01:04:35At the forefront of the meeting was the discussion of the annual performance report released by the Department of Education, which provided a analysis of school and district performance. The report revealed a notable climb in the graduation rate from 93% to 97%, alongside a reduction in the student suspension rate from 9% to 7%. Additionally, there were increases in assessment performance in math and English, improved PSAT scores, and a decrease in chronic absenteeism over the past three years. Despite these positive trends, the board acknowledged ongoing concerns regarding math and language arts performance, especially within science assessments, which had been historically undervalued. The board expressed a commitment to addressing these areas to enhance future performance and noted that the federal government’s growth targets were surpassed in all four evaluated areas.

01:12:35Another aspect of the meeting involved the acknowledgment of staff efforts during recent testing periods. The board commended volunteers who managed enrichment activities for approximately 200 students not participating in the tests. This appreciation extended to the announcement of an upcoming retirement and service recognition awards ceremony on June 13, 2025.

Personnel decisions comprised a substantial part of the meeting, with the board recommending the acceptance of retirements from Mr. Terresa Ricardi, a fine performing arts teacher, and Ms. Heather Stout, an English arts teacher. The board expressed deep appreciation for their longstanding contributions, emphasizing the positive impact these educators had on students and the community. There was a collective hope that they take pride in their professional legacies, acknowledging the dedication required in the teaching profession.

01:19:50In addition to retirements, the board approved various personnel actions, including the hiring of substitute staff for the remainder of the school year and the approval of summer work days for the guidance department. Special education teachers were hired for the upcoming school year, along with summer custodial workers and bus drivers for extended school year programs. The board also approved Alise Gab as an English Language Arts teacher for the 2025-2026 school year. In extracurricular activities, the resignation of Faith Card as the girls’ assistant lacrosse coach was accepted, and Terresa Ricardi’s resignation from multiple director roles due to retirement was acknowledged.

01:20:38Financial matters were addressed collectively, with the board approving reports such as the board secretary’s report and the treasurer’s report for April 2025. Additionally, a service agreement between the High Point Regional Board of Education and the Frankfurt Board of Education was approved. This agreement, focused on sharing resources for the buildings and grounds supervisor, was praised for its fiscal responsibility.

Generous donations were also acknowledged during the meeting, including a $200 mulch donation from Wingle Supply. The board authorized the High Point Wildcat Baseball Club to host a non-affiliated co-ed camp for children aged 7 to 12, scheduled for late June.

01:24:24Transportation contracts for various trips were reviewed, clarifying that these approvals secured pre-negotiated rates rather than guaranteeing expenditure. As the meeting progressed, no public comments were made during the second public comment section, leading to the closure of this segment. Board members provided a brief report on attendance at a scholarship awards dinner, extending thanks to those who assisted in presenting awards. Recognition was given to individuals, including Mrs. Corsy for her new board member certification and Mr. Dunn for his long service as board president.