2026 October BoardNotes

Students from Federalsburg Elementary School opened the meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance, and the Board approved the agenda for the meeting.

At the start of each meeting, the board of education president reads the Mission Statement, "In partnership with families and community, we prepare all students to achieve college, career, and life readiness through a challenging and progressive educational experience."

Denton Town Manager Scott Getchell, attending the meeting with Charmaine Bacorn, Denton Mayor Abby McNinch, and Denton Town Councilman Frank Taylor, addressed the Board regarding the recent memorial service for Police Chief George Bacorn, held at North Caroline High School.

Mr. Getchell said that in planning and executing the service, they'd seen the best of the community and specifically the best of Caroline County Public Schools. He thanked Dr. Simmons for his compassion, his 'whatever you need' attitude, his assistance with expenses, and helping the town get through a time when they are brokenhearted over this loss. Mr. Getchell ended by saying, "Sincerely, on behalf of the town government, we're very appreciative and we thank you very much."

Dr. Simmons responded that he could not say enough about the willingness of CCPS staff to help with the service, no matter the time or task involved, adding, "That's what a community does in a time of crisis."

Gabrielle Roe from Colonel Richardson High School was unable to attend but sent in her report. North Caroline High School Representative Adrianna Pierce reported on activities from North Caroline High School and the feeder schools.

Student Representative Reports

In the Consent Agenda, the Board approved:

• Personnel items as presented by Dr. Robert Willoughby, Director of Administrative Services
• The minutes from the most recent board of education meetings

The Board approved the FY27 Comprehensive Maintenance Plan as presented by Director of Operations Bill Mengel.

The Interagency Committee on School Construction (IAC) requires an annual update of the Comprehensive Maintenance Plan. This plan represents one of several activities enabling the IAC to monitor and evaluate how well Maryland’s school systems are systemically and comprehensively protecting the state’s capital investment. CCPS’s specific objectives for its CMP continue to be:

1. Provide the most effective environment possible for teaching and learning.

2. Minimize potential disruptions to the educational program.

3. Preserve and protect the asset value of school property and facilities.

4. Maximize the effectiveness and efficiency of facility functions and systems.

5. Provide the foundation for effective risk management and preventative maintenance programs.

Presentation

FY27 Comprehensive Maintenance Plan

The Board approved five new members of the Citizen's Advisory Comittee.

Each year, members of the Board of Education and school principals alternate the responsibility of making nominations to the Citizens Advisory Committee. This year board members have submitted the following names for consideration. These individuals will serve for two years (2026-27 and 2027-28).

• Ms. Tara Coursey nominated by Ms. Michele Wayman
• Ms. Becky Brown nominated by Mr. Mark Jones
• Ms. Amber Korell nominated by Mr. Troy Plutschak
• Ms. Lauren Winstead nominated by Ms. Chrissy Bartz
• Ms. America McKinney nominated by Ms. Stefanie Johnson

The Board approved the proposed list of Exempt Administrators and Negotiations Teams.

Annually, the Board of Education must designate employees involved in negotiations as “exempt administrators” and make appointments to Negotiations Teams representing the Board. That the Board of Education of Caroline County approve the listed exempt administrators for the 2026-2027 school year, as well as the Board's negotiating teams for both CCEA (Teachers) and CCEA (ESP).

The Board of Education of Caroline County authorized staff to register with the Department of Labor and file a Declaration of Intent to utilize a private provider via an Equivalent Private Insurance Plan (EPIP) to meet the requirements of the FAMLI program.

Under Maryland's FAMLI program, employers must register with the Department of Labor and elect whether to enter into the default state plan or utilize a private provider to provide benefits under FAMLI.

Maryland's Family and Medical Leave Insurance (FAMLI) Program Registration Authorization

The Board approved the continuation of recommended policies as they have been reviewed by appropriate staff and are still current and represent standard practice.

Policies may be continued if they do not require revision. After review from the appropriate departments and divisions, the listed policies do not require revision and should be continued.

October 2026 Policy Continuation

Director of Student Services Kirk Howie provided an report on the September enrollment data. He explained the significance of the reporting, enrollment trends over the past ten years, and efforts made by staff to locate students and families. Mr. Howie also reviewed 10 year enrollment data broken down by school, and explained trends that effect enrollment.

September Enrollment Update

Dr. Simmons provided the Board with the schedule for the development of the 2027-28 school year.

FY28 Budget Calendar

Dr. Simmons provided the Board with the schedule for the annual Employee Engagement Survey.

Annual Employee Engagement Survey Rollout

Scott Muir, Client Manager with Cenergistic provided the Board with an update on the Energy Conservation Program. He also reviewed the work of the CCPS Energy Specialist Josh Rein, and praised him for his expertise and efficiency in the position.

Cenergistics Update

Dr. Simmons reported on the memorial service held for Chief Bacorn at NCHS and expressed appreciation for the more than 50 staff members who volunteered their time to support the event. Staff worked throughout the weekend, often in challenging conditions, doing whatever was needed to ensure Chief Bacon's life and legacy were honored in a respectful way.

Dr. Simmons noted that the response was a humbling reminder of the dedication of CCPS employees and the strength of the community. While the willingness of staff to step up was not surprising, the overwhelming level of support demonstrated by so many was deeply appreciated.

Mr. Plutschak enjoyed all the events around the CRHS Homecoming.

Ms. Bartz gave a shout-out to both high schools for their participation in the Time Capsule Burial event, appreciated Ag Day at the 4-H Park for its level of organization and great good offered, and enjoyed hosting with Dr. Simmons a visit from the Secretary of Maryland Department of Health at DES.

Ms. Wayman reported that she completed her goal of visiting all ten schools prior to her retirement from board service. She too enjoyed Ag Day and appreciated the Farm to School event at PES, particularly the Crab Soup Tasting Contest.

Ms. Wayman reminded the Board that a name for the new middle school would need to be decided at their next work session on October 27. It was shared that three suggestions had been made to date - continuing with Lockerman Middle School, or changing to North Caroline Middle School or Joseph H. Lockerman Middle School. It was noted that Ms. Wayman had already had discussions with the Lockerman Alumni Association on the topic.

The Board requested that any community feedback be send by October 23 to the Public Information Officer at pio@ccpsstaff.org.

Long Range Facility Planning