1 00:02:06,550 --> 00:02:07,910 Good afternoon. 2 00:02:07,910 --> 00:02:10,310 The special meeting of the Fredericksburg City School 3 00:02:10,310 --> 00:02:13,845 Board for August third twenty twenty six is now called to order. 4 00:02:13,845 --> 00:02:17,765 The time is five o'clock PM. May I have a roll call, please? 5 00:02:17,765 --> 00:02:21,045 Miss Kay? Miss Langdon? Present. 6 00:02:21,045 --> 00:02:23,685 Doctor Wolfenbarger? Present. Miss McFadden? Present. 7 00:02:23,685 --> 00:02:26,245 Miss Pomeroy? Present. You have a quorum, madam chair. 8 00:02:26,245 --> 00:02:27,165 Thank you. 9 00:02:27,720 --> 00:02:31,520 Are there any changes or additions to the agenda? 10 00:02:32,440 --> 00:02:33,400 There being none, 11 00:02:33,400 --> 00:02:36,880 may I have a motion to approve the agenda as presented? 12 00:02:39,000 --> 00:02:42,995 I move to approve the agenda as presented. Second. 13 00:02:43,515 --> 00:02:45,755 Motion by Ms. 14 00:02:45,755 --> 00:02:49,915 Langdon to approve the agenda as presented and seconded by 15 00:02:49,915 --> 00:02:52,355 Ms. McFadden. Any discussion? 16 00:02:52,395 --> 00:02:55,595 All those in favor say aye. Aye. 17 00:02:55,595 --> 00:02:57,635 Motion carries unanimously. 18 00:02:59,740 --> 00:03:03,660 At this time, I will announce the following individuals who have submitted 19 00:03:03,660 --> 00:03:07,340 their application for the member at large vacant school 20 00:03:07,340 --> 00:03:11,475 board seat in accordance with the guidelines of the vacancy notice. 21 00:03:11,475 --> 00:03:14,675 Applicants will be given three minutes to speak in the order 22 00:03:14,675 --> 00:03:16,835 that their application was received. 23 00:03:16,835 --> 00:03:19,275 The clerk will call their names. 24 00:03:21,075 --> 00:03:23,035 Doctor Stanley Jones. 25 00:03:28,200 --> 00:03:29,760 Good evening. 26 00:03:31,000 --> 00:03:33,480 Chair Pomeroy and members of the school board, 27 00:03:33,480 --> 00:03:37,000 thank you for the opportunity to speak this evening. 28 00:03:37,000 --> 00:03:38,280 My name is Stan Jones, 29 00:03:38,280 --> 00:03:41,665 I'm seeking appointment to the vacant at large seat on the 30 00:03:41,665 --> 00:03:43,625 Fredericksburg School Board. 31 00:03:44,385 --> 00:03:46,945 The reason I'm seeking this appointment is simple, 32 00:03:46,945 --> 00:03:50,185 to serve children and families of Fredericksburg. 33 00:03:50,385 --> 00:03:51,585 For thirty nine years, 34 00:03:51,585 --> 00:03:54,225 I've dedicated my professional life to public education in the 35 00:03:54,225 --> 00:03:55,785 Commonwealth of Virginia, 36 00:03:55,870 --> 00:03:58,110 serving in a variety of leadership and instructional 37 00:03:58,110 --> 00:04:02,070 roles in schools and school divisions across the state. 38 00:04:02,110 --> 00:04:03,950 Following my career in public education, 39 00:04:03,950 --> 00:04:08,190 I currently serve as the CEO of Action and Community through 40 00:04:08,190 --> 00:04:09,390 service known as ACTS, 41 00:04:09,390 --> 00:04:11,945 a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving 42 00:04:11,945 --> 00:04:14,505 individuals and families throughout the region who are 43 00:04:14,505 --> 00:04:16,105 facing crisis. 44 00:04:16,105 --> 00:04:19,545 Throughout my career, one belief has never changed. 45 00:04:19,545 --> 00:04:23,305 Every child deserves the opportunity to learn, grow, 46 00:04:23,305 --> 00:04:24,985 and reach their full potential, 47 00:04:24,985 --> 00:04:27,185 regardless of their circumstances. 48 00:04:27,680 --> 00:04:31,200 I am not seeking this position for recognition or personal gain. 49 00:04:31,200 --> 00:04:34,240 I'm seeking it because I believe my experience can be of 50 00:04:34,240 --> 00:04:37,360 service to this community at an important time for 51 00:04:37,360 --> 00:04:39,400 Fredericksburg City Schools. 52 00:04:39,440 --> 00:04:42,215 I understand the proper role of a school board member. 53 00:04:42,215 --> 00:04:45,335 The board's responsibility is to establish a vision, 54 00:04:45,335 --> 00:04:49,335 ensure accountability, exercise sound fiscal 55 00:04:49,335 --> 00:04:51,495 stewardship, and support the superintendent, 56 00:04:51,495 --> 00:04:54,975 while keeping students at the center of every decision. 57 00:04:56,800 --> 00:04:59,840 Appointed, I will bring a collaborative spirit, 58 00:04:59,840 --> 00:05:04,640 a commitment to transparency, and a focus on student success. 59 00:05:04,640 --> 00:05:06,000 I will listen carefully, 60 00:05:06,000 --> 00:05:08,365 work respectfully with my fellow board members, 61 00:05:08,365 --> 00:05:11,005 and make decisions based on what is best for students, 62 00:05:11,005 --> 00:05:14,045 families, educators, and taxpayers. 63 00:05:14,045 --> 00:05:15,885 As a resident of Fredericksburg, 64 00:05:15,885 --> 00:05:19,885 I care deeply about the future of our schools and our community. 65 00:05:19,885 --> 00:05:21,965 I want every student who walks through the doors of 66 00:05:21,965 --> 00:05:24,610 Fredericksburg City Schools to graduate, 67 00:05:24,610 --> 00:05:27,650 prepare for success in college, their career, 68 00:05:27,650 --> 00:05:31,130 military service, or whatever path they choose. 69 00:05:31,810 --> 00:05:33,890 Thank you for your consideration and your service 70 00:05:33,890 --> 00:05:35,490 to our schools and community. 71 00:05:35,490 --> 00:05:38,885 It would be an honor to serve alongside you in support of 72 00:05:38,885 --> 00:05:41,405 Fredericksburg's children and families. 73 00:05:41,525 --> 00:05:44,325 If appointed, I will bring nearly four decades of educational 74 00:05:44,325 --> 00:05:46,965 leadership, a spirit of collaboration, 75 00:05:46,965 --> 00:05:49,445 and an unwavering commitment to doing what is best for the 76 00:05:49,445 --> 00:05:51,205 children and families of Fredericksburg. 77 00:05:51,205 --> 00:05:52,525 Thank you very much. 78 00:05:52,960 --> 00:05:54,520 Thank you. 79 00:06:00,880 --> 00:06:02,920 Mister Anthony Watkins. 80 00:06:11,415 --> 00:06:13,815 Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen. 81 00:06:13,815 --> 00:06:16,855 As you just heard, my name is Anthony Watkins. 82 00:06:16,855 --> 00:06:20,295 I'm a native of Atlanta, Georgia, 83 00:06:20,295 --> 00:06:22,095 born and raised there. 84 00:06:22,910 --> 00:06:27,550 Attended public school there, graduating in nineteen eighty two. 85 00:06:27,550 --> 00:06:29,630 I'm a retired marine. 86 00:06:29,630 --> 00:06:32,910 I'm a long term resident, 87 00:06:32,910 --> 00:06:36,285 long time resident of the Fredericksburg area. 88 00:06:36,285 --> 00:06:39,485 Initially, it's Pasolena County and most recently, 89 00:06:39,485 --> 00:06:41,885 for the past seven years approximately, 90 00:06:41,885 --> 00:06:45,805 the city of Fredericksburg where my wife and I wanted to be. 91 00:06:45,805 --> 00:06:49,500 My wife is an educator in Fredericksburg 92 00:06:49,500 --> 00:06:52,060 City Schools, fourth grade teacher, 93 00:06:52,060 --> 00:06:55,820 and I have a lot of experience supporting her in her 94 00:06:55,820 --> 00:06:59,940 day to day duties as I have the opportunity to. 95 00:07:00,060 --> 00:07:04,935 Over the course of my Marine Corps career, we, at sometimes, 96 00:07:04,935 --> 00:07:09,095 sent our children to the public schools or base schools, 97 00:07:09,095 --> 00:07:13,135 and other times we homeschooled them based on 98 00:07:13,415 --> 00:07:16,895 what was available locally and what was best for our children. 99 00:07:17,680 --> 00:07:21,680 As I thought about what I could possibly say in only three 100 00:07:21,680 --> 00:07:25,360 minutes to sway anyone in this room to put their 101 00:07:25,360 --> 00:07:26,960 support behind me, 102 00:07:26,960 --> 00:07:29,440 I quickly came to the conclusion that there's 103 00:07:29,440 --> 00:07:31,520 probably not a lot that I or anyone could say in three 104 00:07:31,520 --> 00:07:34,475 minutes that will garner that kind of support. 105 00:07:34,475 --> 00:07:37,435 So instead of going down that trail, 106 00:07:37,435 --> 00:07:42,315 I decided to just focus on one thing that is 107 00:07:42,315 --> 00:07:45,075 in my, if I may call it that, 108 00:07:45,275 --> 00:07:48,435 educational leadership philosophy. 109 00:07:48,690 --> 00:07:51,610 And this, of course, goes without 110 00:07:51,650 --> 00:07:55,130 the things that are just absolutely 111 00:07:55,570 --> 00:08:00,130 non negotiable, such as empathy for everyone 112 00:08:00,130 --> 00:08:04,075 involved in the enterprise, whether it's the students, 113 00:08:04,075 --> 00:08:07,035 first and foremost, the teachers, the parents, 114 00:08:07,035 --> 00:08:08,555 and the broader community. 115 00:08:08,555 --> 00:08:12,715 It's not an easy time to grow up in this world, 116 00:08:12,715 --> 00:08:16,475 nor is it an easy time to teach in our schools. 117 00:08:16,475 --> 00:08:20,900 So when I think about the myriad of problems that 118 00:08:20,900 --> 00:08:25,060 are faced by educators and the educational 119 00:08:25,060 --> 00:08:28,260 system, there's no shortage of problems. 120 00:08:28,260 --> 00:08:31,380 We can talk about inequality, 121 00:08:31,380 --> 00:08:33,020 we can talk about 122 00:08:33,565 --> 00:08:37,325 mental disorders that are becoming too prominent among 123 00:08:37,325 --> 00:08:41,245 our children, we can talk about the challenges faced by kids in 124 00:08:41,245 --> 00:08:43,245 social media, and of course, 125 00:08:43,245 --> 00:08:45,885 the ever growing threat or opportunity I beg your pardon? 126 00:08:45,885 --> 00:08:46,285 How many? 127 00:08:46,285 --> 00:08:46,925 Thirty seconds. 128 00:08:46,925 --> 00:08:49,870 Thirty seconds of AI. 129 00:08:49,870 --> 00:08:53,230 So when I hear about a problem, 130 00:08:53,230 --> 00:08:57,230 the first thing that I tend to do is to think about, well, 131 00:08:57,230 --> 00:09:00,565 how have others faced this same sort of problem in the past? 132 00:09:00,565 --> 00:09:03,445 Are there lessons that we can learn from them and adopt them 133 00:09:03,445 --> 00:09:07,445 and adapt them to help us meet our challenges? 134 00:09:07,445 --> 00:09:09,045 So in the interest of time, 135 00:09:09,045 --> 00:09:11,525 I think I have four seconds left in which I will say thank 136 00:09:11,525 --> 00:09:13,165 you very much for your time. 137 00:09:13,240 --> 00:09:14,640 Thank you. 138 00:09:20,120 --> 00:09:22,080 Mister Justin Carter. 139 00:09:26,785 --> 00:09:30,545 Hey, good evening. My name is Justin Carter. 140 00:09:30,545 --> 00:09:32,785 I just wanna say the school system raised me. 141 00:09:32,785 --> 00:09:35,985 I graduated from it and in fact there are people in this room 142 00:09:35,985 --> 00:09:39,540 that have either taught me or kind of like shown me along the way. 143 00:09:39,540 --> 00:09:42,980 Tonight, I've got two children enrolled in the in our school system. 144 00:09:42,980 --> 00:09:45,620 One is a rising sixth grader at Walker Grant, 145 00:09:45,620 --> 00:09:47,620 the other is a rising junior at JM. 146 00:09:47,620 --> 00:09:50,780 For years, I've been on the other end of what our schools produce, 147 00:09:51,775 --> 00:09:54,575 hiring and developing young people in their first jobs. 148 00:09:54,575 --> 00:09:57,615 I have a practical read on what ready looks like academically, 149 00:09:57,615 --> 00:09:59,855 professionally, and socially, not just ready to graduate, 150 00:09:59,855 --> 00:10:01,855 but ready for what comes next in their lives. 151 00:10:01,855 --> 00:10:04,815 I'm a director of operations for a global company currently 152 00:10:04,815 --> 00:10:06,840 in the fueling and transportation industry. 153 00:10:06,840 --> 00:10:11,080 I oversee forty one locations across thirteen states with six direct reports. 154 00:10:11,080 --> 00:10:14,120 Most days, that job is about one thing and that and one thing only. 155 00:10:14,120 --> 00:10:15,840 That's accountability. 156 00:10:16,440 --> 00:10:18,520 Budgets that close, audits that get answered, 157 00:10:18,520 --> 00:10:20,795 standards that hold everywhere and everyone, 158 00:10:20,795 --> 00:10:23,675 including the locations of mine that are furthest away accountable. 159 00:10:23,675 --> 00:10:26,395 Before that, I spent nearly ten years as a commissioned officer of the 160 00:10:26,395 --> 00:10:27,675 United States Army. 161 00:10:27,675 --> 00:10:29,435 When you're leading America's sons and daughters, 162 00:10:29,435 --> 00:10:31,835 you don't skip follow-up because it's busy. 163 00:10:31,835 --> 00:10:33,240 You do it because it matters, 164 00:10:33,240 --> 00:10:35,080 and I do what I say I'm gonna do. 165 00:10:35,080 --> 00:10:37,080 I'm not gonna stand here and tell you that I know more about 166 00:10:37,080 --> 00:10:39,800 teaching than the professionals in this room and in our schools. 167 00:10:39,800 --> 00:10:40,360 I don't. 168 00:10:40,360 --> 00:10:43,000 What I do bring is a career spent strengthening credibility 169 00:10:43,000 --> 00:10:45,465 and trust with the people I work with. 170 00:10:45,465 --> 00:10:47,385 That's rarely done with one big decision. 171 00:10:47,385 --> 00:10:49,385 It's usually done in the small stuff. 172 00:10:49,385 --> 00:10:51,865 The email that gets answered timely, 173 00:10:51,865 --> 00:10:54,865 the task that gets followed up and closed on time, 174 00:10:54,985 --> 00:10:57,665 and then getting the routine things done routinely. 175 00:10:58,490 --> 00:11:00,970 That is how a community knows it can count on its board, 176 00:11:00,970 --> 00:11:03,850 and that's the work I know how to do, and I do it very well. 177 00:11:03,850 --> 00:11:05,370 What I bring is unglamorous. 178 00:11:05,370 --> 00:11:06,650 When this board commissions work, 179 00:11:06,650 --> 00:11:10,290 and that work should have a name and on it and a completion date to it. 180 00:11:10,625 --> 00:11:12,225 It should close on that date, 181 00:11:12,225 --> 00:11:14,865 or we should ask why in a public man manner. 182 00:11:14,865 --> 00:11:17,265 It's simply the standard I would wanna apply to myself if 183 00:11:17,265 --> 00:11:19,745 I was on the board or on the receiving end. 184 00:11:19,745 --> 00:11:21,185 This is a five month seat, 185 00:11:21,185 --> 00:11:23,070 and I don't intend to treat it as a placeholder. 186 00:11:23,070 --> 00:11:25,070 Whoever sits on this board should be doing real work 187 00:11:25,070 --> 00:11:27,390 between now and December because our kids don't get 188 00:11:27,390 --> 00:11:30,510 these five months back, and every semester for them counts. 189 00:11:30,510 --> 00:11:32,670 This effort will have my total focus. 190 00:11:32,670 --> 00:11:36,335 This would be the only seat and my only commitment outside of work and family. 191 00:11:36,335 --> 00:11:37,615 And I just wanna leave with this. 192 00:11:37,615 --> 00:11:39,135 This city gave me my start. 193 00:11:39,135 --> 00:11:42,255 I'd be honored to give something back, and thank you. 194 00:11:42,255 --> 00:11:42,655 Bye. 195 00:11:42,655 --> 00:11:43,815 Thank you. 196 00:11:50,300 --> 00:11:52,740 Miss Beth Flanagan. 197 00:11:59,340 --> 00:12:01,660 Madam chairperson and members of the board, 198 00:12:01,660 --> 00:12:03,420 my name is actually Mary Helen Dellinger, 199 00:12:03,420 --> 00:12:05,445 I'm a resident here at the city of Fredericksburg. 200 00:12:05,445 --> 00:12:08,245 I'm here tonight to speak on behalf of Beth Flanagan 201 00:12:08,245 --> 00:12:10,965 regarding her interest in having an interim appointment 202 00:12:10,965 --> 00:12:12,245 to the city school board. 203 00:12:12,245 --> 00:12:14,725 While I will be reading this statement in the first person, 204 00:12:14,725 --> 00:12:16,285 these are Beth's words. 205 00:12:17,490 --> 00:12:19,970 Thank you for this opportunity to share my experience and 206 00:12:19,970 --> 00:12:22,850 passion for public education as well as my vision for the 207 00:12:22,850 --> 00:12:25,410 future of education in the city of Fredericksburg. 208 00:12:25,410 --> 00:12:27,970 I would like to take this opportunity to share how I can 209 00:12:27,970 --> 00:12:31,415 utilize my twenty two years of experience as a teacher to 210 00:12:31,415 --> 00:12:34,455 impact three specific areas as a member of the Fredericksburg 211 00:12:34,455 --> 00:12:35,335 School Board. 212 00:12:35,335 --> 00:12:38,415 These are policies, budget, and leadership. 213 00:12:38,535 --> 00:12:41,015 Policies are the backbone of our school system. 214 00:12:41,015 --> 00:12:44,170 The best leadership and a well funded budget cannot overcome 215 00:12:44,170 --> 00:12:46,810 policies which do not expressly support students and families 216 00:12:46,810 --> 00:12:49,290 in their quest for academic success. 217 00:12:49,290 --> 00:12:52,570 The creation of a successful cell phone discipline start and 218 00:12:52,570 --> 00:12:56,090 end time and attendance policies each require in-depth 219 00:12:56,090 --> 00:13:00,545 knowledge and experience with a wide range of children and teens. 220 00:13:00,545 --> 00:13:02,305 As stated in the application letter, 221 00:13:02,305 --> 00:13:04,865 I've had the honor of impacting the lives of over fourteen 222 00:13:04,865 --> 00:13:06,385 hundred students. 223 00:13:06,385 --> 00:13:08,625 Many of these students spend more waking hours with a 224 00:13:08,625 --> 00:13:11,465 teacher in any day than with their own families. 225 00:13:11,580 --> 00:13:14,380 During this time, educators learn a lot about our students. 226 00:13:14,380 --> 00:13:16,780 We learn what actually works and what sounds like it would 227 00:13:16,780 --> 00:13:19,660 be helpful, but does not fully reach the goal. 228 00:13:19,660 --> 00:13:22,540 This level of experience guides decision making. 229 00:13:22,540 --> 00:13:25,355 Someone in education with extensive experience can 230 00:13:25,355 --> 00:13:27,515 successfully write or vote on policies to guide 231 00:13:27,515 --> 00:13:31,795 administration and students toward the highest level of success. 232 00:13:31,835 --> 00:13:34,155 School board positions require extensive knowledge of 233 00:13:34,155 --> 00:13:35,675 educational practices, 234 00:13:35,675 --> 00:13:38,250 strategic thinking for long ring vision and planning, 235 00:13:38,250 --> 00:13:41,850 and the ability to analyze complex educational data in 236 00:13:41,850 --> 00:13:46,050 order to guide policies that truly support student success. 237 00:13:46,250 --> 00:13:48,570 The second area that school board members can impact is 238 00:13:48,570 --> 00:13:50,410 finance and budget. 239 00:13:50,410 --> 00:13:52,695 In my own life and in businesses that I've managed, 240 00:13:52,695 --> 00:13:55,255 fiscal responsibility has been paramount. 241 00:13:55,255 --> 00:13:58,055 The distribution of hard earned taxpayer dollars needs careful 242 00:13:58,055 --> 00:14:01,575 stewardship, which I will bring to the budgetary process. 243 00:14:01,575 --> 00:14:03,895 Being a highly attractive school system to all levels of 244 00:14:03,895 --> 00:14:06,215 teachers and fund groundbreaking programs and 245 00:14:06,215 --> 00:14:09,190 technology needs to be balanced with the financial constraints 246 00:14:09,190 --> 00:14:13,110 of taxpayers who have paid into our system for their entire lifetimes. 247 00:14:13,110 --> 00:14:15,030 Finally, leadership. 248 00:14:15,030 --> 00:14:16,630 As our school system moves forward, 249 00:14:16,630 --> 00:14:19,875 we will be making the most important decision a system can make. 250 00:14:19,875 --> 00:14:22,755 Who will lead our school away from underperformance in math, 251 00:14:22,755 --> 00:14:24,835 literacy, history, and science? 252 00:14:24,835 --> 00:14:26,835 Some may envision the organizational chart of a 253 00:14:26,835 --> 00:14:29,635 school system from the very top, the superintendent, 254 00:14:29,635 --> 00:14:32,435 all the way down to the students in every classroom. 255 00:14:32,435 --> 00:14:35,370 I personally envision that same chart flipped upside down. 256 00:14:35,370 --> 00:14:38,250 The superintendent and central office hold up and support the 257 00:14:38,250 --> 00:14:40,090 administrators in every school, 258 00:14:40,090 --> 00:14:42,650 while the administrators are supporting teachers who in turn 259 00:14:42,650 --> 00:14:44,650 support every student, which are, of course, 260 00:14:44,650 --> 00:14:46,570 the top priority within our system. 261 00:14:46,570 --> 00:14:49,050 This vision shows a mindset that is critical to keeping us 262 00:14:49,050 --> 00:14:51,575 focused on what matters most, our students. 263 00:14:51,575 --> 00:14:53,495 Thank you for your consideration. 264 00:14:53,495 --> 00:14:54,975 Thank you. 265 00:15:01,655 --> 00:15:03,935 Mister Jacob Parsell. 266 00:15:07,100 --> 00:15:09,740 Good afternoon, madam chair and members of the school board. 267 00:15:09,740 --> 00:15:12,060 Thank you for the opportunity to speak with you today and to 268 00:15:12,060 --> 00:15:13,820 be in consideration for this appointment. 269 00:15:13,820 --> 00:15:16,380 I appreciate the time you invested in this process. 270 00:15:16,380 --> 00:15:19,260 I'm seeking this appointment because I believe our schools 271 00:15:19,260 --> 00:15:22,355 deserve strong leaders who can help ensure decisions are 272 00:15:22,355 --> 00:15:25,155 grounded in strong governance, accountability, 273 00:15:25,155 --> 00:15:26,755 sound financial stewardship, 274 00:15:26,755 --> 00:15:29,595 and a relentless focus on student success. 275 00:15:29,875 --> 00:15:30,835 Throughout my career, 276 00:15:30,835 --> 00:15:33,715 I've helped organizations navigate complex challenges, 277 00:15:33,715 --> 00:15:37,240 manage significant budgets, develop long term strategies, 278 00:15:37,240 --> 00:15:39,720 and build consensus among diverse stakeholders. 279 00:15:39,720 --> 00:15:42,920 Those experiences have taught me how to ask thoughtful 280 00:15:42,920 --> 00:15:45,560 questions, analyze difficult issues, 281 00:15:45,560 --> 00:15:47,080 and make strategic decisions. 282 00:15:47,080 --> 00:15:49,735 As someone who lives in this community and is a graduate of 283 00:15:49,735 --> 00:15:51,015 James Monroe High School, 284 00:15:51,015 --> 00:15:54,455 I understand that our schools are one of our greatest public investments. 285 00:15:54,455 --> 00:15:57,255 Every dollar spent, every policy adopted, 286 00:15:57,255 --> 00:15:59,975 and every strategic decision ultimately impacts our 287 00:15:59,975 --> 00:16:02,590 students, our teachers, our families, 288 00:16:02,590 --> 00:16:04,910 and the future of our entire community. 289 00:16:04,910 --> 00:16:08,830 If appointed, I will work collaboratively with my fellow board members, 290 00:16:08,830 --> 00:16:12,270 staff, educators, parents, and community partners. 291 00:16:12,270 --> 00:16:15,365 I don't believe effective governance is always having all 292 00:16:15,365 --> 00:16:16,965 of the answers to every question. 293 00:16:16,965 --> 00:16:19,445 It's about asking the right questions, building trust, 294 00:16:19,445 --> 00:16:21,685 and making informed decisions that will move this school 295 00:16:21,685 --> 00:16:22,885 division forward. 296 00:16:22,885 --> 00:16:25,445 I believe my professional background brings a perspective 297 00:16:25,445 --> 00:16:28,405 that complements the current strengths of the school board. 298 00:16:28,405 --> 00:16:31,960 My experience in organizational strategy, financial oversight, 299 00:16:31,960 --> 00:16:33,000 performance measurement, 300 00:16:33,000 --> 00:16:35,800 and operational improvements can help ensure we continue 301 00:16:35,800 --> 00:16:39,240 making the best decisions to keep our students at the center 302 00:16:39,240 --> 00:16:40,360 of every decision. 303 00:16:40,360 --> 00:16:41,400 My goal is simple, 304 00:16:41,400 --> 00:16:44,325 help strengthen our school system to ensure that every 305 00:16:44,325 --> 00:16:47,365 student has access to highest quality education and is 306 00:16:47,365 --> 00:16:49,605 prepared to contribute positively for our to our 307 00:16:49,605 --> 00:16:50,805 society going forward. 308 00:16:50,805 --> 00:16:52,725 Thank you all again for your time and consideration. 309 00:16:52,725 --> 00:16:54,485 I look forward to working with you all in the coming weeks. 310 00:16:54,485 --> 00:16:55,565 Thank you. 311 00:17:01,980 --> 00:17:04,740 At this time, we will receive comments 312 00:17:05,660 --> 00:17:06,460 oh, hold on. 313 00:17:06,460 --> 00:17:07,020 Sorry. 314 00:17:07,020 --> 00:17:08,020 That was 315 00:17:11,445 --> 00:17:15,125 next on our agenda is hearing of citizens regarding the 316 00:17:15,125 --> 00:17:18,005 applicants for the member at large vacancy. 317 00:17:18,005 --> 00:17:19,445 Members of the community, 318 00:17:19,445 --> 00:17:22,130 including students enrolled in the division, 319 00:17:22,130 --> 00:17:25,330 are invited and encouraged to attend meetings of the 320 00:17:25,330 --> 00:17:27,810 Fredericksburg City School Board to observe its 321 00:17:27,810 --> 00:17:29,010 deliberations. 322 00:17:29,010 --> 00:17:31,810 Any member of the community may address the school board on 323 00:17:31,810 --> 00:17:34,050 matters related to the Fredericksburg City Public 324 00:17:34,050 --> 00:17:36,505 Schools at regular meetings. 325 00:17:36,505 --> 00:17:39,785 Meetings, members of the public are eligible to address the school 326 00:17:39,785 --> 00:17:41,945 board are allotted three minutes to speak, 327 00:17:41,945 --> 00:17:44,425 and their time will be monitor monitored electronically. 328 00:17:44,425 --> 00:17:47,090 The citizen should provide their name and address. 329 00:17:47,090 --> 00:17:49,890 Comments shall be addressed to the entire board and not to 330 00:17:49,890 --> 00:17:52,050 individual school board members, the superintendent 331 00:17:52,050 --> 00:17:54,290 staff, or other members of the audience. 332 00:17:54,290 --> 00:17:56,850 Speakers shall maintain the civility, decorum, 333 00:17:56,850 --> 00:18:00,610 and respect for the functioning and dignity of the school board at all times, 334 00:18:00,610 --> 00:18:03,895 and comments that cause unnecessary delay or disruption 335 00:18:03,895 --> 00:18:06,295 to a meeting will be ruled out of order. 336 00:18:06,295 --> 00:18:09,495 Speakers should be respectful and observe proper decorum in 337 00:18:09,495 --> 00:18:11,975 their statements and shall refrain from vulgarity, 338 00:18:11,975 --> 00:18:15,650 obscenities, profanity, and other like breaches of respect. 339 00:18:15,650 --> 00:18:17,890 Speaker comments that target, criticize, 340 00:18:17,890 --> 00:18:22,050 or attack individual students are not permitted during public meetings. 341 00:18:22,050 --> 00:18:24,690 Complaints regarding division employees should be directed to 342 00:18:24,690 --> 00:18:26,530 the appropriate school division official. 343 00:18:26,530 --> 00:18:28,850 Comments that amount to a personal attack against any 344 00:18:28,850 --> 00:18:32,015 school board member and cause unnecessary delay or disruption 345 00:18:32,015 --> 00:18:33,695 to a meeting are not allowed. 346 00:18:33,695 --> 00:18:37,455 When reasonable, I will warn a speaker of breaches of decorum, 347 00:18:37,455 --> 00:18:40,735 or of these rules prior to ruling the action as out of 348 00:18:40,735 --> 00:18:44,300 order terminating speaking privileges or taking, 349 00:18:44,300 --> 00:18:48,380 other action to preserve the civility decorum and 350 00:18:48,380 --> 00:18:50,140 orderly conduct of the meeting. 351 00:18:50,140 --> 00:18:52,540 Inappropriately loud conversations or outbursts from 352 00:18:52,540 --> 00:18:54,700 those in attendance will not be tolerated. 353 00:18:54,700 --> 00:18:57,855 Groups or individuals creating a discernment which interferes 354 00:18:57,855 --> 00:19:01,375 with the orderly conduct of the meeting will be asked to leave 355 00:19:01,375 --> 00:19:04,335 as will groups or individuals whose conduct or statements 356 00:19:04,335 --> 00:19:06,895 threaten the safety of anyone in attendance of the meeting. 357 00:19:06,895 --> 00:19:09,455 I may call a recess at any time during the meeting when 358 00:19:09,455 --> 00:19:12,090 individuals or groups fail to comply with these rules, 359 00:19:12,090 --> 00:19:14,810 and the school board may agree by majority vote to suspend 360 00:19:14,810 --> 00:19:18,490 this policy for any citizen comment period, public hearing, 361 00:19:18,490 --> 00:19:20,490 or town hall for the same reasons. 362 00:19:20,490 --> 00:19:23,890 Are there citizens wishing to address the board this evening? 363 00:19:25,335 --> 00:19:29,015 We don't require citizens to sign up in advance for public hearings. 364 00:19:29,015 --> 00:19:34,535 Okay. So I guess they just come up. 365 00:19:34,535 --> 00:19:35,535 Okay. 366 00:19:46,880 --> 00:19:48,800 My name is Jessica Reed. 367 00:19:48,800 --> 00:19:52,435 I live at nine fifteen Cornell Street in downtown. 368 00:19:52,435 --> 00:19:55,155 I have two children in the school system, 369 00:19:55,155 --> 00:19:59,035 both at Walker Grant and Humersa Elementary. 370 00:19:59,155 --> 00:20:03,315 I'm absolutely heartened to see so many qualified 371 00:20:03,315 --> 00:20:06,395 and enthusiastic candidates tonight. 372 00:20:07,320 --> 00:20:11,440 Fredericksburg City is at a precipice of change. 373 00:20:12,760 --> 00:20:14,360 Over the last few years, 374 00:20:14,360 --> 00:20:17,800 we have heard repeatedly how our school system is 375 00:20:17,800 --> 00:20:20,720 underperforming in the state. 376 00:20:21,735 --> 00:20:25,975 I'm here today to support doctor Jones because 377 00:20:25,975 --> 00:20:28,095 of his experience. 378 00:20:28,775 --> 00:20:33,935 Tonight, we've heard words such as leadership, organization, 379 00:20:35,300 --> 00:20:36,860 diligence. 380 00:20:39,220 --> 00:20:43,140 What I see is doctor Jones has already illustrated 381 00:20:43,140 --> 00:20:47,620 to us in an educational format both as 382 00:20:47,620 --> 00:20:52,585 superintendent in education in school 383 00:20:52,585 --> 00:20:56,465 districts our size and smaller. 384 00:20:59,065 --> 00:21:02,345 Someone else mentioned tonight that we really don't have 385 00:21:02,345 --> 00:21:05,760 time to be able to reinvent the wheel, 386 00:21:05,760 --> 00:21:07,960 to catch somebody up. 387 00:21:08,000 --> 00:21:10,800 We wouldn't have to catch doctor Jones up because he 388 00:21:10,800 --> 00:21:14,600 already fully understands the role of a school board member. 389 00:21:15,815 --> 00:21:19,735 Please consider doctor Stan Jones because we the 390 00:21:19,735 --> 00:21:24,775 public stand stand stood behind him 391 00:21:24,775 --> 00:21:28,860 in a record in a record turnout 392 00:21:28,860 --> 00:21:32,300 for a write in candidate last November. 393 00:21:32,300 --> 00:21:37,100 Write in candidates never have good turnouts, 394 00:21:37,100 --> 00:21:39,860 particularly when they're last minute. 395 00:21:41,485 --> 00:21:45,525 But doctor Stan Jones had a twenty one percent. 396 00:21:47,245 --> 00:21:50,165 That's nearly one fourth of voters. 397 00:21:50,365 --> 00:21:51,765 Thank you. 398 00:21:51,885 --> 00:21:53,125 Thank you. 399 00:21:58,650 --> 00:22:01,410 Is there anyone else wishing to address the board? 400 00:22:05,965 --> 00:22:08,365 Good evening. My name is Nicholas Schuchas. 401 00:22:08,365 --> 00:22:11,005 I live at one twenty five Princess Anne Street. 402 00:22:11,005 --> 00:22:11,805 Members of the board, 403 00:22:11,805 --> 00:22:14,125 thank you so much for taking the time to listen to all these 404 00:22:14,125 --> 00:22:16,725 candidates willing to fill this vacancy. 405 00:22:17,085 --> 00:22:18,045 As the last speaker, 406 00:22:18,045 --> 00:22:22,350 I'm highly encouraged to see so many people that wanna serve in that capacity. 407 00:22:22,390 --> 00:22:26,270 I would like to advocate in favor of doctor Stan Jones. 408 00:22:27,110 --> 00:22:29,590 When he campaigned in the last election cycle, 409 00:22:29,590 --> 00:22:34,110 I saw doctor Jones meet with communities that are underserved. 410 00:22:35,005 --> 00:22:37,165 He came to Hazel Hill and spoke with children and families 411 00:22:37,165 --> 00:22:40,925 there that haven't had that outreach in prior years. 412 00:22:40,925 --> 00:22:43,645 He was always willing to meet with members of the community, 413 00:22:43,645 --> 00:22:48,125 hear their concerns, hear their pleas, hear their successes, 414 00:22:48,125 --> 00:22:52,340 and try to work with them to just make sure that they were heard. 415 00:22:52,340 --> 00:22:54,100 And I think that goes a long way. 416 00:22:54,100 --> 00:22:58,100 He consistently committed himself and turned up to events 417 00:22:58,100 --> 00:22:59,940 to meet and hear people. 418 00:22:59,940 --> 00:23:03,900 So it's very clear to me that he takes this responsibility very seriously. 419 00:23:04,365 --> 00:23:07,645 Not only is his background impressive, 420 00:23:07,645 --> 00:23:10,285 but the fact that he's worked in so many capacities in 421 00:23:10,285 --> 00:23:12,365 different school systems, 422 00:23:12,365 --> 00:23:15,285 from superintendent to principal and so on, 423 00:23:15,805 --> 00:23:17,680 just uniquely qualifies him. 424 00:23:17,680 --> 00:23:20,640 And what I really appreciate about doctor Jones is he sees 425 00:23:20,640 --> 00:23:24,000 the potential, and he wants to help us reach our potential. 426 00:23:24,000 --> 00:23:25,600 He's not gonna point fingers or blame. 427 00:23:25,600 --> 00:23:27,200 He just wants to help lift everyone up, 428 00:23:27,200 --> 00:23:29,680 and I think that is a remarkable thing to see, 429 00:23:29,680 --> 00:23:32,160 especially as a father of two children in Fredericksburg City 430 00:23:32,160 --> 00:23:33,080 Schools. 431 00:23:34,105 --> 00:23:37,545 Having a school board that is committed to finding our best 432 00:23:37,545 --> 00:23:39,145 is truly important, 433 00:23:39,145 --> 00:23:43,305 and I think that he is uniquely qualified to help us reach those goals. 434 00:23:43,305 --> 00:23:44,585 Thank you so much. 435 00:23:44,585 --> 00:23:45,745 Thank you. 436 00:23:58,455 --> 00:24:00,855 Good evening. My name is Sue Sargent. 437 00:24:00,855 --> 00:24:03,095 I live in ward three twenty two thousand four hundred and one. 438 00:24:03,095 --> 00:24:06,695 Not one of the other four applicants tonight addressed 439 00:24:06,695 --> 00:24:10,215 what effective school board actually looks like. 440 00:24:10,215 --> 00:24:13,360 That silence is a clear indicator that they are simply 441 00:24:13,360 --> 00:24:17,520 not as prepared as doctor Stan Jones. 442 00:24:17,520 --> 00:24:21,680 In fact, to acknowledge who the best candidate truly is 443 00:24:21,680 --> 00:24:24,985 for this seat, they should withdraw their applications. 444 00:24:24,985 --> 00:24:28,745 Doctor Jones is the only leader here who will skillfully 445 00:24:28,745 --> 00:24:32,505 address the systemic issues causing too many Fredericksburg 446 00:24:32,505 --> 00:24:35,705 families to withdraw their children for private parochial 447 00:24:35,705 --> 00:24:37,600 schools or homeschooling. 448 00:24:37,600 --> 00:24:40,880 Doctor Jones knows what an effective school board looks 449 00:24:40,880 --> 00:24:43,600 like because he brings over thirty years of public 450 00:24:43,600 --> 00:24:47,120 education and nonprofit leadership to the table. 451 00:24:47,120 --> 00:24:50,320 He has served as superintendent of Danville City and King and 452 00:24:50,320 --> 00:24:54,415 Queen County Public Schools Virginia and as deputy 453 00:24:54,415 --> 00:24:56,655 superintendent in Stafford County. 454 00:24:56,655 --> 00:24:59,295 As doctor Jones rightly states, 455 00:24:59,295 --> 00:25:01,935 effective board set a clear vision, 456 00:25:01,935 --> 00:25:05,930 provide responsible fiscal oversight, ensure 457 00:25:05,930 --> 00:25:09,610 accountability, and support the superintendent while 458 00:25:09,610 --> 00:25:14,250 keeping students at the center of every decision. 459 00:25:14,250 --> 00:25:16,890 Like many two two four zero one residents, 460 00:25:16,890 --> 00:25:20,855 doctor Jones has followed our FCPS situation closely. 461 00:25:20,855 --> 00:25:24,695 When he stepped up as a writing candidate for ward four, 462 00:25:24,695 --> 00:25:28,215 I volunteered for his campaign and attended most of Doctor 463 00:25:28,215 --> 00:25:31,655 Jones meet and greets and the community candidate forums. 464 00:25:31,655 --> 00:25:34,495 At one event, I told him directly, 465 00:25:34,600 --> 00:25:38,440 you have a strong North 466 00:25:38,440 --> 00:25:39,640 Star. 467 00:25:39,640 --> 00:25:43,320 Some of us with careers in public education can spot that 468 00:25:43,320 --> 00:25:45,000 quality immediately. 469 00:25:45,000 --> 00:25:48,185 I served forty three years in Virginia public schools, 470 00:25:48,185 --> 00:25:50,985 my first two years in Danville City, 471 00:25:50,985 --> 00:25:54,105 decades before Stan became superintendent. 472 00:25:54,105 --> 00:25:57,385 Thirty one years in Spotsylvania County Public Schools, 473 00:25:57,385 --> 00:26:00,425 staying through the pandemic because of superintendent 474 00:26:00,425 --> 00:26:04,240 doctor Scott Baker's vision and North Star. 475 00:26:04,240 --> 00:26:08,720 Stan Jones is a wise man who will be 476 00:26:08,720 --> 00:26:10,720 welcomed everywhere. 477 00:26:10,720 --> 00:26:14,480 He has successfully navigated the stormy seas of 478 00:26:14,480 --> 00:26:18,945 budget cuts, curriculum changes, and shifting state standards. 479 00:26:18,945 --> 00:26:22,145 His inner compass points steadily towards excellence, 480 00:26:22,145 --> 00:26:25,745 equity, integrity, and accountability. 481 00:26:25,745 --> 00:26:28,385 Just what Fredericksburg City Public Schools School Board 482 00:26:28,385 --> 00:26:31,305 needs and is long overdue. 483 00:26:31,330 --> 00:26:35,170 That is the exact wisdom doctor Jones will bring to the 484 00:26:35,170 --> 00:26:37,490 FCPS school board dais. 485 00:26:37,490 --> 00:26:41,170 Stan Jones is the leader who will work collaboratively with 486 00:26:41,170 --> 00:26:43,695 his school board and superintendent doctor Catlett 487 00:26:43,695 --> 00:26:47,135 to skillfully right this ship and guide 488 00:26:47,135 --> 00:26:50,895 Fredericksburg forward for our city public schools. 489 00:26:50,895 --> 00:26:53,335 Thank you for your consideration. 490 00:26:53,455 --> 00:26:54,535 Thank you. 491 00:26:59,990 --> 00:27:03,550 Is there anyone else wishing to address the board this evening? 492 00:27:04,230 --> 00:27:05,470 Okay. 493 00:27:07,750 --> 00:27:09,750 Please just state your name and your address, please. 494 00:27:09,750 --> 00:27:12,015 Porter Fitch, Brent Street, College Heights. 495 00:27:12,015 --> 00:27:15,215 I would just like to come and speak on behalf of Doctor. 496 00:27:15,215 --> 00:27:16,095 Jones. 497 00:27:16,095 --> 00:27:19,135 I work in finance for a school division, 498 00:27:19,135 --> 00:27:21,855 and I've worked with Stan Jones in Stafford, 499 00:27:21,855 --> 00:27:24,095 and I think that he has the experience and the breadth of 500 00:27:24,095 --> 00:27:28,290 knowledge and the oversight and experience to right the 501 00:27:28,290 --> 00:27:30,850 ship, as prior speakers have said. 502 00:27:30,850 --> 00:27:33,250 I'm very confident in his abilities, 503 00:27:33,250 --> 00:27:40,105 and I really wish that he was on this board with his background. 504 00:27:40,385 --> 00:27:43,665 I think it would be very beneficial for his oversight in 505 00:27:43,665 --> 00:27:46,785 terms of the academic programs and performance of our students. 506 00:27:46,785 --> 00:27:49,505 I think he would be a blessing for our children, 507 00:27:49,505 --> 00:27:53,145 and I look forward to seeing him up here soon. 508 00:28:02,060 --> 00:28:04,020 Is there anyone else? 509 00:28:05,260 --> 00:28:06,260 Okay. 510 00:28:07,885 --> 00:28:12,045 Thank you to the applicants who have expressed an interest in 511 00:28:12,045 --> 00:28:15,405 filling the member at large vacant seat on an interim basis. 512 00:28:15,405 --> 00:28:19,525 The interim term expires December thirty first twenty twenty five. 513 00:28:19,530 --> 00:28:22,730 The board will announce and vote on its decision to fill 514 00:28:22,730 --> 00:28:25,450 the vacant seat at the beginning of a special August 515 00:28:25,450 --> 00:28:27,690 seventeenth school board meeting. 516 00:28:27,690 --> 00:28:30,330 The appointed candidate will take the oath of office prior 517 00:28:30,330 --> 00:28:33,545 to the beginning of their interim term. 518 00:28:33,545 --> 00:28:37,305 As a reminder, the school board has petitioned the court for the vacancy to be 519 00:28:37,305 --> 00:28:42,105 on the ballot for the general and special election in 520 00:28:42,105 --> 00:28:44,865 November of twenty twenty six. 521 00:28:45,570 --> 00:28:50,010 So you'd need to get with the registrar's office to 522 00:28:50,050 --> 00:28:53,810 find out the the details of how to run for the the 523 00:28:53,810 --> 00:28:55,690 special election seat. 524 00:29:06,065 --> 00:29:06,945 Okay. 525 00:29:06,945 --> 00:29:10,665 Did we want to 526 00:29:11,100 --> 00:29:16,420 discuss candidates tonight or just take this information and 527 00:29:18,700 --> 00:29:19,580 take it over? 528 00:29:19,580 --> 00:29:21,820 Gonna inquire about that because I saw the agenda six a 529 00:29:21,820 --> 00:29:24,660 says discuss candidates, and I was 530 00:29:24,695 --> 00:29:27,495 unsure myself, miss Pomeroy, about the process. 531 00:29:27,495 --> 00:29:27,815 Okay. 532 00:29:27,815 --> 00:29:30,055 I know we need to decide in two weeks. Right? But Right. 533 00:29:30,055 --> 00:29:32,855 I guess my direct question will be, if not now, 534 00:29:32,855 --> 00:29:34,215 when will we have the ability to discuss? 535 00:29:34,215 --> 00:29:35,375 So 536 00:29:37,335 --> 00:29:40,335 I can open that up. Do you wanna start? Or? 537 00:29:40,340 --> 00:29:42,020 I'll be happy to. Thank you. 538 00:29:42,020 --> 00:29:44,340 I I first would like to echo a lot of the public comments 539 00:29:44,340 --> 00:29:45,860 where I'm heartened, 540 00:29:45,860 --> 00:29:48,980 and I'm I literally have goosebumps all over my arms 541 00:29:48,980 --> 00:29:52,500 right now because, quite frankly, when I ran a year ago, 542 00:29:52,500 --> 00:29:54,100 I was the only one who ran for my seat, 543 00:29:54,100 --> 00:29:55,715 I was disappointed by that. 544 00:29:55,715 --> 00:29:57,555 And others ran unopposed. 545 00:29:57,555 --> 00:30:01,475 I had to see five quality candidates with backgrounds and 546 00:30:01,475 --> 00:30:04,915 coming dressed to present and speak to us tonight and talk 547 00:30:04,915 --> 00:30:08,835 about children and the breadth and depth of background and experience. 548 00:30:08,835 --> 00:30:10,700 It's just it's really it's awesome. 549 00:30:10,700 --> 00:30:13,500 So thank you all, all five. 550 00:30:13,500 --> 00:30:15,980 I'll add speaking to candidates, 551 00:30:15,980 --> 00:30:18,700 we obviously had a lot of speakers about doctor Jones. 552 00:30:18,700 --> 00:30:21,900 I he has a pretty spectacular reputation. 553 00:30:21,900 --> 00:30:25,285 I also worked in Stafford for thirteen years before Stan came, 554 00:30:25,285 --> 00:30:28,725 and I have a lot of colleagues and people who've worked with 555 00:30:28,725 --> 00:30:31,045 with doctor Jones and spoke highly of him. 556 00:30:31,045 --> 00:30:32,245 So quite frankly, 557 00:30:32,245 --> 00:30:35,765 having a superintendent apply to be on the school board is a 558 00:30:35,765 --> 00:30:37,725 pretty remarkable qualification. 559 00:30:37,820 --> 00:30:41,260 And I know as his role in Stafford, he was essentially, 560 00:30:41,260 --> 00:30:43,340 you know, deputy superintendent. 561 00:30:43,340 --> 00:30:44,780 And I watched many of those meetings, 562 00:30:44,780 --> 00:30:47,940 and I saw doctor Jones act, and I was really impressed. 563 00:30:48,220 --> 00:30:51,580 So he's the only one I probably had any kind of firsthand or or 564 00:30:51,580 --> 00:30:55,245 even direct secondhand information from others about 565 00:30:55,245 --> 00:30:56,445 their reputation. 566 00:30:56,445 --> 00:30:59,885 But, again, I just wanna reiterate everyone impressed me tonight. 567 00:30:59,885 --> 00:31:02,205 I don't wanna name all four individually and what I liked 568 00:31:02,205 --> 00:31:05,485 about each, but I will say tremendously impressed. 569 00:31:05,485 --> 00:31:06,365 And thank you all. 570 00:31:06,365 --> 00:31:10,440 And I hope at the election you all run and that in subsequent 571 00:31:10,440 --> 00:31:12,120 elections, even for ward one from my seat, 572 00:31:12,120 --> 00:31:14,200 I hope I have a lot of competitors who are as 573 00:31:14,200 --> 00:31:15,160 qualified as you all. 574 00:31:15,160 --> 00:31:17,320 So that's all I'll I'll share right now, miss Palmer. 575 00:31:17,320 --> 00:31:20,275 Okay. Thank you. Yes. Miss McFadden. 576 00:31:20,275 --> 00:31:24,035 You know, again, thank you all for coming 577 00:31:24,035 --> 00:31:27,315 and speaking and truly, you know, 578 00:31:27,315 --> 00:31:28,595 putting your application in. 579 00:31:28,595 --> 00:31:31,315 It's, again, like Andy said or Doctor. 580 00:31:31,315 --> 00:31:32,195 Wolfenberger said, 581 00:31:32,195 --> 00:31:35,830 excuse me it is very exciting to see that there are people 582 00:31:35,830 --> 00:31:38,390 interested in supporting the schools and our students. 583 00:31:38,390 --> 00:31:41,590 And it's also exciting to hear that we had JM grads who want 584 00:31:41,590 --> 00:31:45,390 to come and kind of full circle come and, 585 00:31:45,750 --> 00:31:48,750 yeah, support the schools. 586 00:31:49,285 --> 00:31:51,765 One thing that really sticks out is, you know, 587 00:31:51,765 --> 00:31:54,165 this is a unique situation where we are appointing 588 00:31:54,165 --> 00:31:57,605 someone, but we have a lot of our public supporting, 589 00:31:57,605 --> 00:32:01,525 and there's a very clear public support for one of the candidates. 590 00:32:01,525 --> 00:32:04,950 And I think, for me, that's something that speaks volumes, 591 00:32:04,950 --> 00:32:08,390 and I feel like that's really going to weigh on how I feel 592 00:32:08,390 --> 00:32:12,630 and make my decision is when we have that amount of unspoken 593 00:32:12,630 --> 00:32:15,855 or just, you know, spoken support. 594 00:32:15,855 --> 00:32:18,655 And, you know, I received emails all in support of 595 00:32:18,655 --> 00:32:20,255 Doctor. Stan Jones. 596 00:32:20,255 --> 00:32:22,335 And so thank you. 597 00:32:22,335 --> 00:32:24,175 Yeah, to piggyback on Ms. 598 00:32:24,175 --> 00:32:25,655 McFadden's comment, 599 00:32:26,700 --> 00:32:29,980 first, this is a good problem to have, I guess. 600 00:32:29,980 --> 00:32:31,420 Have like, y'all are not making this easy. 601 00:32:31,420 --> 00:32:32,420 I 602 00:32:34,220 --> 00:32:37,820 also recognize the vast amount of public support for Doctor. 603 00:32:37,820 --> 00:32:39,060 Jones, 604 00:32:39,740 --> 00:32:42,715 which is wonderful. 605 00:32:42,715 --> 00:32:45,195 For those of you who are not Doctor. 606 00:32:45,195 --> 00:32:49,915 Jones, I would not let that dissuade 607 00:32:49,915 --> 00:32:51,435 you, because Doctor. 608 00:32:51,435 --> 00:32:53,915 Jones was lucky that he kind of had a little head start on 609 00:32:53,915 --> 00:32:56,710 y'all in terms of campaigning as a write in 610 00:32:56,710 --> 00:32:57,750 during our election. 611 00:32:57,750 --> 00:33:00,550 So, unfortunately, we've got five great people. 612 00:33:00,550 --> 00:33:04,790 We have one spot to fill, but this is not, you know, 613 00:33:04,790 --> 00:33:06,630 a finite spot. 614 00:33:06,630 --> 00:33:08,565 It's gonna be open again later. 615 00:33:08,565 --> 00:33:11,125 All of our seats will be up eventually. 616 00:33:11,125 --> 00:33:13,605 So, would encourage you all to, you know, 617 00:33:13,605 --> 00:33:17,045 if this does not work out this time around, like, keep trying. 618 00:33:17,045 --> 00:33:20,325 Run your campaigns when you can, 619 00:33:20,325 --> 00:33:22,885 and get yourself out there to the public, because you all, 620 00:33:22,885 --> 00:33:26,830 all of you, have really 621 00:33:26,950 --> 00:33:30,150 relevant experience to offer to the 622 00:33:30,150 --> 00:33:33,590 board, even if it's not in education. 623 00:33:33,590 --> 00:33:38,105 I'm really looking for somebody with a specific attitude 624 00:33:38,105 --> 00:33:39,945 versus a specific resume. 625 00:33:39,945 --> 00:33:43,745 So keep going. That's my message. 626 00:33:44,905 --> 00:33:49,225 So I will reiterate a lot of what my colleagues have said, 627 00:33:49,225 --> 00:33:52,625 or I could reiterate a lot of what my colleagues have already said. 628 00:33:53,140 --> 00:33:57,220 I appreciate all of you so much for coming out 629 00:33:57,220 --> 00:34:01,460 tonight and presenting us with such a 630 00:34:01,460 --> 00:34:05,500 persuasive amount of information. 631 00:34:08,705 --> 00:34:13,665 It seems that all of you would make excellent school board members. 632 00:34:13,665 --> 00:34:14,745 And 633 00:34:15,825 --> 00:34:19,385 really, it fills my heart with joy that we have 634 00:34:19,610 --> 00:34:22,970 this many people in our community that care enough 635 00:34:22,970 --> 00:34:25,290 about the children of Fredericksburg, 636 00:34:25,290 --> 00:34:29,490 the families of Fredericksburg in our community that want to serve. 637 00:34:29,610 --> 00:34:31,730 That being said, 638 00:34:32,135 --> 00:34:35,495 I think what my colleagues have said about Doctor. 639 00:34:35,495 --> 00:34:39,495 Jones having run already and sort of getting 640 00:34:39,495 --> 00:34:41,655 a head start on this, 641 00:34:41,655 --> 00:34:44,495 that was a good way of putting it, 642 00:34:45,540 --> 00:34:48,460 And having such an 643 00:34:48,980 --> 00:34:51,300 impressive education resume. 644 00:34:51,300 --> 00:34:54,620 I mean, someone who really knows 645 00:34:54,900 --> 00:34:57,180 school divisions, school policy, 646 00:34:57,715 --> 00:35:02,035 you know, how how board governance works inside and 647 00:35:02,035 --> 00:35:05,355 outside is is really 648 00:35:05,955 --> 00:35:10,235 kind of an amazing set of of qualifications. 649 00:35:10,950 --> 00:35:14,430 That being said, you you all bring, 650 00:35:15,190 --> 00:35:18,470 you know, different I mean, different really, 651 00:35:18,470 --> 00:35:20,510 really impressive, 652 00:35:22,150 --> 00:35:23,070 thoughtful 653 00:35:23,995 --> 00:35:27,715 ideas and and, you know, 654 00:35:28,955 --> 00:35:31,075 and experiences. 655 00:35:31,355 --> 00:35:33,595 So this is, I mean, 656 00:35:33,595 --> 00:35:36,755 this is not an easy it's not an easy choice. 657 00:35:37,035 --> 00:35:39,740 I kinda wish it were. 658 00:35:39,740 --> 00:35:43,020 Last year, we we just appointed someone who'd been on our school board 659 00:35:43,020 --> 00:35:45,820 before, so it was kinda super easy. 660 00:35:45,820 --> 00:35:49,780 And this time, it is it is a little more difficult. 661 00:35:50,380 --> 00:35:54,755 I will encourage you all to to stay involved and 662 00:35:54,755 --> 00:35:57,195 run for the open seat. 663 00:35:57,315 --> 00:36:01,955 You know, there's this seat that will be up this year. 664 00:36:01,955 --> 00:36:06,075 It'll be up again next year for the full four year term. 665 00:36:06,830 --> 00:36:10,030 And to stay involved, we do have, you know, 666 00:36:10,030 --> 00:36:13,630 different parental advisory boards within the school division. 667 00:36:13,630 --> 00:36:17,070 And so if you don't get selected to be 668 00:36:17,070 --> 00:36:18,350 the interim board member, 669 00:36:18,350 --> 00:36:21,310 I do encourage you to get involved in our school division 670 00:36:21,310 --> 00:36:24,535 in other ways, you know, breakfast buddies, 671 00:36:24,535 --> 00:36:27,015 being on on different, you know, 672 00:36:27,015 --> 00:36:31,575 commissions or task for task forces within our our division 673 00:36:31,575 --> 00:36:35,815 because we need you, and I really I want you to stay involved. 674 00:36:35,815 --> 00:36:38,610 So thank you from the bottom of my heart 675 00:36:38,610 --> 00:36:41,970 for for having the courage and bravery to come out here 676 00:36:41,970 --> 00:36:44,530 tonight and put yourself out there to the community. 677 00:36:44,530 --> 00:36:47,130 I I do really appreciate all of you. 678 00:36:47,170 --> 00:36:47,730 Miss Kay? 679 00:36:47,730 --> 00:36:48,450 Yes. 680 00:36:48,450 --> 00:36:51,010 Well, I didn't get one call for doctor Jones, 681 00:36:51,010 --> 00:36:55,515 and I did have the pleasure of running against him. 682 00:36:55,515 --> 00:36:58,995 My constituents don't support him, but I do 683 00:36:59,515 --> 00:37:02,835 I did get calls about the JM grads. 684 00:37:02,875 --> 00:37:07,530 It was the experience of going through 685 00:37:07,530 --> 00:37:12,490 the school system that I think 686 00:37:12,490 --> 00:37:17,610 impressed my constituents because it's different when 687 00:37:17,610 --> 00:37:22,365 you have people who move into the city who haven't really 688 00:37:23,525 --> 00:37:26,925 understood the uniqueness of Fredericksburg. 689 00:37:27,045 --> 00:37:29,285 There's a unique community here, 690 00:37:29,285 --> 00:37:34,020 and we were fortunate to get through a lot 691 00:37:34,020 --> 00:37:35,940 of things together. 692 00:37:35,940 --> 00:37:40,500 And we had such an array of wonderful 693 00:37:40,500 --> 00:37:44,980 teachers in the school system that the calls that I 694 00:37:44,980 --> 00:37:48,205 received were for the JM grads. 695 00:37:48,205 --> 00:37:51,005 But I missed some of the interviews traffic, 696 00:37:51,005 --> 00:37:52,965 so thank you. 697 00:37:53,325 --> 00:37:54,645 Okay. 698 00:37:57,245 --> 00:37:58,485 So 699 00:38:00,365 --> 00:38:03,925 next steps will just be for 700 00:38:04,810 --> 00:38:08,730 for us to come to a consensus as to who will be the 701 00:38:08,730 --> 00:38:11,810 the next school board member, 702 00:38:12,410 --> 00:38:13,490 which 703 00:38:14,330 --> 00:38:17,765 do we do that at the August seventeenth meeting? 704 00:38:17,765 --> 00:38:20,165 Is that You vote at your August 705 00:38:20,165 --> 00:38:21,045 seventeenth meeting. 706 00:38:21,045 --> 00:38:21,285 Yes. 707 00:38:21,285 --> 00:38:21,765 Right. 708 00:38:21,765 --> 00:38:25,965 So we would just present a candidate for 709 00:38:26,085 --> 00:38:28,565 for a vote at the August seventeenth meeting. 710 00:38:28,565 --> 00:38:29,045 Yes. 711 00:38:29,045 --> 00:38:29,965 Okay. 712 00:38:31,660 --> 00:38:32,460 Sounds good. 713 00:38:32,460 --> 00:38:36,220 Then I guess that's that's all that we have for tonight for 714 00:38:36,220 --> 00:38:37,980 this special session. 715 00:38:37,980 --> 00:38:39,820 Do I have a motion to adjourn? 716 00:38:39,820 --> 00:38:42,140 I move to adjourn. 717 00:38:42,140 --> 00:38:44,020 Do I have a second? Second. 718 00:38:44,025 --> 00:38:46,745 Motion to adjourn by Ms. McFadden, seconded by Ms. 719 00:38:46,745 --> 00:38:47,705 Langdon. 720 00:38:47,705 --> 00:38:48,865 All 721 00:38:50,105 --> 00:38:51,145 those in favor? 722 00:38:51,145 --> 00:38:53,385 Aye. Any opposed? 723 00:38:53,385 --> 00:38:55,905 All right. Meeting is adjourned. 724 00:38:58,160 --> 00:38:59,320 Thank you.