Wendy Grimes presented a comprehensive update on facility maintenance, procurement, and safety. Key items included HVAC system upgrades, security improvements, pest control contracts, technology upgrades, and other ongoing maintenance projects.

The committee discussed high repair quotes — including a $2,600 estimate for door hinges — and agreed to obtain additional competitive bids. October 31 was set as the target for completing safety-critical repairs. Procurement policy compliance was emphasized, and Chair Golphin reiterated the need for documentation and additional competitive quotes.

Restroom vandalism and Chromebook damage were major points of discussion. Suggested solutions included increased monitoring, restroom signage about repair costs, a peer-monitoring program, and potentially lowering the Chromebook insurance fee from $50 to $15. Currently, only 8 of 500 Chromebooks have been damaged this school year.

The School Resource Officer’s limited authority was discussed, and the committee recommended drafting an MOU with the Bibb County Sheriff’s Department. Transportation costs were reviewed, including potential outsourcing options that would still support homeless students.

Additional updates:

Athletics: $14,445.85 in athletics expenses (July–September) were reviewed. Transportation and practice costs were discussed, and it was noted that concessions were not operating this season.

Diane Freeman shared updates on FTE reporting, SPED identification, and policy changes required under SB351. New reading standards and staff training on IDEA compliance were discussed, along with the need for an internal audit to verify documentation.

Gaps in MTSS implementation were reviewed, with recommendations for broader general education training, centralized data tracking in Infinite Campus, and clarification of 504 vs. special education distinctions.

Shirlynn Kelly raised concerns about increasing transportation demands and recommended pursuing SCSC reimbursement opportunities.

• Diane Freeman reported that the first federal funding payment had been received. The committee emphasized the importance of creating clear budget line items for transparency.

A recent grant approval requiring charter expansion to add a high school was discussed, and the decision was made to postpone submission until February to allow time for planning. She shared that the grant application required expanding the charter, which the board would need to consider. The group decided to hold a special-called meeting on Thursday, October 16th, to vote on putting the grant application on hold until February 2026 to allow time for board approval to update the charter, vote on the expansion, and obtain approval from the Bond company. Committee members also noted the need to align future funding strategies with long-term charter growth plans.

Chantelle Blake presented new and revised policies including suicide prevention, school nurse procedures, and Title IX compliance. The team noted that while most policies were ready for board approval, they still needed to address teacher reimbursement and add line items for coaching stipends in the budget at a later date.

The committee agreed to integrate a policy review segment into the next Personnel Committee agenda to ensure governance alignment.

This update was covered in the "Federal Program Update" agenda item.