The monthly workshop and meeting for the Union County Board of Education was held Thursday, July 11, 2019. Among many projects, transportation for students to sporting events was brought up as a recurring request from parents of the high school student community to Board Member Marty Gibbs. Dr. Carter said that it is a goal to own a bus for every route plus have a spare one for events like this in the future. It has been recommended that coaches begin retrieving their CDL’s in case this is an option in the future, so they can transport their own teams when and where possible. Challenges presented include deciding how far to extend the offer, costs incurred, and hierarchy of deciding how and who to accommodate if there are conflicting events. There are two new buses ordered and scheduled to arrive this fall, but still that will not put the school system with extra buses for this type of event quite yet.

This year is the first year of a new five year strategic plan. Dr. Carter mentions the focus on increase of student achievement and proficiency, improvement of faculty and staff success and district success rate, as well as safe and supportive schools. Teachers’ salaries are being evaluated on a scale to reflect state minimums working towards becoming more comparative as part of the strategic plan.

A need is expressed by Dr. Carter of a fencing system to be put in place around the football field area to protect the new turf and track field investment from misuse and trespassers, which have been recorded. Many capital projects are underway moving into the new budget year and continue to improve aspects within the schools and school properties.

An adaptive technology grant for $37,650 has been applied for and looks hopeful for Horace Maynard Middle School and Tennessee Virtual Academy. This grant would improve interactivity and other improvements to technological features for the students. This is a regular meeting that is held at Union County High School on the second Thursday each month. Next meeting will be held August 8th at 6pm.