A major topic of discussion was the district’s ongoing struggles with the Synergy platform, a critical technology system used for managing student information and other administrative tasks. Numerous board members expressed frustration over the system’s performance, highlighting its negative impact on both staff morale and operational efficiency. A board member underscored the urgency of resolving these issues, emphasizing the need for Superintendent Dr. Weeks to take ownership and provide clear direction. They shared a personal anecdote about their son experiencing difficulties accessing his 504 plans due to system inadequacies.

The discussion revealed that Gartner, a research firm, would assist with broader strategic evaluations rather than directly addressing Synergy’s specific problems. Board members, including Lynn Gray and Nadia Combs, voiced skepticism about the necessity of involving an external firm, arguing that the district should focus on improving the implementation and training related to Synergy. Combs pointed out that the primary issue was not the system’s performance but rather its rollout and the adequacy of staff training. Patti Rendon raised concerns about the accuracy of attendance tracking and the manual processes required for late arrivals, which she described as cumbersome and error-prone.

The meeting also featured a debate on the issue of school safety, which has become a nationwide concern. Board members emphasized the importance of proactive engagement from parents to foster a culture of safety. Superintendent Ayres highlighted ongoing discussions with the Safe and Sound Leadership Advisory Board and local law enforcement to outline actionable steps for enhancing safety efforts within schools. The board stressed the necessity of effective training for both school staff and law enforcement officials in handling active shooter scenarios. They reassured the community that staff participate in regular professional training and simulation drills to prepare for potential threats.

In addition to safety protocols, the board discussed the rise in false school threats, with Superintendent Ayres revealing that several students had been arrested for making false threats since September 4. He characterized these actions as felonies with long-lasting consequences and urged adherence to the “see something, say something” principle. Chief Newman supported Ayres’ comments, highlighting the resources required to investigate these threats and their negative impact on the school environment.

A significant portion of the meeting focused on educational initiatives, particularly the implementation of the Just Right Reader, Inc. program. This initiative aims to provide take-home books for kindergarten and first-grade students in 50 of the district’s most fragile schools, with the goal of enhancing literacy by giving students access to high-quality reading materials in both English and Spanish. Board members, including Nadia Combs and Stacy Hahn, expressed overwhelming support for the initiative, recognizing its potential positive impact on student literacy outcomes.

The board also discussed the Empowering Educational Development Services Program, a collaboration with the Children’s Board of Hillsborough County. This program provides intensive case management services for students from pre-K to fifth grade to ensure they are ready for kindergarten and reading at grade level by third grade. Member Patti Rendon raised concerns regarding the district’s financial contributions towards the program, seeking transparency on funding sources and additional support.

Public comments featured speakers addressing various concerns, including safety at bus stops, perceived cronyism within the district’s administration, and the need for proactive safety measures in schools. A parent, Atriana Brockatese, advocated for clear book bags and metal detectors in schools, referencing a recent incident at Blake High School where a student was found with loaded firearms. Another parent, Monica Gadsden, echoed these sentiments, sharing her daughter’s anxiety related to school safety and urging the board to implement effective safety protocols.

The board also debated the potential renaming of West Tampa Elementary School to E.J. Salcines Elementary. The proposal, initiated by Karen Perez, emphasized community support for the name change. However, other members, including Patti Rendon and Stacy Hahn, raised concerns about ensuring community engagement and the financial implications of renaming a school. The consensus was to gather more information and community input before making any decisions.