One item at the meeting was the announcement of a collaborative robot being introduced into the Marion County School system. This state-of-the-art robotic arm is designed to work alongside humans and features built-in safety mechanisms, allowing students to program and utilize the robot in their educational settings. Teacher Dale Tony attended a specialized two-summer training program to facilitate the integration of this technology. The robot is expected to be delivered in a few months, offering hands-on learning experiences to students, enhancing their technical skills and preparing them for future careers in automation and design.

Additionally, the Marion County School Board is launching its first pre-apprenticeship program at Lake High School. Developed over more than a year in partnership with the Marion County Building Industry Association, this program aims to register students throughout September. The pre-apprenticeship initiative is set to expand the academy’s offerings over the school year, providing students with practical skills and industry exposure. The district also introduced a new industry certification in WordPress for business and IT instructors, who underwent an intensive two-day training and successfully passed the certification test. This certification will be offered to students this year.

In a detailed budget report, Mr. Tra Boston Ellis provided insights into the referendum funds. Since the 2015-2016 fiscal year, nearly $2 billion has been collected, with approximately $87 million spent on various educational programs. For the 2023-2024 fiscal year, total revenues are projected at $34.3 million, with expenditures slightly higher at $35.3 million. The total budgeted expenditures for the referendum stand at around $39 million, allocated across categories including class size reduction, physical education, vocational programs, and school safety. The beginning fund balance for the referendum was reported at $12.7 million, with an ending fund balance projected at $11.7 million after accounting for unspent funds.

Discussion ensued regarding unspent funds, particularly the $580,000 from the class size reduction budget. Mr. Ellis clarified that this amount would roll over into the next fiscal year due to teacher vacancies. Queries were raised about whether this rollover was anticipated, to which Mr. Ellis confirmed it was a common occurrence as a result of staffing changes throughout the year.

Charity Cornelius, the coordinator of physical education, highlighted the impact of the referendum on her department, detailing the professional development opportunities provided to physical education teachers. The budget for physical education included salaries for 22 teachers and 26 technicians, with expenditures nearing $2.6 million for the year. Ms. Audi presented updates on vocational programs, sharing that a robotic arm would be coming to Bell High School as part of a robotics automation and design program.

The meeting also covered safety measures extensively. A director of safe schools reported on various security projects funded by referendum money, aiming to comply with new legislative mandates, specifically House Bill 1473. These projects include the installation of door buzzers, cameras, and 800 MHz radios in school buses. A reunification exercise, simulating a school evacuation scenario, was highlighted as a significant effort for emergency preparedness. This exercise was deemed successful, though areas for improvement were identified.

Concerns about the budgetary impact of unfunded mandates, particularly in relation to school safety measures, were raised. The rising costs associated with these mandates were discussed, with a representative from the private sector noting that the design and construction of educational facilities have shifted to prioritize safety since active shooting incidents began affecting schools. New schools are now built with safety features like single points of entry and various barriers designed to protect students and staff.

The board acknowledged the difficulties in balancing safety needs with other budgetary categories. While safety remains a priority, the board must also consider the implications for other educational programs, especially in light of rising salary and benefits costs. There was a consensus that many of these safety measures are essential, and the board emphasized the need for legislative advocacy to ensure appropriate allocation of funds.

The meeting concluded with discussions on scheduling future meetings and public events, with members expressing enthusiasm for attending school events and fostering community engagement. An annual report format and responsibilities for its preparation were also discussed.