Principal Susan Redmond and Assistant Principal Jenny Carper contributed $3,302. Ms. Dot Cherry presented a Recognition Plaque to Highland School ofTechnology Rankin Elementary School Principal Donna Kelly and Assistant Principal Emily Morton contributed $3,063.40 Ms. Dot Cherry presented a Recognition Plaque to Highland School ofTechnology Mr. Hagans expressed appreciation to the central office level departments for their contributions and thanked Valerie Yatko, who served again as our districtwide coordinator. Andrea Stephens, President ofUnited Way of Gaston County, briefly shared how the contributions from Gaston County Schools impact the United Way. School Board Recognition Month = Information Mr. Todd Hagans expressed appreciation to School Board Members in recognition of School Board Recognition Month. Each year, we take pride in recognizing and honoring the citizens who serve on the Gaston County Board of Education. This year to 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 Board Member: and our Superintendent along with a special "thank-you" card. To recognize Chairman Josh Crisp, who represents the Dallas Township, is Jeremiah Freeman who is a student in Kelly O'Reilly's fourth grade class at Carr Elementary School. With them is their principal Rebekka Duncan and teacher Kelly O'Reilly. To recognize Vice Chairman Dot Cherry, who is an At-Large Member of the Board of Education, is Bentley Harris and Dominic Coffey who are students in Brooke Bolin's first grade class at New Hope Elementary School. With them is their principal Kelli Glisan and teacher Brooke Bolin. To recognize Lee Dedmon, who represents the Gastonia Township, is Estella Silva who is a student in Sherena Boone's second grade class at Lingerfeldt Elementary School. With them is their assistant principal Angie Molla, content teacher Katrina Ashleman, and teacher Sherena Boone. To recognize Tod Kinlaw, who represents the South PointTownship, is Jax Jenkins and Connor Pursley who are students in Sonya Helton's fifth grade class at North Belmont Elementary School. With them is their principal Justin Beam, principal intern Ana Cease and teacher Sonya Helton. 16 To recognize Robbie Lovelace, who represents the Cherryville Township, is principal Caroline Black and teacher Anna Kiser from Cherryville Elementary. To recognize Brent Moore, who represents Crowders Mountain Township, is Colt Clampett who is a student in Shannon William's first grade class at Bessemer City Primary School. With them is principal Todd Goff, teacher Shannon Williams and content teacher Sarah Crisp. To recognize Chairman Jeff Ramsey, who is an At-Large Member of the Board of Education, is CJ Lowry who is a student in Hanna Sider's kindergarten class at McAdenville Elementary School. With them is their principal Dawn Lavinder. To recognize Janna Smith, who represents the Gastonia Township, are her twin boys, Knox and E.Z. Smith who are students in Lisa Grubbs' fifth grade class at W.A. Bess Elementary School. With them is their principal Laura Clark and teacher Lisa Grubbs. To recognize A.M. Stephens III, who represents the Riverbend Township, is Skyler Alley and Brentley Miller who are students in Melissa McGinnis' first grade class at Catawba Heights Elementary School. With them is their principal Staci Bradley and teacher Melissa McGinnis. To recognize Superintendent Houchard, is Hayden and Mason Robinson who are students in Matthew Jennings' kindergarten class at Lowell Elementary School. With them is their principal Dr. April Conley and teacher Matthew Jennings. Classroom Moment - Information Chairman Crisp recognized Tammy Mims, Principal Forestview High School, and Genevieve Comer, Academy Coordinator who highlighted the Collegiate Preparatory Academy. (View PowerPoint below) Public Expression - Information No one signed up for Public Expression. Approval/Correction of Minutes - Action Motion to adopt minutes ofJanuary 30, 2025 (Regular Meeting) and January 30, 2025 (Board Retreat) as presented was made by Ms. Dot Cherry; seconded by Mr. A.M. Stephens III; motion carried unanimously. (9-0) Operations Committee Report - iInformation Brent Moore is chair of the committee and members are Dot Cherry, Lee Dedmon and Tod Kinlaw. Chairman Crisp recognized Ms. Dot Cherry who provided a summary oftopics considered and discussed at the most recent meeting. (View Report Below) 17 Curriculum & Instruction Committee Report - Information Jeff Ramsey is chair of the committee and members are Robbie Lovelace, Janna Smith and A.M. Stephens III. Chairman Crisp recognized Mrs. Janna Smith who provided a summary of topics considered and discussed at the most recent meeting. (View Report Below) Consent Agenda - Action The Board considered the Consent Agenda: A. Recommended Personnel B. Budget Amendments & Budget Transfers C. Construction/Repair Change Orders D. Reduction in Force (RIF) - Strategic Planning E. Contracts -None Motion to adopt the Consent Agenda as presented was made by Mr. Jeff Ramsey; seconded by Mr. A.M. Stephens III motion carried unanimously. (9-0) Superintendent's Comments Superintendent Houchard thanked the Gaston County Education Foundation for sponsoring "Are You Smarter Than a Gaston County Fifth Grader?" competition on February6 6. Hawks Nest STEAM Academy and its business partner, Carolina Chiropractic Plus were the winners in the competition proving they are the smartest in Gaston County. Proceeds from the "Are You Smarter" competition are used by the Education Foundation to support the Ron L. Ensley grants for teachers. Superintendent Houchard announced the deadline to submit an application for our magnet schools and academies is Friday, March 21 at 5:00 p.m. Superintendent Houchard reminded everyone that our annual RoDOGASTON" robotics competition will be held on Saturday, March 8 at Forestview High School beginning at 9:30 a.m. Superintendent Houchard reminded everyone that Thursday, March 13 is Parent Teacher-Conference Day and early dismissal. Friday, March 14 is an Optional Teacher Workday and no school for students. Chairman Crisp wished Janna Smith a "Happy Birthday". 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, N.C.G.S. $143-318.11(a)(5) Real Property and N.C.G.S. $143- 318.11(a)(6) Personnel. Motion to go into Closed Session was made by Ms. Dot Cherry; seconded by Ms. Janna Smith; motion carried unanimously. (9-0) The Board went into Closed Session at 7:04 p.m. The Board returned to Open Session at 7:49 p.m. 18 Adjournment All business having been conducted, Motion to adjourn was made by Mr. Lee Dedmon; seconded by Mr. Tod Kinlaw motion carried unanimously. (9-0) The Board Meeting adjourned at 7:50 p.m. Approved: Josh Crisp, Chairman Morgen A. Houchard, Secretary [Corporate Seal] Date Approved: 19 Gaston County Legislative Meeting Friday, February 28, 2025 Meeting 8:30 a.m. Minutes The Gaston County Board of Education met in a Legislative Meeting on Friday, February 28, 2025. Those Board Members in attendance were: Chairman Josh Crisp, Vice Chairman Dot Cherry, Lee Dedmon, A.M. Stephens III, Tod Kinlaw, Brent Moore (absent), Robbie Lovelace (absent), Janna Smith and Jeff Ramsey. Additional attendees from Gaston County Board of Education included: Superintendent, Morgen A. Houchard, Attorney Sonya McGraw, Associate Superintendents Gary Hoskins and Tonya Kales, Assistant Superintendents Bessie Harvey and Rebekka Powers, Director Tom Nencetti, Chief Communications Officer Todd Hagans and Board Clerk Dana Luoto. Attendees from the Legislative Delegation included: Senator Ted Alexander, Representative Donnie Loftis, Senator Brad Overcash and Representative John Torbett. Chairman Crisp welcomed everyone to the meeting. Chairman Crisp recognized Superintendent Morgen Houchard who presented a PowerPoint on an Overview of Gaston County Schools. (View PowerPoint Below) Chairman Crisp opened the floor to the Legislators and Board Members to make introductions, state the committees they are on and other remarks concerning education. Items discussed included: High Quality Teaching and Learning, College and Career Ready, Safe Schools, Career & Technical Education (CTE), Teacher Retention and Advanced Teaching Roles. Chairman Crisp thanked everyone for coming and commented that we are fortunate to have good working relationships with ourl local delegation. The Gaston County Legislative Delegation Meeting adjourned at 10:33 a.m. Approved: Josh Crisp, Chairman Morgen A. Houchard, Secretary [Corporate Seal] Date Approved: 20 Agenda Item Meeting Date: 3/17/2025 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. 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 21 Agenda Item Meeting Date: 3/17/2025 Agenda Item Title/Topic: Curriculum & Instruction Committee Report Type of Item: Consent Action X Information Main Points: The Gaston County Board of Education's Curriculum & iInstruction Committee meets regularly to discuss curriculum and nstruction-related topics and issues. Jeff Ramsey is chair of the committee and members are Robbie Lovelace, Janna Smith and A.M. Stephens III. A report of the Curriculum & Instruction 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 Curriculum and instruction Committee discussions and information. Strategic Goal Alignment: Goal 1. Every student will graduate prepared for post-secondary opportunities. Submitted by: Curriculum and Instruction Committee Department: Curriculum and nstruction 22 Agenda Item Meeting Date: 3/17/2025 Agenda Item Title/Topic: High School Exam Schedules Spring Semester 2024-2025 Traditional High Schools and Gaston Early Colleges Type of Item: Consent X Action Information Main Points: High Schools are required by the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction (NCDPI) to administer final exams for all courses. The NCDPI Accountability 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 16, 2025. The spring semester for the traditional high schools ends on May 21, 2025. Early College High School exam schedule: May 12-16, 2025 Traditional High School exam schedule: May 15-21, 2025 Fiscal Implications: N/A Recommendation: Approve the final exam schedule as presented. Policy Implications: N/A Strategic Goal Alignment: Goal 2. Every member of our diverse population has the opportunity for individualized instruction. Submitted by: Dr. Bryan Denton & Kevin Doran Department: Academic Services Executive Directors, Secondary Instruction 23 24 25 Agenda Item Meeting Date: 3/17/2025 Agenda Item Title/Topic: Superintendent's Budget Request 2025-2026 Type of Item: Consent Action a Information Main Points: The school district is required by G.S. $115C-425 to operate under an annual balanced budget resolution. The 2025-2026 budget process began with a budget survey to GCS stakeholders in December 2024. Data obtained from the budget surveys was presented to the Board at the Board Retreat in January 2025. Also, Fund Managers prepared a local budget request for their area of supervision in February and March 2025. 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 at their regular April meeting and will be submitted to the County by May 15, 2025, as required by State law. Fiscal Implications: The 2024-2025 local operating budget for GCS is $56.4 million and the respective capital outlay for GCS is $2.2 million. The Superintendents Budget Request for 2025-2026 is $61.6 million for operating funds and $4.0 million for capital outlay. Recommendation: NIA 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 26 Agenda Item Meeting Date: 3/17/2025 Agenda Item Title/Topic: Consent Agenda Type of Item: Consent Action Information Main Points: Approval of the Consent Agenda by the Board for the following items: A. Recommended Personnel B. Budget Amendments & Budget Transfers C. Construction/Repain Change Orders D. AIG Plan 2025-2028 E. Summer Program Plan 2025 F. Innovation Schools Strategy G. Board Policy Updates Policy 4170 = School Assignment H. Contracts -District Chromebook Refresh Classroom/Instructional Technology New Grier Middle -Google Workspace Chiller Replacement - W.A. Bess Elementary School Chiller Replacement - Bessemer City Middle School -UVA PLE (Partnership for Leaders in Education) 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 27 Agenda Item Meeting Date: 3/17/2025 Agenda Item Title/Topic: Recommended Personnel Type of Item: X Consent Action D Information Main Points: In accordance with the provisions of G.S. 115C-2760), "It 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. 1 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: Necessary and appropriate personnel will be provided to assure successtul administration of schools. Strategic Goal Alignment: Other: Policy or Gen Statute. See above. Submitted by: Dr. Morgen A. Houchard Department: Human Resources 28 Agenda Item Meeting Date: 3/17/2025 Agenda Item Title/Topic: Budget Amendments and Budget Transfers Type of Item: X Consent 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 29 Gaston County Schools Changes in Appropriations 2024-2025 Budget Resolution February Transfers Between Functions State Public School Fund Expense Expense Function Description Increase Decrease 51000 Regular Instructional Services 817 52000 Special Population Services 753 53000 Alternative Programs and Services 42,926 58000 school-Based Support Services 43,926 61000 Support and Development Services 1,570 65000 Operational Support Services 1,000 45,496 45,496 Explanation: These transfers adjust budgeted amounts per requests from fund managers/principals. 30 Gaston County Schools Changes in Appropriations 2024-2025 Budget Resolution February Transfers Between Functions Local Current Expense Fund Expense Expense Function Description Increase Decrease 51000 Regular Instructional Services 80,335 53000 Alternative Programs and Services 107 54000 School Leadership Services 5,658 55000 Co-Curricular services 22,041 58000 School-Based Support Services 44,500 61000 Support and Development Services 1,000 64000 Technology Support Services 7,000 65000 Operational Support Services 111,856 66000 Financial and Human Resource Services 1,000 69000 Policy, Leadership and Communication/Publitc nformation Services 3,490 138,493 138,493 Explanation: These transfers adjust budgeted amounts per requests from fund managers/principals. 31 Gaston County Schools Changes in Appropriations 2024-2025 Budget Resolution - February Transfers Between Functions Federal Grants Fund Expense Expense Function Description Increase Decrease 51000 Regular Instructional Services 499 52000 Special Population Services 40,869 53000 Alternative Programs and Services 35,459 58000 chool-Based Support Services 13,235 61000 Support and Development Services 19,197 62000 Special Population Support and Development Services 50,235 63000 Alternative Programs and Services Support and Development Services 1,757 66000 Financial and Human Resource Services 19,197 67000 Accountability Services 24,809 68000 System-Wide Pupil Support Services 78 81000 Payments to Other sovernmenta: Units 13,339 109,338 109,338 Explanation: These transfers adjust budgeted amounts per requests from fund managers/principals. 32 Gaston County Schools Changes in Appropriations 2024-2025 Budget Resolution - February Transfers Between Functions Restricted Grants Fund Expense Expense Function Description Increase Decrease 51000 Regular instructional Services 19,380 52000 Special Population 5ervices 114,000 53000 Alternative Programs and Services 10,180 58000 School-Based Support Services 2,996 62000 Special Population Support and Development Services 39,000 63000 Alternative Programs and Services Support and Development Services 13,507 65000 Operational Support Services 20,691 69000 Policy, Leadership and Communication/Public Information Services 19,380 81000 Payments to Other Governmental Units 75,000 157,067 157,067 Explanation: These transfers adjust budgeted amounts per requests from fund managers/principals. 33 Gaston County Schools Changes in Appropriations 2024-2025 Budget Resolution February Proposed Expenditures and Sources of Revenue State Public Schooi Fund Expense Revenue Increase Increase # Function Description (Decrease) (Decrease) 1 31000 Revenue State Public! School Fund 7,349,621 51000 Regular Instructional. Services 4,099,621 53000 Alternative Programs and Services 250,000 58000 School-Based: Support Services 3,000,000 This amendment budgets funds for the Dollars for Certified Personnel: allotment ABC Transfer Allotment Revision #75 FY2S (PRC0010) 2 31000 Revenue State Public School Fund 63,822 51000 Regular Instructional Services 63,822 This amendment budgets funds for the. Advanced" Teaching Roles allotment Allotment Revision #71- FY25 (PRC0022) 3 31000 Revenue State Public School Fund (1,217,946) 51000 Regular Instructional Services (1,217,946) This amendment adjusts funds for thel Disadvantaged Students Supplemental allotment ABC Transfer Allotment Revision #75 FY25 PRC0024) 4 31000 Revenue State Public! SchoolFund (900,000) 51000 Regular Instructional. Services (900,000) This amendment budgets funds for the Classroom Materials/ Instructional allotment ABC Transfer Allotment Revision #75 FY25 (PRC0061) 5 31000 Revenue State Public! 5choal Fund (5,231,675) 53000 Alternative Programs and Services (5,231,675) This amendment: adjusts funds for the At Risk Student Services/Alternative Schools allotments ABC1 Transfer Allotment Revision #75 FY25 (PRC0069) 6 31000 Revenue State Public School Fund 37,176 53000 Alternative Programs and Services 37,176 This amendment budgets funds for the Literacy Intervention Twice Retained - Allotment Revision #73 FY25 (PRC0085) 7 31000 Revenue - State Public School Fund 18,000 65000 Operational! Support Services 18,000 This amendment budgets funds for the LEAI Direct Purchase of Replacement School - Stop Arm Cameras Allotments Allotment Revision #71 FY25 (PRC0087) Total State Public School Fund Amendments 118,998 118,998 34 Gaston County: Schools Changes in Appropriations 2024-2025 Budget Resolution February Proposed Expenditures and 5ources of Revenue Federal Current Expense Fund Expense Revenue Increase Increase # Function Description (Decrease) (Decrease) 1 36000 Federal Revenue (68,014) 52000 Special Population Services (65,542) 81000 Payments to Other Governmental Units (2,471) This amendment adjusts funds for the IDEA Section 619 Preschool Grant FY25 (PRC0049) 2 36000 Federal Revenue 53,187 53300 Alternative Programs and Services 53,187 This amendment budgets funds for the Title 1, Part A Allotment - FY25 (PRC0050) 3 36000 Federal Revenue 51,514 52000 Special Population Services 51,514 This amendment budgets funds for the IDEA, DEC6 611 Grant FY25 (PRC0060) 4 36000 Federal Revenue 2,000 52000 Special Population Services 2,000 This amendment budgets funds for the IDEA Special Educations State Improvement Allotment FY25 (PRC0082) 5 36000 Federal Revenue 8,047 61000 Support and Development Services 8,047 This amendment budgets funds for the Title II, Part A Support Allotment FY25 (PRC0103) 6 36000 Federal Revenue 123,181 53000 Alternative Programs and Services 123,181 This amendment. adjusts funds fori the Title IV, Part B. 21st Century (ASPIRE) Allotment - FY25 (PRC0110) 7 36000 Federal Revenue 152,417 65000 Operational: Support Services 152,417 This amendment budgets funds for the ESEA Title I- School Improvement Allotment FY25 (PRC0115) Total State Public School Fund Amendments 322,333 322,333 35 Gaston County Schools Changes in Appropriations 2024-202S Budget Resolution - February Proposed Expenditures and Sources of Revenue Restricted Grants Fund Expense Revenue Increase Increase # Function Description (Decrease) (Decrease) 1 48000 Local Sources Restricted 194,237 51000 Regular nstructional Services 194,237 This amendment budgets funds received for the ROTC allotment FY25 (PRC0001) 2 48000 Local Sources Restricted 100,000 66000 Financial and Human Resource Services 100,000 This amendment budgets funds for the Non-Contributory Employee Benefits allotment FY25 (PRC0009) 3 48000 Local Sources Restricted 34,020 51000 Regular Instructional Services 34,020 This amendment budgets funds received for the Drivers' Education Fund FY25 (PRC0012) 4 48000 Local Sources - Restricted 2,162 51000 Regular Instructional Services 2,162 This amendment budgets funds received for the Career Technical Education Progam Support Grant FY25 (PRC0014) 5 48000 Local Sources Restricted 10,013 52000 Special Population Services 10,013 This amendment budgets funds received for the Children with Disabilities (DEC) Grant FY25 PRC0032) 6 48000 Local Sources Restricted 3,276 72000 Nutrition Services 3,276 This amendment budgets funds received for the Child Nutrition Fund FY25 (PRC0035) 7 48000 Local. Sources Restricted 38,278 54000 School Leadership Services 38,278 This amendment budgets funds for the Assistant Principal Interns MSA Students Fund - FY25 (PRC0067) 8 48000 Local Sources Restricted 287,106 64000 Technology Support Services 287,106 This amendment budgets funds for the Business System Modernization allotment FY25 (PRC0153) 36 Restricted Grants Fund Expense Revenue Increase Increase # Function Description (Decrease) (Decrease) 9 48000 Local Sources Restricted 1,235,894 52000 Special Population Services 1,235,894 This amendment budgets funds received for the Mediçaid Outreach Grant FY25 (PRC0305) 10 48000 Local Sources Restricted 579,502 53000 Alternative Programs and Services 579,502 This amendment budgets funds received for the NC Prek FY25 (PRC0413) 11 48000 Local Sources Restricted 5,760 51000 Regular Instructional Services 5,760 This amendment budgets funds received for the Lingerfeldt Elementary School Fund FY25 (PRC0438) 12 48000 Local Sources Restricted 1,389 51000 Regular Instructional Services 1,389 This amendment budgets funds received for the South Point High School Fund FY25 (PRC0494) 13 48000 Local Sources Restricted 521 66000 Financial and Human Resource Services 521 This amendment budgets funds received for the Human Resources-Id Badges Fund FY2S (PRC0528) 14 48000 Local Sources Restricted 40 58000 School-Based Support Services 40 This amendment budgets funds received for the Business Partnership Brochure Fund FY25 (PRC0539) 15 48000 Local Sources Restricted 5,260 51000 Regular Instructional Services 5,260 This amendment budgets funds received for the Duke Energy- Middle School Books Grant FY25 (PRC0592) 16 48000 Local Sources Restricted 15,355 51000 Regular Instructional Services 15,355 This amendment budgets funds received for the Teacher/Admin of The Year Fund- FY25 (PRC0608) 17 48000 Local Sources Restricted 1,168 51000 Regular Instructional Services 1,168 This amendment budgets funds for the Caromont- East Gaston Fund FY25 (PRC0619) 37 Restricted Grants Fund Expense Revenue Increase Increase # Function Description (Decrease) (Decrease) 18 48000 Local Sources Restricted 20,000 51000 Regular Instructional Services 20,000 This amendment budgets funds received for the Duke Energy Steam Grant FY25 (PRC0650) 19 48000 Local Sources Restricted 48,484 68000 System-Wide Pupil Support Services 48,484 This amendment budgets funds received for the Local Records Requests Fees Fund - FY25 (PRC0700) 20 48000 Local Sources Restricted 30,839 65000 Operational Support Services 30,839 This amendment budgets funds received for the. Activity Bus Fund - FY25 (PRC0706) 21 48000 Local Sources Restricted 10,469 65000 Operational Support Services 10,469 This amendment budgets funds received for the Fixed Asset Sales Fund - FY25 (PRC0881) 22 48000 Local Sources Restricted 11,939 65000 Operational Support Services 11,939 This amendment budgets funds received for the Sale Of Scrap Metal Fund - FY25 (PRC0883) 23 48000 Local Sources Restricted 17,404 66000 Financial and Human Resource Services 17,404 This amendment budgets funds received for the Insurance Fund FY25 (PRC0840) 24 48000 Local Sources Restricted 3,070 69000 Policy, Leadership and Communication/Public nformation Services 3,070 This amendment budgets funds received for the Print Shop Fund FY25 (PRC0900) Total Restricted Grants Fund Amendments 2,656,186 2,656,186 38 Agenda Item Meeting Date: 3/17/2025 Agenda Item Title/Topic: ConstructionfRepair Change Orders Type of Item: X Consent 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/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 39 40 Agenda Item Meeting Date: 3/17/2025 Agenda Item Title/Topic: AIG Plan 2025-2028 Type of Item: X Consent Action Information Main Points: Article 9B NCGS.115C150.5) is North Carolina's governing legislation for gifted education. As required by law every three years, Gaston County Schools has developed our local AIG plan based on the NC AIG Program Standards. These Standards serve as a statewide framework and guide Public School Units (PSUs) to develop, implement, and monitor thoughtful and comprehensive AIG programs. The NC AIG Program Standards encompass six principle standards with accompanying practices. These standards articulate the expectations for quality, comprehensive, and effective local AIG programs aligned to NC's AIG legislation, Article 9B. The AIG department in Gaston County Schools has worked with several stakeholder groups to improve and update our gifted plan to include the following: K-2 Talent Development (TD) Program to replace cost prohibitive testing and identification in K-1. TD programs at this age are best practice, supported by research, recommended by DPI, and most often seen in districts across NC at this age. Revision of screening to decrease testing and make better use of existing data Clarification of gifted services for students in grades 6-12 (including Honors, AP, and Dual Enrollment opportunities) Explicit connections between AIG programs and district initiatives articulated to allow for integration of AIG Dept. vision with GCS district priorities Overall, the plan has been revised to be read more like a narrative with examples rather than lists. This is recommended by DPI and allows our stakeholders to better understand the gifted services we provide. Fiscal Implications: None Recommendation: Approve AIG Plan 2025-2028. Policy implications: None Strategic Goal Alignment: Goal 3. Every employee is capable and committed to the education of the whole child. Submitted by: Kathleen Koch Department: Academic Services 41 Agenda Item Meeting Date: 3/17/2025 Agenda Item Title/Topic: Summer Program Plan 2025 Type of Item: Consent X Action Information Main Points: Students who do not achieve proficiency on End of Grade (EOG) and End of Course (EOC) assessments in Reading and Math will be provided the opportunity to attend summer programming. The purpose is to provide students with remediation in content standards and domains for tested areas in which they were not proficient. At the conclusion of the remediation period, students may take their End-of-Grade or End-of- Course test(s). Fiscal Implications: None Recommendation: Approve the summer programming plan. Policy Implications: None Strategic Goal Alignment: Goal 2. Every member of our diverse population has the opportunity for individualized instruction. Submitted by: Kelly Cunningham, Chief Accountability Officer Department: Accountability 42 Agenda Item Meeting Date: 3/17/2025 Agenda Item Title/Topic: Innovation Schools Strategy Type of Item: Consent Action Information Main Points: The Innovation Schools Strategy will launch for the upcoming school year, 2025-2026, to address the needs of the leaders, teachers and students within ten of our low performing schools, most of them are Restart Schools. The Innovation Schools Strategy will include: the use of state salary supplement to pay high performing principals, the implementation of the Advanced Teacher Roles grant and the leadership development offered by UVA PLE. The three key components are linked to research for student outcomes and will serve as a model for the district for transformation that can be applied to other GCS schools in the future. Fiscal Implications: At risk student state funding and federal Title 1 and II funding will be used to support the selection and retention of high performing leaders, the ATR grant and the UVA PLE partnership. Recommendation: To approve the implementation of the GCS Innovation School Strategy. Policy Implications: N/A Strategic Goal Alignment: Goal 1. Every student will graduate prepared for post-secondary opportunities. Submitted by: Tonya Kales, Associate Superintendent Department: Academic Services 43 Agenda Item Meeting Date: 3/17/2025 Agenda Item Title/Topic: Board Policy Updates Policy 4170 - School Assignment Type of Item: Consent X Action Information Main Points: Audit of current policies leads to revisionsladoptions of Gaston County Board of Education Policies. Appropriate staff have reviewed proposed changes and approved them for adoption/revision by the Board of Education. See attached for complete list of policies to be adopted/revised. Fiscal Implications: N/A Recommendation: Board of Education approval of proposed policy updates. Policy implications: Board of Education Policies will be updated to required standards. Strategic Goal Alignment: Other: Policy or Gen Statute. See above. Submitted by: Rebekka H. Powers Department: Student Support Services 44 SCHOOL ASSIGNMENT Policy Code: 4170 I. Assignment Areas The Superintendent will recommend to the Board of Education assignment areas for the schools in the district. The assignment areas will be developed in accordance with state requirements; the need to serve all school-age children who live in the school district; and the effective use of each school; special consideration shall be given to communiy/neghboriod schools. Assignments will be made in a non-discriminating manner. In addition, certain students may be assigned according to their qualifications for special needs programs, ESL programs, certain magnet programs or alternative placement. The Board of Education shall set geographical boundaries for assignment districts from time to time as may be appropriate and will publish these in the Office of Student Assignment. II: Residence Requirements A. Student(s) shall be assigned to schools by The Gaston County Board of Education on the basis of residence, unless thé student is enrolled in a special program as défined in paragraph C. below. The residènce ofa student, is defined as the: domicile ofthe parent(s). In the: évent the student has no. parent domiciledin the school district, or) parental rights have been terminated, then the student will be assigned in the attendance area where such student's legal guardian, custodian or person standing in loco parentis, in that order, is domiciled. A student who is 18 years of age or a student èmancipated by marriage or court decree may establish his/her own domicile for the purposes oft this policy. For the purposes ofthis policy, domicile shall be defined as the place a person intends to make his home for the present time. A person has domicile at a place for school assignment purposes if: (1) he/she has abandoned his/her prior home, (2) he/she has a present intention to make the present place his/her home, and (3) he/she has no present intention to leave the place he/she calls home. Appeals of assignment must be made to the Office of Student Assignment within ten days of notification. B. Notice of assignment will be made prior to the effective date of the assignment for students already enrolled in the Gaston County Schools; assignment may be given by noting the same on the report card of the student or any other means that will adequately insure the delivery of written notice to the parent(s). In the case of students enrolling in a Gaston County School for the first time, assignment will be made at the time of their application for enrollment. GASTON COUNTY SCHOOLS 45 SCHOOL ASSIGNMENT Policy Code: 4170 C. In the event students are evaluated for the Exceptional Children's Program, ESL, Alternative Placement (Warlick Academy) or choice options ether (magnet programs; schools and academies) their assignment will be made in accordance with guidelines of each particular program. III. Gaston County Board of Education Requirements The Gaston County Board of Education requires that all students meet the eligibility requirements ofthe State ofl North Carolina, and the Gaston County School system, including age, immunization and residence regulations. Falsification, deception, or the willful failure to submit or maintain accurate and up-to-date information pertaining to student enrollment or transfer will nullify any parental request for transfer during that school year. IV. Age Requirement All resident students who have passed the fifth anniversary oft their birth on or before August 31 ofthe year in which they enroll and who have not attained the age of21 years are eligible to enroll in the Gaston County Schools. A certified birth certificate or other satisfactory evidence of date ofbirth is required within thirty (30) days for admission for the first time in kindergarten or first grade at any school. V. Immunization Requirements A. Within thirty (30) days of their first enrollment date, all students must show evidence of immunization against tetanus, diphtheria, whooping cough, red measles (rubeola), German measles (rubella), and poliomyelitis. Such evidence must be shown in the form of a certificate furnished by a licensed physician or by the health department. B. School principals are required to refuse admittance to any child whose parent/guardian does not present a certified birth certificate or other satisfactory evidence of birth and a medical certification of proper immunizations within the allotted time. Exception to the immunization requirement is made only for religious reasons or for medical reasons approved by a physician. GASTON COUNTY SCHOOLS 46 SCHOOL ASSIGNMENT Policy Code: 4170 VI. Domicile Requirements A. Students Domiciled in Gaston County A student who is domiciled in Gaston County and who otherwise qualifies for admission to its schools is entitled to be admitted without payment oftuition. B. Domicile of Student Generally The domicile of a student under 18 years of age is presumed to be the domicile of his/her parents, legal guardian or legal custodian as defined by the General Statutes of North Carolina and the law ofNorth Carolina. Ifthe student's parent(s) is domiciled in Gaston County, no change oflegal custodian will cause the student to be reassigned to the domicile of the legal custodian. In order to change schools, a transfer must be requested and approved under the hardship provision hereinafter. C. Domicile ofE Emancipated Students Ifthe student is at. least 18 years ofa age or married or abandoned by his/her parents, orift the Court declares a student to be emancipated, the student may establish. a domicile independent from that of his/her parents, legal guardian or legal custodian. A student who establishes domicile as a result ofbeing emancipated shall be considéred to be domiciled in Gaston County and shall be entitled to the same rights and privileges of other students domiciled in Gaston County. Prior to a change of school assignment, a written acknowledgment and agreement will be generated from the parents concerning a change of domicile and explaining the circumstances of emancipation. D. Domicile ofStudents with Divorced or Separated Parents In the event that the parents are divorced or separated and legal custody has been given to only one parent, a student's domicile follows that ofthe parent who has been granted legal custody. In the event that the parents are divorced or separated and legal custody (1) has not been determined, (2) has been granted jointly to both parents, or (3) the custodial parent wishes the student to attend school in the non-custodial parent's district ofresidence, then and in and of these events, the parents mustjointly agree on which oftheir two residences will be used to determine the child's domicile for the purpose of school attendance. GASTON COUNTY SCHOOLS 47 SCHOOL ASSIGNMENT Policy Code: 4170 The parents shall submit the selected residence in writing to the Superintendent at the beginning of each school year. In the event the parents cannot agree on which residence shall be used to determine the child's domicile for school attendance purposes, the residence ofthe parent with physical custody ofthe child will be used for assignment purposes. The student assignment will be for the term oft the entire school year in cases where assignment is made by agreement. When a parent does not have proof of address in their name, the Office of Student Assignment will make the assignment. E. Homeless Students/Assignment: See Policy Code 4175 F. Transfer ofStudents in Foster Care Students who are assigned to foster care between academic years or during an academic year will remain in their school of origin unless remaining in the school of origin is not in the best interest ofthe student. The best interest of thei student will be decided based on all relevant factors, including consideration of the appropriateness of the éducational setting and proximity to the school in which the child is enrolled at the time of placement in foster care. G. Students Domiciled Outside Gaston County (Out-of-District Transfers) An out-of-district student is defined as a student who does not meet the definition ofhomeless, and is domiciled outside of the school administrative unit (including a student who resides in the school administrative unit with someone other than a parent, legal guardian or legal custodian but whose parent, legal guardian or legal custodian is domiciled outside of the school administrative unit). VII. Student Assignment and Transfers/In-District A. The Gaston County Board of Education will adopt attendance zones for the schools within the district. School attendance zones shall be recommended by the Superintendent and adopted by the Board ofEducation. B. These zones shall be consistent with state requirements and court rulings and shall consider the need to serve all school-age children who live in the district, the efficient and effective use ofthe school, and the geographic location ofthe school in relationship to the surrounding student population. GASTON COUNTY SCHOOLS 48 SCHOOL ASSIGNMENT Policy Code: 4170 1. Student Assignment (a) It is the intent ofthe Board that all students who qualify for admission to its schools shall be assigned to the schools in the attendance area of their domicile. For the purposes ofthis policy, domicile shall be defined as the place a person intends to make their home for the present time. The residence of a student is defined as the domicile ofthe parent(s). (b) Students whose parents, legal guardian, or legal custodian change their domicile and establish a new domicile either within or outside Gaston County during a school year, may be permitted to complete the remainder ofthe school year in their present school location provided they meet the requirements stated in the guidelines for out-of-district enrollments. This provision does not apply if space availability, student behavior, or poor attendance issues are in question, except during the last grading period as provided below: (1) Grades K-8: Students may be permitted to complete the remainder ofthe school year as determined by the Office of Student Assignment. (2) Grades 9-12: Students may be permitted to complete the remainder of the semester in which the move occurred as determined by the Office of Student Assignment. (c) Exceptional Children's Program The guidelines and procedures for placement into the Exceptional Child Program are published in "Policies Governing Services for Children with Disabilities" which is distributed by the North Carolina State Department ofPublic Instruction. Division of Exceptional Services Department, and hereby incorporated herein by reference. When students are assigned under this provision, the student will be assigned to the appropriate school in the student' S attendance area, wherever possible. d) English as a Second Language (ESL) Placement GASTON COUNTY SCHOOLS 49 SCHOOL ASSIGNMENT Policy Code: 4170 In the event a student's first language is not English and the student is evaluated on the Language Proficiency Test as needing English instruction, and the school to which he is originally assigned does not have an appropriate ESL program, the student will be assigned to the appropriate school in the student's attendance area, wherever possible. If no space is available or the needed program is not available in the attendance area, the student will be assigned to the nearest appropriate school which meets the student's S needs. (e) Alternative Placement The Warlick Academy is a program designed to meet the educational needs of children in Gaston County who have not adapted behaviorally or who are not benefiting from regular school programs. The philosophy ofthe school is based on the inherent worth and potential of every person. It is predicated on the assumption that all children can learn ifthe proper conditions are set for them and the premise that every student has the right to an appropriate and high-quality education. Students may be assigned to the Warlick Academy by the Superintendent or his designee in accordance with the guidelines and procedures set forth in the document entitled "The Alternate School," and hereby incorporated herein by reference. C. Transfers within the School System Transfers to a school will be considered only where it has been determined that space is available. The fact of whether space is available will be determined by the Superintendent or designee who will consider current and expected enrollment within the class and grade. Transfers will not be granted ifthe addition of that student causes the school to exceed any classroom limitations. Transfers will only be considered when it has been determined that students meet the following eligibility criteria: (1) are able to provide their own transportation, (2) attendance that aligns with district's attendance policy, (3) exhibit exemplary conduct that aligns with expectations of the Gaston County Schools' Code of Conduct and (4) academic performance necessary for promoting to the next grade level. These criteria will be considered using data for the student from the most recent school year. GASTON COUNTY SCHOOLS 50 SCHOOL ASSIGNMENT Policy Code: 4170 The district is under no obligation to furnish school transportation for students living outside the district or assigned by transfer. Parents requesting transfer within Gaston County would receive first priority based on space available at the requested school. Any reason having to do with personal prefèrence, convenience, program offerings or athletics is not a valid or sufficient need for enrollment or transfer in- district or out-of-district. 1. Medical/Health Related A student who has a serious physical or mental illness, handicap, or disability may be reassigned to a school which better meets his needs. The student's S physician, psychiatrist, or psychologist shall complete a form provided by the Student Assignment Officer describing the nature ofthe student's S medical difficulty. The Mediçal Review Officer for the Gaston County Schools will determine, after necessary consuitation with the student's physician, the necessity of the transfer. The Office of Student Assignment will be notified oft the Medical Review Officer. (a) When the students are assigned under this provision, the student will be assigned to the appropriate school in the student's attendance area, wherever possible. If no space is available or the needed program is not available in the attendance area, the student (b); will be assigned to the nearest appropriate school which meets the student's needs. The student' s parent(s) will be notified of the decision by the Office of Student Assignment. A Medical Review Officer will be appointed annually by the Superintendent who will report the same to the Transfer Committee of the Board. 2. Special or Unique Circumstances The Transfer Committee may elect in special or unique circumstances to transfer a student. In making such a determination, the Transfer Committee shall consider the best interest ofthe child, the orderly and efficient administration ofthe public schools, the proper administration of the school to which reassignment is requested and the instruction, health, and safety ofthe pupils there enrolled, and shall assign said child in accordance with such factors. Additionally, the Transfer Committee shall determine thats suchammansfernillnotcontravene leinetoflhismalicy GASTON COUNTY SCHOOLS 51 SCHOOL ASSIGNMENT Policy Code: 4170 The need for a transfer must be established by an affidavit by the parent(s) outlining the special or unique circumstances for consideration of the request by the Transfer Committee. In the event, a parent is building a house for occupancy before the end of the first (15) semester; the student may be issued a temporary transfer. A signed contract by a reputable builder confirming that the house will be ready for occupancy no later than December 31 of the current school year must be filed with the Office of Student Assignment. 3. Elementary and Middle School Transfers Due to Day Care Necessity A student in grades K-8 whose parent(s) are employed outside the home and who by necessity is kept before and/or after school by others (relatives, nurseries, day care center, etc.) located outside the attendance zone, in which the student is kept, may request a transfer. The need for a transfer must be established by an affidavit by the parent(s) and keeper of such student. Verification of employment may be required. The Transfer Committee shall determine if the transfer is necessary in order to avoid hardship or burden on the family. 4. Transfer Request for a Child of a Gaston County Schools Employee Children of employees who have worked full-time in the Gaston County Schools may request a transfer. These transfers shall be renewed reviewed each school year. Students receiving a transfer must remain in good standing. Once a transfer has been granted under this provision, and is renewed because all required conditions are met, the student may continue to request transfer to the school that is in closest geographic proximity within the feeder system. The student will be assigned to the school in which the parent works, or ifthe parent(s) does not work in a school or a school with the grade span needed for the student, then the student will be transferred to the school in the closest geographic proximity to the place/school where the parent(s) works. If parent ceases to be employed by the Gaston County Schools, the student' S transfer will be revoked at the end of the school year in which employment was terminated, provided, however, ifa parent' S employment has terminated due to retirement or disability, the student may continue to requestatransfer within the feedersvstem. GASTON COUNTY SCHOOLS 52 SCHOOL ASSIGNMENT Policy Code: 4170 5. Other-Transfers PhespriammdmsiailkewlerswwwaNe. whww-dwingia-shauyewrhpee-saH-emebef heehild-theefeetenthesehecHewwwhch-nseHsesied-prineipel ecemmendatiens,-endothereHtereesabishedbythe-superintendent: D. A Transfer Committee appointed by the Board Chairman consisting of staff and/or Board members shall have the authority to approve or deny a transfer request. The student shall have the right to appeal the decision ofthis committee to the Board or a committee ofthe Board appointed for that purpose. At the appeal hearing, the Board (or committee thereof) shall consider the best interest of the child, the orderly and efficient administration ofthe public schools, and the proper administration of the school to which reassignment is requested and the instruction, health, and safety of the pupils there enrolled, and shall assign said child in accordance with such factors. Additionally, the Board (or committee thereof) shall determine that such a transfer will not contravene the intent ofthis policy. Transfer request forms will be available in the Office of Student Assignment. E. Administrative Pransfer-Placement of Students The Superintendent may elect in very severe and exigent circumstances to transfer place any student when he determines such action to be in the best interest ofthe student and the school(s) affected and when he further determines that such action would not contravene the intent of this policy. An administrative transfer placement will be reported to the Transfer Committee of the Board at its next regular meeting. GASTON COUNTY SCHOOLS 53 SCHOOLASSIGNMENT PolicyCode: 4170 VIII. Student TransferyOutorDatriet A. The Transfer Committee shall have the responsibility to approve or deny requests for admission to Gaston County Schools by out-of-district students. Enrollment requests from parents of students who reside outside of Gaston County will not be considered until all transfers for in-county students have been made with exception of category B.3 below. B. The enrollment of an out-of-district student shall be considered under the same criteria and procedures set forth for transfers ofin-county students. 1. Medical/Health Related 2. Special Circumstances 3. Elementary and Middle School Transfers Due to Day Care Necessity 4. Transfer Request for a Child ofa Gaston County Schools Employee C. An out-of-district student who has been, accepted for admission shall be assigned to a school within a reasonable proximity to the student's domicile that meets the best; interest ofthe student and the orderly and efficient administration of the public schools. Once an out-of-district transfer is granted, the student will be permitted to complete the remainder of the school year in their present school location, provided they, continue to meet all other requirements ofthis section. D. In the event an out-of-district transfer/enrollment is approved under the criteria set forth in this policy, then the following conditions must be met in order to validate the transfer: 1. The student demonstrates that he/she was in good standing in the previous school attended by that student, in terms of academics, discipline, and other measures of progress in the last school attended. 2. The student furnishes a transcript and other student record data, including evidence of compliance with the North Carolina immunization requirements. 3. The student submits a release approved by the Board of Education of the other school administrative unit from which the transfer is being made if the student is transferring from another school administrative unit in North Carolina. GASTON COUNTY: SCHOOLS 54 SCHOOLASSIGNMIENT Policy Code: 4170 E. Students living outside Gaston County will pay the tuition then being charged by the school administrative unit, unless exempted or waived because the student meets one of the following criteria: 1. A student is placed in or assigned to a group home, foster home, or other similar facility or institution within the school administrative unit. 2. A student demonstrates extraordinary financial hardship. 3. A student' s parent is a eertified full-time employee of Gaston County Schools. 4. A non-immigrant student is participating in any approved Foreign Exchange Program sanctioned by Gaston County Schools. Note: Tuition for out-of-district students is declared annually by the Board of Education. The tuition fee shall be based upon the local per-pupil funding. Fees must be paid at the Office of Studènt Assignment, 1 Learning Place, Gastonia, N.C. 28052 prior to enrollment àt the assigned school. F. A Transfer. Committee appointed by the Board Chairman consisting of staff and/or Board members shall have the authority to. approve or deny a transfer reqyest. The student shall have the right to, appeal the decision of this committee to the Board or a committee of the Board. appointed for that purpose. At the appeal hearing, the Board (or committee thereof) shall consider the best interest of the child, the orderly and efficient administration of the public schools, and the proper administration of the school to which reassignment is requested and the instruction, health, and safety of the pupils there enrolled, and shall assign said child in accordance with such factors. Additionally, the Board (or committee thereof) shall determine that such a transfer will not contravene the intent of this policy. IX. Releases to Other School Districts A. The Release Committee shall have the responsibility to approve or deny requests for release from Gaston County Schools by in-district students. B. A release of a student from Gaston County Schools shall be for the following reasons only: 1. Medical/Health Related A student who has a serious physical or mental illness, handicap or disability may be released to a school which better meets his needs. The GASTON COUNTY SCHOOLS 55 SCHOOL ASSIGNMENT Policy Code: 4170 student' s physician, psychiatrist, or psychologist shall complete a form provided by the Student Assignment Officer describing the nature ofthe student's medical difficulty. The Medical Review Officer for the Gaston County Schools will determine, after necessary consultation with the student's physician, the necessity oft the release. The student' S parent(s) will be notified of the decision ofthe Medical Review Officer in writing by the Office of Student Assignment. A Medical Review Officer will be appointed annually by the Superintendent. 2. Special or Unique Circumstances In special or unique circumstances, a student may request a release. In making such a determination, consideration shall be given to the best interest ofthe child, the orderly and efficient administration ofthe public schools, the proper administration of the school to which reassignment is requested and the instruction, health and safety ofthe pupils there enrolled, and shall release said child in accordance with such factors. The release will not contravene the intent oft this policy. C. Students whose parents, legal guardian, or legal custodian establish them domicile within the school district during a school year may be granted a release to complete the remainder of the school year in their present school location provided they pay any fees required by that school, and furnish their own transportation. D. Students whose parents, legal guardian, or legal custodian establish their domicile within the school district during a school year may be granted a release to compete the remainder oft the school year in their present school location provided they pay any fees required by that school, and furnish their own transportation. E. Students released to other school systems must meet financial obligations required by their new school systems and provide their own transportation. GASTON COUNTY SCHOOLS 56 SCHOOLASSIGNMENT PolicyCode: 4170 F. A Release Committee appointed by the Board Chairman consisting of staff and/or Board members shall have the authority to approve or deny a release request. The student shall have the right to appeal the decision of this committee to the Board or a committee ofthe Board appointed for that purpose. At the appeal hearing, the Board (or committee thereof) shall consider the best interest of the child and the orderly and efficient administration ofthe Gaston County Schools and shall release said child in accordance with such factors. Additionally, the Board (or committee thereof) shall determine that such a release will not contravene the intent ofthis policy. G. Release forms will be available in the Office of Student Assignment. X. General Provisions A. Expectations of Students on Transfer Students whose applications for transfer are approved must (1) provide their own transportation, (2). comply with the district's attendance policy, (3) exhibit exemplary conduct that aligns with expectations of the Gaston County School's Code of Conduct and (4) maintain academic performance necessary for promoting to the next grade level. Should the transfer student fail to comply with the above standards, the school principal may recommend that the transfer be revoked. B. Cancellation of Student Transfer 1. Fehseheelprineipa-wldeveleppreederes-hEwHllinfer-sidents At the beginning of each school year or at the time a transfer is granted, parents and students will be informed ofthe conditions necessary to maintain transfer status. These conditions will be outlined in a contract that must be signed and returned to the school's principal. 2. Principals will use the following procedures to request the cancellation of transfer: a. The student and his/her parent will be informed, during the enrellment transfer approval process, ofthe expectations or conditions necessary for an approved transfer. Parents must agree to these conditions by signing and returning the transfer contract to the school's principal. GASTON COUNTY SCHOOLS 57 SCHOOL ASSIGNMENT Policy Code: 4170 b. The parent is responsible for transportation (except for homeless student transfers and transfers of students in foster care based on the student' S best interest, for which the system will provide transportation in a manner consistent with legal requirements and policy4125). C. A student and his/her parent will be given written notice of any warning(s) that might place their transfer status in jeopardy. (See Expectations of Students on Transfer above.) a. Except for any action oft the student that is a violation of the Gaston County Schools' Code of Conduct and is considered especially grievous or a safety concern may result in an automatic revocation ofi transfer. d. Following a notice of warning, a transfer student' S continued failure to satisfy the conditions for transfer will be withdrawn from enrollment at the school. Prior to the withdrawal ofa transfer student, the Office of Student Assignment and the parent will be contacted. 3. There will be no cancellation of existing transfers during the last grading period of each school year neither in grades K-8 nor in the last grading period of each semester in grades 9-12. 4. Any transfer request that is approved based upon false or misleading information will be declared void, and the transfer will be rescinded. C. Procedure for Requesting a Transfer OrRelease 1. Requests for transfer/release should be made in writing to the Office of Student Assignment by the parent, legal guardian, or legal custodian between April Ist, and Mayt July 15th for each school year. GASTON COUNTY SCHOOLS 58 SCHOOL ASSIGNMENT PolicyCode: 4170 a. Requests will only be considered outside this time frame for hardships or situation with extenuating circumstances. 2. The Office of Student Assignment shall notify the parents, legal guardian, or legal custodian ofthe decision in writing. the-request-fer tansferfeleaseis-disdsappreved-hemeliemeiceshal-be-maiedd-te-heapplieant y-theOlkeeefsiadent-Assigmment: 3. The transfer eF-reassigmment-is-valid-er-me-mere-than-ene will be evaluated for continue eligibility prior to the end of each school year (except for (a) unsafe school choice transfers, for which the length of reassignment will be consistent with legal requirements and policy 4152; (b) homeless student transfers for which the length of reassignment will be consistent with legal requirements and policy 4175); and (c) transfers or reassignment of students in foster care, for which the length of reassignment will be consistent with legal requirements. --tee Students assigned based on approved transfer will have their transfer status evaluated for continued eligibility prior to the end of the current school year. Students who meet eligibility criteria will be given the option to renew their transfer for the following school year. Students who fail to satisfy the conditions for transfer will be reassigned to their zoned school ofattendance for the following school year. D. Appeal to the Board If an application for transfer/release is denied, the applicant may, within ten (10) days after receiving notice of the denial, apply in writing to the Student Assignment Officer for a hearing, and shall be entitled to a prompt and fair hearing on the question oft the reassignment or transfer/release of the child to a different school. E. Forms The Office of Student Assignment will develop appropriate forms for the implementation ofthese Rules which will be available in the schools and in the Office of Student Assignment. GASTON COUNTY SCHOOLS 59 SCHOOL ASSIGNMENT Policy Code: 4170 Legal References: McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act, 42 U.S.C. 11431 et seq.; Elementary and Secondary Education Act, 20 U.S.C. 6301 et seq.; Non-Regulatory Guidance: Ensuring Educational Stability for Children in Foster Care, U.S. Department of Education and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (June 2016) and Non-Regulatory Guidance Education for Homeless Children and Youths Program, U.S. Department of Education (July 2016), both available at htps/www2.ed.gov/policyeseleglessa/index.htm!: Unsafe School Choice Option Non-Regulatory Guidance, U.S. Department of Education (May 2004), available at htps/vww2edgovpolisyeispuidednicksihtmlare-in: G.S. 15C-8; 115C-36, -366, 367, -369; State Board of Education Policy SSCH-006 Adopted: 07/16/2001 Revised 06/04/2007, 05/15/2017 GASTON COUNTY SCHOOLS 60 Agenda Item Meeting Date: 3/17/2025 Agenda Item Title/Topic: Contracts and Expenditures >$100,000 Type of Item: X Consent Action L 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: All contracts and expenditures will be paid using bond funding, capital proceeds or operational savings. Recommendation: Approval 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 61 Agenda Item Meeting Date: 3/17/2025 Agenda Item Title/Topic: District Chromebook Refresh Type of Item: K Consent Action Jinformation 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-1 Chromebook fleet each year. We estimate needing 1,300 touchscreen Chromebooks for a total cost of $323,700 plus 7% sales tax. These Chromebooks will be distributed to schools based on enrollment for Kindergarten and 1st grade students for the 2025-2026 school year. Also, each year new Chromebooks must be purchased for rising 2nd, 6th, and 9th grade students to maintain our sustainability plan. We estimate needing 7,400 Chromebooks for a total cost of $1,665,000 plus 7% sales tax. These Chromebooks will be distributed to schools based on the enrollment of rising 2nd, 6th, and 9th grade students for the 2025-2026 school year. Fiscal Implications: The total cost of $2,127,909 will be paid from local funds provided for capital outlay. 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: Goal 3: Every employee uses innovative practices to serve all students, parents, and other stakeholders. Submitted by: Curtis Poplin, Chief Technology Officer Department: TSS 62 Agenda Item Meeting Date: 3/17/2025 Agenda Item Title/Topic: Classroom/Instructional Technology New Grier Middle School Type of Item: X Consent Action Information Main Points: Purchase and installation of 64 LED Displays for the new Grier Middle School. The LEDs would be located in every classroom, which is the district standard, to provide innovative educational opportunities for all students. Fiscal Implications: $105,146.23 Quote is provided by Camcor - a named vendor for the NC Dept of Administration State Contract 880A Audio Visual and Photographic Equipment and Accessories. Devices would be funded with capital funds, as they are for a new build. Recommendation: Approve the purchase of classroom technology for new Grier Middle School. Policy Implications: Policy Code: 3220 Technology in the Educational Program Strategic Goal Alignment: Goal 3: Every employee uses innovative practices to serve all students, parents, and other stakeholders. Submitted by: Curtis Poplin, Chief Technology Officer Department: TSS 63 Agenda Item Meeting Date: 3/17/2025 Agenda Item Title/Topic: Google Workspace Type of Item: Consent Action Information Main Points: Gaston County Schools provides all staff and students with a Google Workspace account. In addition to Gmail, Google Docs, Meet, Forms, etc., this cost includes: 1. Advanced security center with additional security, controls, logs, and analytics; 2. Premium Google Meet, Google Slides, and Google Docs features; and 3. Priority response from Google specialists. Fiscal Implications: The cost of $147,985 will be paid from the current TSS operational budget. Recommendation: The Operations Committee recommends approval of the purchase of the Google Workspace Education Plus. Policy Implications: Policy Code: 3220 Technology in the Educational Program Strategic Goal Alignment: Goal 3: Every employee uses innovative practices to serve all students, parents, and other stakeholders. Submitted by: Curtis Poplin, Chief Technology Officer Department: TSS 64 Agenda Item Meeting Date: 3/17/2025 Agenda Item Title/Topic: Chiller Replacement - W.A. Bess Elementary School Type of Item: Consent Action x Information Main Points: The chiller at W.A. Bess Elementary Schoo! is 15+ years old. The chiller has a busted evaporator coil in circuit 2 and water in the refrigerant. Itwill cost more to repair the chiller than to replace it. This chiller services the entire school. Fiscal Implications: Five (5) vendors attended the Pre-bid meeting on December 5, 2024. Four (4) vendors submitted a bid. Daikin Applied submitted the lowest bid at a cost of $185,000. Recommendation: For the approval for Daikin Applied to replace the chiller at W.A. Bess Elementary School. Policy mplications: 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 65 Agenda Item Meeting Date: 3/17/2025 Agenda Item Title/Topic: Chiller Replacement - Bessemer City Middle School Type of Item: X Consent Action Information Main Points: The chiller at Bessemer City Middle School is 25+ years old, has coolant leaks, water leaks, bad coils and failing pumps. It will cost more to repair the chiller than to replace. This chiller services the eighth-grade wing. Without the chiller working there will be no air conditioning. Fiscal Implications: Five (5) vendors attended the Pre-bid meeting on December 5, 2024. Four (4) vendors submitted a bid. Daikin Applied submitted the lowest bid at a cost of $133,500. Recommendation: For the approval for Daikin Applied to replace the chiller at Bessemer City Middle School. Policy Implications: NIA 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 66 Agenda Item Meeting Date: 3/17/2025 Agenda Item Title/Topic: UVA PLE (Partnership for Leaders in Education) Type of Item: R Consent Action Information Main Points: The district will engage in leadership development with UVA PLE to focus on the transformation work needed in our Innovation Schools. The school leaders and teachers will also receive on-going leadership development to drive the changes needed at the ten Innovation Schools to deliver on a high-quality learning experience for all students that attend the identified schools, approximately 7,520 students. The partnership is a two- year program, but we are committing to one year at this time and will evaluate the impact on teaching and learning next spring for a decision for year two. Fiscal Implications: State funds allocated specifically for students/schools at risk will be used to pay the contract with UVA PLE. The funding source was created from unused funds provided to schools that were redirected to the district at the close of the school fiscal year. All Innovation Schools are eligible for the funding source to be leveraged to support the initiative. A total of $367,500 is being requested for approval. Recommendation: Approval for the investment of state funding allocated to students/schools at risk to pay the first year of the partnership with UVA PLE for our District Team and ten Innovation Schools. Policy Implications: None Strategic Goal Alignment: Goal 1. Every student will graduate prepared for post-secondary opportunities. Submitted by: Tonya Kales, Associate Superintendent Department: Academic Services 67 Agenda Item Meeting Date: 3/17/2025 Agenda Item Title/Topic: Closed Session Type of Item: LJ Consent Action 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. 143-318.17(a)3) Consultation with Attorney In order to consult with the Board's attorney and protect the attorney client privilege, and to receive advice with respect to the lawsuits captioned: -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 Lukinof 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 3:23-CV-643-RJC-DCK Roger Perkins VS. The Gaston County Board of Education --Any other legal matters. Fiscal Implications: N/A 68 Recommendation: 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: Legalsuperintendents Office 69 Last Name First Name Category School Aguero Ana Hire School Nutrition Aguilar Maria Hire School Nutrition Alarcon Gallardo Bernardita Resignation Ida Rankin Elementary School Alexander Kathleen Resignation Bessemer City High School Arrington-Boone Lakeitha Resignation Woodhill Elementary School Bano Rivera Wendy Hire School Nutrition Banuelos Lamas Adela Hire Stanley Middle School Bell Dahlia Resignation Grier Middle School Boyd Larekia Resignation South Point High School Bridges Melody Promotion School Nutrition Bryant Penny Transfer School Nutrition Burris Angelique Resignation Bessemer City High School Burris Denetta Involuntary Termination Southwest Middle School Byrd Lisa Transfer Edward D. Sadlér, Jr. Elementary Schoo Campbell Amber Hire School Nutrition Carpenter Jordan Transfer Facilities Cash Graclynn Hire John Chavis Middle School Cochran Zachary Resignation Hunter Huss High School Collis Sandra Hire Schoo! Nutrition Conner Carmen Transfer Warlick Academy Cook Deborah Transfer School Nutrition Cope Kendra Hire North Gaston High School Creed Kyle Transfer Bessemer City High School Daves Nicole Hire Student Support Services Dunlap Teresa Promotion School Nutrition Durham Jade Resignation Holbrook Middle School Edwards Stephen Resignation Pleasant Ridge Elementary School Escobar Garces Oscar Hire School Nutrition Etheridge Juandetta Hire School Nutrition Fernandez Jordan Resignation Student Support Services Filchuk Antoinette Hire W.C. Friday Middle School Flowers Kimberly Resignation Technology Support Services Franks Amy Rehire an Employee School Nutrition Fuller Shereena Promotion Warlick Academy Gidney Raven Resignation North Gaston High School Gillispie William Transfer Hunter Huss High School Gilmore Adrienne Hire W. Blaine Beam Intermediate School Glenn Marvin Retirement Holbrook Middle School Gore Phyllis Transfer School Nutrition Gosnell Donna Hire, Promotion North Gaston High School Grigg Jasmine Hire School Nutrition Hager Bethany Hire School Nutrition Hannah Vanessa Hire Warlick Academy Harris Zuri Hire Southwest Middle School Henry Laura Hire Student Support Services Holloman Stephanie Transfer York Chester Middle School Last Name First Name Category School Hope Shona Hire School Nutrition Hovis Patrick Resignation Forestview High School Huffstetler Wanda Retirement Bessemer City High School Hughes Ashley Resignation School Nutrition Humphries Amanda Rehire an Employee Carr Elementary School Humphries Maysie Transfer School Nutrition Humphries Shirley Resignation School Nutrition Hunnicutt Heather Resignation Brookside Elementary School Hush Paula Transfer School Nutrition Isley Erin Hire Gardner Park Elementary School Jorge Santa Resignation School Nutrition Jumawan Jiypee Hire Bessemer City High School Kapus Ana Marie Hire School Nutrition Kennedy Brittany Resignation Carr Elementary School Kirk Mollie Resignation W.A. Bess Elementary School Kirkpatrick Jacqueline Resignation Hunter Huss High School Lara Esther Promotion School Nutrition Lark Gregory Hire Ashbrook High School Ledbetter William Hire Facilities Lee Anica Resignation Ashbrook High School Lewis Jason Hire Stuart W. Cramer High School Lindsay Darius Promotion Ashbrook High School Lindsay Dekwalon Promotion Grier Middle School Lovejoy Rachel Transfer Belmont Central Elementary School Lowery Glendon Rehire an Employee Carr Elementary School McDade Michael Hire Facilities McGill Bianca Rehire an Employee Elementary Instruction McGuire Samantha Hire Elementary Instruction Mcintyre Hannah Hire Warlick Academy Medel Mendez Gabriel Hire Edward D. Sadler, Jr. Elementary School Medlock Amy Rehire an Employee Kiser Elementary School Miller Dorothy Resignation School Nutrition Miller Matthew Hire Edward D. Sadler, Jr. Elementary School Miller Michelle Hire School Nutrition Mills Christopher Promotion Department for Exceptional Children Moon Ori Hire Springfield Elementary School Moore Colleen Hire Bessemer City Middie School Morrow Larry Hire Facilities Moxley Christie Resignation School Nutrition Munoz Vazquez Brizeida Hire School Nutrition Niati Generose Hire School Nutrition Nixon Christian Hire Bessemer City High School Norris Ragan Hire Elementary Instruction Ochoa Tamar Demotion School Nutrition Page Christopher Demotion Hunter Huss High School Parker Jeffery Resignation Forestview High School Last Name First Name Category School Perez Hector Resignation Facilities Perez Valle Eblin Hire School Nutrition Raines Katrina Hire Warlick Academy Ramsey Brooke Transfer Gaston Virtual Academy Ray Eric Resignation Costner Elementary School Robb Collin Resignation Stanley Middle School Robinson Cheryl Promotion School Nutrition Russell Daniel Hire East Gaston High School Russell - Gonzales Shannon Rehire an Employee School Nutrition Sanders Taylor Transfer School Nutrition Savage Jan Transfer Springfield Elementary School Selph Kristen Transfer School Nutrition Short Edward Resignation Bessemer City High School Smith Donald Hire Mount Holly Middle School Smith Greta Hire School Nutrition Smith Katie Resignation School Nutrition Smith Marty Resignation East Gaston High School Sowersby Susan Rehire an Employee Lingerfeldt Elementary School Steppe Sarah Resignation Cherryville Elementary School Stover Rebekah Resignation Springfield Elementary School Stroupe Caroline Hire McAdenville Elementary School Thompson Rachael Resignation Gaston Virtual Academy Toledo Rain Resignation Grier Middle School Trakas Kristin Promotion School Nutrition Tscheiller Michael Hire School Nutrition Velez Pulgarin Karol Hire School Nutrition Villar Cabana Maria Hire School Nutrition Whiteley Colin Hire Mount Holly Middle School Williams Sharron Promotion Webb Street School Woodson DeMire Hire Hunter Huss High School