School-Based Telehealth Program Proposed
Dr. Kristy Davis introduced Tracey Grayzer from Impact Alamance and Dr. John Jenkins from Cone Health who presented a proposal for a school-based telehealth pilot program to be launched at Hillcrest Elementary School. The program aims to reduce learning loss, increase instructional time, and curb absenteeism by providing virtual medical visits for students, particularly those missing school for doctor appointments.
If approved, the initial cost to implement the program at Hillcrest would be around $80,000, with an ongoing annual cost of $60,000. Grant funding through Cone Health would cover initial costs. The Board directed staff to continue the process of creating a required Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the program.
Budget Constraints and Potential Reductions
Superintendent Dr. Harrison shared a draft budget request of $9.5 million plus $1.6 million for the state-mandated charter school pass-through funds. To address financial challenges, the district has identified $3.6 million in reductions through ten deficit corrective actions.
Board members discussed the budget's constraints and the difficult decisions faced by ABSS and other districts. Dr. Harrison emphasized the district's commitment to honoring the community's vision for public education, established in 2013, despite the current funding situation.
Superintendent Search Process Discussed
Through discussion with Dr. Harrison, the Board explored options for conducting a superintendent search process. In previous searches, ABSS has utilized BWP Associates and the School Boards Association to assist with the process. Attorney Adam Mitchell outlined logistical considerations, including background checks and handling confidential information.
Dr. Harrison recommended using a third-party firm, suggesting the School Boards Association would be a good choice. He noted the search would likely take a couple of months and recommended splitting the costs across two fiscal years. The Board discussed the possibility of holding a public community forum with the final few candidates to gather input.
Board member Mr. Bowden raised the idea of a community-led search process, though Mr. Mitchell and Dr. Harrison cautioned that an open search could deter some qualified candidates from applying. By consensus, the Board agreed to invite a representative from the School Boards Association to present their process at the April 22 meeting.
Alternative Accountability Model for Ray Street Academy
Ms. Johnson presented three state options for the accountability model for Ray Street Academy for the next school year. ABSS chose Option B, which includes student persistence rate (20%), school achievement (20%), and overall school growth (60%). The Board will vote on the options at the April 22 meeting.
Main Street Office Relocation
Due to the expiration of the current lease for the Main Street office housing Student Services personnel, ABSS is exploring relocation options. South Mebane and South Graham Elementary Schools are being considered as potential sites to accommodate the department's staff and students served.
B. Everett Jordan Principal Named
Robert Dail was named as the new principal of BEJ effective this Friday, April 12th. Mr. Dail joined Alamance-Burlington School System as an Assistant Principal at Williams High School in 2019. He brings over 12 years of experience in education to his new role.
