Agenda Plus
School Board of Clay County
District Multi-purpose Center, Corner of Walnut Street & Gratio Place, Green Cove Springs, Florida 32043
April 28, 2026 School Board Workshop
Date: Apr 28 2026 (9:00 a.m.)
Invocation  (Ashley Gilhousen)
Pledge of Allegiance
Call to Order  (Present: Erin Skipper, District 1; Robert Alvero, District 2; Beth Clark, District 3, Michele Hanson, District 4; Ashley Gilhousen, District 5; and Superintendent David S. Broskie)
Workshop Items
1. Presentation on Focus Implementation for 2026-2027
UPDATE Synergy to Focus Board Presentation.pdf
Minutes:

Mr. Duane Weeks, Information Technology Director, provided an update on the district’s transition from Synergy to the Focus Student Information System, which will support student data management, scheduling, and state reporting requirements.

Implementation is progressing as scheduled, with key areas including scheduling, training, and system setup on track. The transition will occur over the summer, with Focus launching in July 2026 and full implementation for the 2026–2027 school year.

Staff also outlined anticipated challenges and mitigation strategies, including training, communication, and system support. The full presentation has been attached to the agenda.

2. Review Draft Agenda for Regular School Board Meeting on May 7, 2026
may-7-2026-regular-school-board-meeting_agenda_packet.pdf
Minutes:

Mr. Broskie opened the Review of the Agenda items with the consent agenda item regarding advertisement of the changes in the Code of Conduct.  Staff presented revisions to the Student Code of Conduct, including development of separate elementary and secondary versions to improve clarity and usability. Updates include simplified language, visual graphics, and a condensed two page summary of changes.

The Superintendent reviewed statutory timelines, noting the required 28 day public advertisement period following board approval at the May meeting, with final public hearing scheduled for June 25, 2026. It was emphasized that adherence to the timeline is critical to ensure required staff training can occur over the summer.

The committee process was highlighted, noting collaboration between district staff, administrators, and parents in the revision process. Staff were recognized for their extensive work and attention to board feedback.

Mrs. Skipper recommended highlighting state requirements for weapons violations in a clearer, more concise format. The goal is to reduce confusion by using simplified graphics and direct language that better communicates mandatory consequences and zero tolerance expectations.

Mrs. Hanson highlighted the inclusion of classroom behavior support strategies for teachers, particularly for new educators, including links to instructional resources and classroom management techniques.

Mr. Alvero participated in discussion regarding encouraging students and families to check backpacks and personal belongings prior to arriving at school to help prevent incidents involving prohibited items. It was noted that current graphics already include a reminder for parents to check backpacks.

CCEA representative, Mrs. Kidwell raised a question regarding the listing of non prescription medication on the secondary code of conduct graphic. She referenced recent state legislation allowing students to carry certain over the counter medications and suggested the language be reviewed for accuracy. 

Superintendent Broskie advised that he is available to provide any additional information or respond to questions board members may have about any additional agenda items.

 

3. RSM Meeting (closed to the public)*
Minutes:

This item was addressed following the conclusion of the review of the May agenda and after a recess was taken.  This portion of the meeting was closed to the public (10:45 a.m. - 11:10 a.m.)

4. Safety and Security Quarterly Update (closed to public)
Minutes:

This item was addressed following the conclusion of the RSM Meeting. This portion of the meeting was closed to the public (11:12 a.m. - 1:32 p.m.) for Matthew Boyack, Director of Safety and Security, to present a safety and security quarterly update to the Board.  

5. Executive Session on Bargaining (closed to public)
Minutes:

This item was addressed following the conclusion of the Safety and Security Update. This portion of the meeting was closed to the public.

Questions from the Audience
Superintendent Comments
6. Superintendent Comments
workshop-update_04282026.pdf
Minutes:

This portion of the meeting took place prior to adjournment of the regular workshop.

Superintendent Broskie provided an update on Bus Driver Appreciation Week, highlighting strong community support and donations exceeding $5,000. Recognition activities included meals, refreshments, and signage honoring transportation staff across the district.

Mr. Broskie also presented the budget update and the Three Pillars of Fiscal Strength. The first pillar, decreasing expenses, included reduced allocations, a 20 percent overall budget reduction, reduced contracts, increased monitoring of Kelly substitutes, a White Fleet overhaul, monitoring of payroll encumbrances, and ongoing district and department budget meetings. The second pillar, increasing revenue, included growth in FTE and enhanced business practices. The third pillar focused on increasing enrollment through marketing initiatives.  Presentation has been attached to formal minutes.

School Board Attorney Comments
7. School Board Attorney Comments
Minutes:

None

School Board Comments
8. School Board Comments
Minutes:

This portion of the meeting took place after the update from Superintendent Broskie and prior to adjournment of the regular workshop.

Board Member Clark requested consideration of adjusting future workshop timing to ensure participation in the Celebrate Clay Awards, noting prior scheduling conflicts and suggested we delay the workshop an hour in upcoming years expressing the importance of attendance to the event.

She also requested an update from NEOLA on artificial intelligence policies across other counties, noting that many Florida districts have already adopted guidance.  Board Member Hanson responded that during prior policy review, the district adopted the complete AI policy version to ensure future coverage, and indicated the current policy could be verified for accuracy.  Mr. Alvero agreed with the AI policies being reviewed as well.

Board Chair Mrs. Skipper concluded the meeting by recognizing community partners for their continued support of district initiatives, including transportation staff and teachers. She expressed appreciation for their ongoing contributions and noted upcoming Teacher Appreciation Week, thanking all community partners for their continued support.  This workshop was adjourned at 10:32 a.m.

Adjournment  (10:32 a.m.)
Superintendent of Schools School Board Chair