The Hendry County School Board addressed an encouraging decrease in disciplinary referrals and fighting incidents during the meeting. The improved statistics were attributed to the implementation of positive behavioral supports and interventions. Despite these advancements, the board expressed concern regarding the rise in Vape offenses among students. Plans were unveiled to install Vape detectors in secondary school restrooms as a proactive measure to combat this issue.

Data accuracy was a recurrent theme throughout the meeting, especially in terms of academic performance and the evidence-based reading plan. One board member questioned the reliability of the data provided, prompting a discussion on the incomplete and inaccurate information attributed to the Department of Education’s handling. The superintendent reassured the board that remarkable growth in reading performance is anticipated once accurate and complete data becomes available.

The board also engaged in dialogue about the services provided by Florida SouthWestern State College (FSW) to Hendry County School District students. Student data access was a topic of debate, with concerns raised about the legality of requiring students to grant permission for administrators to access their grades. FSW had cited student privacy rights as a barrier to providing such data, which presents a challenge in identifying students who are struggling early on.

Mental health services and their funding were another focal point of the meeting. Questions were raised about whether the costs for these services were covered by grants or the school district’s general budget. It was clarified by the superintendent that a state grant for mental health funding supports the program. Emphasis was placed on the use of universal screening tools to assess the emotional maturity and social development needs of students.

The board deliberated over the performance of students and the distribution of mental health funds. Action items, including the permission to advertise a tentative budget hearing and the reappointment of a director position, were approved. The board also addressed the comprehensive evidence-based reading plan, despite reservations from one member concerning the outcomes and the data accuracy.

Updates on infrastructure also featured prominently in the meeting. The attorney provided information on contracts and meetings related to the construction of a new high school and mentioned a legal memorandum concerning affordable housing for teachers. The superintendent updated the board on the acquisition and renovation of a building in Leel for adult education and the Clon Early Learning Center.

Property development along Highway 27 was a topic of concern, particularly regarding the high density of the area, the prevalence of fast food restaurants, and the resulting traffic flow and safety. The board resolved to entertain proposals for the development before making final decisions. Additionally, the board decided to listen to a presentation from the water board interested in purchasing a piece of school board property in Fort Denaud for utility needs and infrastructure development.

Maintenance and accessibility for cleaning of Mini Splits units in school buildings raised issues of practicality and long-term upkeep. Lastly, the board discussed the lack of parental involvement in schools, with a particular reference to a summer program for students that saw low participation. A call for suggestions to improve parental support was made.