Director Greg Clay welcomed the new school board members, Harold Cooke, Charlie Hamilton, Terry Washam and Dr. Jimmy Carter at the Union County Board of Education meeting in September. Director Clay called for nominations for school board chairman. Rebecca Lock nominated Jessica Buck. Danny Wayne Collins nominated Dr. Jimmy Carter. The vote was by signed ballot. Clay read the name of the voter and the name of the candidate on each ballot aloud. Jessica Buck is the chairperson. There were four votes for Buck and two votes for Carter. Carter was absent.
Buck then asked for nominations for Vice Chairperson. Terry Washam nominated Rebecca Lock, who was elected by acclamation. So perhaps for the first time in Union County, two women will lead the school board. Lock is also the legislative liaison to TSBA.
During the workshop, Deputy Jerry Lawson, who is the SRO supervisor, urged parents to caution their children regarding negative or violent threats. According to Lawson any and all threats are and will be investigated and the people, whether children or adults, will be arrested and prosecuted. There have been a rash of threats pertaining to violence recently in several surrounding counties and some in the recent past in Union County.
UCEA President Carolyn Murr asked that new teachers be given a few days sick leave at the beginning of the year in case they are hurt at work and have no sick leave to use. She explained that new teachers with no sick leave must lose pay if they are hurt on the job which causes a hardship for a new teacher.
Clay updated the board on the new middle school progress and said that footers would soon be poured as the grading is going well. He also suggested some coaching supplements and discussed positions that were needed or vacant at various schools. He commented that test data is being released and should be ready by the October or November board meeting. Board members discussed chaperones for field trips, differentiated pay for high performing teachers, upcoming legislation, and student enrollment.
They reviewed changes in board policy and approved routine budget amendments and field trips. Clay noted there is still a concern for substitutes for nurses and employees. He also said that the staff is looking at some grant opportunities through the Boys and Girls Club to provide tutoring.
The next Union County Board of Education meeting will be at Union County High School on October 3, beginning with the workshop at 6 p.m.