NCS Board Notes - JANUARY 2025

The Newton County Schools Board of Education conducted a work session meeting on January 14, 2025, and a monthly meeting on January 28, 2025. All documents presented to the Board are available to the public and may be accessed on our website.

Please note that Newton County Schools Board Meetings may be viewed live on the district’s YouTube channel. Additionally, archived meetings are also available for public viewing.

At the Work Session, Board Chair Abigail Coggin opened the meeting by wishing everyone a Happy New Year and acknowledging the beginning of a new semester. “As we begin 2025, we look forward to a semester filled with new opportunities, achievements, and milestones for our students, staff, and schools,” said Mrs. Coggin.

During her remarks, Mrs. Coggin congratulated board members Eddie Johnson and Anderson Bailey, who were sworn in on January 6, 2025, to begin their new terms in office. She thanked Mr. Johnson and Mr. Bailey for their continued service and leadership, remarking that she looks forward to the contributions they will make in the years ahead. To see highlights from the Swearing-in Ceremony, please click on this link.

Mrs. Coggin also reminded those in attendance and watching online that the Board would conduct two more public hearings on the potential impacts of House Bill 581 on our district. Those meetings are scheduled on January 29, 2025 at 6:00 PM at Newton College & Career Academy and on February 5, 2025 at 4:00 PM at the Newton County Board of Education. The public is encouraged and invited to attend these hearings.

Superintendent Dr. Duke Bradley began his remarks during the Work Session by acknowledging the efforts of the district’s Operations Divisions and Facilities Team during the recent winter storm. He recognized Keyra Fray, Scott Rains, Cory Craver, Ryan Williams, Chris Malcom, and participating transportation specialists, saying the group worked from sun-up to sundown to ensure the district’s schools were safe to welcome the return of students and staff throughout the school system. Dr. Bradley also recognized the Newton County Board of Commissioners for lending their resources to make sure the schools were operational.

Dr. Bradley spoke about the progress the district is making with its organizational priorities and goals and the work being done to develop the FY26 budget that will support the district’s mission and vision. He also spoke about the first State of the District event, which will be held February 11, 2025, as a celebration of excellence in Newton County Schools. The district also is preparing for re-accreditation and developing its next five-year strategic plan.

At the Business Session, Mrs. Coggin thanked the community for attending the first public hearing regarding House Bill 581. She reminded everyone about the two remaining hearings – January 29, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. at Newton College & Career Academy and February 5, 2025, at 4:00 p.m. at the Board of Education office.

In his comments during the Business Session, Dr. Bradley expressed his gratitude to the district’s operations division for their incredible efforts during the winter storm. He noted that staff monitored highways, salted parking lots and school entrances, ensured the district’s facilities were safe and ready for students and staff, and made sure school buses were operable. Dr. Bradley also reminded everyone about the State of the District program, which will be held February 11, 2025, at Porter Performing Arts Center beginning at 5:30 p.m.

The FFA chapters at both Eastside High School and Newton College & Career Academy have been awarded the prestigious national 3-Star ranking, which is the highest honor in the National Chapter Award program.

The 3-Star FFA Chapter Award is a significant recognition, placing these chapters among the top-performing FFA programs in the country. This award reflects excellence in leadership development, community involvement, and agricultural education. Only chapters earning a gold rating at the state level are eligible to compete for this national honor.

Representing Eastside High School’s FFA Chapter at the school board meeting were Dr. Catrina Pollard, Sarah Beth Hammond, Student Advisor Katelyn O’Brien, and Chapter President Abby Malcom.

Representing the Newton College & Career Academy’s FFA program at the school board meeting were Dr. Cecily Gunter, Dr. Marcus Pollard, Mr. Andrew Pollard, Chapter President Caylee Williamson, and Chapter Treasurer Robin Canup.

To view the presentation in its entirety, please click on this link.

Assistant Superintendent of Teaching and Learning Lauren LaMont presented an update on the development of the district’s instructional framework. One of the district’s 2024-25 academic priorities is to strengthen the district’s instructional core by clarifying common expectations for curriculum usage, instructional planning and delivery, academic intervention, and assessment. In alignment to this priority, one of the discrete academic goals is to design and implement a universally applied instructional framework.

Mrs. LaMont explained that an instructional framework serves as a structured guide that outlines the essential components and best practices of effective teaching and learning in a lesson cycle. Its primary purpose is to ensure consistency, clarity, and coherence in instructional practices across classrooms, schools, and districts.

The Teaching and Learning Team spent the fall semester visiting schools, observing teachers, talking with administrators, and working to develop a deeper knowledge about the student and teacher experience. Time also was spent examining much of the academic infrastructure already in place. The team learned there already are many examples of high-quality instruction to draw from in classrooms across Newton County Schools, but the team’s aim is to take those best practices to scale – ensuring that every student has a rigorous academic experience.

Mrs. LaMont reported that from the visits, the team learned that to keep up with the evolving standards and performance expectations of students, instruction should facilitate daily opportunities for critical thinking, peer collaboration, active engagement, and real-world connections to the standards.

In their feedback to the Teaching and Learning Team, teachers and leaders say they need high-quality, standards-aligned curriculum and instructional tools that make lesson planning straightforward and efficient. This will help alleviate anxiety and burnout associated with current lesson planning processes. School leaders desire clarity and consistency when it comes to instructional frameworks so they are positioned to set clear expectations and implement effective systems for support and accountability. With this information from the school visits, Mrs. LaMont discussed the importance of having deep and meaningful engagement with the district’s teachers and leaders and showing them their feedback is being applied.

Mrs. LaMont talked about the 5E Model, which is an instructional framework that emphasizes hands-on, inquiry-based learning where students are actively involved in the learning process. Designed to align with the natural ways students learn, the 5E Model progresses through five phases: Engage, Explore, Explain, Elaborate (or Extend), and Evaluate. By engaging students from the start and allowing them to explore concepts, the model fosters curiosity and a deeper interest in learning. She reiterated that the district’s very best teachers already are implementing many of these practices in their classrooms.

The 5E Model as an instructional framework has been shared with district leaders, principals, assistant principals, instructional coaches, and the Teacher Advisory Council to solicit their reactions to adopting the framework districtwide and to have them specifically describe the key supports they would need to effectively make a shift to it. Mrs. LaMont reported that over 80% of the school-based leaders that learned about the 5E Model as an instructional framework say they either are “Very Excited” or “Somewhat Excited” about the districtwide adoption of it. Their responses revealed they could clearly see the benefits of the model and its potential to have a transformative impact on teaching and learning districtwide, ultimately resulting in significant increases in student achievement and College and Career Readiness.

Mrs. Lamont shared that any hesitancy from teachers and leaders about embracing the 5E Model as an instructional framework does not stem from the model itself but from a fear the district will take a quick approach to rolling out the instructional framework without allowing sufficient time for teachers to fully digest and prepare for the shift. With an overarching objective to be respectful of teachers’ current reality, Mrs. LaMont shared district staff plan to be pristine in implementing whatever framework is selected. “I say this because we are acutely aware of the impact that new standards, the rollout of new curriculum, and the associated mandates of newly passed state laws can have on teachers. Our stakeholders have very clearly advised us to go slowly and to take our time when it comes to expecting full implementation. Above all other feedback that we’ve received, we hold this in highest regard,” said Mrs. Lamont. She reported that the forty-eight teachers who make up the Teacher Advisory Council, representing every school at every level, have provided insightful guidance around the resources and support needed for successful adoption of any framework that is selected, and the Council’s suggestions have been embraced wholeheartedly.

Mrs. LaMont noted it will take extensive training and ongoing professional development to effectively assist teachers to implement with fidelity. Teachers will need instructional playbooks and clear guidance on evidence-based instructional practices aligned to the chosen framework. They will need to study and unpack exemplary lesson plans specific to their grade level and subject area and integrate the curriculum materials and resources they are currently expected to use, and they also will need to experience the framework’s cycles firsthand by visiting model classrooms. Teachers will need to be fully supported as they attempt to implement the framework in their own classrooms, with room to tinker and experiment, without fear of being penalized in their evaluations.

The 2024-25 school year is being used for research and planning, and the 2025-26 school year will be a learning year. The Teaching and Learning Team is exploring a school-based, “start-when-ready” approach, which allows schools to make decisions that are best for their respective communities regarding implementation; however, all schools are expected to fully implement the district’s instructional framework by the start of the 2026-27 school year.

Adoption of a universally applied instructional framework is essential as the district continues to make great strides towards realizing its vision that "all students will be well-rounded and prepared for the future”. Our hope is to position our teachers and leaders to honor our districtwide promise to our families that when they send their children to our schools, they will receive daily, high-quality instruction in every classroom, every day that is met with rigor, real world applications, and active engagement.

To view the presentation in its entirety, please click on this link.

Dr. Michael Barr, Chief Operations Officer, presented a report about the district’s Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax for Education, otherwise known as ESPLOST. He pointed out that ESPLOST funds are the largest funding source for the district's capital improvement plan, and these monies enable the district to undertake significant projects without placing the burden on local property taxes. It is important to note that ESPLOST funds may only be used for certain capital expenditures, such as building improvements, furniture, computers, and buses. The funds may not be used for day-to-day operational expenses or salaries.

Collections for ESPLOST VI, which was approved by over 61% of the voters, began on January 1, 2025, and will conclude on December 31, 2029. Revenue is projected to exceed $132 million over the five-year period. The categories of projects that ESPLOST VI will fund include safety enhancements, facility renovations, athletic improvements, technology upgrades, equipment, and transportation needs. In his report, Dr. Barr spoke specifically about planned projects from the various categories.

• The Newton County Board of Education is committed to the safety and security of all students and staff. Using funds collected, secure entryways will be installed at eleven schools, ensuring every school has this additional layer of protection.
• There are renovations and modifications planned at seven schools. These improvements include essential updates like painting, new roofing, and flooring replacement tailored to each school’s needs.
• ESPLOST VI and the sale of general obligation bonds will fund the construction of athletic facilities at all high schools, along with the addition of concession and restroom facilities at all middle schools.
• Funds will support technology purchases, equipping classrooms with modern tools to advance teaching and learning. Funds also will be used for cabling and fiber installation.
• The plan includes replacing outdated furniture for students and staff and acquiring essential items such as band uniforms, musical instruments, and athletic equipment.
• Funds will be used to purchase new school buses and support vehicles to ensure safe, efficient transportation for students and staff.

Dr. Barr pointed out that as ESPLOST VI begins, ESPLOST V ended on December 31, 2024. He spent time highlighting achievements from ESPLOST V, which generated over $100.8 million in revenue. The Board of Education ensured that all projects were well managed, with a commitment to promises made and promises kept.

• The construction of the new Eastside High School, a state-of-the-art learning environment, was funded through ESPLOST V revenue and the sale of general obligation bonds. This project was the centerpiece of the previous capital improvement plan.
• Relocating the Newton County STEAM Academy to its current renovated facility and modernizing it was another critical project in the previous capital improvement plan. ESPLOST revenue was the project’s primary funding source along with State Capital Outlay Funds.
• ESPLOST V funds were used to replace the roof at Mansfield Elementary School and to purchase replacement school buses for the district.
• Projects also included improvements to athletic facilities, including constructing a softball field at Clements Middle School, refurbishing tennis courts at Alcovy and Newton High Schools, and building new indoor batting cages at each high school.
• ESPLOST V funds also ensured that middle and high schools could replace band instruments and update furniture.

Dr. Barr spoke about the Newton County Board of Education’s dedication to transparency and accountability, which is an organizational priority of the district. The community can expect regular progress reports at school board meetings, and a project tracker will soon be added to the district’s website to enhance transparency.

To view the presentation, please click on this link.

During his Construction and ESPLOST report, Dr. Michael Barr, Chief Operations Officer for Newton County Schools announced the dates of groundbreaking ceremonies for the three high school athletic complexes. They will be held as follows:

• Alcovy High School--February 25, 2025 at 4:00 PM
• Eastside High School--February 26, 2025 at 4:00 PM
• Newton High School--February 27, 2025 at 4:00 PM

To view the presentation, please click on this link.

As of January 7, 2025, there were 18,715 students enrolled in Newton County Schools.

A. Requested Board Action Relative to Fiscal Year 2025 Budget Amendment

The Board approved the multiple amendments to the FY 2025 budget, including new line items for equipment and professional services for both public relations and general administration as well as three line items for transactions that were previously approved, including a 1.5% pay adjustment for employees; weapons detection for Sharp Stadium; and a weapons detection pilot. In addition, the board approved the reallocation of funds for capital projects to include roof replacement at Oak Hill Elementary and West Newton Elementary; Renovations for a hearing room; a fire alarm, furniture for East Newton Elementary; and a video board. While the initial budget process takes place each spring, the budget is based on estimated costs. As the costs are updated, there is a need for a reallocation of funds. Additionally, budgetary needs have been identified throughout the year to enhance safety and support staff retention, aligning with the district’s organizational priorities.

APPROVED by 5-0 vote on January 28, 2025.

B. Requested Board Action Relative to the Purchas of Media Center Books

The Board approved the purchase of media center books needed for the school system from Follett School Solutions of McHenry, Illinois. Titlewave, Follett’s school library platform, is a collection development and curriculum support tool that allows school administrators and staff to select from more than twelve million titles in a wide variety of formats. The school system will use TIPS, a national technology bidding and purchasing program, to purchase the books. The total cost of the purchase is $30,664.92 to be paid for with FY 2025 General Funds.

APPROVED by 5-0 vote on January 28, 2025.

C. Requested Board Action Relative to Renewal of Contract for Plumbing Services

The Board approved the renewal of a contract for plumbing services with B&W Mechanical Contractors, Inc., of Lawrenceville, Georgia. The vendor has performed satisfactorily and met all the requirements of the original contract. The effective date will be January 21, 2025, and the expiration date will be January 20, 2026. The estimated contract value is $500,000.00 to be paid for with FY 2025 and upon approval, FY 2026 General Funds.

APPROVED by 5-0 vote on January 28, 2025.

D. Requested Board Action Relative to the Purchase of Diesel Fuel and Unleaded Gasoline

The Board approved the purchase of diesel fuel and unleaded gasoline needed for the school system from James River Solutions of Ashland, Virginia. Bids were evaluated by comparing the cost of the vendor’s markups or differentials. After review, it was determined that the bid submitted by James River Solutions offered the lowest overall cost to the school system. Additionally, the vendor will provide electronic monitoring of the tanks to ensure a continuous supply of fuel. The estimated purchase amount is $1,300,000.00 to be paid for with FY 2025 General Funds.

APPROVED by 5-0 vote on January 28, 2025.

E. Requested Board Action Relative to Surplus Property

The Board approved identified items to be declared surplus and disposed of per Board Policy DO. The school system makes every effort to redistribute and reuse its equipment and property throughout the component’s useful life, or as long as practical. Items are only designated as surplus when they are deemed no longer necessary for school purposes. They are then aggregated and disposed of utilizing one or more of the approved methodologies outlined in Board Policy DO. Care is taken to discard items in as environmentally friendly manner as practical.

APPROVED by 5-0 vote on January 28, 2025.

F. Requested Board Action Relative to Superintendent’s Recommendations in Executive Session

The Board approved recommendations submitted by Superintendent Dr. Duke Bradley in the executive session.

APPROVED by 5-0 vote on January 14, 2025, and January 28, 2025.

G. Requested Board Action Relative to 2025 Board Meeting Dates

The Board approved the proposed calendar of meeting dates of the Newton County Board of Education for January 2025 through January 2026. Policy BCA requires the following to be decided at the first regular meeting in any calendar year:

• The establishment of the time, date, and place of regular monthly meetings for the year; and
• The establishment of the time, date, and place of regular work sessions for the year.

The board’s 2025 meeting schedule is linked below and will also be posted on the Board’s section of the Newton County School System district website.

APPROVED by 5-0 vote on January 28, 2025.

H. Requested Board Action Relative to 2025 Appointment of Delegate and Alternate Delegate for Georgia School Boards Association

The Board elected Anderson Bailey and Shakila Henderson-Baker to serve as delegate and alternate delegate respectively at the Georgia School Boards Association.

APPROVED by 5-0 vote on January 28, 2025.

I. Requested Board Action Relative to 2025 Legislative Liaison

The Board appointed Trey Bailey to represent and share the Board’s legislative priorities.

APPROVED by 5-0 vote on January 28, 2025.

J. Requested Board Action Relative to Election of 2025 Board Chairperson and Vice Chairperson

The Board elected Abigail Coggin and Shakila Henderson-Baker to serve as chairperson and vice chairperson respectively through their regularly scheduled meeting in January 2026.

APPROVED by 5-0 vote on January 28, 2025.

At its January 28, 2025, meeting, the Board of Education took the following action regarding its representation and governance.

• Appointed Mr. Anderson Bailey as its delegate to the Georgia School Boards Association and Mrs. Shakila Henderson-Baker as the alternate delegate.
• Appointed Mr. Trey Bailey as its legislative liaison.
• Elected Mrs. Abigail Coggin as its chairperson and Mrs. Shakila Henderson-Baker as the vice-chairperson for 2025.

Email: info@newton.k12.ga.us
Website: www.newtoncountyschools.org
Location: 2109 Newton Drive NE, Covington, GA 30014, USA
Phone: 770-787-1330
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NewtonCountySchools
Twitter: @NewtonCoSchools