NCS Board Notes - APRIL 2025

The Newton County Schools Board of Education conducted a combined Work Session/Business Meeting on Tuesday, April 22, 2025. All documents presented to the Board are available to the public and can 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.

Board Chair Abigail Coggin opened the meeting by recognizing the district’s administrative professionals in honor of Administrative Professionals’ Day, which was April 23, 2025. She thanked administrative professionals across the district for their dedication to supporting schools, administrative offices, students, and families.

During his welcome, Superintendent Bradley acknowledged the district’s assistant principals in honor of Assistant Principals’ Week, which was April 7 – 11, 2025, as well as all staff members who work with the various after-school programs across Newton County Schools. After School Appreciation Week was April 21 – 25, 2025.

Dr. Bradley also highlighted the district’s inaugural HERO Awards Program, which was held earlier in April that recognized the district’s outstanding classified professionals. Ms. Chandra Mitchell, administrative assistant and records clerk in the Department of Special Education, was named the district’s HERO of the Year. To see highlights from the HERO Awards Program please watch the video below.

Finally, Dr. Bradley recognized Jesse Daniels, who is the media specialist at Rocky Plains Elementary School, as the district’s 2025 Media Specialist of the Year. To hear Dr. Bradley honor Jesse Daniel, please watch the video below.

All-Region Basketball Teams Celebrated

Basketball players from Alcovy and Eastside High Schools were recognized for their accomplishments during the season. Nick Durham, Josiah Johnson, and Christian Gatewood were named to the Varsity Boys’ Basketball All-Region First Team. Khamani Thurman, Jakori Pinelle, Marion Eubanks, Jr., Damien Davey, and Iverson Freeman received Varsity Boys’ Basketball All-Region Honorable Mention status.

Also, Janae Hutcherson, Shamariah Gibbs, Morgan Sandema, and Ari Carter were named to the Varsity Girls’ Basketball All-Region First Team. Samaria Wilburn, Addison Way, Minah Little, Jarilix Rivera, and Jailyn Williams received Varsity Girls’ Basketball All-Region Honorable Mention status.

Region Basketball Coach of the Year

Dorrian Randolph, the Eastside High School boys’ basketball coach, was lauded as the Region 8-AAAA Coach of the Year for boys’ basketball.

Young Georgia Authors Winners Recognized

M’Kayla Solomon and Brooks Hawver were recognized for their success in the region Young Georgia Authors Competition. This writing contest is open to students in kindergarten through twelfth grade and includes all types of writing. Each region winner also is a school and district first place winner, and, as a result, their entries were submitted for the region competition. M’Kayla, a student at Liberty Middle School, is the region’s sixth grade champion, and Brooks, a kindergarten student at Mansfield Elementary School, is the region’s kindergarten winner.

Governor’s Honor Program Finalists Acknowledged

Adriana Drain and Anthony Miller, both students at Alcovy High School and the NCCA STEM Institute, received recognition for being selected to attend Georgia’s Governor’s Honors Program, which is a residential summer program for gifted and talented high school students. The program is designed to provide students with academic, cultural, and social enrichment opportunities to prepare them to become the next generation of global critical thinkers, innovators, and leaders.

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

Tracy Blackburn, Newton County Schools’ Chief Learning and Leadership Officer, presented the district’s summer academic and enrichment programs’ offerings as well as provided information regarding support services for enrollment in Newton County Schools for the 2025-26 school year.

The Student Services department will offer online registration for the 2025-26 school year beginning June 23, 2025, through the Infinite Campus Online Registration Platform. To further support families as they enroll their children, centralized in-person assistance will be available on seven designated days at specified times. Translation services also will be available.

The Health Services Team will partner with Gwinnett, Newton, and Rockdale (GNR) Health to host vaccination clinics for NCS students during the summer break. The clinics will offer the Tdap vaccine required for seventh grade students and the meningitis vaccine required for eleventh grade students.

Mrs. Blackburn shared updates on the school district’s summer programs. With a comprehensive lineup of learning and enrichment opportunities for students in grades K–12, the programs are designed to provide support, engagement, and acceleration across all levels.

High School – Credit recovery and Initial Credit

These programs are designed to support students who need to retake courses to meet graduation requirements or to accelerate their learning by earning credit for new courses. Students may receive specific credit recovery information at their base high school. Rising 9th – 12th grade students will have an opportunity to earn initial credit ahead of the upcoming school year.

There is a cost associated with participation in this program, and on the first day of class, a parent or guardian will be required to attend the first sixty minutes of orientation with the student to ensure clear expectations and support.

Middle School – In-House Credit Recovery

This program supports middle school students who are at risk of grade-level retention. The goal is to provide targeted remediation that allows students to recover up to two core academic classes, giving them a clear path to progress to the next grade level. The program will begin immediately after end-of-year testing and will be held during the school day. Parents of students who currently are not on track for promotion will be contacted directly and invited to register electronically for this opportunity.

Elevate Summer Academy

Elevate is designed to provide targeted academic support and engaging enrichment opportunities for rising fourth through ninth grade students. The instructional focus will center on reading and mathematics, ensuring students are prepared for the next grade level. In addition to academics, students will participate in enrichment activities designed to enhance creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking. Elevate Summer Academy will run June 2 - June 27, 2025, and will operate at the Newton County STEAM Academy and Indian Creek Middle School.

EmpowHER/HYPE HTML Coding Camp and Newton Kids Code Technology & Engineering Camp

These camps are offered by the Division of Strategy and Support Services, and they are technology-focused summer opportunities designed to empower and inspire our middle school students.

The EmpowHER/HYPE HTML Coding Camp focuses on building foundational skills in HTML coding, empowering young women to explore the world of computer science and digital design. There are twenty seats available in this camp, which is for female students in grades sixth through ninth.

The Newton Kids Code Technology & Engineering Camp, hosted in partnership with the Georgia Institute of Technology, offers hands-on, project-based learning in the fields of technology and engineering. Twenty-five rising sixth grade students will be transported to Georgia Tech each day by school bus, with pick-up and drop-off located at the Newton County STEAM Academy.

21st Century Summer Camps

The 21st Century Summer Camps are designed to keep students engaged, learning, and having fun all summer. The focus of the camp is all about STEAM, but camp facilitators also will weave in enrichment activities and educational field trips to make learning hands-on and exciting. Rising kindergarten through twelfth grade students may attend one of the camps, and there are seats for 550 students district-wide.

Camp Ignite

Camp Ignite, which is for current second through fourth grade students, is all about sparking curiosity, creativity, and confidence in our younger learners through hands-on enrichment activities that make summer learning fun.

Mrs. Blackburn ended her report by pointing out that these efforts are directly aligned with the district’s priorities.

To view the presentation, please click on this link.

Tracy Blackburn, Newton County Schools’ Chief Learning and Leadership Officer, presented updates to the district’s Code of Conduct. The Code of Conduct serves as a foundational document that outlines the district’s expectations for student behavior, supports a safe and respectful learning environment, and reinforces our commitment to student success.

Key updates include:

Assessment Protocols: New items are prohibited in state testing environments (e.g., smart glasses), and outdated assessments that were administered locally have been removed. Course names and codes have been updated for accuracy.

Dyslexia Screening: In compliance with Senate Bill 48, all students in kindergarten through third grade will be screened annually for dyslexia, using state-approved screeners. Results and recommendations will be shared with parents.

Grading Practices: The K–5 report card has been revised to better reflect student progress.

Technology Updates: Students and staff are prohibited from using VPNs, proxy websites, or other tools to bypass the school district’s network.

Revisions to the Code of Conduct: The definition of bullying now includes cyberbullying, and school bus discipline procedures have been updated to reflect a system of graduated consequences. Special attention has been placed on violations involving tobacco, electronic cigarettes and vaping devices, and illegal drugs and alcohol.

These updates reflect a collaborative effort to create a safe, supportive, and respectful environment, guided by the Board of Education's commitment to student success.

To view the presentation, please click on this link.

Dr. Shelia Thomas, the district’s Chief Strategy and Support Services Officer, provided an update on the district's efforts to address barriers to student learning, particularly around student attendance and parent engagement. Developing programs to carry out this work is one of the district’s articulated operational organizational priorities.

Some of the programs and initiatives that have been put in place during the 2024-25 school year to encourage and enhance student attendance are:

• Schools have attendance committees that regularly review data to identify trends and provide timely support.
• School counselors, social workers, and wellness resources provide support to address attendance issues and mental health needs.
  
  

These efforts have led to a 15% reduction in chronic absenteeism compared to this time last school year.

Dr. Thomas also reported that the district’s approach to parent engagement is equally complex and is designed to produce a meaningful partnership between families, schools, and the district. To strengthen parent engagement:

• Newton County Schools uses multiple platforms for consistent communication with parents, including Infinite Campus, the Remind online platform, School Messenger, and social media.
• The district’s Parent Connect initiative offers various support channels such as webinars, podcasts, and conferences to engage families in their child’s education.
• Schools also offer opportunities for parents to get involved through PTOs, advisory councils, parent-teacher conferences, and school-based events.
  
  

As part of the district’s commitment to solicit the voices of parents, staff are continually reviewing and enhancing the ways parents and families are connected to schools. Presently, parents are encouraged to participate in the Parent and Family Engagement Survey to provide feedback on communication and engagement opportunities. The survey, which will be open until April 28, 2025, may be accessed via the website at each school.

Overall, the district's approach to addressing student attendance and parent engagement is designed to foster a supportive, connected environment for students and families.

To view the presentation, please click on this link.

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

Erica Robinson, the district’s Chief Financial Officer, presented an overview of the FY26 tentative budget. The budget process, which involved months of planning and collaboration, aims to align financial resources with the needs of the district while maintaining transparency, accountability, and long-term sustainability.

Newton County Schools’ budget is made up of various fund types, each having a specific purpose to meet the diverse needs of the district.

• The General Fund is the district’s primary operating fund, covering day-to-day expenses such as salaries, benefits, supplies, and utilities.
• The Special Revenue Fund accounts for revenues that are legally restricted for specific purposes, such as federal and state grants.
• The Capital Projects Fund is dedicated to funding major construction or renovation projects within the district, including infrastructure improvements and facility upgrades.
• The Debt Service Fund manages the repayment of long-term debt obligations incurred by the district, such as bonds issued for capital projects.
  
  

Ms. Robinson spent some time sharing the projected revenue outlook for FY26. The most critical takeaway is a net decrease in state funding of approximately $2.2 million, a shift that carries significant implications for the district’s future financial planning. The local five mill share will increase by $2 million, further reducing state contributions.

There is a projected increase of $2.9 million in local funding, due to an anticipated increase in the local property digest and anticipated funds from the Joint Development Authority. Ms. Robinson pointed out that these increases will be partially offset by a projected decline of $550,000 in collections from intangible and real estate taxes, title ad valorem tax, and investment earnings.

To hear Ms. Robinson's explanation of the General Fund Revenue forecast, watch the following video clip.

Regarding expenditures, there is a heavy emphasis in the FY26 budget on making strategic investments in the district’s personnel, which has been bolstered by the board-commissioned classification and compensation study. Since the classification and compensation study was first commissioned last spring, the Board has consistently communicated that enhancing compensation is both a priority and a strategic goal. The FY26 budget includes the full implementation of the classification and compensation study, representing an estimated investment of $8 million.

During its meeting, the Board of Education approved the FY26 tentative budget. There will be public hearings on May 13, 2025, and May 20, 2025. Final adoption of the FY26 budget is expected during the school board meeting on May 20, 2025. The process to adopt the millage rate shall begin in July 2025.

To view the presentation, please click on this link.

As of April 1, 2025, there are 18,803 students enrolled in Newton County Schools.

1. Requested Board Action Relative to Adoption of the Tentative FY 2026 Budget

The Board approved the adoption of the tentative budget for fiscal year 2026 for all governmental funds. The tentative budget consists of four governmental fund types. The general fund, which is the primary operating fund, covers day-to-day expenses such as salaries, benefits, supplies, and utilities. The capital projects fund is dedicated to funding major construction or renovation projects within the district, including infrastructure improvements and facility upgrades. The debt service fund manages the repayment of long-term debt obligations incurred by the district, such as bonds issued for capital projects. The special revenue fund accounts for revenues that are legally restricted for specific purposes, such as federal and state grants.

For the FY 2026 General Fund Budget, we anticipate commencing with a fund balance of $55,748,816. Projections indicate total revenues of $241,255,832, marking a 0.28% uptick from the FY 2025 amended budget. Anticipated total expenditures stand at $265,051,983, reflecting a 6.82% increase from the FY 2025 amended budget, primarily due to the full implementation of the classification and compensation study and a rise in employer health insurance premiums and Teachers Retirement System (TRS) contributions. This budget forecast anticipates an ending fund balance of $31,952,665 for FY 2026.

APPROVED by 5-0 vote on April 22, 2025.

2. Requested Board Action Relative to Purchase of Data Tool

The Board approved the purchase of Homeroom Plus Dashboard Solutions from School Data Solutions to enhance data-driven decision-making across our district. This tool will support early intervention, student performance tracking, and instructional improvement through streamlined access to real-time student data. The system will enable educators to identify opportunity gaps using intuitive dashboards and early warning indicators; monitor student performance through integrated assessment data, attendance tracking, and behavioral insights; customize data analysis to reflect district priorities and individual school needs; and reduce administrative burden on educators by automating data organization, allowing more instructional time with students. The effective date will be July 1, 2025, and the expiration date will be June 30, 2026. The total contract value is $79,615.50 to be paid for with FY 2026 General Funds upon approval.

APPROVED by 5-0 vote on April 22, 2025.

3. Requested Board Action Relative to Purchase of Assessment Program

The Board approved the purchase of i-Ready Universal Screening Suite to serve as both a universal screener for grades K-10 and a dyslexia screener for students in grades K-3. This will enhance our ability to provide data-driven instruction, early identification of literacy challenges, and targeted interventions to meet the needs of all learners. The proposal from Curriculum Associates includes i-Ready Diagnostic and Personalized Instruction-math and reading; Teacher Toolbox-math, reading, and writing resources; and professional learning and implementation support. This platform will also serve as the district platform for placement testing and is also approved for gifted identification. The effective date will be July 1, 2025 and the expiration date will be June 30, 2026. The total contract value is $534,151.25 to be paid for with FY 2026 Curriculum and Instruction budget and FY 2025 Assessment and Accountability Budget.

APPROVED by 5-0 vote on April 22, 2025.

4. Requested Board Action Relative to Purchase of AI Instructional Platform

The Board approved the purchase of MagicSchool AI of Boulder, Colorado. MagicSchool AI is an innovative artificial intelligence platform designed specifically for educators to streamline instructional planning, enhance student engagement, and support administrative tasks. By leveraging AI, MagicSchool helps teachers save valuable time while improving the quality of lesson plans, assessments, and differentiated instructional materials. The platform offers a suite of tools that generate standards-aligned content, suggest personalized learning activities, and provide real-time feedback to support student learning across various subjects and grade levels. In addition to instructional support, MagicSchool AI simplifies administrative and compliance-related tasks, reducing the burden on teachers and school leaders. The platform assists with tasks such as drafting parent communications, analyzing student performance data, and generating professional development resources. The platform is built with ethical AI principles, ensuring data privacy and security while maintaining the professional judgment of educators. It serves as a powerful assistant rather than a replacement for teachers, empowering educators to maximize their impact in the classroom. The total cost is $108,300.00 to be paid for with FY 2026 Curriculum and Instruction funds, pending approval.

APPROVED BY 5-0 vote on April 22, 2025.

5. Requested Board Action Relative to Purchase of Leadership Development Services

The Board approved the purchase of leadership development services with the University of Virginia Partnership for Leaders in Education (UVA-PLE). UVA-PLE is a nationally recognized and research-based initiative focused on developing system conditions for transformative change and building leadership capacity. This partnership will focus on Clements Middle, Cousins Middle, Indian Creek Middle, Liberty Middle, and Veterans Memorial Middle. Over the course of three years, through integrated executive education and on-site thought partnership, UVA-PLE drives organizational learning and collaboration, empowering teams to heighten focus and confront difficult challenges. The partnership works closely with district and school teams to redesign systems to better serve historically marginalized students, ultimately advancing lasting transformation. This work typically begins by accelerating improvement in a set of learning lab schools and, over time, expands to contribute to district-wide improvement. The contract includes comprehensive, in-person support through site visits with cohort principals and system leadership teams in both the fall and spring. In addition, two retreats at UVA-PLE are provided for cohort principals and system leadership teams, along with an additional retreat dedicated to cohort principal leadership teams. All lodging and meals are included as part of the contract, ensuring a fully immersive and collaborative professional learning experience. The total cost is $236,000.00 to be paid for with FY 2025 Title II Carryover Funds.

APPROVED by 5-0 vote on April 22, 2025.

6. Requested Board Action Relative to Parent Information Guide and Student Code of Conduct

The Board approved the 2025-2026 Parent Information Guide and Student Code of Conduct. In addition to minor typographical errors and changes to dates, times, and style, some revisions were also included in the upcoming year’s Information Guide and Code of Conduct including updated school calendars, updated principals’ contact information, inclusion of smart glasses as an electronic device that cannot be brought into testing environment, inclusion of information regarding requirements of Georgia Dyslexia Bill requiring screening for all students in kindergarten through third grade once per year; adding the word “cyberbullying” to the definition of bullying, updating the disposition for Rule 41-obscenity; and including a graduated school bus discipline plan for both elementary and secondary schools.

APPROVED by 5-0 vote on April 22, 2025.

7. Requested Board Action Relative to Renewal of Book Creation Software

The Board approved the purchase of book creation software from Tools for Schools Inc., of Houston, Texas. Book Creator allows individuals to bring creativity to the classroom, regardless of subject or grade level. Brook Creator allows students and teachers to combine text, images, audio and video to create interactive stories, digital portfolios, research journals, poetry books, science reports, manuals, comic adventure stories, and more. It also provides a platform to publish these works for a global audience. The school system will use a contract managed by Allied States Cooperative, a national purchasing cooperative to procure the software. The total cost is $56,300 to be paid for with FY 2026 General Funds upon approval.

APPROVED by 5-0 vote on April 22, 2025.

8. Requested Board Action Relative to Renewal of Microsoft Licenses

The Board approved the purchase of Microsoft licenses from Dell Marketing L.P. of Round Rock, Texas. The school system will utilize a State of Georgia contract providing access to lower overall pricing on Microsoft licenses. The total cost is $633,292.17 to be paid for with FY 2025 funds upon approval.

APPROVED by 5-0 vote on April 22, 2025.

9. Requested Board Action Relative to Single Sign-On Software

The Board approved the renewal of the single sign-on software for the district from ClassLink. ClassLink provides students and educators instant access to their learning and productivity resources. It is a one click, single sign-on software solution, and is accessible from any computer, tablet or smartphone. ClassLink makes all your apps and files available on any device with a web browser. The school system will use a contract managed by TIPS, a national purchasing cooperative, to procure the software. The total cost is $75,072.00 to be paid for with FY 2026 General Funds upon approval.

APPROVED by 5-0 vote on April 22, 2025.

10. Requested Board Action Relative to Renewal for Technology Asset Management Software

The Board approved the renewal of the technology asset management software from Howard Technology Solutions. FileWave software will be used for managing, securing, asset tracking, and configuration of iOS, Android, Mac and Windows clients. Its layered and institution models and Configurator provide seamless integration for app and profile deployment, resetting passwords, data protection remote wipe, inventory reporting and more. The software will be procured through its reseller, Howard Technology Solutions. The district will utilize a contract managed by Omnia, a national purchasing cooperative, to purchase the software. The total cost is $100,426.83 to be paid for with FY 2026 General Funds upon approval.

APPROVED by 5-0 vote on April 22, 2025.

11. Requested Board Action Relative to Renewal of Learning Management System

The Board approved the purchase of a learning management system from Instructure of Salt Lake City, Utah. A Learning Management System (LMS) is an enterprise software application that delivers, documents, tracks, reports and manages instructional content, and enhances and supports classroom teaching and learning. Canvas simplifies teaching and learning by connecting all the digital tools teachers use in one platform. The school system will use a contract managed by Omnia, a national purchasing cooperative, to procure the software. The total cost is $104,575.00 to be paid for with FY 2026 General Funds upon approval.

APPROVED by 5-0 vote on April 22, 2025.

12. Requested Board Action Relative to Renewal of Collaborative Instructional Platform

The Board approved the purchase of educational resources from Nearpod of Dania Beach, Florida. Nearpod is a collaborative instructional platform that merges formative assessment and media for live and self-paced learning experiences inside and outside of the classroom. It provides resources for teachers to engage students with standards-aligned lessons, formative assessments, and educational content that ignites student curiosity and engagement in math, science, social studies, and English/language arts. The purchase includes district-wide access to Nearpod’s Premium Plus and Digital Citizenship and Literacy packages, as well as professional development resources. The school system will use a contract managed by TIPS, a national purchasing cooperative, to procure the program. The total contract value is $144,590.00 to be paid for with FY 2026 General Funds upon approval.

APPROVED by 5-0 vote on April 22, 2025.

13. Requested Board Action Relative to Renewal of Messaging Software

The Board approved the renewal of messaging software from Parent Square of Goleta, California. Parent Square, formerly Remind, is a mobile messaging platform that provides both one-way and two-way communication via text message, mobile app or email. It is designed to allow teachers, parents, students, and administrators in K-12 settings to more readily communicate with one another. Remind makes I easy to reach people you need to reach. The school system will utilize a contract managed by TIPS, a national technology purchasing cooperative, to procure the platform. The contract value is $72,720.00 to be paid for with FY 2026 General Funds upon approval.

APPROVED by 5-0 vote on April 22, 2025.

14. Requested Board Action Relative to Renewal of Technology Maintenance and Service Program

The Board approved the purchase of maintenance and support system from Byteworks. As the technology networks at schools and facilities continue to expand and evolve, it becomes critical to have maintenance and support systems in place to keep them operating at optimal efficiency. The technology department has chosen Cisco’s SMARTnet, a multi-faceted technical support service, to meet this need. SMARTnet provides school system personnel with technical assistance, on-line support and detailed diagnostics to solve problems with its core switches, rack switches, and phone infrastructure. The service also provides ongoing operating system updates, rapid hardware replacement, and onsite repair and replacement when needed. The school system will utilize a State of Georgia contract to purchase the SMARTnet maintenance and service program. The total contract value is $51,000.00 to be paid for with FY 2026 General Funds.

APPROVED by 5-0 vote on April 22, 2025.

15. Requested Board Action Relative to Renewal of Content Filtering Solution

The Board approved the purchase of content filtering solution from BordenLAN Security. Content Keeper software/hardware provides an education-focused content filtering solution that provides scalable, customizable protection for all devices that access the network. The solution provides cloud applications and social media controls as well as cyber-security protection. It works effectively with VPNs, hot spotting, mobile devices, tablets, and laptops, whether the device stays on-site or goes home with the end user. The software and hardware will be provided through its reseller, BorderLAN Security. The school system will use a TIPS contract, a national purchasing cooperative, to purchase the software. The total cost is $48,294.66 to be paid for with FY 2026 General Funds.

APPROVED by 5-0 vote on April 22, 2025.

16. Requested Board Action Relative to Renewal of School Messenger

The Board approved the purchase of School Messenger software from PowerSchool Group LLC, of Folsom, California. PowerSchool Group LLC, communication software, School Messenger, allows the district to unify communications across devices and platforms. School Messenger provides the district with a school communication system to help save time and provide more immediate, thorough engagement with the community. The school system will utilize a contract managed by TIPS, a national purchasing cooperative, to procure the software. The total cost is $26,725.82 to be paid for with FY 2026 General Funds.

APPROVED by 5-0 vote on April 22, 2025.

17. Requested Board Action Relative to Renewal of Email Security System

The Board approved the purchase of an email security system from Surelock Technology of Lawrenceville, Georgia. The greatest threat for enterprise security is email, which accounts for over 90% of all new attacks. Mimecast provides cloud-based threat protection, and its AI-powered security provides a layer of protection to Microsoft and Google to prevent all types of email compromise. Browser isolation tools can defend against phishing, ransomware, drive-by downloads and zero-day attacks. The system purchase includes the necessary implementation, data import and support. The school system will utilize a National Cooperative Purchasing Alliance (NCPA) OMNIA contract awarded to Promark, to procure the system through its authorized re-seller, Surelock Technology. The total cost is $90,632.00 to be paid for with FY 2025 General Funds.

APPROVED by 5-0 vote on April 22, 2025.

18. Requested Board Action Relative to Purchase of Virtual Storage Management

The Board approved the purchase of virtual storage systems from PC Solutions & Integration Inc. The Nutanix Solution V4 network storage system combines several virtualized storage-management applications with hardware. Large amounts of data can be stored and managed on a granular level and assigned automatically to high-performance drives or large-capacity drives. This data management method can lower hardware, power, and cooling costs. The Xi Leap is the cloud backup for the system. The school system will use a contract managed by Omnia, a national purchasing cooperative, to procure the solution. The system will be purchased through Promark from its participating dealer and reseller, PC Solutions and Integration Inc. The total contact value is $40,159.30 to be paid for with FY 2026 General Funds upon approval.

APPROVED by 5-0 vote on April 22, 2025.

19. Requested Board Action Relative to Erate Funded Infrastructure and Technology

The Board approved the acceptance of proposals for equipment and internal connections needed for the school system, including switches, cabling, and management information base. Annually, the technology department issues solicitations for internet access and internal connections as a part of the E-Rate process. E-Rate is the federal government program designed to fund affordable access to advanced telecommunications services in libraries and schools down to the classroom level. The focus of the program is on infrastructure and transport, not content or end-user equipment. E-Rate funding is prioritized, with internet access being the top priority, followed secondarily by internal connections and basic maintenance. E-Rate funds are calculated as a percentage discount off of the pricing received from the vendors through the solicitation process. The level of discount and subsequent funding is based on the percentage of students eligible for the national school lunch program, or other specified alternative methods for determining poverty levels within a school system. E-Rate funds are then dispersed to applicants based on need, which is ranked from highest to lowest, and then funded accordingly. The total cost for the switches, cabling, and management information base would be $299,178.96 of which $254,302.12 would be reimbursed by E-Rate, leaving a remaining cost of $44,876.84 to the school system.

APPROVED by 5-0 vote on April 22, 2025.

20. Requested Board Action Relative to Purchase of Asset Management

The Board approved the purchase of asset management software from Incident IQ. Incident IQ is a premier provider of asset management software designed specifically for the education sector. Its platform is widely utilized by school districts nationwide to efficiently manage assets, ensure compliance with mandatory funding requirements, and maintain accurate repair records. The Incident IQ platform includes a ticketing system that seamlessly integrates with the district’s existing facilities department ticketing system. This integration standardizes ticket management across the district, enabling teachers, staff, and students to submit help desk requests through an online portal. At the same time, IT technicians gain instant access to asset details and complete ticket histories, allowing for faster and more effective issue resolution. The school system will procure Incident IQ software through TIPS, a national purchasing cooperative. The total cost is $53,375.30 to be paid for with FY 2026 General Funds.

APPROVED by 5-0 vote on April 22, 2025.

21. Requested Board Action Relative to Switches

The Board approved the proposal for equipment and internal connections to be purchased from PC Solutions & Integration. Erate funding will be utilized for the purchase of extreme switches and maintenance for East Newton Elementary School. The total cost would be $75,957.86; however, with Erate, the district portion amounts to $15,191.57. PCS was selected for Extreme Switches and maintenance for West Newton, South Salem, Newton College & Career Academy, Liberty, Clements, Mansfield, and the Stadiums with a total cost of $609,895.50. With Erate funding, the district portion amount would be $121,979.10.

APPROVED by 5-0 vote on April 22, 2025.

22. Requested Board Action Relative to Purchase of Audio Enhancement Safety System Equipment

The Board approved the purchase of SAFE Alert Duress badges and hardware for school administration from Audio Enhancement. This system extends the SAFE Alert capabilities already available to teachers via their Audio Enhancement XD Microphones to office staff, or any personnel required for comprehensive coverage. The SAFE Badge is a lightweight wearable device that brings a new level of security and responsiveness to school environments. The SAFE Badge combines long-lasting battery technology with user-friendly features to ensure staff can initiate emergency alerts or lockdowns quickly and reliably from any location on campus. The InfoView Display is a specialized visual messaging device designed for K-12 campuses. It enables schools to share important information and send push notifications to students in high-traffic hallway areas. In addition to everyday announcements, the display also serves as a critical communication tool during emergencies, ensuring timely and clear information dissemination. VIEWpath is a classroom technology solution that enables teachers to record lessons and classroom activities using their personal classroom cameras. In addition to capturing instructional content, it provides a direct communication channel for teachers to alert the front office in case of any issues, enhancing both instructional support and classroom safety. The school system will utilize a contract managed by AEPA, a national purchasing cooperative, for the purchase. The total cost would be $138,037.49 to be paid for with FY 2025 General Funds and FY 2026 General Funds upon approval.

APPROVED by 5-0 vote on April 22, 2025.

23. Requested Board Action Relative to Purchase of Audio Enhancement EPIC ViewPath System

The Board approved the purchase of EPIC ViewPath for East Newton Elementary School from Electrical Contractors Inc. EPIC ViewPath is a fully integrated audio-video solution that combines Audio Enhancement’s audio systems, Security Alert for Education (SAFE) System, bells, paging, intercom, and classroom cameras. This purchase includes hardware, software upgrades, equipment and programming, and fully upgrades the bells, paging and intercom systems. This is part of an ongoing, comprehensive effort to enhance the safety and security of facilities throughout the school system. The school system will use a contract managed by PEPPM technology cooperative. The total cost of the purchase is $283,275.22 to be paid for with FY 2025 Capital Funds and Erate 2024 Funds.

APPROVED by 5-0 vote on April 22, 2025.

24. Requested Board Action Relative to Renewal of Contract for Medicaid Reimbursement

The Board approved the contract for Medicaid reimbursement services be awarded to Medical Provider Services, Inc. of White Springs, Florida. The school system continues to process Medicaid billing for students in special education who receive speech/language therapy. Medical Provider Services, Inc. (MPS) aids with the actual enrollment of new Medicaid eligible students, billing for services, and informing the school system of programs and activities that are potentially reimbursable. The company will perform data processing, billing, treatment plan processing, reimbursement collections, and maintain records for the school system. The fee for services (FFS) is 12% of all net payments received from Medicaid as a result of MPS’s efforts. The total estimated contract value is $40,000.00 to be paid for with FY 2026 General Funds.

APPROVED by 5-0 vote on April 22, 2025.

25. Requested Board Action Relative to Renewal of Contracts for Occupational Therapist Services

The Board approved the contract for an occupational therapist service. The Individual s with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is the federal special education law, administered by the U.S. Department of Education, that addresses educational requirements for children with disabilities. A part of the law includes the provision that public schools must look for, find, and identify children (from birth through age 21) who need special education. This is called Child Find. Those children so identified must be evaluated to determine the types of services they need to help them be successful in school. Hourly rates for Occupational Therapists and Certified Occupational Therapists are based on years of experience and level of degree obtained. The estimated contract value is $45,600 to be paid for with FY 2026 IDEA 611 Funds.

APPROVED by 5-0 vote on April 22, 2025.

26. Requested Board Action Relative to Renewal of Online Special Education Curriculum

The Board approved the online special education curriculum needed for the school system be purchased from n2y, LLC of Huron, Ohio. The vendor, n2y LLC, is a developer of special education curriculum and materials. Their products serve teachers, speech pathologists and other professionals as a resource to assist students with special needs as required by their individual education program (IEP). Students requiring an alternative curriculum and assessment will receive standards-based curriculum specifically designed so that students with special needs can access the general education curriculum. The total cost is $127,677.89 to be paid for with FY 2025 and FY 2026 IDEA Funds and FY 2025 Capacity Building Grant.

APPROVED by 5-0 vote on April 22, 2025.

27. Requested Board Action Relative to Renewal of Contract for Integrated Business Solution

The Board approved the renewal of an integrated business solution contract awarded to Genuine Parts Company (d/b/a NAPA Auto Parts) of Atlanta, Georgia for an additional contract period. The NAPA Integrated Business Solution (IBS) provides the school system with complete, turn-key management for all parts needs, related supplies and services. The in-house store, which currently has an inventory valued at approximately $434,873.00, was custom tailored to the vehicles which constitute the school system fleet. Parts are purchased only on a just-in-time, as needed bases. Formerly, they would have been purchased by the school system held in inventory, and thus subject to carrying costs, shrinkage and obsolescence. The school system is using a state of Georgia contract with NAPA to provide the aforementioned services. All parts and supplies pricing is at a discounted rate. The effective date will be April 26, 2025, and the expiration date will be April 25, 2026. The estimated contract value is $1,100,000.00 to be paid for with FY 2024, and upon approval, FY 2025 General Funds.

APPROVED by 5-0 vote on April 22, 2025.

28. Requested Board Action Relative to Renewal of Contract for Fire Inspection Services

The Board approved the renewal of the contract for fire inspection services be awarded to Acom Fire Solutions, of Stockbridge, Georgia. The contract includes the inspection of fire sprinklers, fire hydrant and post indicator valves, kitchen hood fire suppression systems and fire extinguishers. The effective date will be April 24, 2025, and the expiration date will be April 23, 2026. The contract value is $39,427.00 to be paid for with FY 2026 General Funds.

APPROVED by 5-0 vote on April 22, 2025.

29. Requested Board Action Relative to Contract for Painting Services

The Board approved the purchase of services painting services from A&D Painting, Inc. for Liberty Middle School project at a cost of $30,500.00; from Ideas Painting LLC for Cousins Middle School project at a cost of $80,870.00; and from Painters on Demand LLC at a cost of $60,813.40 for Alcovy High School and Rocky Plains Elementary School projects. The projects consist of painting select areas for each school that includes the interior and some exterior of buildings. Upon approval, the projects are scheduled to begin on May 27, 2025, and are expected to be completed before July 22, 2025. Eight vendors participated in the solicitation process.

APPROVED by 5-0 vote on April 22, 2025.

30. Requested Board Action Relative to Contract for Paint

The Board approved the purchase of pain from Sherwin Williams. The total cost is $199,950.00 to be paid for with FY 2025 General Funds. The school system will use a contract managed by Omnia, a national purchasing cooperative to procure the paint.

APPROVED by 5-0 vote on April 22, 2025.

31. Requested Board Action Relative to Surplus Property

The Board approved selected items to be declared as surplus property and disposed of per Board Policy DO. Care is taken to discard items in as environmentally friendly a manner as it is practical.

APPROVED by 5-0 vote on April 22, 2025.

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

The Board approved recommendations from Superintendent Dr. Duke Bradley as presented in the executive session.

APPROVED by 3-2 vote with Mrs. Shakila Henderson-Baker and Mr. Anderson Bailey opposed.

At its April 22, 2025, meeting, the Board of Education named Dr. Veronica Bacote as the principal of Clements Middle School. Dr. Stephen Hammock was named the principal of Newton High School.

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