Makayla Buchanan, Executive Director Clay Education Foundation, recognized the Teacher of the Year (Melissa Matz - Lakeside Junior High) and the School-Related Employee of the Year (Jacquelin Edwards - Clay Hill Elementary).

Public Speakers:

• Elizabeth Phelps - bussing 
• Christina Bakos - access points

Mrs. Kerekes acknowledged staff in attendance from St. Johns Classical Academy and invited them to address the board.  Diane Hutchings, Founder and President, Board of St. Johns Classical Academy, extended appreciation to the Clay County School Board for a new contract and to Clay County District Schools staff for their support.

Superintendent Broskie shared the attached visual presentation highlighting the following -

• Clay Day In Tallahassee
• Climate and Culture Student Survey Results
• School of the Month
• Spring Break Reminders
• COVID-19 Safety Reminders

There was no Human Resources Special Action D.

Chair Bolla opened the public hearing.  With no one coming forward to speak to the item, the public hearing was closed.

Mrs. Kerekes expressed her support for the allocation packet and appreciation for the good job done by staff while acknowledging there may be needed additions in the future.

Mrs. Gilhousen wished students, teachers, and staff a happy Spring break and expressed her hopes to see students partcipating in the Clay County Agricultural Fair.

Mrs. Bullock was supportive of the allocation package but has concerns re the increased need for mental health counselors and would like to ensure adequate support is provided in high needs and ESE areas.  The students at Clay High School were impressive with job readiness skills displayed during recent mock interviews.  Activities also commended were Career Day at the equestrian center, the Rotary Science Fair, NJROTC Pass and Review at Ridgeview High School, and a Keystone Heights High student, Kaylee Wright, who placed 6th overall in state for weightlifting.

Mrs. Kerekes appreciated the Teacher of the Year and Support-Related Employee of the Year ceremony.  The Construction Career Day was impressive in highlighting excellent career paths for students.  Appreciation for the collaboration of work was extended re addressing the Deferred Retirement Option Program (DROP) and being able to retain support in some specific, essential areas.

Mrs. Clark was pleased that services were approved to provide for pest control management because, while pay is important for teachers, it is equally important that they are in a safe environment.

Mrs. Bolla was also impressed with Construction Career Day and the number of former students now successfully employed that had been recruited as a result of the Career Day event.  Elementary track meet participation has expanded to the extent that this event will now be held on two separate dates.  Ridgeview High and Oakleaf High held excellent Pass and Review events.  Students from Fleming Island High's hospitality academy fully planned and successfully executed a mock wedding.  Well wishes were extended to students in concert bands being currently judged in competition.  The final Tools4Schools for this school year will be held on March 21st.

Mrs. Bolla also proposed the board's consideration and discussion of whether the one mill, currently funding the district's safety and security department, should be placed on the agenda for consideration of placement on the ballot for November's General Election.  This matter will be discussed at the next board workshop.