LCS Officials Discuss Marketing, Title 1 Schools

Below are news briefs from the Leon County School Board agenda review/workshop meeting that was held on September 23, 2024.

The Board discussed 2024-2025 Salary Increases for Exempt Personnel in regard to the Leon County Teachers Association (LCTA). There are negotiations that will address the financial offer on the table which is an increase of one dollar per hour. This increase is the same amount offered to and accepted by Leon Educational Staff Professional Association (LESPA) and Local 1010.

The Board briefly discussed Driver Education and associated fees. It was explained by Scott Hansen that there is no fee for driver’s education, except for the summer in which there is a $150 fee.

The Board spoke about a new policy regarding drones. This policy bans drone operation at all events anytime on LCS property. However, there will be amendments in the future that set guidelines for approval of when drones can be used, such as for school events and football games.

The Board held a workshop for the Communications and Marketing Department Updates. The two groups merged into one department and the presentation focused on the new look for the department and plans going forward. The four units in the new department are innovation, excellence, (highly) qualified, new/events. The department hopes to utilize all forms of communication channels, including social media, newsletters, community and committee meetings, and civic partner events. Other goals include building stronger relationships with families, branding LCS, and improving the district website to be more accessible.

The Board held a workshop about the Title I Federal Program. The Title I program can supplement state funding to focus on areas of need. Title I funding focuses on students who are economically disadvantaged and seeks to improve student achievement and strengthen parent and family engagement. Title I funding is currently eligible in 18 public schools, 2 special school sites, 1 public charter school, and 9 private schools. A service that was highlighted to the board is tutoring for students at any grade level during school, after school, and on Saturdays. These tutoring sessions also include help for ACT and SAT testing. Lastly, the Title I funding includes programs for character development, financial literacy, and free eye exams and glasses.

The Board explored policy updates, including revisions to the Driver Education program, and revisions to requirements for athletic coaches. These new requirements for athletic coaches will require all public school coaches to be certified in CPR, First Aid, and AED use.