At the forefront of the meeting, the board unanimously approved the 2024-25 mental health assistance allocation plan, which exceeded the state’s expectations. This comprehensive plan aims to provide training, utilize evidence-based practices, and increase access to mental health professionals for students.

In terms of fiscal planning, the meeting shifted focus to the district’s budget and millage rates for the 2024-25 fiscal year. The executive director of budget and resource allocation presented the proposed millage rates, including the general operating millage, local referendum, and capital outlay millage. The proposed millage rate of 5.822 represents an overall decrease from the previous year, a point of note given the rising property values and the corresponding increase in property tax revenue. The public was invited to comment on the proposed millage rates and the budget.

During the budget hearing segment, two speakers shared their concerns regarding the budget and millage rates. Criticism was raised about the increase in money being collected and queries were made about the expenditure, especially in relation to the impact of hurricanes and rising sea levels on property values. The board responded by approving the tentative discretionary local effort millage of 0.748 Mills and the tentative total millage rates, which saw a 4.10% increase over the rollback rate.

The tentative budget for the 2024-25 school year, presented as approximately $1.7 billion, allocated funds towards direct instruction among other areas. The overview also outlined significant legislative changes impacting the budget, such as increases in the base student allocation and teacher salary increase allocation. A public comment criticized the allocation of funds for capital outlay and called for the board to prioritize environmentally sustainable building practices, reflecting community concern for climate action. The board proceeded to adopt the tentative budget, set a date for the second public hearing, and authorized the certification of the school taxable value.

Superintendent Ken Hendrick provided an update on the district’s achievements, notably the “A” rating and the success of 83% of Pinellas County public schools achieving A and B grades. The superintendent thanked the employees, school board, and community for their contributions to this success. In addition, the readiness of schools for the upcoming year was announced, along with the availability of back-to-school information on the district’s website.

The meeting also celebrated the induction of over 300 new teachers through Embrace Pinellas and acknowledged the six graduates of Pinellas County Schools competing in the Olympics. Recognition was given to standout Mr. Corey Baker for his dedication at the Clearwater Adult Education Center.

Public comments were not solely focused on praise, as concerns were raised about a guidance counselor’s disciplinary record and the selection process for school staff. Suggestions for implementing restorative practice in faculty meetings were made, and gratitude was expressed for the board’s support of public education. However, instances of inappropriate speech during public comments were promptly addressed.

Speakers from the Pinellas Classroom Teachers Association, including its president, as well as a third-grade teacher and a Largo High School student, addressed the meeting. They commended the district’s “A” rating, advocated for improved support for struggling students, fair compensation for veteran teachers, and the protection of teachers selecting educational materials.