The meeting’s focal point was a presentation by TBO Partnerships on potential revenue streams through stadium naming rights and digital advertising within the district. Brian Sakowski, representing TBO Partnerships, elaborated on the initiative to generate non-traditional revenue for school facilities. He shared insights from tours of the district’s high schools, conducted to assess the potential value of naming rights. Martin County High School was identified as the first target due to its central location and appealing characteristics. Sakowski highlighted the dual strategy of selling stadium naming rights as significant investments from single partners while offering digital advertising opportunities to multiple partners at lower entry points.

Sakowski underscored the potential impact on local business partnerships, presenting data that 75% of parents and brands prefer supporting local schools, and 64% would switch brands for companies investing in education. The strategy is to capitalize on the district’s reach, which extends to over 40% of the local population, providing a robust marketing opportunity. He detailed the valuation process for naming rights, considering factors such as traffic, school size, and event attendance, and noted the near-readiness of digital advertising infrastructure on school websites. The board was encouraged to approve outreach to local companies to gauge interest and clarify potential benefits.

Discussion shifted to the distribution of funds generated from these initiatives. A board member inquired about models used in other districts, such as Orange County, and suggested guidelines for fund allocation at the school level. The debate centered on ensuring equitable distribution, with a preference for a model linked to the stadium fund, where schools hosting events receive a larger share. Board members emphasized the importance of community involvement in these initiatives to enhance school programs.

The board also deliberated on employee health insurance costs, noting the significant premium increases proposed by Florida Blue and other carriers. Concerns were raised about the affordability of insurance for employees, with discussions about exploring self-insured models for greater flexibility and control. The board was presented with proposals from multiple carriers, each offering different rate caps, wellness funds, and credits. The significant rate increase of 99.8% overall was particularly concerning, prompting suggestions for a zero-cost option for employees.

Further, the conversation addressed the potential disruption to members if the district changed carriers. The board considered the implications for network coverage and prescription costs, emphasizing the need for zero-cost formulary outlines from carriers. The insurance committee recommended involving all carriers in the best and final negotiation rounds to secure better offers. There was a call for transparency in loss ratios across plans and a request for analysis of specialty care disruptions.

The meeting also touched on budgetary challenges, with discussions on the legislative session and anticipated budget cuts. Carter Morrison led a budget workshop, reviewing projections and highlighting a decline in Full-Time Equivalents (FTEs) for the upcoming school year. The board explored budgetary approaches to address these challenges, including a 30% reduction in expenses for most departments, excluding special education due to legal requirements.

A notable legislative matter was discussed concerning potential changes to sovereign immunity caps, which could impact the district’s liability insurance costs. Additionally, the board considered the implications of rising transportation costs and the textbook adoption process for personal financial literacy and intervention materials.

On the policy front, the board reviewed several school board policies, including those related to student suspension and parental notification. There was a strong emphasis on ensuring parental involvement in disciplinary procedures, with calls for immediate communication with parents before suspensions occur. The board aimed to align policies with legal requirements and best practices.