The meeting began with an extensive discussion on the safety measures implemented across the district’s campuses. Mr. Dennis McFaten outlined the critical role of partnerships with Raptor Technologies, which provides essential tools for maintaining campus security. These tools include management systems for visitors and volunteers, accountability for drills, and reunification processes. Notably, over 13,000 volunteer applications were processed in the past year, resulting in more than 92,500 volunteer hours, with contributions from several schools.

A notable adaptation in security practices involved the introduction of miniature red dot sights for safe schools officers. Officers are required to undergo thorough training to utilize these new resources effectively. The funding for school resource officers (SROs) was also a topic of interest, with a projected increase in costs from $12.7 million for the current three-year agreement to $16 million for the upcoming agreement. This increase reflects the necessity of maintaining a safe school officer on every campus.

Infrastructure improvements were another focal point, featuring the purchase and installation of a mutual link interoperability system at the Marion County Communications Center. This system is designed to facilitate rapid responses when panic alerts are activated and integrates seamlessly with local communication centers. Additionally, over $4 million was allocated for bidirectional amplifiers to improve radio communications within schools. However, improvements to the county’s radio tower have reduced the number of amplifiers needed, resulting in cost savings of $2.8 million.

In the realm of academic successes, the district’s overall grade improved to a B, with five schools maintaining an A grade and ten schools enhancing their grades. Belleview Middle School and Osceola Middle School both achieved A grades. Deputy Superintendent White House attributed these accomplishments to community support and emphasized the significance of programs such as physical education, arts, and career technical education in fostering well-rounded students. A record number of over 3,600 Advanced Placement (AP) exams were taken, with a 69% pass rate.

The meeting also addressed the financial report for the year, focusing on the referendum funds. The referendum, a one-mill ad valorem tax approved in November 2022, generated $235.8 million in revenue, with expenditures accounting for $230.2 million. The funds are allocated to support arts, music, vocational programs, and school safety. A legal agreement was reached to share $1.5 million with charter schools, resolving a legal challenge about the distribution of these funds.

Various programs funded by the referendum were reviewed, starting with the general fund for kindergarten paraprofessionals, where $5.8 million of the $6 million budget was spent. The physical education department was discussed, with a focus on creative programming to engage students. The vocational programs also showed growth, with 40 Career and Technical Education (CTE) pathways available and over 15,000 students enrolled. Notably, 748 seniors graduated with potential college credit through these pathways.

The CTE programs require students to complete at least 150 hours of learning to earn certifications. Externship programs for teachers were also discussed, allowing educators to gain hands-on skills in businesses.

Library media and fine arts programs were also under review. An increase in circulation data showed a growing student engagement with reading materials, and district-wide book challenges were emphasized. The music and visual arts programs concluded the school year with various events, including the Young and Art program and participation in Florida all-state ensembles. The introduction of the Florida Seal of Fine Arts was highlighted, with 71 seniors receiving the seal.

Professional development initiatives were also addressed, with a focus on the new teacher academy targeting early career educators. Throughout the discussions, the importance of referendum funding in supporting educational programs and initiatives was underscored, with board members highlighting the positive impact on student learning outcomes and teacher development.