The Long County Board of Education held a budget workshop, immediately followed by the regular meeting on July 13, 2021.
Following is a summary of items discussed and/or voted upon:
During the budget workshop, Superintendent David Edwards reported that the 2021-2022 budget includes no local ad-valorem (property) tax increase. Expenditures will include a 3 percent one-time annual salary payout, a required increase in the district’s contribution to Georgia’s Teacher Retirement System, three new buses, and continued support of the local public library, 4H, and the Long County Sheriff’s Department (for school resource officers and crossing guards). He also explained that 84 percent of the General Fund projected expenses would be for salaries and benefits, with 69 percent of those salaries and benefits being for instruction.
Amanda Nobles, Director of School Food Services, accepted the Hunger for Heroes Award for Long County’s school cafeterias. Superintendent Edwards commended the School Food Services Department for all of their dedication to feeding students under difficult circumstances during the pandemic. Frances Parks was honored for her retirement from the Long County School System. Mrs. Parks served Long County’s students at various schools for 17 years. Her dedication to Long County Schools positively impacted the lives of many students and staff members.
Craig Buckley and Associates was approved as the architect for the LCHS addition and Smiley Elementary School renovation projects.
The 2021-22 School Resource Officer Contract was approved for the continuation of crossing guards and SRO services provided by the Long County Sheriff’s Department.
The 2021-22 budget was adopted and Superintendent Edwards was authorized to advertise the tax digest.
Padgett Asphalt was awarded the bid for asphalt sealing and repainting of parking lot lines for SES and Veterans Stadium parking areas. Through approval of the consent agenda, the following items were approved:
Numerous certified and classified employees, employee transfers, June 14th and 28th meeting minutes, Professional Learning Community (PLC) Facilitators, athletic trainer pay scale, coaching recommendations, resignations, and surplus of lunchroom equipment.
The BOE members then entered executive session to discuss personnel matters.
