The Escambia County Board of Education met Thursday, January 19, at Escambia County Middle School. Although the board was honored as part of School Board Recognition Month, it was the ECMS Enrichment students who stole the show.
They gave a presentation on Stealing Freedom, a book they read in class. But it was so much more than a book report. They displayed life-size characters they created as well as quilt squares they designed with scenes inspired by the book.
Following their presentation, Principal Debbie Bolden presented a video to give the board, school system employees and other members of the audience a look at the culture and climate at ECMS.
The first 15 minutes of the meeting were taken up by two BOE members. Coleman Wallace presented memorial moments honoring the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King (the nation celebrated Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day on Jan. 16). Following his remarks, Mike Edwards talked about the inauguration of President-Elect Donald Trump to be held the next day. He also talked about previous inaugurations and quoted President George Washington: “Religion and morality are indispensable supports” to the country.
In agenda business, the board
* reviewed the monthly financial statement for December 2016. Unreserved fund balance is $13.4 million, with 4.28 months operating reserve.
* reinstated 37 sick leave days to David Lanier, director, Escambia Career Readiness Center, due to an on-the-job injury, effective October 26, 2016 through December 21, 2016
* reinstated one and one-half sick leave days to Randall Jackson, assistant principal, Escambia County High School, due to an on-the-job injury, effective October 24 and October 26, 2016.
The next board meeting will be held Thursday, February 23, 4:30 p.m., at W.S. Neal Elementary School.