LCS Discusses Expulsion Waivers, Budget Committees and Road Extension

On May 8^th, the Leon County School Board held their bi-weekly agenda review meeting.

Board Member Marcus Nickolas asked for clarification on if “threat and intimidation” falls underneath the No Tolerance Policy, and if so what kind of behavior would warrant an expulsion. Staff explained that a threat, attempt to cause harm or the use of a sharp object or weapon with the intent of bodily harm, would fall under the No Tolerance Policy.

Board Member Laurie Cox asked to revisit having a Budget Committee and a Capital Outlay Committee. She noted she thought it would be insightful to hear other opinions and have representation from other schools on tough decisions. These committees used to meet to to receive requests from various departments related to the budget. However, the last meetings took place in 2021.

Board Member Darryl Jones explained that when he was Chair in the old Capital Outlay Committee, people were often prejudiced or self-serving and that the staff currently working with the superintendent on the budget have no agenda. Superintendent Rocky Hannah stated, “When you have committees like that it’s hard to separate yourself from your agenda and look out for the good of the whole.” Staff explained that school board used Budget Committees before when priorities had to be made due to tight funds.

Staff gave a follow up on the proposal for a Pimlico Road extension to mitigate traffic related to the Northeast Gateway Project. The road extension will extend to school-owned property so LCS is working with Blueprint Intergovernmental Agency. Originally, the extension was set to push into Montford and Roberts school recreational area. Blueprint was asked not to disturb the schools’ recreational area, and Blueprint has since made adjustments. Staff brought a new concept that will move the construction 250 feet north and meets the needs of the school.