Leon County School Board Meeting Briefs: August 22, 2023

Below are the news briefs for the Leon County School Board meeting that took place August 22, 2023.

Chief of Safety and Security Jimmy Williams, gave a presentation on the updated protocol and security updates that will be implemented at Gene Cox Stadium, as a result of the fight outbreak during a recent football game. Mr. Williams explained that moving forward there will be additional school officers during games. Additionally, Superintendent Rocky Hannah noted that students will no longer be able to congregate at the stadium.

The Board voted to approve a number of items off the consent agenda, including an item that approves the 21^st Century Community Learning Program grant to Griffin Middle School in the amount of $26,000.00. Other schools that received grants during the meeting include, Fairview Middle School, Nims Middle School, Godby High School and Rickards High School.

The Board discussed an item that recommends five different history textbook options for adoption. There was no action taken of this item; however, several citizens expressed their opinions on the textbook options. One citizen noted that LCS teacher’s opinion on the matter was important, but ultimately the accuracy of the content is of utmost importance.

The Board unanimously voted to approve the Superintendent’s recommendation to approve out-of-county travel for Board Member Darryl Jones to attend the 2023 Orange Blossom Legislative Issues Conference, as a guest and moderator.

During the Superintendent comments portion of the meeting, Mr. Hanna noted that an additional 28 books have been pulled, which totals 68 books pulled, while being reviewed by the committee, as well as guidance from the general counsel. Additionally, Mr. Hanna said that out of the 68 books, there will be five challenges that will soon be posted to their website.

Mr. Hanna proposed keeping Leon County high school tracks open to the public from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday mornings. He explained that on Saturday and Sunday mornings when students do not attend, the field will be supervised. However, several Board members seemed wary of the proposal. Chair Alva Smith noted the proposal does not address the schools liability of being sued. No action was taken on the issue.

During the Board member discussion portion of the meeting, Board member Darryl Jones made a motion to hire a State and Federal lobbyist. However, after Chair Alva Smith raised concern about the potential cost, Mr. Jones instead asked the Superintendent to bring back information on what might it take to hire a State and Federal lobbyist.

During the persons to be heard portion of the meeting, two citizens came to speak on the issue of the Board restricting public access to LCS track fields. One individual claimed that although allowing access to the track fields during the weekend mornings was a step in the right direction, the proposal still remains too restrictive.