1 00:01:19,460 --> 00:01:21,956 Good evening everyone. I hereby declare 2 00:01:21,956 --> 00:01:24,406 the Hampton City School Board meeting 3 00:01:24,406 --> 00:01:26,921 for Wednesday, 4 00:01:26,921 --> 00:01:29,399 September 2, 2026, open. At this time, 5 00:01:29,399 --> 00:01:31,344 Ms. Penny, would you please call the roll 6 00:01:31,344 --> 00:01:32,939 ? 7 00:01:32,939 --> 00:01:33,899 Mrs. Afonja. 8 00:01:33,899 --> 00:01:34,594 Present. 9 00:01:34,594 --> 00:01:35,479 Mrs. Cherry. 10 00:01:35,479 --> 00:01:36,164 Present. 11 00:01:36,164 --> 00:01:37,500 Dr. Banks-Gray. 12 00:01:37,500 --> 00:01:38,279 Present. 13 00:01:38,279 --> 00:01:39,220 Mr. Samuels. 14 00:01:39,220 --> 00:01:40,100 Present. 15 00:01:40,100 --> 00:01:40,879 Mr. Kilgore. 16 00:01:40,879 --> 00:01:41,839 Present. 17 00:01:41,839 --> 00:01:42,599 Dr. Woodhouse. 18 00:01:42,599 --> 00:01:43,360 Present. 19 00:01:43,360 --> 00:01:44,859 Dr. Mason. 20 00:01:44,859 --> 00:01:46,461 Present. Let it be recorded in the minutes that all 21 00:01:46,461 --> 00:01:47,831 members of the board are 22 00:01:47,831 --> 00:01:51,021 present. Now, before we continue 23 00:01:51,021 --> 00:01:52,798 with the rest of the meeting, I want to 24 00:01:52,798 --> 00:01:54,623 take a moment to swear in 25 00:01:54,623 --> 00:01:57,380 our student representatives. 26 00:01:57,380 --> 00:01:59,397 Give me just a second while I 27 00:01:59,397 --> 00:02:22,999 go over to the other microphone. Very good. 28 00:02:22,999 --> 00:02:25,020 Here we go. Very good. Thanks, Andy. 29 00:02:25,020 --> 00:02:26,474 Very good. Tonight we have the 30 00:02:26,474 --> 00:02:27,984 privilege and honor of swearing in 31 00:02:27,984 --> 00:02:29,495 three student representatives who 32 00:02:29,495 --> 00:02:31,085 represent the best of 33 00:02:31,085 --> 00:02:33,543 Hampton City Schools. I'll start with 34 00:02:33,543 --> 00:02:36,685 Sage Holden. Sage is a 35 00:02:36,685 --> 00:02:38,646 senior at the Law and 36 00:02:38,646 --> 00:02:40,657 Public Safety Academy, and in the 37 00:02:40,657 --> 00:02:42,668 Law and Legal Studies program at Bethel High 38 00:02:42,668 --> 00:02:45,181 School. She is passionate about advocating for and 39 00:02:45,181 --> 00:02:47,165 supporting her peers, amplifying 40 00:02:47,165 --> 00:02:49,201 the voice of young people in her community 41 00:02:49,201 --> 00:02:52,555 and beyond. She has been a 42 00:02:52,555 --> 00:02:53,916 senior ambassador for the academy, 43 00:02:53,916 --> 00:02:55,802 vice president of the 44 00:02:55,802 --> 00:02:57,897 African Students Association, president of the 45 00:02:57,897 --> 00:02:59,364 National Honor Society, 46 00:02:59,364 --> 00:03:01,406 vice president of the 47 00:03:01,406 --> 00:03:05,704 mathematics and science honor society, and more. And 48 00:03:05,704 --> 00:03:09,754 much more, that's the point. Outside of 49 00:03:09,754 --> 00:03:11,389 school, she serves as 50 00:03:11,389 --> 00:03:13,445 vice president of the Hampton 4-H Youth Club 51 00:03:13,445 --> 00:03:15,186 , ambassador for the 52 00:03:15,186 --> 00:03:17,242 Virginia 4-H Southeast District, a member of the 53 00:03:17,242 --> 00:03:19,141 Hampton Youth Commission, and was 54 00:03:19,141 --> 00:03:21,197 appointed by Governor Spanberger 55 00:03:21,197 --> 00:03:23,307 to the Virginia Education Student Advisory Board 56 00:03:23,307 --> 00:03:26,275 . She was recognized 57 00:03:26,275 --> 00:03:28,033 as one of the 20 58 00:03:28,033 --> 00:03:30,574 most outstanding young people under 20 in Hampton Roads. In the 59 00:03:30,574 --> 00:03:32,676 future, she would like to attend Spelman 60 00:03:32,676 --> 00:03:34,463 College in Atlanta, Georgia, to 61 00:03:34,463 --> 00:03:36,910 major in political science. 62 00:03:36,910 --> 00:03:38,090 Sage Holden, everyone. 63 00:03:38,090 --> 00:03:45,699 Very good. 64 00:03:45,699 --> 00:03:47,153 Next up, we have Alexis 65 00:03:47,153 --> 00:03:50,739 Copeland. Alexis is a junior 66 00:03:50,739 --> 00:03:52,481 at Hampton High School in 67 00:03:52,481 --> 00:03:54,085 the Health, 68 00:03:54,085 --> 00:03:55,826 Human and Financial Services Academy, in the 69 00:03:55,826 --> 00:03:58,411 Orientation program. She is a member of the 70 00:03:58,411 --> 00:04:00,331 Mathematics Honor Society, a 71 00:04:00,331 --> 00:04:02,031 volleyball and college soccer player 72 00:04:02,031 --> 00:04:04,115 , a senior ambassador, and a 73 00:04:04,115 --> 00:04:05,925 former vice president of the 74 00:04:05,925 --> 00:04:08,912 sophomore class. Outside of school, he 75 00:04:08,912 --> 00:04:10,881 enjoys Bible study, playing 76 00:04:10,881 --> 00:04:13,030 volleyball, crafts, going to the 77 00:04:13,030 --> 00:04:15,860 beach, and spending time outdoors. She 78 00:04:15,860 --> 00:04:17,960 plays a leadership role at 79 00:04:17,960 --> 00:04:20,235 Liberty Live Church, where she grows in her 80 00:04:20,235 --> 00:04:22,568 faith and works to encourage others her 81 00:04:22,568 --> 00:04:25,699 age to draw closer to God. She also 82 00:04:25,699 --> 00:04:27,892 enjoys helping with 83 00:04:27,892 --> 00:04:30,472 elementary school children at church and giving back to her 84 00:04:30,472 --> 00:04:33,468 community by picking up trash. After 85 00:04:33,468 --> 00:04:34,981 high school, she plans to attend 86 00:04:34,981 --> 00:04:36,372 a four-year university and 87 00:04:36,372 --> 00:04:37,680 major in psychology or 88 00:04:37,680 --> 00:04:39,314 child development. Its three 89 00:04:39,314 --> 00:04:41,098 main universities are 90 00:04:41,098 --> 00:04:43,237 Christopher Newport University, UNC 91 00:04:43,237 --> 00:04:45,977 Wilmington, and Liberty University. In the 92 00:04:45,977 --> 00:04:47,465 future, she hopes to become a 93 00:04:47,465 --> 00:04:49,201 child life specialist so she 94 00:04:49,201 --> 00:04:51,185 can make a positive difference in 95 00:04:51,185 --> 00:04:53,640 the lives of children and their families. Ladies and gentlemen 96 00:04:53,640 --> 00:04:59,980 , Alexis Copeland. And 97 00:04:59,980 --> 00:05:02,140 our student alternate to the 98 00:05:02,140 --> 00:05:11,779 board is Josiah Porter Jordan. Josiah, a 99 00:05:11,829 --> 00:05:13,779 dual-enrollment senior at Phoebus High School 100 00:05:13,779 --> 00:05:15,679 , is a student leader, entrepreneur, 101 00:05:15,679 --> 00:05:17,329 author, and community advocate 102 00:05:17,329 --> 00:05:18,979 dedicated to service and expanding 103 00:05:18,979 --> 00:05:21,501 opportunities for others. He 104 00:05:21,501 --> 00:05:23,347 serves as SCA class president 105 00:05:23,347 --> 00:05:24,813 , chairman of the board of 106 00:05:24,813 --> 00:05:28,078 directors, and was formerly 107 00:05:28,125 --> 00:05:31,143 Hampton City Schools' senior ambassador. Through his 108 00:05:31,143 --> 00:05:33,398 professional and civic experiences, 109 00:05:33,398 --> 00:05:35,654 Josiah has worked with organizations 110 00:05:35,654 --> 00:05:37,909 such as the Hampton Roads Workforce Council 111 00:05:37,909 --> 00:05:40,049 , Modern Realty Group, Hampton Youth 112 00:05:40,049 --> 00:05:42,131 and Opportunities, and the 113 00:05:42,131 --> 00:05:44,213 Hampton Commonwealth Prosecutor's Office, 114 00:05:44,213 --> 00:05:46,122 where he has collaborated on Operation 115 00:05:46,122 --> 00:05:49,600 Ceasefire and Victim Services. 116 00:05:49,600 --> 00:05:51,351 Recognized as one of 117 00:05:51,351 --> 00:05:52,872 Hampton Roads' 20 Under 20s, he has 118 00:05:52,872 --> 00:05:54,301 received multiple 119 00:05:54,301 --> 00:05:55,776 leadership and civic engagement awards, 120 00:05:55,776 --> 00:05:57,205 including recognition from the 121 00:05:57,205 --> 00:05:59,003 Governor of Virginia, both houses 122 00:05:59,003 --> 00:06:00,709 of the Virginia General Assembly, and 123 00:06:00,709 --> 00:06:04,069 community organizations. He is the 124 00:06:04,069 --> 00:06:06,931 founder of Nocturne Cinematics and author 125 00:06:06,931 --> 00:06:09,436 of "Still Standing: Survival Until 126 00:06:09,436 --> 00:06:19,317 Success". Josiah Porter Jordan. Now, 127 00:06:19,317 --> 00:06:20,903 at this moment I will administer the oaths, 128 00:06:20,903 --> 00:06:22,449 so please turn towards me and 129 00:06:22,449 --> 00:06:24,845 raise your right hand. And repeat 130 00:06:24,845 --> 00:06:27,940 after me. State your name. 131 00:06:27,940 --> 00:06:30,480 I, Josiah Porter Jordan, 132 00:06:30,480 --> 00:06:35,699 Very well. I solemnly affirm 133 00:06:35,959 --> 00:06:38,439 that I will uphold the Constitution of the 134 00:06:40,627 --> 00:06:41,620 United States 135 00:06:41,620 --> 00:06:43,660 and 136 00:06:44,020 --> 00:06:45,695 the Constitution of the Commonwealth 137 00:06:45,695 --> 00:06:46,400 of Virginia 138 00:06:46,400 --> 00:06:48,780 and that I will faithfully 139 00:06:48,780 --> 00:06:51,220 and impartially 140 00:06:51,220 --> 00:06:53,460 discharge the duties incumbent upon me as the 141 00:06:56,580 --> 00:06:58,177 student representative of the 142 00:06:58,177 --> 00:07:00,310 school board to 143 00:07:01,039 --> 00:07:02,979 the best of my ability. to 144 00:07:02,979 --> 00:07:04,819 the best of my ability. 145 00:07:04,819 --> 00:07:30,979 Congratulations. 146 00:07:30,979 --> 00:07:51,559 Yes. 147 00:07:51,559 --> 00:07:52,610 Oh, you...oh, come back. They want to 148 00:07:52,610 --> 00:08:13,321 take a picture. Wait. Oh. I was 149 00:08:13,321 --> 00:08:15,131 trying to get back to my seat to 150 00:08:15,131 --> 00:08:17,039 recognize their families quickly, 151 00:08:17,039 --> 00:08:19,160 but I guess I'll do it from here. 152 00:08:19,160 --> 00:08:21,271 So, if you are here supporting them 153 00:08:21,271 --> 00:08:23,382 as a mom, dad, aunt, uncle, sister 154 00:08:23,382 --> 00:08:26,340 or brother, please stand up. 155 00:08:26,340 --> 00:08:34,439 Neighbors. And I know that we also have 156 00:08:34,439 --> 00:08:35,637 some of their administrators here 157 00:08:35,637 --> 00:08:37,086 with us. So, if you are here 158 00:08:37,086 --> 00:08:38,308 representing any of your 159 00:08:38,308 --> 00:08:39,599 schools, you may also stand up 160 00:08:39,599 --> 00:08:49,084 . Congratulations. So, before I 161 00:08:49,084 --> 00:08:50,728 sit down, I'm going to give the floor to 162 00:08:50,728 --> 00:08:52,328 Sage to continue with our 163 00:08:52,328 --> 00:08:55,300 opening remarks at this time. 164 00:08:55,300 --> 00:08:57,376 Fine, thanks. Today we have Terry 165 00:08:57,376 --> 00:08:59,408 Daniel Gray Jr., a sixth- 166 00:08:59,408 --> 00:09:01,084 grade student from Kilgore Gifted Center, 167 00:09:01,084 --> 00:09:02,913 leading us in the Pledge of 168 00:09:02,913 --> 00:09:06,800 Allegiance. Terry, when you're ready. 169 00:09:06,800 --> 00:09:11,540 Please stand up. I 170 00:09:11,540 --> 00:09:14,222 pledge allegiance to the flag of the 171 00:09:14,222 --> 00:09:16,756 United States of America and to the 172 00:09:16,756 --> 00:09:19,663 republic for which it stands, one nation 173 00:09:19,663 --> 00:09:22,569 under God, indivisible, with liberty and 174 00:09:22,569 --> 00:09:29,680 justice for all. 175 00:09:29,680 --> 00:09:31,639 Thanks, Terry. I understand you have 176 00:09:31,639 --> 00:09:33,940 something prepared to share today. 177 00:09:33,940 --> 00:09:37,326 Mjm. As we begin a new school year, 178 00:09:37,326 --> 00:09:39,757 I would like to share a few words from 179 00:09:39,757 --> 00:09:41,859 Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. 180 00:09:41,859 --> 00:09:42,959 Mjm. 181 00:09:42,959 --> 00:09:44,687 Let's do our job well, both the 182 00:09:44,687 --> 00:09:47,387 visible and the invisible. Build 183 00:09:47,387 --> 00:09:49,752 strong and secure today with a firm 184 00:09:49,752 --> 00:09:52,056 and broad foundation, and tomorrow will find its 185 00:09:52,056 --> 00:10:02,040 place in an upward and secure manner. 186 00:10:02,040 --> 00:10:04,174 Thank you. So, before you leave us 187 00:10:04,174 --> 00:10:06,139 today, I want to know some things about you. 188 00:10:06,139 --> 00:10:07,731 So, what's your 189 00:10:07,731 --> 00:10:08,679 favorite subject? 190 00:10:08,679 --> 00:10:10,017 My favorite subject is 191 00:10:10,017 --> 00:10:11,200 mathematics. 192 00:10:11,200 --> 00:10:13,609 Okay, great. What are 193 00:10:13,609 --> 00:10:14,693 some of your favorite hobbies 194 00:10:14,693 --> 00:10:16,439 outside of school? 195 00:10:16,439 --> 00:10:18,557 I like to play football and I like to 196 00:10:18,557 --> 00:10:21,260 play with my friends. 197 00:10:21,260 --> 00:10:23,799 Brilliant. Okay, so who do you have here 198 00:10:23,799 --> 00:10:25,440 supporting you today? 199 00:10:25,440 --> 00:10:28,159 I have my mom, my dad, my little 200 00:10:28,159 --> 00:10:31,099 sister, and my principal. 201 00:10:31,099 --> 00:10:32,582 Very well thank you. Could you please stand 202 00:10:32,582 --> 00:10:42,013 to be acknowledged? 203 00:10:42,013 --> 00:10:43,899 Thank you very much, Terry. You are 204 00:10:43,899 --> 00:10:48,740 welcome. 205 00:10:48,740 --> 00:10:50,764 Yes, thank you so much for joining us, and 206 00:10:50,764 --> 00:10:52,738 thank you to Mom and Dad for allowing him to be 207 00:10:52,738 --> 00:10:54,507 with us. I know he's been 208 00:10:54,507 --> 00:10:56,081 at school and could have been anywhere but 209 00:10:56,081 --> 00:10:57,654 here at a 210 00:10:57,654 --> 00:10:59,450 board meeting. So, 211 00:10:59,450 --> 00:11:01,024 thank you very much. Any comments from 212 00:11:01,024 --> 00:11:03,280 board members? 213 00:11:03,280 --> 00:11:04,336 Just one question. 214 00:11:04,336 --> 00:11:06,120 Mr. Samuels? 215 00:11:06,120 --> 00:11:07,986 Mr. President, since Terry 216 00:11:07,986 --> 00:11:10,273 mentioned that he's a footballer, Terry, 217 00:11:10,273 --> 00:11:14,253 could you please return to the microphone? So 218 00:11:14,253 --> 00:11:15,394 , who is your favorite soccer player 219 00:11:15,394 --> 00:11:16,180 ? 220 00:11:16,180 --> 00:11:21,991 Uh, Messi. 221 00:11:21,991 --> 00:11:24,819 Thank you. Thank you. 222 00:11:24,819 --> 00:11:30,359 Very good. The best of all. 223 00:11:30,359 --> 00:11:32,520 Thanks, Terry. 224 00:11:32,520 --> 00:11:34,744 Very good. Thank you so much. Before we 225 00:11:34,744 --> 00:11:36,992 proceed with 226 00:11:36,992 --> 00:11:39,673 tonight's agenda, I see...Where did he go? 227 00:11:39,673 --> 00:11:42,660 Former Mayor Donnie Tuck? Oh, it's in the 228 00:11:42,660 --> 00:11:44,056 back. Yes, former mayor Donnie Tuck 229 00:11:44,056 --> 00:11:45,476 is with us tonight. 230 00:11:45,476 --> 00:11:50,997 Thank you so much. The next item on the 231 00:11:50,997 --> 00:11:52,727 agenda is item 1.04, adoption of 232 00:11:52,727 --> 00:11:54,781 tonight's agenda. What does 233 00:11:54,781 --> 00:11:55,979 the board want? 234 00:11:55,979 --> 00:11:57,621 Mr. President, I propose the approval 235 00:11:57,621 --> 00:11:59,600 of the agenda as presented. I 236 00:11:59,600 --> 00:12:00,520 second the motion. 237 00:12:00,520 --> 00:12:01,840 It has been correctly proposed by 238 00:12:01,840 --> 00:12:03,089 Mr. Kilgore and seconded by Mr. 239 00:12:03,089 --> 00:12:04,516 Samuels that we approve tonight's agenda 240 00:12:04,516 --> 00:12:06,097 as presented. Any 241 00:12:06,097 --> 00:12:11,689 discussion? Ms. Penny, could you 242 00:12:11,689 --> 00:12:13,167 please put this to a vote? 243 00:12:13,167 --> 00:12:13,840 Ms. Ifonja? 244 00:12:13,840 --> 00:12:14,712 In favor. 245 00:12:14,712 --> 00:12:15,458 Mrs. Cherry? 246 00:12:15,458 --> 00:12:16,119 In favor. 247 00:12:16,119 --> 00:12:17,139 Dr. Banks-Gray? 248 00:12:17,139 --> 00:12:17,765 In favor. 249 00:12:17,765 --> 00:12:18,516 Mr. Samuels? 250 00:12:18,516 --> 00:12:19,271 In favor. 251 00:12:19,271 --> 00:12:19,953 Mr. Kilgore? 252 00:12:19,953 --> 00:12:20,870 In favor. 253 00:12:20,870 --> 00:12:21,530 Dr. Woodhouse? 254 00:12:21,530 --> 00:12:22,319 In favor. 255 00:12:22,319 --> 00:12:23,240 Dr. Mason? 256 00:12:23,240 --> 00:12:25,315 The motion is approved. Item 257 00:12:25,315 --> 00:12:28,324 two, consent agenda 2.01 258 00:12:28,324 --> 00:12:31,326 staff report 26-14. 2.02 259 00:12:31,326 --> 00:12:33,140 Approval by the 260 00:12:33,140 --> 00:12:35,273 school board of the minutes of the meetings 261 00:12:35,273 --> 00:12:37,567 of August 4 and 19, 2026. 2.03 262 00:12:37,567 --> 00:12:39,867 Exemption from mandatory attendance for 263 00:12:39,867 --> 00:12:42,788 religious reasons. 2.04 264 00:12:42,788 --> 00:12:45,300 School board consent for receiving 265 00:12:45,300 --> 00:12:48,196 donations in September 2026. 266 00:12:48,196 --> 00:12:49,900 What is the board's will? 267 00:12:49,900 --> 00:12:51,638 Mr. President, I propose the motion to 268 00:12:51,638 --> 00:12:53,422 approve the consent agenda 269 00:12:53,422 --> 00:12:55,140 as presented. I 270 00:12:55,140 --> 00:12:55,768 second. It has 271 00:12:55,768 --> 00:12:57,224 been correctly proposed by 272 00:12:57,224 --> 00:12:58,707 Dr. Woodhouse and seconded by Ms. 273 00:12:58,707 --> 00:13:00,027 Afonja that we approve 274 00:13:00,027 --> 00:13:01,503 tonight's consent agenda as 275 00:13:01,503 --> 00:13:05,930 presented. Any discussion? Ms. 276 00:13:05,930 --> 00:13:07,062 Penny, could you please put this to a 277 00:13:07,062 --> 00:13:07,952 vote? 278 00:13:07,952 --> 00:13:08,660 Mrs. Afonja. 279 00:13:08,660 --> 00:13:09,525 In favor. 280 00:13:09,525 --> 00:13:10,245 Mrs. Cherry. 281 00:13:10,245 --> 00:13:11,083 In favor. 282 00:13:11,083 --> 00:13:12,122 Dr. Banks-Gray. 283 00:13:12,122 --> 00:13:12,779 In favor. 284 00:13:12,779 --> 00:13:13,680 Mr. Samuels. 285 00:13:13,680 --> 00:13:14,579 In favor. 286 00:13:14,579 --> 00:13:15,400 Mr. Kilgore. 287 00:13:15,400 --> 00:13:16,169 In favor. 288 00:13:16,169 --> 00:13:16,949 Dr. Woodhouse. 289 00:13:16,949 --> 00:13:17,659 In favor. 290 00:13:17,659 --> 00:13:18,540 Dr. Mason. 291 00:13:18,540 --> 00:13:20,660 In favor. The motion is approved. And that 292 00:13:20,660 --> 00:13:22,180 brings us to point number three on the 293 00:13:22,180 --> 00:13:23,990 agenda, which is the awards. And 294 00:13:23,990 --> 00:13:25,893 at this moment, I will give the floor 295 00:13:25,893 --> 00:13:29,788 to Ms. Goral. 296 00:13:29,788 --> 00:13:31,281 Well, thank you, President Dr. Mason, 297 00:13:31,281 --> 00:13:32,782 Vice President Mrs. Jackson-Afonja, 298 00:13:32,782 --> 00:13:34,213 members of our school board, 299 00:13:34,213 --> 00:13:35,767 Superintendent Dr. Haynes, and members 300 00:13:35,767 --> 00:13:37,322 of our 301 00:13:37,322 --> 00:13:39,342 Hampton City Schools family. And I was going to ask 302 00:13:39,342 --> 00:13:40,830 Mr. Kilgore to come closer to the 303 00:13:40,830 --> 00:13:42,492 microphone, but he's already ready and 304 00:13:42,492 --> 00:13:47,240 attentive. So, it's coming this way now. 305 00:13:47,240 --> 00:13:49,691 Very good. So tonight 306 00:13:49,691 --> 00:13:51,812 Hampton City Schools is 307 00:13:51,812 --> 00:13:53,933 proud to celebrate our 308 00:13:53,933 --> 00:13:56,231 2026-2027 elementary 309 00:13:56,231 --> 00:13:58,469 , middle, high school, and 310 00:13:58,469 --> 00:14:00,960 division-level teachers. So, to give some 311 00:14:00,960 --> 00:14:02,549 context, last spring 312 00:14:02,549 --> 00:14:04,282 we recognized our individual teachers of the 313 00:14:04,282 --> 00:14:06,016 year from each school and 314 00:14:06,016 --> 00:14:08,094 also 12 finalists. These 315 00:14:08,094 --> 00:14:09,830 finalists participated in an 316 00:14:09,830 --> 00:14:11,292 interview process with the division- 317 00:14:11,292 --> 00:14:13,119 level teacher of the year selection committee, 318 00:14:13,119 --> 00:14:14,809 and a team visited their 319 00:14:14,809 --> 00:14:16,408 classrooms to observe their 320 00:14:16,408 --> 00:14:20,164 teaching practices. At our 321 00:14:20,212 --> 00:14:22,114 Back-to-School Celebration of Excellence event that took place on 322 00:14:22,114 --> 00:14:23,772 August 14, we had the opportunity to 323 00:14:23,772 --> 00:14:25,625 announce our HCS 26-27 324 00:14:25,625 --> 00:14:27,575 elementary, middle, and high school teachers of the year 325 00:14:27,575 --> 00:14:29,477 , as well as our 326 00:14:29,477 --> 00:14:31,674 division-level teacher of the year. And 327 00:14:31,674 --> 00:14:33,411 we did it in front of more than 3,000 of 328 00:14:33,411 --> 00:14:35,455 our colleagues and honored them with a 329 00:14:35,455 --> 00:14:37,803 plaque and a banner. So, at 330 00:14:37,803 --> 00:14:39,465 this moment I'm going to call our 331 00:14:39,465 --> 00:14:41,185 three teachers of the year. If you could please come 332 00:14:41,185 --> 00:14:42,781 down and stand next to me on 333 00:14:42,781 --> 00:14:45,044 the podium. Congratulations to Mrs. Belinda 334 00:14:45,044 --> 00:14:46,859 Kirby, our 335 00:14:46,859 --> 00:14:55,401 HCS Middle School Teacher of the Year. Mrs. 336 00:14:55,401 --> 00:14:56,932 Tenisha Davis, our 337 00:14:56,932 --> 00:15:03,302 HCS year high school teacher. As well as 338 00:15:03,302 --> 00:15:07,326 Ms. Erin Miller, who is our 339 00:15:07,377 --> 00:15:09,108 HCS Elementary School Teacher of the Year and All Division Teacher of the Year 340 00:15:09,108 --> 00:15:15,738 . Our 341 00:15:15,738 --> 00:15:17,472 Teacher of the Year candidates are selected for 342 00:15:17,472 --> 00:15:19,251 their commitment to our students, 343 00:15:19,251 --> 00:15:21,030 their ability to inspire students of 344 00:15:21,030 --> 00:15:22,720 all backgrounds and abilities, their 345 00:15:22,720 --> 00:15:24,499 dedication to improving teaching, their 346 00:15:24,499 --> 00:15:26,100 collaboration with families and the 347 00:15:26,100 --> 00:15:27,524 community, their commitment to 348 00:15:27,524 --> 00:15:29,303 professional growth, innovation 349 00:15:29,303 --> 00:15:31,037 in teaching, their contributions to 350 00:15:31,037 --> 00:15:32,594 education, and the respect they have 351 00:15:32,594 --> 00:15:34,284 earned from their students, families, and 352 00:15:34,284 --> 00:15:37,240 colleagues. These exceptional educators 353 00:15:37,240 --> 00:15:39,052 present tonight have demonstrated a 354 00:15:39,052 --> 00:15:40,678 commitment to excellence in 355 00:15:40,678 --> 00:15:42,536 teaching and a passion for inspiring 356 00:15:42,536 --> 00:15:44,880 their students. So I'll take a 357 00:15:44,880 --> 00:15:46,768 brief moment to share a little bit 358 00:15:46,768 --> 00:15:48,707 about each of these educators, and 359 00:15:48,707 --> 00:15:50,786 we'll start with Ms. Belinda Kirby, 360 00:15:50,786 --> 00:15:52,615 our HCS Middle School Teacher 361 00:15:52,615 --> 00:15:54,892 of the Year. Ms. Kirby is a 362 00:15:54,892 --> 00:15:56,452 seventh-grade history teacher, 363 00:15:56,452 --> 00:15:57,612 correct? That's right, a 364 00:15:57,612 --> 00:15:58,635 seventh-grade history teacher at 365 00:15:58,635 --> 00:16:00,488 Lindsay Middle School. A native of 366 00:16:00,488 --> 00:16:02,238 Gloucester, Virginia, she has 3 years of 367 00:16:02,238 --> 00:16:03,987 experience in education, including 2 368 00:16:03,987 --> 00:16:05,512 years here at 369 00:16:05,512 --> 00:16:08,114 Hampton City Schools. For Ms. Kirby, 370 00:16:08,114 --> 00:16:09,787 teaching history is more than just helping 371 00:16:09,787 --> 00:16:11,780 students understand the past. 372 00:16:11,780 --> 00:16:13,143 She strives to help them 373 00:16:13,143 --> 00:16:14,795 recognize that history is made up 374 00:16:14,795 --> 00:16:16,241 of ordinary people who have the 375 00:16:16,241 --> 00:16:17,811 courage to make a difference, and that 376 00:16:17,811 --> 00:16:19,381 they too have the ability to 377 00:16:19,381 --> 00:16:21,342 help shape the future. She 378 00:16:21,342 --> 00:16:22,928 is grateful for the opportunity to 379 00:16:22,928 --> 00:16:24,269 be a part of her 380 00:16:24,269 --> 00:16:25,733 students' growth every day, and honored to 381 00:16:25,733 --> 00:16:27,319 represent HCS as our 382 00:16:27,319 --> 00:16:28,799 Middle School Teacher of the Year. Let 383 00:16:28,799 --> 00:16:32,728 's give him another round of applause. I'm going to ask him to 384 00:16:32,728 --> 00:16:34,125 come this way so he doesn't trip 385 00:16:34,125 --> 00:16:35,117 on the steps. 386 00:16:35,117 --> 00:16:36,550 Mrs. Kirby, if you could join me on 387 00:16:36,550 --> 00:16:48,977 stage. 388 00:16:48,977 --> 00:16:50,745 Lindsay Middle School Principal Sherif Hicks 389 00:16:50,745 --> 00:16:52,740 described Ms. Kirby as an 390 00:16:52,740 --> 00:16:54,436 educator whose commitment to 391 00:16:54,436 --> 00:16:56,382 students is evident in everything she 392 00:16:56,382 --> 00:16:59,537 does. She said that she is the definition 393 00:16:59,537 --> 00:17:01,631 of someone who wears her heart on her 394 00:17:01,631 --> 00:17:04,446 sleeve. And she travels almost an hour to 395 00:17:04,446 --> 00:17:06,882 work every day, stays late, 396 00:17:06,882 --> 00:17:09,136 and is willing to do whatever it 397 00:17:09,136 --> 00:17:12,266 takes for her students. Her passion 398 00:17:12,266 --> 00:17:15,566 for children is contagious. And that he is, 399 00:17:15,566 --> 00:17:17,448 truly, an incredible human being 400 00:17:17,448 --> 00:17:21,134 . Let's give Ms. Kirby a round of 401 00:17:21,134 --> 00:17:25,452 applause as we recognize her as 402 00:17:27,667 --> 00:17:29,180 Hampton City Schools' 2026-2027 Middle School Teacher of the Year. 403 00:17:29,180 --> 00:17:39,164 Woohoo! And I'm going to ask him if he'd 404 00:17:39,164 --> 00:17:43,749 like to say something. Do 405 00:17:43,749 --> 00:17:45,340 n't know. I really don't like 406 00:17:45,340 --> 00:17:46,805 attention. Uh, but I'm very 407 00:17:46,805 --> 00:17:48,525 grateful. Thank you all so much for 408 00:17:48,525 --> 00:17:50,101 this honor. I am so pleased to 409 00:17:50,101 --> 00:17:51,478 represent my students and 410 00:17:51,478 --> 00:17:53,099 Lindsay every day. We have the 411 00:17:53,099 --> 00:17:54,630 most amazing students in Lindsay 412 00:17:54,630 --> 00:17:57,029 . Well, I'm very happy to represent them 413 00:17:57,029 --> 00:17:58,292 . So, thank you all very, very much 414 00:17:58,292 --> 00:18:04,191 . 415 00:18:04,191 --> 00:18:06,790 Very good. We'll leave Ms. Kirby on 416 00:18:06,790 --> 00:18:08,891 stage as we turn to 417 00:18:08,891 --> 00:18:11,238 Ms. Tenisha Davis, our 418 00:18:11,238 --> 00:18:13,775 HCS High School Teacher of the Year. Ms. 419 00:18:13,775 --> 00:18:15,409 Davis is a language arts teacher 420 00:18:15,409 --> 00:18:16,708 at Kecoughtan High School and is 421 00:18:16,708 --> 00:18:18,580 originally from Smithfield, Virginia. 422 00:18:18,580 --> 00:18:19,894 She has over 7 years of 423 00:18:19,894 --> 00:18:21,604 experience in education, including 6 424 00:18:21,604 --> 00:18:23,269 years in Hampton City Schools 425 00:18:23,269 --> 00:18:25,341 . For Ms. Davis, being 426 00:18:25,341 --> 00:18:26,957 named high school teacher of the 427 00:18:26,957 --> 00:18:28,093 year is much more than a 428 00:18:28,093 --> 00:18:30,674 personal recognition. He sees it as an 429 00:18:30,674 --> 00:18:32,611 opportunity to show his 430 00:18:32,611 --> 00:18:34,548 students what is possible for their 431 00:18:34,548 --> 00:18:36,827 future and help them recognize what 432 00:18:36,827 --> 00:18:38,650 excellence and leadership look and sound like 433 00:18:38,650 --> 00:18:41,406 . She wants her students to know 434 00:18:41,406 --> 00:18:43,407 that their ideas matter, that their voices 435 00:18:43,407 --> 00:18:45,355 have a place at the table, and that they are 436 00:18:45,355 --> 00:18:47,460 capable of achieving more than they ever 437 00:18:47,460 --> 00:18:49,708 imagined. For Ms. Davis, the 438 00:18:49,708 --> 00:18:51,353 greatest measure of her success will always 439 00:18:51,353 --> 00:18:53,046 be the students who leave her 440 00:18:53,046 --> 00:18:54,933 classroom believing in themselves and the 441 00:18:54,933 --> 00:18:56,960 possibilities that await them. Let's give 442 00:18:56,960 --> 00:19:01,883 a big round of applause to Mrs. Davis. 443 00:19:01,883 --> 00:19:03,474 Ms. Davis, will you join me on 444 00:19:03,474 --> 00:19:08,920 stage? 445 00:19:08,920 --> 00:19:11,911 Flowers. 446 00:19:11,911 --> 00:19:13,980 Kecoughtan High School's executive director 447 00:19:13,980 --> 00:19:16,221 , Dr. Dwayne Lucas, said 448 00:19:16,221 --> 00:19:18,733 that Ms. Davis's influence extends 449 00:19:18,733 --> 00:19:20,894 far beyond the walls of her 450 00:19:20,894 --> 00:19:24,515 classroom. Her commitment to 451 00:19:24,515 --> 00:19:26,080 excellence, her dedication to her 452 00:19:26,080 --> 00:19:27,976 students, and her willingness to serve 453 00:19:27,976 --> 00:19:29,208 beyond her classroom 454 00:19:29,208 --> 00:19:30,678 truly embody the spirit of 455 00:19:30,678 --> 00:19:32,195 Kecoughtan High School and 456 00:19:32,195 --> 00:19:35,602 Hampton City Schools. She 457 00:19:35,602 --> 00:19:37,531 exemplifies everyday greatness 458 00:19:37,531 --> 00:19:39,629 while constantly working to 459 00:19:39,629 --> 00:19:41,898 create growth opportunities for 460 00:19:41,898 --> 00:19:44,092 others. Let's give a big round of applause to 461 00:19:44,092 --> 00:19:50,264 Ms. Davis as we recognize her as 462 00:19:52,989 --> 00:20:07,960 Hampton City Schools' 2026-2027 High School Teacher of the Year. Would you like to say something? 463 00:20:07,960 --> 00:20:09,839 I am extremely grateful, as 464 00:20:09,839 --> 00:20:12,117 my students would say, to be honored by 465 00:20:12,117 --> 00:20:14,224 my colleagues and my 466 00:20:14,224 --> 00:20:17,881 students. I am grateful for the 467 00:20:17,881 --> 00:20:20,615 opportunity to give them a voice and encourage them 468 00:20:20,615 --> 00:20:24,095 to be the best they can be. So 469 00:20:24,095 --> 00:20:29,378 , thank you. 470 00:20:29,378 --> 00:20:31,067 Very well, and last but 471 00:20:31,067 --> 00:20:33,263 certainly not least, is 472 00:20:33,263 --> 00:20:35,407 our final honoree, Ms. 473 00:20:35,407 --> 00:20:37,212 Aaron Miller, our Hampton City Schools 474 00:20:37,212 --> 00:20:39,127 2026-2027 Elementary Teacher of the Year 475 00:20:39,127 --> 00:20:41,042 and 476 00:20:41,042 --> 00:20:43,011 our HCS entire district Teacher of the Year 477 00:20:43,011 --> 00:20:44,854 . Let's give him a big round of 478 00:20:44,854 --> 00:20:50,984 applause. If you don't know Ms. Miller 479 00:20:50,984 --> 00:20:52,754 , she is a fifth-grade teacher at 480 00:20:52,754 --> 00:20:54,429 Armstrong School for the Arts and is 481 00:20:54,429 --> 00:20:56,521 originally from Hampton, Virginia. She has 17 482 00:20:56,521 --> 00:20:58,129 years of experience in education, 483 00:20:58,129 --> 00:20:59,826 including three of those years here at 484 00:20:59,826 --> 00:21:01,978 Hampton City Schools. 485 00:21:01,978 --> 00:21:03,668 For Ms. Miller, being named 486 00:21:03,668 --> 00:21:05,111 Teacher of the Year represents the 487 00:21:05,111 --> 00:21:06,780 relationships she has built with 488 00:21:06,780 --> 00:21:08,494 students throughout her career and the 489 00:21:08,494 --> 00:21:10,117 lasting impact educators 490 00:21:10,117 --> 00:21:12,342 have the opportunity to achieve. She 491 00:21:12,342 --> 00:21:14,178 believes that teaching is always about 492 00:21:14,178 --> 00:21:15,753 learning from her students and 493 00:21:15,753 --> 00:21:17,799 passing on the knowledge, encouragement, 494 00:21:17,799 --> 00:21:19,741 and opportunities that others have 495 00:21:19,741 --> 00:21:21,787 given her along her own journey 496 00:21:21,787 --> 00:21:24,381 . Teaching is how Ms. 497 00:21:24,381 --> 00:21:26,391 Miller gives back; she believes in children and 498 00:21:26,391 --> 00:21:28,040 reminds them that their voices, their 499 00:21:28,040 --> 00:21:30,475 stories, and their futures matter. She 500 00:21:30,475 --> 00:21:32,195 is especially grateful to know 501 00:21:32,195 --> 00:21:33,872 that her current and past students 502 00:21:33,872 --> 00:21:35,421 share this recognition and have 503 00:21:35,421 --> 00:21:37,098 played an important role in her 504 00:21:37,098 --> 00:21:38,969 journey as an educator. Let's give him 505 00:21:38,969 --> 00:21:43,600 another round of applause. 506 00:21:43,600 --> 00:21:49,025 Mrs. Miller. Very good. 507 00:21:49,025 --> 00:21:51,404 Armstrong School of the Arts Principal Dr. 508 00:21:51,404 --> 00:21:53,696 Tiffany Gaddy Suggs said, “ 509 00:21:53,696 --> 00:21:56,033 Ms. Miller’s impact goes far beyond 510 00:21:56,033 --> 00:21:59,381 academics. She embodies the very 511 00:21:59,381 --> 00:22:01,605 best of what it means to be an 512 00:22:01,605 --> 00:22:04,692 educator. She teaches with high 513 00:22:04,692 --> 00:22:07,474 expectations, leads with love, faces 514 00:22:07,474 --> 00:22:10,187 challenges with strength, and gives 515 00:22:10,187 --> 00:22:12,483 children the gift of knowing that 516 00:22:12,483 --> 00:22:14,987 tomorrow is always another chance 517 00:22:14,987 --> 00:22:18,329 to succeed. Her impact is not 518 00:22:18,329 --> 00:22:20,483 measured solely by what her students 519 00:22:20,483 --> 00:22:22,521 learn academically, but by 520 00:22:22,521 --> 00:22:24,676 how they feel in her 521 00:22:24,676 --> 00:22:28,237 presence—supported, challenged, loved, 522 00:22:28,237 --> 00:22:31,118 and empowered to become their best 523 00:22:31,118 --> 00:22:34,482 selves. Let’s give Ms. Erin 524 00:22:34,482 --> 00:22:36,822 Miller a round of applause as 525 00:22:36,822 --> 00:22:39,941 we recognize her as 526 00:22:39,941 --> 00:22:42,670 Hampton City Schools’ 2026-2027 Elementary Teacher of the Year 527 00:22:42,670 --> 00:22:45,633 and Division-wide Teacher of the Year 528 00:22:45,633 --> 00:23:01,184 . Would you 529 00:23:01,184 --> 00:23:02,766 like to say anything? We can 530 00:23:02,766 --> 00:23:03,319 wait for that. 531 00:23:03,319 --> 00:23:05,001 Okay. 532 00:23:05,001 --> 00:23:06,600 That’s beautiful. 533 00:23:06,600 --> 00:23:08,739 Understood. I just want to say 534 00:23:08,739 --> 00:23:10,897 thank you. I am truly honored and 535 00:23:10,897 --> 00:23:12,355 blessed to be here 536 00:23:12,355 --> 00:23:14,250 representing HCS, and I plan to take this 537 00:23:14,250 --> 00:23:16,117 recognition as far as I can. 538 00:23:16,117 --> 00:23:17,973 So this isn’t the The end is the 539 00:23:17,973 --> 00:23:19,343 beginning. And well, just thank you, 540 00:23:19,343 --> 00:23:20,261 and I look forward to a great 541 00:23:20,261 --> 00:23:22,368 school year. And thank you, Dr. Suggs and Mrs. 542 00:23:22,368 --> 00:23:24,613 Richardson. And to my mother and my husband, 543 00:23:24,613 --> 00:23:31,000 thank you for being here. 544 00:23:31,000 --> 00:23:32,854 Before you return to your seats, 545 00:23:32,854 --> 00:23:34,416 we would like to ask any 546 00:23:34,416 --> 00:23:36,271 family members and special guests 547 00:23:36,271 --> 00:23:37,882 in the audience, your 548 00:23:37,882 --> 00:23:39,688 administration, and your colleagues to 549 00:23:39,688 --> 00:23:41,494 please stand for 550 00:23:41,494 --> 00:23:43,952 recognition. Thank you for being here 551 00:23:43,952 --> 00:23:45,665 tonight and for being part of the 552 00:23:45,665 --> 00:23:52,159 support system for these educators. You know. You 553 00:23:52,159 --> 00:23:53,759 know the long hours that 554 00:23:53,759 --> 00:23:54,859 teachers put in. You 555 00:23:54,859 --> 00:23:56,739 know the long hours that 556 00:23:56,739 --> 00:23:58,675 teachers put in every day for their 557 00:23:58,675 --> 00:24:01,092 students. Please know how much we 558 00:24:01,092 --> 00:24:02,712 appreciate our teachers and each and every 559 00:24:02,712 --> 00:24:04,961 one of you. Thank you very much. 560 00:24:04,961 --> 00:24:38,059 Let's give them another round of applause. 561 00:24:38,059 --> 00:24:44,997 Thank you. President Mason, that concludes 562 00:24:44,997 --> 00:24:46,720 our recognitions for tonight. 563 00:24:46,720 --> 00:24:47,960 Thank you. 564 00:24:47,960 --> 00:24:53,845 very much. Any comments from 565 00:24:53,845 --> 00:24:58,500 the board members? Very well. 566 00:24:58,500 --> 00:25:00,594 I repeat, thank you to your family members because I 567 00:25:00,594 --> 00:25:02,270 know that you put in many hours in 568 00:25:02,270 --> 00:25:04,260 connection with the work you do 569 00:25:04,260 --> 00:25:06,041 for Hampton City Schools 570 00:25:06,041 --> 00:25:08,107 . So, thank you all. Thank you for 571 00:25:08,107 --> 00:25:09,492 sharing your time with us, and 572 00:25:09,492 --> 00:25:12,816 congratulations again. Very 573 00:25:12,816 --> 00:25:14,912 good. Moving on, next 574 00:25:14,912 --> 00:25:16,535 are the reports from the superintendent and 575 00:25:16,535 --> 00:25:18,117 staff, and I'll now give the floor 576 00:25:18,117 --> 00:25:19,219 to Dr. Haynes. 577 00:25:19,219 --> 00:25:20,423 Thank you, President Mason, 578 00:25:20,423 --> 00:25:22,207 Vice President Jackson Afonda, 579 00:25:22,207 --> 00:25:23,947 board members, division leadership team, 580 00:25:23,947 --> 00:25:25,875 and Hampton community. 581 00:25:25,875 --> 00:25:27,978 As we continue under the 582 00:25:27,978 --> 00:25:29,694 2026-2027 school year theme of "One 583 00:25:29,694 --> 00:25:31,466 Community, One Transformation, 584 00:25:31,466 --> 00:25:33,680 Excellence with Intentionality," in 585 00:25:33,680 --> 00:25:36,042 this afternoon's presentation, Ms. 586 00:25:36,042 --> 00:25:37,767 Kelly Gooch, our 587 00:25:37,767 --> 00:25:39,770 executive director of public relations and 588 00:25:39,770 --> 00:25:41,773 marketing, will share 589 00:25:41,773 --> 00:25:43,999 highlights from the opening of the 590 00:25:43,999 --> 00:25:46,169 2026-2027 school year, from our 591 00:25:46,169 --> 00:25:48,061 early 592 00:25:48,061 --> 00:25:50,231 morning bus send-off to welcoming over 593 00:25:50,231 --> 00:25:53,101 19,000 young people to our schools. 594 00:25:53,101 --> 00:25:55,321 The first day, of course, was 595 00:25:55,321 --> 00:25:57,601 filled with excitement, energy, and 596 00:25:57,601 --> 00:25:58,979 HCS pride. Here we go. 597 00:25:58,979 --> 00:26:00,157 Okay, you just did the 598 00:26:00,157 --> 00:26:02,070 presentation for me, sir. Right, 599 00:26:02,070 --> 00:26:04,301 good night again. I have the 600 00:26:04,301 --> 00:26:06,217 privilege this afternoon of sharing a 601 00:26:06,217 --> 00:26:07,789 special presentation as 602 00:26:07,789 --> 00:26:09,754 we celebrate the opening of the school year. 603 00:26:09,754 --> 00:26:11,719 26-27 and highlight some of the excitement 604 00:26:11,719 --> 00:26:13,488 that helped us kick off another great 605 00:26:13,488 --> 00:26:15,305 year at Hampton City Schools 606 00:26:15,305 --> 00:26:19,278 . On August 14, nearly 607 00:26:19,278 --> 00:26:20,921 3,000 608 00:26:20,921 --> 00:26:22,610 Hampton City Schools staff members 609 00:26:22,610 --> 00:26:24,487 gathered at 610 00:26:24,487 --> 00:26:26,082 Hampton University Convocation Center for 611 00:26:26,082 --> 00:26:27,818 our fourth annual 612 00:26:27,818 --> 00:26:29,319 Back-to-School Excellence Celebration, 613 00:26:29,319 --> 00:26:30,962 officially launching our 614 00:26:30,962 --> 00:26:33,610 26-27 school year. Hosted by Sharon 615 00:26:33,610 --> 00:26:35,555 Radford and Heather VanHouten, the morning 616 00:26:35,555 --> 00:26:37,112 began with a welcome from 617 00:26:37,112 --> 00:26:39,009 School Board Chair Dr. 618 00:26:39,009 --> 00:26:40,468 Richard Mason, followed by 619 00:26:40,468 --> 00:26:42,413 Superintendent Dr. Raymond Haynes, 620 00:26:42,413 --> 00:26:44,262 who celebrated the accomplishments of our 621 00:26:44,262 --> 00:26:46,159 students and staff, including a 622 00:26:46,159 --> 00:26:48,104 projected on-time graduation rate 623 00:26:48,104 --> 00:26:50,050 above 98% and a dropout rate 624 00:26:50,050 --> 00:26:52,288 below 1%. He also challenged 625 00:26:52,288 --> 00:26:53,925 staff to continue our work 626 00:26:53,925 --> 00:26:55,651 as a community, a transformation 627 00:26:55,651 --> 00:26:57,067 , with a continued focus on 628 00:26:57,067 --> 00:26:59,495 intentional excellence. 629 00:26:59,495 --> 00:27:01,473 This year’s keynote speaker, Dr. 630 00:27:01,473 --> 00:27:03,087 Adolph “Doc” Brown III, brought his 631 00:27:03,087 --> 00:27:04,805 signature candor to HCS, 632 00:27:04,805 --> 00:27:06,575 delivering an engaging and 633 00:27:06,575 --> 00:27:08,605 inspiring message. to our staff as 634 00:27:08,605 --> 00:27:10,427 we prepared for the 635 00:27:10,427 --> 00:27:12,921 coming year. And, of course, it wouldn't be a 636 00:27:12,921 --> 00:27:14,860 celebration of excellence without a 637 00:27:14,860 --> 00:27:16,800 bit of friendly competition and plenty of 638 00:27:16,800 --> 00:27:18,808 school spirit. Our mascots 639 00:27:18,808 --> 00:27:20,601 took center stage for 640 00:27:20,601 --> 00:27:22,440 a parade and dance contest, with 641 00:27:22,440 --> 00:27:24,280 the Sims Spartans named champions, 642 00:27:24,280 --> 00:27:26,166 the Peak Squirrel winning 643 00:27:26,166 --> 00:27:28,005 Greatest of All Time (GOAT) honors, and the 644 00:27:28,005 --> 00:27:29,751 Craft Cub taking home the 645 00:27:29,751 --> 00:27:32,028 Best of the Best award. We also celebrated 646 00:27:32,028 --> 00:27:33,522 some of the outstanding individuals 647 00:27:33,522 --> 00:27:35,138 who make HCS such a special place, 648 00:27:35,138 --> 00:27:36,674 including our Support Staff 649 00:27:36,674 --> 00:27:38,169 of the Year and, as you just heard, 650 00:27:38,169 --> 00:27:40,180 our Teachers of the Year. It was an 651 00:27:40,180 --> 00:27:41,847 amazing way to bring our 652 00:27:41,847 --> 00:27:43,604 HCS family together, and we set the tone 653 00:27:43,604 --> 00:27:45,900 for a new year. Of course, this 654 00:27:45,900 --> 00:27:47,500 wonderful event wouldn't happen without an 655 00:27:47,500 --> 00:27:48,700 incredible team of people 656 00:27:48,700 --> 00:27:50,528 working behind the scenes. So, 657 00:27:50,528 --> 00:27:52,093 Ms. Robin Ruth and I want to extend a 658 00:27:52,093 --> 00:27:53,519 huge thank you to everyone who 659 00:27:53,519 --> 00:27:54,983 helped make 660 00:27:54,983 --> 00:27:56,999 this year's Celebration of Excellence a success. 661 00:27:56,999 --> 00:27:58,983 From our planning committee 662 00:27:58,983 --> 00:28:00,620 and volunteers to those who 663 00:28:00,620 --> 00:28:02,555 dedicated countless hours preparing 664 00:28:02,555 --> 00:28:04,440 the meeting of 3,000 HCS employees 665 00:28:04,440 --> 00:28:06,375 under one roof, including the 666 00:28:06,375 --> 00:28:08,310 excellent HU staff who helped us 667 00:28:08,310 --> 00:28:10,376 . A special thank you to our 668 00:28:10,376 --> 00:28:11,817 outstanding emcees, 669 00:28:11,817 --> 00:28:13,376 Ms. Sharon Radford and Heather Van Hout, 670 00:28:13,376 --> 00:28:14,609 as well as Christina Silverman, 671 00:28:14,609 --> 00:28:15,953 our HR event planner 672 00:28:15,953 --> 00:28:17,878 . And to everyone who 673 00:28:17,878 --> 00:28:19,100 helped with setup, 674 00:28:19,100 --> 00:28:20,406 activities, transportation, 675 00:28:20,406 --> 00:28:21,965 logistics, and the many details that 676 00:28:21,965 --> 00:28:24,120 an event of this size requires. 677 00:28:24,120 --> 00:28:25,485 We are also grateful to 678 00:28:25,485 --> 00:28:27,141 our transportation team for helping 679 00:28:27,141 --> 00:28:28,672 to safely move thousands of 680 00:28:28,672 --> 00:28:31,099 employees to and from the event. 681 00:28:31,099 --> 00:28:33,453 Next up. As we prepare to 682 00:28:33,453 --> 00:28:34,799 welcome students back, we 683 00:28:34,799 --> 00:28:35,963 also had a little fun 684 00:28:35,963 --> 00:28:37,272 reminiscing about one of our 685 00:28:37,272 --> 00:28:38,618 favorite back-to-school moments from the 686 00:28:38,618 --> 00:28:40,856 HCS archives. We decided to do a " 687 00:28:40,856 --> 00:28:43,046 Throwback Thursday" and went back six 688 00:28:43,046 --> 00:28:45,748 years to 2020. I know a lot of 689 00:28:45,748 --> 00:28:47,560 that sounds scary, 2020, but it was when 690 00:28:47,560 --> 00:28:49,373 we surprised our students and 691 00:28:49,373 --> 00:28:50,995 staff throughout the day with 692 00:28:50,995 --> 00:28:52,521 inspirational messages and 693 00:28:52,521 --> 00:28:54,429 special greetings from some secret celebrity guests 694 00:28:54,429 --> 00:28:56,898 . We put together a compilation of 695 00:28:56,898 --> 00:28:58,705 some of those memorable messages and 696 00:28:58,705 --> 00:29:00,512 the We shared it again on 697 00:29:00,512 --> 00:29:03,059 social media, where it was a huge hit. 698 00:29:03,059 --> 00:29:04,793 A lot has changed in 6 years, but the 699 00:29:04,793 --> 00:29:06,528 excitement that comes with the start of a 700 00:29:06,528 --> 00:29:08,308 new school year and the encouragement and support 701 00:29:08,308 --> 00:29:10,134 of our HCS community 702 00:29:10,134 --> 00:29:11,962 have certainly remained the same. Let's take a 703 00:29:11,962 --> 00:29:21,340 quick look back. 704 00:29:21,340 --> 00:29:22,705 Hey, what's up, 705 00:29:22,705 --> 00:29:24,530 Hampton City Schools students? I appreciate 706 00:29:24,530 --> 00:29:26,018 you guys giving it your all because you 707 00:29:26,018 --> 00:29:27,579 know this is still going to count. 708 00:29:27,579 --> 00:29:29,379 I want to wish you an amazing school year 709 00:29:29,379 --> 00:29:31,269 . I hope it's simply 710 00:29:31,269 --> 00:29:33,179 the best. I hope you learn a lot. 711 00:29:33,179 --> 00:29:35,620 I hope you grow as people. 712 00:29:35,620 --> 00:29:38,134 I wouldn't be where I am now without 713 00:29:38,134 --> 00:29:42,348 great advice and also without 714 00:29:42,416 --> 00:29:45,220 amazing teachers, schools, advisors, and counselors. 715 00:29:45,220 --> 00:29:46,613 Well, this is your friend Ice Cube 716 00:29:46,613 --> 00:29:48,234 talking to you. I hope you listen to my 717 00:29:48,234 --> 00:29:49,363 words. Yes, I'm talking to 718 00:29:49,363 --> 00:29:51,420 you. I hope you hear my voice, and 719 00:29:51,420 --> 00:29:53,771 I hope you take me seriously. I hope 720 00:29:53,771 --> 00:29:55,398 , even better, that you take your 721 00:29:55,398 --> 00:29:57,067 studies seriously and everything you have to do 722 00:29:57,067 --> 00:29:58,942 to get to the next level. I'm signing 723 00:29:58,942 --> 00:30:01,239 off. I'm done preaching. Your friend 724 00:30:01,239 --> 00:30:03,900 Ice Cube. Yeah, yeah. 725 00:30:03,900 --> 00:30:05,556 This video is for the students of 726 00:30:05,556 --> 00:30:08,859 Hampton City schools. Yay! 727 00:30:08,859 --> 00:30:10,841 From all of us at McKinney 728 00:30:10,841 --> 00:30:12,570 Bottom, we wish you a great 729 00:30:12,570 --> 00:30:14,880 school year and that you do your best. 730 00:30:14,880 --> 00:30:16,620 But I always like to say that being 731 00:30:16,620 --> 00:30:18,688 different can be awesome. You never 732 00:30:18,688 --> 00:30:20,180 know what different can bring 733 00:30:20,180 --> 00:30:22,816 . You're going to have so much fun learning 734 00:30:22,816 --> 00:30:24,607 new things, growing in new 735 00:30:24,607 --> 00:30:26,709 ways, and it's going to be fantastic. It's going to 736 00:30:26,709 --> 00:30:28,720 be a wonderful school year. 737 00:30:28,720 --> 00:30:30,419 But right now, I just want to talk to you 738 00:30:30,419 --> 00:30:31,948 with my voice, you know, because I'm so 739 00:30:31,948 --> 00:30:33,819 excited for the new school year. 740 00:30:33,819 --> 00:30:35,720 I want you to reach those goals. I 741 00:30:35,720 --> 00:30:37,463 want you to go out there and have an 742 00:30:37,463 --> 00:30:38,979 amazing school year. 743 00:30:38,979 --> 00:30:41,363 But as long as you stay positive, 744 00:30:41,363 --> 00:30:43,872 focused, and do your best, it'll be a piece of cake 745 00:30:43,872 --> 00:30:45,720 . You're 746 00:30:45,720 --> 00:30:48,052 doing amazing, and I know you'll 747 00:30:48,052 --> 00:30:49,880 continue to be great 748 00:30:49,880 --> 00:30:52,165 students in school. Study 749 00:30:52,165 --> 00:30:53,588 hard, work hard, and have lots of fun 750 00:30:53,588 --> 00:31:02,340 . Bye. 751 00:31:02,340 --> 00:31:03,489 Smiles from our 752 00:31:03,489 --> 00:31:04,542 student representatives, so I think 753 00:31:04,542 --> 00:31:06,570 you recognized some of those faces. 754 00:31:06,570 --> 00:31:08,267 Sage's face when Ice Cube appeared was 755 00:31:08,267 --> 00:31:11,672 priceless. Very good. Next 756 00:31:11,672 --> 00:31:13,596 slide. And while it's always 757 00:31:13,596 --> 00:31:15,111 fun to reminisce, we also wanted to 758 00:31:15,111 --> 00:31:16,323 create something Special to 759 00:31:16,323 --> 00:31:17,648 welcome our students, 760 00:31:17,648 --> 00:31:18,936 families, and staff back to the new 761 00:31:18,936 --> 00:31:20,553 school year. That's why Hampton 762 00:31:20,553 --> 00:31:22,143 City Schools creates a back-to- 763 00:31:22,143 --> 00:31:23,733 school video every year to generate excitement and 764 00:31:23,733 --> 00:31:25,084 officially welcome our 765 00:31:25,084 --> 00:31:27,186 community back to the new year. Our team 766 00:31:27,186 --> 00:31:28,788 at PEG TV once again lent their 767 00:31:28,788 --> 00:31:30,532 creativity to this year's production 768 00:31:30,532 --> 00:31:32,135 , helping us share the 769 00:31:32,135 --> 00:31:34,020 energy, spirit, and excitement of 770 00:31:34,020 --> 00:31:35,664 a fresh start at HCS. So, 771 00:31:35,664 --> 00:31:36,974 let's take a look at 772 00:31:36,974 --> 00:31:40,839 this year's welcome. 773 00:31:40,839 --> 00:31:43,320 Before the bells ring, before 774 00:31:43,320 --> 00:31:45,553 the doors open, before the 775 00:31:45,553 --> 00:31:47,787 first good morning, we remember 776 00:31:47,787 --> 00:31:50,020 why we're here, together, for the 777 00:31:50,020 --> 00:31:52,191 students and families who 778 00:31:52,191 --> 00:31:56,240 trust Hampton City Schools. 779 00:31:56,240 --> 00:31:57,767 The staff is simply 780 00:31:57,767 --> 00:32:01,720 outstanding. They are so kind, and, you 781 00:32:01,720 --> 00:32:04,780 know, they always manage to make me 782 00:32:04,780 --> 00:32:06,620 smile. 783 00:32:06,620 --> 00:32:09,870 Her name is Redding, and she makes me 784 00:32:09,870 --> 00:32:12,681 smile because, when we're 785 00:32:12,681 --> 00:32:16,939 doing something, she makes it fun. 786 00:32:16,939 --> 00:32:19,426 Not just for teaching, and not just for 787 00:32:19,426 --> 00:32:21,717 learning, but for making every 788 00:32:21,717 --> 00:32:23,400 moment count. 789 00:32:23,400 --> 00:32:26,541 Talking to my new teacher, learning 790 00:32:26,541 --> 00:32:28,856 new things, learning more 791 00:32:28,856 --> 00:32:32,900 math, preparing for my SOLs. 792 00:32:32,900 --> 00:32:34,572 I'm ready to see what 793 00:32:34,572 --> 00:32:36,295 There will be art projects in fourth 794 00:32:36,295 --> 00:32:37,918 grade because they always do 795 00:32:37,918 --> 00:32:41,411 fun things. They always do 796 00:32:41,411 --> 00:32:43,111 fun things, and I'm like, I'm 797 00:32:43,111 --> 00:32:45,860 ready to go to fourth grade. 798 00:32:45,860 --> 00:32:47,253 Well, I really like 799 00:32:47,253 --> 00:32:48,762 social studies because I want to be a teacher, and 800 00:32:48,762 --> 00:32:52,320 math. There's math in 801 00:32:52,320 --> 00:32:54,790 everything, and I just really like it 802 00:32:54,790 --> 00:32:56,299 . 803 00:32:56,299 --> 00:32:59,338 Every child, every family, every day, 804 00:32:59,338 --> 00:33:02,295 every opportunity counts because every 805 00:33:02,295 --> 00:33:05,252 student has potential, and together 806 00:33:05,252 --> 00:33:08,540 we help it grow. 807 00:33:08,540 --> 00:33:10,070 The reason I like 808 00:33:10,070 --> 00:33:11,879 science is because you can take 809 00:33:11,879 --> 00:33:13,734 science tests, and science tests are 810 00:33:13,734 --> 00:33:15,542 easy and fun, and 811 00:33:15,542 --> 00:33:17,119 social studies tests are 812 00:33:17,119 --> 00:33:19,179 fun and easy, too. 813 00:33:19,179 --> 00:33:22,712 Miss Paler, because if you raise 814 00:33:22,712 --> 00:33:25,974 your hand and ask for help, she'll be 815 00:33:25,974 --> 00:33:29,508 there to help you with anything you're 816 00:33:29,508 --> 00:33:32,620 struggling with. 817 00:33:32,620 --> 00:33:34,851 At Hampton City Schools 818 00:33:34,851 --> 00:33:36,510 , we lead with excellence and 819 00:33:36,510 --> 00:33:38,397 intentionality, and we do it in 820 00:33:38,397 --> 00:33:40,628 partnership with parents, caregivers, 821 00:33:40,628 --> 00:33:43,780 and our entire community. 822 00:33:43,780 --> 00:33:45,395 As one community, one 823 00:33:45,395 --> 00:33:47,247 transformation, let's make this year 824 00:33:47,247 --> 00:33:49,430 count. Let's keep what matters 825 00:33:49,430 --> 00:33:50,840 first. 826 00:33:50,840 --> 00:33:52,320 Welcome back, 827 00:33:52,320 --> 00:34:02,680 Hampton City Schools. 828 00:34:02,680 --> 00:34:04,110 We tried to get Dr. Haynes to move 829 00:34:04,110 --> 00:34:05,541 his We were all excited, but 830 00:34:05,541 --> 00:34:07,289 we only managed a smile. We managed a 831 00:34:07,289 --> 00:34:10,105 smile. So, last Monday, 832 00:34:10,105 --> 00:34:11,764 August 24, we 833 00:34:11,764 --> 00:34:13,370 officially welcomed over 19,000 834 00:34:13,370 --> 00:34:15,296 students for the start of the 835 00:34:15,296 --> 00:34:16,976 2026-2027 school year. Our day 836 00:34:16,976 --> 00:34:18,628 began well before dawn, as 837 00:34:18,628 --> 00:34:20,239 Dr. Haynes already mentioned, at the 838 00:34:20,239 --> 00:34:21,891 bus lot, where 839 00:34:21,891 --> 00:34:23,502 school board members, division leaders, 840 00:34:23,502 --> 00:34:25,154 city officials, staff, and 841 00:34:25,154 --> 00:34:26,724 community partners gathered to 842 00:34:26,724 --> 00:34:28,087 cheer on our 843 00:34:28,087 --> 00:34:29,491 bus drivers and attendants as they 844 00:34:29,491 --> 00:34:31,019 prepared to head out on their first 845 00:34:31,019 --> 00:34:32,765 routes of the year. From there, the 846 00:34:32,765 --> 00:34:34,093 excitement spread throughout the 847 00:34:34,093 --> 00:34:35,617 division as students 848 00:34:35,617 --> 00:34:36,789 walked through our doors, 849 00:34:36,789 --> 00:34:38,273 reconnected with teachers and friends, and 850 00:34:38,273 --> 00:34:39,758 began another year of learning and 851 00:34:39,758 --> 00:34:41,754 new opportunities. WAVY TV 10 852 00:34:41,754 --> 00:34:43,361 joined us bright and early at the 853 00:34:43,361 --> 00:34:44,806 bus lot. Well, not that 854 00:34:44,806 --> 00:34:46,643 bright, really, but early nonetheless. 855 00:34:46,643 --> 00:34:47,915 And then they headed over to 856 00:34:47,915 --> 00:34:49,079 Craft Elementary School to capture the 857 00:34:49,079 --> 00:34:50,242 excitement of opening day and 858 00:34:50,242 --> 00:34:51,588 help us share the story of 859 00:34:51,588 --> 00:34:53,042 our first day with the community. 860 00:34:53,042 --> 00:34:54,822 Hampton Roads. It was a great day across 861 00:34:54,822 --> 00:34:56,992 HCS. Here's a look back at 862 00:34:56,992 --> 00:35:30,640 some of our favorite moments. 863 00:35:30,640 --> 00:35:35,280 Yes! 864 00:35:35,280 --> 00:36:40,156 Great job. 865 00:36:40,156 --> 00:36:41,774 And with a new school year comes a 866 00:36:41,774 --> 00:36:43,392 new season of our 867 00:36:43,392 --> 00:36:45,010 Hampton City Schools podcast, 868 00:36:45,010 --> 00:36:46,595 HCS Talks. And don't worry, Dr. Haynes, 869 00:36:46,595 --> 00:36:47,764 this isn't the new 870 00:36:47,764 --> 00:36:49,483 marketing material. We just made this for this 871 00:36:49,483 --> 00:36:51,319 presentation. We thought you might 872 00:36:51,319 --> 00:36:52,961 enjoy it a little. So now, 873 00:36:52,961 --> 00:36:54,494 entering its fourth season, HCS 874 00:36:54,494 --> 00:36:55,986 Talks continues to provide another 875 00:36:55,986 --> 00:36:57,602 way for us to educate, inform, and 876 00:36:57,602 --> 00:36:59,011 connect with our community, 877 00:36:59,011 --> 00:37:00,544 taking listeners beyond 878 00:37:00,544 --> 00:37:02,201 the headlines and into the people, 879 00:37:02,201 --> 00:37:03,651 programs, opportunities, and 880 00:37:03,651 --> 00:37:05,308 stories that make up 881 00:37:05,308 --> 00:37:07,378 Hampton City Schools. Throughout the 882 00:37:07,378 --> 00:37:08,737 year, listeners will hear 883 00:37:08,737 --> 00:37:10,187 conversations with students, 884 00:37:10,187 --> 00:37:11,909 teachers, staff, families, and 885 00:37:11,909 --> 00:37:13,721 community partners, as well as 886 00:37:13,721 --> 00:37:15,488 division leaders, on topics ranging from 887 00:37:15,488 --> 00:37:16,984 academics and 888 00:37:16,984 --> 00:37:18,388 student experiences to programs, 889 00:37:18,388 --> 00:37:20,155 initiatives, partnerships, and the work being 890 00:37:20,155 --> 00:37:22,419 done across HCS. New 891 00:37:22,419 --> 00:37:24,007 episodes will continue to be released on 892 00:37:24,007 --> 00:37:25,595 Thursdays during throughout the school year and 893 00:37:25,595 --> 00:37:27,015 will be available on all 894 00:37:27,015 --> 00:37:29,235 major podcast platforms. And I 895 00:37:29,235 --> 00:37:31,094 would be remiss if I didn't acknowledge 896 00:37:31,094 --> 00:37:32,954 Mr. Andy Foley and our entire 897 00:37:32,954 --> 00:37:34,813 PEG TV team for our back- 898 00:37:34,813 --> 00:37:36,672 to-school video, our first- 899 00:37:36,672 --> 00:37:38,436 day coverage, and our HCS Talks podcast, in which they 900 00:37:38,436 --> 00:37:40,344 have invested countless hours 901 00:37:40,344 --> 00:37:42,155 capturing and telling the story of the 902 00:37:42,155 --> 00:37:44,193 start of the school year. Their creativity 903 00:37:44,193 --> 00:37:45,757 and behind-the-scenes work 904 00:37:45,757 --> 00:37:47,420 allow us to share that HCS energy and 905 00:37:47,420 --> 00:37:49,131 enthusiasm with our entire 906 00:37:49,131 --> 00:37:52,562 community. So, ladies and gentlemen 907 00:37:52,562 --> 00:37:54,086 of the board, I believe these 908 00:37:54,086 --> 00:37:55,741 highlights give you just a glimpse of 909 00:37:55,741 --> 00:37:57,178 the excitement we have felt at 910 00:37:57,178 --> 00:37:58,832 Hampton City Schools as we begin this 911 00:37:58,832 --> 00:38:00,245 new school year. Our 912 00:38:00,245 --> 00:38:01,513 students are back, our 913 00:38:01,513 --> 00:38:02,744 staff is energized, 914 00:38:02,744 --> 00:38:04,157 our buses are running, and 915 00:38:04,157 --> 00:38:05,989 our classrooms are full. And as 916 00:38:05,989 --> 00:38:07,225 you can see from these pictures on the 917 00:38:07,225 --> 00:38:08,267 screen, we are quite 918 00:38:08,267 --> 00:38:09,735 excited about the year 919 00:38:09,735 --> 00:38:13,723 ahead. As one community, 920 00:38:13,723 --> 00:38:15,427 one transformation, we look forward to 921 00:38:15,427 --> 00:38:17,088 another year celebrating our 922 00:38:17,088 --> 00:38:18,664 students, telling the 923 00:38:18,664 --> 00:38:20,240 HCS story, and continuing our commitment to 924 00:38:20,240 --> 00:38:22,540 intentional excellence. 925 00:38:22,540 --> 00:38:24,277 And before I conclude this presentation Last 926 00:38:24,277 --> 00:38:25,884 night, we have even more 927 00:38:25,884 --> 00:38:27,405 exciting news to share, one that 928 00:38:27,405 --> 00:38:29,142 speaks not only to the work that goes on at 929 00:38:29,142 --> 00:38:30,836 Hampton City Schools, but also to 930 00:38:30,836 --> 00:38:32,356 the incredible people who make 931 00:38:32,356 --> 00:38:36,623 that work possible every day. We are 932 00:38:36,623 --> 00:38:38,689 incredibly proud to announce 933 00:38:38,689 --> 00:38:40,437 that Hampton City Schools has 934 00:38:40,437 --> 00:38:42,396 once again been named to 935 00:38:42,396 --> 00:38:44,197 Forbes’ list of 936 00:38:44,197 --> 00:38:46,104 America’s Best State Employers, marking 937 00:38:46,104 --> 00:38:48,064 the second consecutive year 938 00:38:48,064 --> 00:38:50,393 HCS has earned this distinction. The 939 00:38:50,393 --> 00:38:52,296 2026 recognition was 940 00:38:52,296 --> 00:38:54,698 recently announced on August 13. This 941 00:38:54,698 --> 00:38:56,759 year, Hampton City Schools is one of only 942 00:38:56,759 --> 00:38:58,987 six public school divisions 943 00:38:58,987 --> 00:39:01,160 in Virginia to earn a spot on that 944 00:39:01,160 --> 00:39:04,158 2026 list. Being recognized in both 945 00:39:04,158 --> 00:39:05,605 2025 and now 2026 is 946 00:39:05,605 --> 00:39:07,479 especially meaningful because it 947 00:39:07,479 --> 00:39:09,568 reflects our ongoing commitment to 948 00:39:09,568 --> 00:39:11,496 creating a workplace where 949 00:39:11,496 --> 00:39:13,210 employees feel valued, 950 00:39:13,210 --> 00:39:15,085 supported, and have opportunities to 951 00:39:15,085 --> 00:39:17,940 grow. And I think what makes this 952 00:39:17,940 --> 00:39:19,472 recognition particularly 953 00:39:19,472 --> 00:39:21,048 special is that it reflects the voices and 954 00:39:21,048 --> 00:39:23,299 experiences of our employees— 955 00:39:23,299 --> 00:39:25,176 from compensation and benefits to 956 00:39:25,176 --> 00:39:26,865 our employee health and wellness center 957 00:39:26,865 --> 00:39:28,461 and 958 00:39:28,461 --> 00:39:30,151 employee pharmacy, professional learning, 959 00:39:30,151 --> 00:39:31,981 leadership development, and resources that 960 00:39:31,981 --> 00:39:33,812 support our staff in their work 961 00:39:33,812 --> 00:39:36,180 . HCS continues to invest in the 962 00:39:36,180 --> 00:39:37,809 people who make our 963 00:39:37,809 --> 00:39:40,160 schools successful. Being named a 964 00:39:40,160 --> 00:39:41,490 top state employer by Forbes 965 00:39:41,490 --> 00:39:43,010 for two consecutive years is something 966 00:39:43,010 --> 00:39:44,416 our entire HCS community 967 00:39:44,416 --> 00:39:46,817 can be proud of. It reinforces what we 968 00:39:46,817 --> 00:39:49,470 already know. Our employees are at the 969 00:39:49,470 --> 00:39:51,474 heart of everything we do, and by 970 00:39:51,474 --> 00:39:53,582 investing in them, we strengthen our 971 00:39:53,582 --> 00:39:55,638 ability to provide an 972 00:39:55,638 --> 00:39:57,536 exceptional educational experience for every child, 973 00:39:57,536 --> 00:39:59,920 every day, no matter the cost. 974 00:39:59,920 --> 00:40:01,587 So, congratulations to all of you and 975 00:40:01,587 --> 00:40:03,274 to Hampton City Schools. What a 976 00:40:03,274 --> 00:40:05,626 great way to kick off the 2026-2027 school year 977 00:40:05,626 --> 00:40:12,820 . And I'm done. 978 00:40:12,820 --> 00:40:14,462 Thank you, Ms. Cole. Excellent 979 00:40:14,462 --> 00:40:15,946 presentation. Any questions or 980 00:40:15,946 --> 00:40:20,200 comments from the board members? Have you 981 00:40:20,200 --> 00:40:22,294 recovered from that early morning 982 00:40:22,294 --> 00:40:24,619 , uh, at the bus terminal? 983 00:40:24,619 --> 00:40:25,280 No. 984 00:40:25,280 --> 00:40:26,660 Very well. 985 00:40:26,660 --> 00:40:27,580 Hardly. 986 00:40:27,580 --> 00:40:30,339 Very well, Dr. Haynes. 987 00:40:30,339 --> 00:40:31,754 Mr. President, for our 988 00:40:31,754 --> 00:40:33,966 final presentation tonight, Ms. 989 00:40:33,966 --> 00:40:35,825 Britney Branch, our Chief 990 00:40:35,825 --> 00:40:37,902 Financial Officer, will be presenting the 991 00:40:37,902 --> 00:40:45,040 June 2026 business and financial report. 992 00:40:45,040 --> 00:40:46,438 Good evening, President Mason, 993 00:40:46,438 --> 00:40:48,091 Vice President Vaughan, members of The 994 00:40:48,091 --> 00:40:49,489 school board, Dr. Haynes, and, of 995 00:40:49,489 --> 00:40:51,099 course, members of the 996 00:40:51,099 --> 00:40:53,011 Hampton community. Tonight, I'm pleased to 997 00:40:53,011 --> 00:40:54,615 present an overview of 998 00:40:54,615 --> 00:40:56,920 the June 2026 board report. 999 00:40:56,920 --> 00:40:58,444 Um, this report represents the 1000 00:40:58,444 --> 00:41:00,255 pre-audited cumulative results of 1001 00:41:00,255 --> 00:41:02,065 the school division for the past school year 1002 00:41:02,065 --> 00:41:05,590 . Our total operating budget 1003 00:41:05,590 --> 00:41:08,241 was $332.5 million, and 1004 00:41:08,241 --> 00:41:11,374 we spent, or rather disbursed, 1005 00:41:11,374 --> 00:41:14,968 $330.6 million. That's 1006 00:41:14,968 --> 00:41:19,559 99.5% of the budget executed. And that 1007 00:41:19,559 --> 00:41:21,825 also means we 1008 00:41:21,825 --> 00:41:26,438 underspent less than 1% of the budget. 1009 00:41:26,438 --> 00:41:28,764 Payroll accounted for 76% of expenses 1010 00:41:28,764 --> 00:41:31,150 , while non-salary items 1011 00:41:31,150 --> 00:41:33,297 were 24%, and our 1012 00:41:33,297 --> 00:41:35,504 instructional expenses accounted for 64% of 1013 00:41:35,504 --> 00:41:39,023 total spending. You also have a list 1014 00:41:39,023 --> 00:41:40,666 of the final transfers to and 1015 00:41:40,666 --> 00:41:42,352 from the technology classification 1016 00:41:42,352 --> 00:41:45,755 for the month of June. In addition, it's 1017 00:41:45,755 --> 00:41:48,145 important to note that, regarding 1018 00:41:48,145 --> 00:41:50,664 our revenue, the final income 1019 00:41:50,664 --> 00:41:52,796 , including the fund balance, 1020 00:41:52,796 --> 00:41:54,799 exceeded $333 million, and 1021 00:41:54,799 --> 00:41:57,318 we ended the year with approximately 1022 00:41:57,318 --> 00:42:00,694 $ $571,000 more than budgeted. And 1023 00:42:00,694 --> 00:42:01,930 that was due to some 1024 00:42:01,930 --> 00:42:03,277 additional revenue from 1025 00:42:03,277 --> 00:42:05,220 state sales taxes for the month of June. 1026 00:42:05,220 --> 00:42:07,473 And we learned that information when 1027 00:42:07,473 --> 00:42:10,710 we received the final payment in July. 1028 00:42:10,710 --> 00:42:12,311 So, included in the June report, 1029 00:42:12,311 --> 00:42:13,913 as every year, you will find a 1030 00:42:13,913 --> 00:42:15,472 reallocation memorandum along with 1031 00:42:15,472 --> 00:42:16,862 the corresponding attachments to 1032 00:42:16,862 --> 00:42:19,020 provide additional information. 1033 00:42:19,020 --> 00:42:20,829 But our next step is to 1034 00:42:20,829 --> 00:42:22,988 seek City Council approval 1035 00:42:22,988 --> 00:42:25,147 to reallocate those funds 1036 00:42:25,147 --> 00:42:27,248 from fiscal year 2026 to fiscal year 1037 00:42:27,248 --> 00:42:29,924 2027. And if it is approved, we also 1038 00:42:29,924 --> 00:42:31,865 want to make sure we prioritize addressing 1039 00:42:31,865 --> 00:42:33,701 any 1040 00:42:33,701 --> 00:42:35,800 revenue shortfalls this current school year, if 1041 00:42:35,800 --> 00:42:37,426 any, but if not, our 1042 00:42:37,426 --> 00:42:39,472 priority will be to consider 1043 00:42:39,472 --> 00:42:41,413 unique operational and instructional needs 1044 00:42:41,413 --> 00:42:44,556 within the school division. And as I 1045 00:42:44,556 --> 00:42:46,293 mentioned at the beginning, these are 1046 00:42:46,293 --> 00:42:48,269 pre-audited results. So, 1047 00:42:48,269 --> 00:42:49,803 there is a possibility that this will 1048 00:42:49,803 --> 00:42:51,606 change because we went through an 1049 00:42:51,606 --> 00:42:54,140 audit process with a third party. But if there are 1050 00:42:54,140 --> 00:42:56,420 any changes, I'll be able to provide those 1051 00:42:56,420 --> 00:42:58,357 updates to the board at a 1052 00:42:58,357 --> 00:43:01,310 later meeting. And that concludes the 1053 00:43:01,310 --> 00:43:05,180 board report of June 2026. 1054 00:43:05,180 --> 00:43:07,671 Very well, thank you very much. Questions 1055 00:43:07,671 --> 00:43:08,999 from board members? I see Mr. 1056 00:43:08,999 --> 00:43:09,479 Kilgore. 1057 00:43:09,479 --> 00:43:12,243 Uh, just a comment. It is 1058 00:43:12,243 --> 00:43:15,485 absolutely impressive that, with a 1059 00:43:15,485 --> 00:43:18,646 budget of over $330 million 1060 00:43:18,646 --> 00:43:21,727 , they stay within 1%, 1061 00:43:21,727 --> 00:43:25,360 less than 1% of that budget. That 1062 00:43:25,360 --> 00:43:28,159 requires incredible supervision. 1063 00:43:28,159 --> 00:43:31,939 So, thank you very much. Great job. 1064 00:43:31,990 --> 00:43:32,991 Any other comments from 1065 00:43:32,991 --> 00:43:36,640 board members? Excellent. 1066 00:43:36,640 --> 00:43:37,840 Thank you. 1067 00:43:37,840 --> 00:43:38,819 Dr. Haynes. 1068 00:43:38,819 --> 00:43:39,902 Mr. President, that concludes the 1069 00:43:39,902 --> 00:43:40,821 reports from the 1070 00:43:40,821 --> 00:43:42,020 superintendent's staff. 1071 00:43:42,020 --> 00:43:45,732 Very good. Then, we will move on to the 1072 00:43:45,732 --> 00:43:47,712 points of deliberation and number 1073 00:43:47,712 --> 00:43:49,426 five, in 5.01, 1074 00:43:49,426 --> 00:43:53,500 ICID school board policy review. 1075 00:43:53,500 --> 00:43:56,599 Excuse me. School year, school day. 1076 00:43:56,599 --> 00:43:58,939 5.02, 1077 00:43:58,939 --> 00:44:00,972 IIAA School Board Policy Review, Textbook Selection and 1078 00:44:00,972 --> 00:44:05,004 Adoption. 5.03, 1079 00:44:05,004 --> 00:44:07,376 new KPA school board policy 1080 00:44:07,376 --> 00:44:09,687 , notification to parents regarding the 1081 00:44:09,687 --> 00:44:11,998 safe storage of 1082 00:44:11,998 --> 00:44:17,477 prescription drugs and firearms. 5.04, 1083 00:44:17,532 --> 00:44:19,706 JGDA School Board Policy Review, Discipline of Students 1084 00:44:19,706 --> 00:44:22,176 with Disabilities. 5.05, New 1085 00:44:22,176 --> 00:44:26,300 KP School Board Policy, 1086 00:44:26,360 --> 00:44:29,292 Parent Rights and Responsibilities. 5.06, 1087 00:44:29,292 --> 00:44:31,444 GCL School Board Policy Review, 1088 00:44:31,444 --> 00:44:36,902 Staff Professional Development. 5.07, 1089 00:44:36,968 --> 00:44:40,944 GCPD School Board Policy Review, Staff Layoffs. And 1090 00:44:40,944 --> 00:44:43,695 5.08, review of the 1091 00:44:43,695 --> 00:44:46,590 GCG school board policy, probationary period and 1092 00:44:46,590 --> 00:44:48,979 contractual status of 1093 00:44:48,979 --> 00:44:51,630 certified employees. And we'll begin with Dr. 1094 00:44:51,630 --> 00:44:53,640 Thompson. 1095 00:44:53,640 --> 00:44:55,067 Good evening, President Dr. Mason, 1096 00:44:55,067 --> 00:44:56,610 Vice President Jackson Aponte, 1097 00:44:56,610 --> 00:44:58,152 board members, Superintendent Dr. Haynes, 1098 00:44:58,152 --> 00:44:59,770 and Hampton community. I have the 1099 00:44:59,770 --> 00:45:01,753 ICID policy, school year, 1100 00:45:01,753 --> 00:45:03,906 school day, as well as the IIAA policy, 1101 00:45:03,906 --> 00:45:05,833 selection, adoption and purchase of 1102 00:45:05,833 --> 00:45:08,616 textbooks. There have been no new 1103 00:45:08,616 --> 00:45:13,699 adjustments. Do you have any questions? 1104 00:45:13,699 --> 00:45:20,327 Very good. Alright. Uh-huh. Mrs. 1105 00:45:20,327 --> 00:45:21,681 Hatcher. 1106 00:45:21,681 --> 00:45:23,543 Good night. I am here to 1107 00:45:23,543 --> 00:45:32,079 present the KPA policy. Any 1108 00:45:32,079 --> 00:45:33,039 questions? 1109 00:45:33,039 --> 00:45:33,945 Any clarifying questions or anything 1110 00:45:33,945 --> 00:45:37,014 for Ms. Hatcher? Very good. 1111 00:45:37,014 --> 00:45:39,990 Thank you so much. Very good. And the 1112 00:45:39,990 --> 00:45:42,280 remaining policies, Ms. Ruth? 1113 00:45:42,280 --> 00:45:46,150 Yes. Good evening. Do you have any 1114 00:45:46,150 --> 00:45:50,304 questions about GCL, GCPD, or 1115 00:45:50,304 --> 00:45:52,800 GCG policy? There have been no changes since the 1116 00:45:52,800 --> 00:45:54,360 last time we met. 1117 00:45:54,360 --> 00:45:55,538 Yes. 1118 00:45:55,538 --> 00:45:57,313 Any clarifying questions, Mr. 1119 00:45:57,313 --> 00:45:57,680 Root? 1120 00:45:57,680 --> 00:45:59,140 Not 1121 00:45:59,140 --> 00:46:02,800 very well. Thank you so much. Very good. 1122 00:46:02,800 --> 00:46:04,440 So, this brings us to point 1123 00:46:04,440 --> 00:46:08,341 number six, points for action. 6.01 1124 00:46:08,341 --> 00:46:11,119 , local plan for gifted students. 1125 00:46:11,119 --> 00:46:13,719 6.02, 1126 00:46:13,719 --> 00:46:16,115 JCPF School Board Policy Review, 1127 00:46:16,115 --> 00:46:18,502 Employee Suspension. 6.03, 1128 00:46:18,502 --> 00:46:23,093 GDB School Board Policy Review, 1129 00:46:23,159 --> 00:46:25,792 Support Staff Probationary Period. 6.04, new 1130 00:46:25,792 --> 00:46:27,834 IK school board policy, 1131 00:46:27,834 --> 00:46:30,716 academic planning and course selection. 6.05 1132 00:46:30,716 --> 00:46:33,537 , new policy of the ILBC school board 1133 00:46:33,537 --> 00:46:36,134 , College Board school program 1134 00:46:36,134 --> 00:46:39,330 . 6.06, 1135 00:46:39,330 --> 00:46:42,859 IAI school board policy, artificial intelligence. 1136 00:46:42,859 --> 00:46:45,105 6.07, 1137 00:46:45,105 --> 00:46:46,879 EBB School Board Policy Review, 1138 00:46:46,879 --> 00:46:49,644 Threat Assessment Teams. 6.08, 1139 00:46:49,644 --> 00:46:51,961 review of the JED board policy 1140 00:46:51,961 --> 00:46:54,339 attendance policy 6.09 new 1141 00:46:54,339 --> 00:46:56,412 JLB school board policy 1142 00:46:56,412 --> 00:46:58,851 information and guidance on 1143 00:46:58,851 --> 00:47:00,802 financial aid 6.10 review of the 1144 00:47:00,802 --> 00:47:02,875 JAG school board policy 1145 00:47:02,875 --> 00:47:05,253 safety and protection of student 1146 00:47:05,253 --> 00:47:07,204 athletes in extreme heat 6.11 1147 00:47:07,204 --> 00:47:09,521 review of the 1148 00:47:09,521 --> 00:47:11,777 JM school board policy emergency response and 1149 00:47:11,777 --> 00:47:14,823 student safety. And what is the 1150 00:47:14,823 --> 00:47:18,020 board's wish? 1151 00:47:18,020 --> 00:47:20,235 Mr. President, I propose the approval 1152 00:47:20,235 --> 00:47:25,082 of action points 6.01 through 1153 00:47:25,082 --> 00:47:26,158 Support. 1154 00:47:26,158 --> 00:47:30,604 Very well, it has been proposed by Mr. 1155 00:47:30,604 --> 00:47:33,103 Kilgore and supported by Mr. Fagan that 1156 00:47:33,103 --> 00:47:35,410 we approve items 6.01 to 6.11 as a 1157 00:47:35,410 --> 00:47:40,916 whole. Any discussion? Ms. Penny 1158 00:47:40,916 --> 00:47:42,081 , could you please put this to a vote 1159 00:47:42,081 --> 00:47:42,772 ? 1160 00:47:42,772 --> 00:47:43,719 Mrs. Afonja. 1161 00:47:43,719 --> 00:47:44,386 In favor. 1162 00:47:44,386 --> 00:47:45,106 Mrs. Cherry. 1163 00:47:45,106 --> 00:47:45,646 In favor. 1164 00:47:45,646 --> 00:47:47,000 Dr. Banks-Gray. 1165 00:47:47,000 --> 00:47:47,600 In favor. 1166 00:47:47,600 --> 00:47:48,539 Mr. Samuels. 1167 00:47:48,539 --> 00:47:49,259 In favor. 1168 00:47:49,259 --> 00:47:50,080 Mr. Kilgore. 1169 00:47:50,080 --> 00:47:50,750 In favor. 1170 00:47:50,750 --> 00:47:51,610 Dr. Woodhouse. 1171 00:47:51,610 --> 00:47:52,258 In favor. 1172 00:47:52,258 --> 00:47:53,097 Dr. Mason. 1173 00:47:53,097 --> 00:47:55,566 In favor. The motion is approved. That 1174 00:47:55,566 --> 00:47:56,807 brings us to point number seven, 1175 00:47:56,807 --> 00:47:58,841 deliberation, first reading. 7.01 1176 00:47:58,841 --> 00:48:01,640 Review of the 1177 00:48:01,640 --> 00:48:04,514 EFB School Board Policy, Food Services 1178 00:48:04,514 --> 00:48:07,387 ; 7.02 Review of 1179 00:48:07,387 --> 00:48:10,187 school board policy GAH, GBA, CB, Conflict 1180 00:48:10,187 --> 00:48:12,470 of interest and disclosure of 1181 00:48:12,470 --> 00:48:15,270 economic interests; 7.03 BBFA 1182 00:48:15,270 --> 00:48:17,922 School Board Policy Review 1183 00:48:17,922 --> 00:48:20,280 , Conflicts of Interest and 1184 00:48:20,280 --> 00:48:23,153 Disclosure of Economic Interests; 1185 00:48:23,153 --> 00:48:25,879 7.04 Review of 1186 00:48:25,879 --> 00:48:28,794 GCBDG School Board Policy, Leave of 1187 00:48:28,794 --> 00:48:31,399 Absence; 7.05 New 1188 00:48:31,399 --> 00:48:33,934 School Board Policy JS, 1189 00:48:33,934 --> 00:48:36,469 Extracurricular Activity Notifications; 7.06 1190 00:48:36,469 --> 00:48:39,144 Review of the 1191 00:48:39,144 --> 00:48:41,820 JG school board policy, withdrawal of students from the 1192 00:48:41,820 --> 00:48:44,073 educational environment by 1193 00:48:44,073 --> 00:48:47,516 teaching staff. 7.07 New 1194 00:48:47,516 --> 00:48:49,418 School Board Policy JOB, 1195 00:48:49,418 --> 00:48:51,775 Administration of Surveys and 1196 00:48:51,775 --> 00:48:54,890 Questionnaires. 7.08 1197 00:48:54,890 --> 00:48:57,287 School Board Policy Review, 1198 00:48:57,287 --> 00:49:00,772 School Attendance Zone. Yes, 1199 00:49:00,772 --> 00:49:03,057 school attendance zones. Oh, and the first one is 1200 00:49:03,057 --> 00:49:06,159 with Mrs. Branch. 1201 00:49:06,159 --> 00:49:08,485 Good evening again. For the 1202 00:49:08,485 --> 00:49:10,232 EFB food service policy 1203 00:49:10,232 --> 00:49:11,864 , this was an 1204 00:49:11,864 --> 00:49:14,911 update to the VSBA. Much 1205 00:49:14,911 --> 00:49:17,050 of the language was added only to 1206 00:49:17,050 --> 00:49:19,316 reflect the language of the VSBA, not 1207 00:49:19,316 --> 00:49:21,644 necessarily anything substantial, but 1208 00:49:21,644 --> 00:49:23,784 I want to point out that we included, in 1209 00:49:23,784 --> 00:49:25,987 accordance with the state code, the 1210 00:49:25,987 --> 00:49:28,315 reporting of any unpaid 1211 00:49:28,315 --> 00:49:31,658 food debt. Originally this wasn't 1212 00:49:31,658 --> 00:49:33,432 included, but based on the 1213 00:49:33,432 --> 00:49:35,368 video's direction, even if it's 1214 00:49:35,368 --> 00:49:37,411 zero, they ask that zero be reported and that's what 1215 00:49:37,411 --> 00:49:39,508 we reported. So I wanted to make sure that was 1216 00:49:39,508 --> 00:49:40,847 reflected 1217 00:49:40,847 --> 00:49:41,952 in our school board policy 1218 00:49:41,952 --> 00:49:44,831 . 1219 00:49:44,831 --> 00:49:46,356 Any clarifying questions for 1220 00:49:46,356 --> 00:49:49,671 Ms. Branch? Very good. Thank you. Very 1221 00:49:49,671 --> 00:49:52,270 good. The next three are with one, 1222 00:49:52,270 --> 00:49:53,942 two, three. Yes, three of them are with Mrs. 1223 00:49:53,942 --> 00:49:56,120 Ruth. 1224 00:49:56,120 --> 00:49:59,622 Yes. Well, the GBACB policy, which is 1225 00:49:59,622 --> 00:50:02,975 the conflict of interest 1226 00:50:02,975 --> 00:50:06,414 and disclosure of financial interests policy 1227 00:50:06,414 --> 00:50:09,595 for employees, and the BBFA policy, 1228 00:50:09,595 --> 00:50:12,776 which is next on the agenda, the 1229 00:50:12,776 --> 00:50:15,527 conflict of interest policy for 1230 00:50:15,527 --> 00:50:18,881 school board members, have... 1231 00:50:18,881 --> 00:50:22,415 Oh. Oh. Excuse me, everyone. They have been 1232 00:50:22,415 --> 00:50:25,595 mirror policies for several years, 1233 00:50:25,595 --> 00:50:31,440 at least 25, probably more. 1234 00:50:31,440 --> 00:50:33,744 Recently, the VSBA underwent a 1235 00:50:33,744 --> 00:50:36,048 significant rewrite based on 1236 00:50:36,048 --> 00:50:38,480 some code changes and also 1237 00:50:38,480 --> 00:50:41,040 to remove things from the policy that 1238 00:50:41,040 --> 00:50:46,163 no longer needed to be there. And because 1239 00:50:46,163 --> 00:50:48,450 of the rewrite, we are now 1240 00:50:48,450 --> 00:50:52,684 decoupling that mirror policy. 1241 00:50:52,684 --> 00:50:56,565 Therefore, for GBACB, which is the 1242 00:50:56,565 --> 00:51:01,295 policy that exists today, we recommend 1243 00:51:01,295 --> 00:51:06,024 that it be reviewed to follow the 1244 00:51:06,024 --> 00:51:09,411 VSBA policy. And we also recommend 1245 00:51:09,411 --> 00:51:12,465 changing the code of that policy. The 1246 00:51:12,465 --> 00:51:16,619 VSBA code for that is GAH. 1247 00:51:16,619 --> 00:51:19,102 So our recommendation is that 1248 00:51:19,102 --> 00:51:22,779 the policy code be changed. 1249 00:51:22,779 --> 00:51:24,977 The name of the policy will change a 1250 00:51:24,977 --> 00:51:27,063 little, it will be shorter: conflict of 1251 00:51:27,063 --> 00:51:28,924 interest of the employees of the 1252 00:51:28,924 --> 00:51:32,243 school division. And we recommend 1253 00:51:32,243 --> 00:51:36,345 adopting 100% of the 1254 00:51:36,345 --> 00:51:42,248 VSBA policy. That recommendation also 1255 00:51:42,248 --> 00:51:44,661 includes that it will no longer be a 1256 00:51:44,661 --> 00:51:47,151 mirror policy of the BBFA, the 1257 00:51:47,151 --> 00:51:50,526 next policy on the agenda. As I 1258 00:51:50,526 --> 00:51:52,946 said, they have been mirror policies, which 1259 00:51:52,946 --> 00:51:55,365 means they were exactly the 1260 00:51:55,365 --> 00:51:58,540 same for a very, very long time. 1261 00:51:58,540 --> 00:52:00,798 Again, there was a 1262 00:52:00,798 --> 00:52:03,057 significant rewrite of the VSBA and 1263 00:52:03,057 --> 00:52:05,658 we now recommend that 1264 00:52:05,658 --> 00:52:10,861 Hampton City Schools' BBFA policy, 1265 00:52:10,929 --> 00:52:13,462 School Board Member Conflict of Interest, match the 1266 00:52:13,462 --> 00:52:21,739 VSBA policy. Good. And then, the 1267 00:52:21,739 --> 00:52:23,931 final policy I have to 1268 00:52:23,931 --> 00:52:26,546 present tonight is the 1269 00:52:26,546 --> 00:52:28,345 GCBDG policy. That is our 1270 00:52:28,345 --> 00:52:31,894 leave of absence policy. And this change is 1271 00:52:31,894 --> 00:52:34,294 due to a modification in a 1272 00:52:34,294 --> 00:52:42,029 state code requirement. Beginning 1273 00:52:42,029 --> 00:52:44,788 July 1, 2026, any 1274 00:52:44,788 --> 00:52:47,790 employee who is not eligible for 1275 00:52:47,790 --> 00:52:50,387 family medical leave will be 1276 00:52:50,387 --> 00:52:53,065 eligible for up to 125 days of 1277 00:52:53,065 --> 00:52:56,149 potentially unpaid leave 1278 00:52:56,149 --> 00:52:59,313 for any debilitating or 1279 00:52:59,313 --> 00:53:10,720 life-threatening illness. And that is, that is 1280 00:53:10,720 --> 00:53:13,310 the big, the big change. Again, it's 1281 00:53:13,310 --> 00:53:16,267 a code change. The 125 days is 1282 00:53:16,267 --> 00:53:18,903 something the division's leadership team 1283 00:53:18,903 --> 00:53:22,583 has discussed. We decided to opt 1284 00:53:22,583 --> 00:53:25,044 for 125 days. It matches the 1285 00:53:25,044 --> 00:53:26,532 maximum number of days a 1286 00:53:26,532 --> 00:53:28,160 full-time employee could 1287 00:53:28,160 --> 00:53:29,881 be off on family medical leave 1288 00:53:29,881 --> 00:53:32,692 . And because this leave 1289 00:53:32,692 --> 00:53:34,792 is specifically for someone with a 1290 00:53:34,792 --> 00:53:37,127 debilitating or life-threatening illness 1291 00:53:37,127 --> 00:53:39,402 , it made perfect sense not to give them 1292 00:53:39,402 --> 00:53:41,716 just 30 days of leave. Because if 1293 00:53:41,716 --> 00:53:43,429 you know, if you have a 1294 00:53:43,429 --> 00:53:45,191 debilitating or life-threatening illness, you will 1295 00:53:45,191 --> 00:53:48,199 probably need more time. 1296 00:53:48,199 --> 00:53:50,709 Therefore, the license itself is 1297 00:53:50,709 --> 00:53:53,419 required by the code. We cannot 1298 00:53:53,419 --> 00:53:55,593 make any changes regarding this. But 1299 00:53:55,593 --> 00:53:58,268 if the board has any questions about 1300 00:53:58,268 --> 00:54:00,475 the number of days, well, as a 1301 00:54:00,475 --> 00:54:02,883 school division we have some 1302 00:54:02,883 --> 00:54:05,095 leeway with that. The code does not 1303 00:54:05,095 --> 00:54:07,482 prescribe how many days that leave should last 1304 00:54:07,482 --> 00:54:11,574 . 1305 00:54:11,574 --> 00:54:12,980 Any questions? Any 1306 00:54:12,980 --> 00:54:14,400 clarifications? Madam President. 1307 00:54:14,400 --> 00:54:16,469 Thank you, Mr. President. Do the 125 1308 00:54:16,469 --> 00:54:18,304 days have to be 1309 00:54:18,304 --> 00:54:22,781 consecutive days? Well, policy doesn't 1310 00:54:22,781 --> 00:54:26,190 stipulate that. Normally, yes, it 1311 00:54:26,190 --> 00:54:29,713 would be 125 consecutive days. 1312 00:54:29,713 --> 00:54:31,900 This particular leave is not like 1313 00:54:31,900 --> 00:54:33,813 family medical leave where 1314 00:54:33,813 --> 00:54:35,945 you can be absent intermittently 1315 00:54:35,945 --> 00:54:37,728 . So, if I'm receiving 1316 00:54:37,728 --> 00:54:39,605 treatment and I have to be absent for a 1317 00:54:39,605 --> 00:54:41,388 week, then I return to work for 3 1318 00:54:41,388 --> 00:54:43,031 weeks and then I'm absent for another 1319 00:54:43,031 --> 00:54:45,593 week. This will not be treated as 1320 00:54:45,593 --> 00:54:48,958 consecutive. Because these are people 1321 00:54:48,958 --> 00:54:50,914 who are not eligible for 1322 00:54:50,914 --> 00:54:52,561 federal leave protected by the 1323 00:54:52,561 --> 00:54:54,840 Family Medical Leave Act. 1324 00:54:54,840 --> 00:54:55,979 OK. Thank you. 1325 00:54:55,979 --> 00:54:58,680 Mhm. 1326 00:54:58,680 --> 00:55:02,501 Very good. Anyone else? Very good. 1327 00:55:02,501 --> 00:55:04,739 Miss Hatcher? Oh. Alright 1328 00:55:04,739 --> 00:55:08,819 . Very good. Mrs. Hatcher. 1329 00:55:08,819 --> 00:55:11,543 Good night. I have the JS policy 1330 00:55:11,543 --> 00:55:13,284 on extracurricular activity notifications 1331 00:55:13,284 --> 00:55:15,170 , and this is a new 1332 00:55:15,170 --> 00:55:17,104 policy according to the Virginia code 1333 00:55:17,104 --> 00:55:18,942 and the VSBA model, and it talks about 1334 00:55:18,942 --> 00:55:20,779 the use of social media, and how it 1335 00:55:20,779 --> 00:55:22,375 cannot be the only means of 1336 00:55:22,375 --> 00:55:24,261 communication with students for 1337 00:55:24,261 --> 00:55:25,808 the facilitation of 1338 00:55:25,808 --> 00:55:28,490 extracurricular activities. So, this 1339 00:55:28,490 --> 00:55:29,753 refers to our volunteers, 1340 00:55:29,753 --> 00:55:31,293 our coaches, and any other 1341 00:55:31,293 --> 00:55:32,438 teachers or staff who have 1342 00:55:32,438 --> 00:55:34,440 after-school activities. 1343 00:55:34,440 --> 00:55:36,045 So this is a sort of 1344 00:55:36,045 --> 00:55:37,951 follow-up to the policy on 1345 00:55:37,951 --> 00:55:39,908 cell phone use and social media use 1346 00:55:39,908 --> 00:55:44,500 . The next policy, JG, 1347 00:55:44,500 --> 00:55:46,433 is a 5-year review. There are 1348 00:55:46,433 --> 00:55:48,420 some changes, mainly to 1349 00:55:48,420 --> 00:55:50,514 improve readability and consistency 1350 00:55:50,514 --> 00:55:53,061 according to VSBA policy. And 1351 00:55:53,061 --> 00:55:54,895 also, the VSBA recommends avoiding 1352 00:55:54,895 --> 00:55:56,882 some procedural issues that 1353 00:55:56,882 --> 00:55:58,919 are not in the code and that we had 1354 00:55:58,919 --> 00:56:00,855 included in our policies in the 1355 00:56:00,855 --> 00:56:02,689 past; Those would be 1356 00:56:02,689 --> 00:56:04,013 school-based procedures, not 1357 00:56:04,013 --> 00:56:06,820 necessarily part of this policy. We 1358 00:56:06,820 --> 00:56:09,583 also recommend the title. This 1359 00:56:09,583 --> 00:56:11,329 policy used to be called teacher removal 1360 00:56:11,329 --> 00:56:13,029 of students from class, 1361 00:56:13,029 --> 00:56:14,461 and the last time we 1362 00:56:14,461 --> 00:56:16,117 reviewed it, we said teaching staff, 1363 00:56:16,117 --> 00:56:17,862 but honestly the code and the VSBA 1364 00:56:17,862 --> 00:56:19,518 say teacher, so we felt we 1365 00:56:19,518 --> 00:56:25,613 needed to go back to saying teacher. The 1366 00:56:25,613 --> 00:56:27,751 JOB policy is also a new policy 1367 00:56:27,751 --> 00:56:29,657 to align it with another 1368 00:56:29,657 --> 00:56:31,795 policy they saw as a 1369 00:56:31,795 --> 00:56:35,897 cross-reference, which was the KP policy on 1370 00:56:35,955 --> 00:56:40,549 parental rights and responsibilities. This covers 1371 00:56:40,549 --> 00:56:42,874 instructional materials and other notifications that 1372 00:56:42,874 --> 00:56:45,140 parents should receive related 1373 00:56:45,140 --> 00:56:47,347 to the surveys and assessments 1374 00:56:47,347 --> 00:56:49,672 we conduct, physical exams, 1375 00:56:49,672 --> 00:56:51,998 use of information, how we use it, and 1376 00:56:51,998 --> 00:56:53,608 discusses some of the 1377 00:56:53,608 --> 00:56:57,092 annual notifications. If you recall, 1378 00:56:57,092 --> 00:56:58,957 we had a policy regarding notifying 1379 00:56:58,957 --> 00:57:00,775 parents about the 1380 00:57:00,775 --> 00:57:02,593 safe storage of medications and firearms 1381 00:57:02,593 --> 00:57:05,355 . So, this goes hand in hand with that 1382 00:57:05,355 --> 00:57:07,362 and simply documents what 1383 00:57:07,362 --> 00:57:11,814 we need to share with parents. And 1384 00:57:11,814 --> 00:57:13,662 finally, my last policy is the 1385 00:57:13,662 --> 00:57:15,874 JC policy. These are the 1386 00:57:15,874 --> 00:57:18,322 school attendance zones. This policy is being 1387 00:57:18,322 --> 00:57:20,408 updated due to some 1388 00:57:20,408 --> 00:57:22,727 new VHS policy requirements 1389 00:57:22,727 --> 00:57:24,464 . And we also simply 1390 00:57:24,464 --> 00:57:26,150 reviewed it thoroughly and made sure it 1391 00:57:26,150 --> 00:57:28,559 fit our practices. 1392 00:57:28,559 --> 00:57:30,034 You will see that we added that 1393 00:57:30,034 --> 00:57:31,712 students from across the division 1394 00:57:31,712 --> 00:57:33,747 will be entered into the lottery instead of the 1395 00:57:33,747 --> 00:57:35,782 application mentioned here earlier 1396 00:57:35,782 --> 00:57:38,646 for our magnet programs. And 1397 00:57:38,646 --> 00:57:40,980 also, there's a note on page 1398 00:57:40,980 --> 00:57:42,747 two; that's where the 1399 00:57:42,747 --> 00:57:46,283 VHS information comes in. We are 1400 00:57:46,283 --> 00:57:48,099 ahead of schedule, but starting 1401 00:57:48,099 --> 00:57:50,015 July 1, 2027, there will be some changes 1402 00:57:50,015 --> 00:57:51,982 regarding students being 1403 00:57:51,982 --> 00:57:53,848 granted out-of-zone placements and 1404 00:57:53,848 --> 00:57:55,765 how that affects their participation in 1405 00:57:55,765 --> 00:57:57,480 sports and other activities, the 1406 00:57:57,480 --> 00:58:02,276 VHSL activities. 1407 00:58:02,276 --> 00:58:04,578 Any clarifying questions for Ms. 1408 00:58:04,578 --> 00:58:10,886 Hatcher? Very well thank you. Okay, 1409 00:58:10,886 --> 00:58:12,611 that brings us to point number eight, 1410 00:58:12,611 --> 00:58:14,336 hearing any delegation or 1411 00:58:14,336 --> 00:58:15,594 submission of any 1412 00:58:15,594 --> 00:58:17,832 written communication or request. 1413 00:58:17,832 --> 00:58:20,333 We have a speaker, so I'll ask 1414 00:58:20,333 --> 00:58:24,520 Mrs. Penny to read the protocol. 1415 00:58:24,520 --> 00:58:26,103 Citizens are invited to contact 1416 00:58:26,103 --> 00:58:27,565 the school board regarding matters of 1417 00:58:27,565 --> 00:58:29,109 public interest related to the 1418 00:58:29,109 --> 00:58:31,025 school division. 1419 00:58:31,025 --> 00:58:32,301 Speaker forms are available before the 1420 00:58:32,301 --> 00:58:33,699 start of the meeting. If you wish to 1421 00:58:33,699 --> 00:58:35,792 address the school board, please 1422 00:58:35,792 --> 00:58:37,885 complete the form and submit it to the 1423 00:58:37,885 --> 00:58:40,171 secretary before 6:45 p.m. m. of the 1424 00:58:40,171 --> 00:58:41,979 day of the meeting. Each person 1425 00:58:41,979 --> 00:58:44,351 will have 3 minutes to speak. At the end 1426 00:58:44,351 --> 00:58:46,720 of your time, you will hear a bell. 1427 00:58:46,720 --> 00:58:47,898 All comments should be 1428 00:58:47,898 --> 00:58:49,793 directed to the school board. 1429 00:58:49,793 --> 00:58:51,777 Speakers cannot give their time to 1430 00:58:51,777 --> 00:58:54,070 others. Speakers should address 1431 00:58:54,070 --> 00:58:55,353 the school board with decorum on 1432 00:58:55,353 --> 00:58:57,349 policy issues. 1433 00:58:57,349 --> 00:58:59,005 Comments should relate to 1434 00:58:59,005 --> 00:59:00,279 agenda items or matters 1435 00:59:00,279 --> 00:59:01,978 pertinent to the business or duties of 1436 00:59:01,978 --> 00:59:04,836 the school board. Speakers' comments 1437 00:59:04,836 --> 00:59:06,977 about individuals 1438 00:59:06,977 --> 00:59:08,368 risk violating 1439 00:59:08,368 --> 00:59:10,135 confidentiality laws or defaming the 1440 00:59:10,135 --> 00:59:13,718 subjects of their comments. Neither the 1441 00:59:13,718 --> 00:59:15,935 school board, nor the superintendent, nor the 1442 00:59:15,935 --> 00:59:18,093 school administration will 1443 00:59:18,093 --> 00:59:20,309 publicly respond to any comments made by 1444 00:59:20,309 --> 00:59:28,646 the speakers about individuals. The 1445 00:59:28,646 --> 00:59:30,369 submission of resolutions, 1446 00:59:30,369 --> 00:59:32,092 declarations, proclamations, 1447 00:59:32,092 --> 00:59:34,316 manifestos, awards, or other 1448 00:59:34,316 --> 00:59:36,150 similar documents not originating under the 1449 00:59:36,150 --> 00:59:38,095 auspices of the school board or 1450 00:59:38,095 --> 00:59:40,319 administration is prohibited during 1451 00:59:40,319 --> 00:59:43,428 the public comment period. 1452 00:59:43,428 --> 00:59:44,760 The audience is asked to be 1453 00:59:44,760 --> 00:59:47,162 respectful to all speakers. 1454 00:59:47,162 --> 00:59:48,349 Public comments are the 1455 00:59:48,349 --> 00:59:49,862 school board's opportunity to 1456 00:59:49,862 --> 00:59:53,118 hear from the speaker. Since our 1457 00:59:53,118 --> 00:59:55,182 purpose is to listen to you, the board will not 1458 00:59:55,182 --> 00:59:57,298 engage in dialogue with the audience or 1459 00:59:57,298 --> 01:00:00,752 whoever is on the podium. 1460 01:00:00,752 --> 01:00:02,309 Matters requiring a response 1461 01:00:02,309 --> 01:00:03,866 will be referred to the superintendent 1462 01:00:03,866 --> 01:00:06,181 for investigation and response. The 1463 01:00:06,181 --> 01:00:08,108 superintendent may report on 1464 01:00:08,108 --> 01:00:09,731 such matters at a 1465 01:00:09,731 --> 01:00:11,303 subsequent business meeting, as 1466 01:00:11,303 --> 01:00:13,614 appropriate. The school board 1467 01:00:13,614 --> 01:00:15,293 carefully considers your comments as 1468 01:00:15,293 --> 01:00:16,929 we decide on the matters brought 1469 01:00:16,929 --> 01:00:19,529 before us. We appreciate your attendance 1470 01:00:19,529 --> 01:00:21,380 and contributions. 1471 01:00:21,380 --> 01:00:23,226 Very good. Thank you. And we have a 1472 01:00:23,226 --> 01:00:25,540 speaker request for tonight, and it's 1473 01:00:25,540 --> 01:00:35,118 from former Mayor Donnie Tuck. 1474 01:00:35,118 --> 01:00:36,787 Good evening, President Mason, 1475 01:00:36,787 --> 01:00:38,305 members of the school board, 1476 01:00:38,305 --> 01:00:40,511 Superintendent Dr. Haynes, and 1477 01:00:40,511 --> 01:00:42,703 support staff. It is interesting, after 1478 01:00:42,703 --> 01:00:44,290 about 14 and a half years, to hear the 1479 01:00:44,290 --> 01:00:45,876 protocol read from this side of the 1480 01:00:45,876 --> 01:00:49,463 podium. But having said that, uh, my name 1481 01:00:49,463 --> 01:00:51,507 is Donnie Tuck, I am a resident of 1482 01:00:51,507 --> 01:00:53,851 proud Hampton, and last Friday 1483 01:00:53,851 --> 01:00:56,076 I was going to Smith Elementary School to 1484 01:00:56,076 --> 01:00:59,537 read to the fifth grade classes. And upon 1485 01:00:59,537 --> 01:01:01,350 entering the building, the first thing I 1486 01:01:01,350 --> 01:01:03,319 noticed was the security guard, 1487 01:01:03,319 --> 01:01:04,717 his name is Denzel Giles, 1488 01:01:04,717 --> 01:01:06,789 bending down to tie a student's shoe 1489 01:01:06,789 --> 01:01:08,920 . And I thought that was 1490 01:01:08,920 --> 01:01:10,478 simply praiseworthy, so that's why 1491 01:01:10,478 --> 01:01:12,951 I'm here. I know things like this 1492 01:01:12,951 --> 01:01:15,232 happen throughout the school system on a 1493 01:01:15,232 --> 01:01:17,327 daily basis, but I was there and 1494 01:01:17,327 --> 01:01:19,793 caught it in the act, and I want you to be aware 1495 01:01:19,793 --> 01:01:22,571 of that. The second thing is that, 1496 01:01:22,571 --> 01:01:25,500 since I retired, I have more time 1497 01:01:25,500 --> 01:01:27,991 for tennis, so 1498 01:01:27,991 --> 01:01:30,920 last week I took this shirt out to wear and 1499 01:01:30,920 --> 01:01:33,703 remembered that in June 2023 we had 1500 01:01:33,703 --> 01:01:37,180 the ribbon cutting for the floating classroom. 1501 01:01:37,180 --> 01:01:40,024 Today I went down and looked at that boat and it really does 1502 01:01:40,024 --> 01:01:43,438 n't seem to have moved. And I was 1503 01:01:43,438 --> 01:01:45,563 curious to know the status 1504 01:01:45,563 --> 01:01:47,666 of the floating classroom. Thank you for your 1505 01:01:47,666 --> 01:01:49,380 time. 1506 01:01:49,380 --> 01:01:50,860 Thank you. 1507 01:01:50,860 --> 01:01:54,018 Very good. So, the next point 1508 01:01:54,018 --> 01:01:56,252 is number nine, 1509 01:01:56,252 --> 01:02:00,539 information topics. 9.01 upcoming meetings. 1510 01:02:00,539 --> 01:02:02,354 The next working session will be 1511 01:02:02,354 --> 01:02:04,276 held at 6:30 on 1512 01:02:04,276 --> 01:02:06,252 September 16th right here in Jones and the 1513 01:02:06,252 --> 01:02:08,388 next regular meeting will be 1514 01:02:08,388 --> 01:02:10,097 held at 6:30 on October 7th 1515 01:02:10,097 --> 01:02:13,985 also here in Jones. 9.02 Other 1516 01:02:13,985 --> 01:02:18,598 information topics. I'll start with 1517 01:02:18,598 --> 01:02:21,100 you, Dr. Haynes. 1518 01:02:21,100 --> 01:02:22,365 Thank you, Mr. President. As 1519 01:02:22,365 --> 01:02:24,401 Ms. Gorham shared earlier 1520 01:02:24,401 --> 01:02:26,257 , we officially welcome 1521 01:02:26,257 --> 01:02:28,112 students for the 2016-2017 school year 1522 01:02:28,112 --> 01:02:30,676 on Monday, August 24. And it was 1523 01:02:30,676 --> 01:02:32,308 a great first day at all 1524 01:02:32,308 --> 01:02:34,380 Hampton City Schools. 1525 01:02:34,380 --> 01:02:36,084 They began before dawn, of 1526 01:02:36,084 --> 01:02:37,984 course, at our transportation lot 1527 01:02:37,984 --> 01:02:39,835 , where members of our 1528 01:02:39,835 --> 01:02:41,394 school board, division leaders, 1529 01:02:41,394 --> 01:02:43,293 city officials, 1530 01:02:43,293 --> 01:02:45,047 HCS staff, Hampton Police Department 1531 01:02:45,047 --> 01:02:46,800 , PTA representatives, and 1532 01:02:46,800 --> 01:02:48,700 community partners continued what has 1533 01:02:48,700 --> 01:02:50,600 become a very 1534 01:02:50,600 --> 01:02:52,402 special first-day tradition, cheering on 1535 01:02:52,402 --> 01:02:53,863 bus drivers and 1536 01:02:53,863 --> 01:02:55,812 attendants as they headed out to pick up 1537 01:02:55,812 --> 01:02:57,614 our youth for their 1538 01:02:57,614 --> 01:03:00,523 new school year routes. From there, the 1539 01:03:00,523 --> 01:03:02,184 excitement continued in our schools 1540 01:03:02,184 --> 01:03:03,845 as students returned 1541 01:03:03,845 --> 01:03:05,507 to classrooms, reconnected with friends 1542 01:03:05,507 --> 01:03:07,085 and teachers, and began another year of 1543 01:03:07,085 --> 01:03:10,096 learning and new opportunities. Of 1544 01:03:10,096 --> 01:03:12,597 course, a special thanks to 1545 01:03:12,597 --> 01:03:14,714 WAVY TV 10 for joining us bright and 1546 01:03:14,714 --> 01:03:17,087 early at the transport lot, and 1547 01:03:17,087 --> 01:03:19,524 then heading to Craft Primary School 1548 01:03:19,524 --> 01:03:21,576 to capture the excitement 1549 01:03:21,576 --> 01:03:24,077 as the students arrived for 1550 01:03:24,077 --> 01:03:26,555 the first day. We thank WAVY for 1551 01:03:26,555 --> 01:03:28,175 helping us share those 1552 01:03:28,175 --> 01:03:29,930 special moments with the Hampton 1553 01:03:29,930 --> 01:03:33,216 Roads community. Looking ahead, 1554 01:03:33,216 --> 01:03:34,959 schools and offices will be 1555 01:03:34,959 --> 01:03:37,071 closed this Friday, September 4th, and 1556 01:03:37,071 --> 01:03:39,130 Monday, September 7th, everyone is 1557 01:03:39,130 --> 01:03:43,977 smiling, for the 1558 01:03:43,977 --> 01:03:45,793 Labor Day weekend. And September 18th 1559 01:03:45,793 --> 01:03:47,614 is a planning day for 1560 01:03:47,614 --> 01:03:50,045 elementary school teachers. On 1561 01:03:50,045 --> 01:03:52,268 September 23, the 1562 01:03:52,268 --> 01:03:55,137 Food and Nutrition Services Department 1563 01:03:55,137 --> 01:03:57,862 will host its sixth annual 1564 01:03:57,862 --> 01:04:00,587 food fair from 4:30 p.m. at 6:30 p.m. at 1565 01:04:00,587 --> 01:04:03,456 Hunter B. Andrews School, Pre-K to 1566 01:04:03,456 --> 01:04:05,797 8. Information on how to 1567 01:04:05,797 --> 01:04:07,327 confirm your attendance at the event will be 1568 01:04:07,327 --> 01:04:08,898 sent via Peachjar in the 1569 01:04:08,898 --> 01:04:11,618 coming days. And finally, on 1570 01:04:11,618 --> 01:04:13,093 September 29, the Hampton County PTA will hold 1571 01:04:13,093 --> 01:04:14,612 its first 1572 01:04:14,612 --> 01:04:16,261 general member meeting of the 1573 01:04:16,261 --> 01:04:17,867 school year at 6:00 p.m. at the 1574 01:04:17,867 --> 01:04:20,164 Kilgore Center for the Gifted. 1575 01:04:20,164 --> 01:04:21,760 Families are, of course, encouraged to attend and 1576 01:04:21,760 --> 01:04:23,533 learn more about the important role 1577 01:04:23,533 --> 01:04:25,129 the PTA plays in supporting 1578 01:04:25,129 --> 01:04:27,300 our youth, schools, and families. We 1579 01:04:27,300 --> 01:04:29,037 also encourage families, of 1580 01:04:29,037 --> 01:04:30,637 course, to join their 1581 01:04:30,637 --> 01:04:32,282 school's PTA and become an 1582 01:04:32,282 --> 01:04:34,433 active part of the school community. That 1583 01:04:34,433 --> 01:04:36,043 concludes the superintendent's briefing points 1584 01:04:36,043 --> 01:04:38,140 . 1585 01:04:38,140 --> 01:04:39,734 Thank you so much. Other points of 1586 01:04:39,734 --> 01:04:40,846 information from 1587 01:04:40,846 --> 01:04:45,792 board members? Very good. Anything from our 1588 01:04:45,792 --> 01:04:50,560 student representatives? 1589 01:04:50,560 --> 01:04:52,087 Well, I just want to thank you on 1590 01:04:52,087 --> 01:04:53,483 behalf of all of us for the 1591 01:04:53,483 --> 01:04:55,185 opportunity to serve and for allowing me to 1592 01:04:55,185 --> 01:04:57,569 continue my service. It is an honor to 1593 01:04:57,569 --> 01:04:59,388 be here once again, and 1594 01:04:59,388 --> 01:05:01,158 I am also very grateful for the warm 1595 01:05:01,158 --> 01:05:03,026 welcome last year that gave me 1596 01:05:03,026 --> 01:05:04,894 the peace of mind to be here this 1597 01:05:04,894 --> 01:05:07,231 year. So I am very grateful and 1598 01:05:07,231 --> 01:05:09,048 excited to make a difference and 1599 01:05:09,048 --> 01:05:10,864 have a unique experience that is 1600 01:05:10,864 --> 01:05:12,940 even different from last year's. 1601 01:05:12,940 --> 01:05:14,580 So, thank you very much. 1602 01:05:14,580 --> 01:05:18,451 Very good. And I will say on behalf of the board 1603 01:05:18,451 --> 01:05:20,283 , once again, congratulations and 1604 01:05:20,283 --> 01:05:23,749 welcome to um, Josiah and Alexis. Did I 1605 01:05:23,749 --> 01:05:24,675 say it right? I'll 1606 01:05:24,675 --> 01:05:26,041 sit in the back with you. Let me try to 1607 01:05:26,041 --> 01:05:26,901 make sure I have the 1608 01:05:26,901 --> 01:05:29,640 correct name. Yes that's 1609 01:05:29,640 --> 01:05:31,954 fine. Therefore, with no further 1610 01:05:31,954 --> 01:05:33,579 information to present to this 1611 01:05:33,579 --> 01:05:36,160 board, I declare the session adjourned.