The board tackled the intricacies of public comment time limits, considering whether to permit the chair to reduce speaking time from three minutes to two when participant numbers are high. They debated setting a cap on the total duration for public comments, such as 30 minutes or an hour, to manage meetings effectively. The discussions led to the decision to eliminate the 30-minute cap on public comments and to include the term “inappropriate” in guidelines regulating public participation. Board members sought to ensure fairness while accommodating diverse community perspectives, with legal advice being consulted to uphold equitable access to the public comment process.

Another prominent topic was the hiring of an internal auditor for the school district. Opinions varied among board members, with some highlighting the value of having an independent review of the district’s finances to enhance transparency and accountability. Others questioned the necessity and cost of this position. The board considered looking to Education Resource Strategies for guidance on developing a strategy and benchmarks before proceeding with the hire. The importance of creating a clear job description and understanding the practices of other districts was underscored. The superintendent suggested the possibility of outsourcing the services and requested more information on the costs and details of such arrangements from other counties.

In addition to these topics, the board discussed a variety of other agenda items. They examined the professional development course for teachers specializing in reading and spelling and the comprehensive evidence-based reading plan. The contract with Preferred Physical Therapy for athletic trainers was also a point of discussion, with the board highlighting the cost benefits compared to other districts. The charter renewal for Florida Cyber Charter Academy and the agreement with Lexia for reading instruction were reviewed.

Concerns were raised about the use of Penda, an online science platform, especially for ESE students, with suggestions that these students should not be assigned Penda as homework without direct support. The board agreed on the need for increased training and documentation for the proper use of Penda.

The meeting addressed the approval of dual enrollment agreements, the purchase of ELD supplemental curricula, and contract renewals for PowerSchool. Additionally, the board discussed monthly financial reports, budget amendments, and bid renewals for milk products and small-scale construction services. They reviewed the fire safety report and health inspection report, as well as an outdoor warning system for monitoring weather conditions and ensuring athlete safety.

Infrastructure projects were also on the agenda, with the board reviewing the guaranteed maximum price for classroom additions at Lake Asbury Junior High and the Oakley project, which is estimated at $20 million and $340 per square foot, respectively. The kitchen cafeteria renovation at Lakeside Elementary School was examined, and preparations for the upcoming school year were updated, including leadership training for school-based administrators.

The board concluded with a discussion on developing an agreement for restricted homes on district land and the pre-qualification of contractors. Additionally, proportionate tier mitigation agreements with Triple B Ranch and Creek View in Highland Trail were briefly discussed.