Jacksonville, AL – On February 20, 2025, the Jacksonville City Schools Board of Education convened with the customary prayer and pledge to the flag, followed by the call to order and roll call. A quorum was established, with one member, Watson, absent due to illness.
Recognitions and Celebrations
The meeting opened with several special recognitions. Marcus Albright and Leann Lewis were celebrated for achieving National Board Certification, a significant accomplishment in education. Superintendent Dr. Barber expressed pride in the continued professional development of the staff, highlighting the importance of such achievements for the school’s excellence.
Next, the board recognized the Soaring Eagles of December and January. These students were selected not only for their academic excellence but also for their positive contributions to the school community.
December Soaring Eagles:
- Reese Rollins – An 11th grader praised for her academic turnaround, Reese is actively involved in several extracurricular activities, including sports and volunteering, maintaining a 3.9 GPA while participating in JSU dual enrollment classes.
- Aaliyah Armour – A seventh-grader recognized for her kindness and helpfulness to classmates, Aaliyah participates in choir, theater, soccer, and community activities, while also excelling in honors classes.
January Soaring Eagles:
- Ramsey Heindel – A senior known for his infectious positivity, Ramsey contributes to the school community by helping in the lunchroom and spreading joy with his uplifting attitude.
- Elise Bonds – A seventh-grader with perfect grades and a strong work ethic, Elise is a member of the Student Council and is active in gymnastics and her church’s youth group.
The recognition concluded with a group photo, celebrating the outstanding achievements of these students.
Vocational Student of the Month
The meeting also honored Asher McNeal as the Vocational Student of the Month, selected by TCI. His achievements in vocational studies were praised by the board, underscoring the importance of these programs in shaping future careers.
Finance and Administrative Matters
The board approved the minutes from the January 23, 2025, meeting and moved to approve the agenda. The finance report included the accountability report, financial statements, and a recommendation to approve the JCS Accounts Payable and Payroll for January 2025, alongside acceptance of the January 2025 financial statements.
Superintendent’s Report
Dr. Barber presented several recommendations for approval, including the 2025-2026 school calendar and the appointment of various JCS employees to the Science and Career Tech Textbook Adoption Committees. These appointments reflect the school system’s commitment to enhancing its educational offerings.
Building and Facility Updates
Dr. Barber shared updates on ongoing school projects. The Jacksonville High School softball field is undergoing improvements, including the construction of a batting enclosure, funded by the booster club, with no cost to the school system beyond architectural fees.
Additionally, the board was shown plans for the replacement of the band tower at the practice field, a project that will involve collaboration with the band boosters and other school partners.
The meeting concluded with updates on the ongoing work at the Performing Arts Center, where mechanical work and sheetrock installation are progressing.
The board members thanked the community for their support and emphasized the ongoing importance of partnerships in advancing the school’s goals. The next meeting date was confirmed, and with no further business, the meeting was adjourned.
