In a recent session, Board approved amendments to policies 2460 and 5630.01, which concern exceptional student education (ESC) and the seclusion and restraint of students with disabilities. Superintendent Kevin K. Hendrick introduced the amendments, emphasizing the importance of updating policies every three years to align with the Florida Department of Education’s requirements. The amendments to policy 2460 include an updated plan for transitioning ESC pre-kindergarten students with developmental delays into kindergarten, modifications to forms for parentally placed private school students, and changes aligned with the district’s strategic plan. Policy 5630.01 saw revisions due to legislative changes in 2022 aimed at enhancing the treatment of students with disabilities, prohibiting the use of seclusion and mechanical restraints and updating procedural requirements for reporting. The amendments passed unanimously after a brief discussion among board members.

School safety was another focal point of the meeting. The Board discussed the implementation of heightened safety protocols, including the requirement to lock all buildings and doors at all times while students are on campus. This measure has posed challenges for after-school activities, but officials stressed the importance of instilling a culture of safety that extends beyond physical measures to include mental health considerations. A video featuring School Board representatives, Sheriff Bob Gaultier, and Chief Luke Williams was released to remind students and staff of their collective responsibility in maintaining safety. The video encouraged reporting suspicious activities through various channels, including anonymous reporting systems.

The Board also addressed the issue of false reports regarding threats and weapons on school property. Officials emphasized the seriousness of such allegations and the legal repercussions, noting that threats made online can lead to felony charges. This discussion reinforced the message that safety is a shared commitment among students, staff, and the community.

In terms of staffing, the Board announced a bus driver hiring fair to bolster the district’s workforce with backup drivers. The district is also seeking substitute teachers and has made efforts to communicate these opportunities to the community. Volunteer efforts were praised, with 25,000 individuals contributing to the success of students last year, and a call to action was made for continued community involvement in various roles that support schools.

During the public comments section, Scott Barnham, the new PESPA president, advocated for the approval of the PESPA contract, expressing gratitude for the bargaining team’s efforts. The contract includes a $0.75 per hour increase for employees retroactive to July 1 and the district covering 80% of increased healthcare costs. The agreement received notable support from the PESPA bargaining unit, with a 96% approval rate during ratification. The motion to approve this agreement passed unanimously.

Public comments also included remarks from Lee Bryant, president of the Pinellas Classroom Teachers Association (PCTA), who acknowledged the re-elections of board members and highlighted the critical nature of upcoming elections. Bryant urged the community to support a forthcoming referendum aimed at increasing local funding for schools, noting Florida’s low ranking in average teacher pay despite high educational performance.

Environmental concerns were also voiced during public comments. Mark Lutho criticized the district’s construction practices and the agreement with Habitat for Humanity. Lutho linked these issues to broader environmental challenges, including climate change, and called for the board to engage more critically with these pressing global challenges.

Additionally, the Board reviewed item 8.1, setting a public hearing to consider amendments to policy 2250, which involves fundamental and magnet schools. Changes to the policy include the expansion of dual-language programs and adjustments to geographical application areas and transportation logistics. The motion to approve this item passed unanimously.