The Florida Department of Education presents the Golden and Silver School Awards to recognize exemplary programs which promote parent and community involvement in education.  Lauren Bankert, the district's Coordinator of Communications, along with Deputy Superintendent Diane Kornegay, presented certificates and recognized Clay County schools receiving the award.  (list attached)

Chairman Johnna McKinnon recognized Superintendent Van Zant for his 4 years of service as Superintendent of Schools, as well as his 14 years of service as a School Board Member.  He was presented with a plaque commemorating his service and contributions to the school district.

Kathy Schofield, Supervisor of STEM, used a visual presentation to update the Board on the progress of our STEM programs and the ditrict's partnership with the National Math & Science Initiative (NMSI).  

Carl Hendrick, Assistant Superintendent for Information & Technology, talked briefly about the Division's strategic communications plan.  He gave an overview of the OneClay Portal and the variety of resources that are available.   The 1:OneClay plan will engage students through technology integration projects.  The goal by 2020 is to be 1:1 in all schools grades 2-12.

Superintendent Van Zant commended principals opening and running school emergency shelters and also the Clay County Emergency Operations Center for their diligent work during Hurricane Matthew,   He shared how awesome it was to see all of the first responders, local agencies and organizations work together to keep citizens informed and safe.   

Mr. Van Zant announced that a ceremony is being planned for the dedication of a portion of the West Campus at Orange Park High in memory of Mickey Fields.  Mr. Fields was very passionate and supportive of the vocational trades and served as a Vocational teacher and director for many years prior to being elected as a school board member where he served eight years on the Clay County School Board.  The dedication ceremony is scheduled for November 3, 2016, at 11:00 a.m. at the West Campus of Orange Park High School 

Mrs. Studdard questioned the need and timing of adding a job description for Building Automation System Coordinator.  She felt input from the new superintendent is important.  In response, Mr. Merrill explained this very specialized need due to the complexity of the newer A/C systems which are more technical and require high-level programming.  The position would also oversee installation, inspections  and maintenance.  Discussion included concern also from Mrs. Kerekes about adding any new administrative positions just prior to the election.  

The following public speakers addressed concerns about possible conflicts of interest:

• Smitty Huffman 
• Chris Trahan 
• Victoria Kidwell 

Following the comments, Mrs. McKinnon addressed the allegations regarding campaign contributions and conflict of interest.

Mrs. Kerekes asked if there was any flexibility in this grant for how the funds are spent.  Mrs. Kornegay responded that since the grant award was approved by the state, expenditures would have to be within the confines of the project.  The item was agendaed for information only and no action was required. 

Kim Stacy - Air conditioning for custodians

Superintendent Van Zant presented Mrs. McKinnon with a plaque for her four years of service as a Board member and two years as Chairman of the Board.

Board members made general comments about school events they attended.  Other topics included:

•  Mrs. Kerekes - school fundraisers 
• Mrs. Condon - vehicles approved  for school field trips
• Mrs. Gilhousen - clarification on alleged accusations of conflict of interest 
• Mrs. Studdard - plagerism investigation (continues)  
• Mrs. McKinnon - final comments on  leaving office as school board member

For the record, Mr. Sikes stated that he had very little dealings with the classical academy.

He announced that his resignation would be effective November 30, 2016.