Board approves SRO contract, personnel and multiple procurement items

The Highlands County School Board voted on a series of routine but consequential items, including an agreement to continue school resource officer (SRO) services with the Sebring Police Department, personnel approvals, financial statements and multiple procurement awards.

Agenda and SRO contract: The board adopted an amended agenda to move item 4l (the Sebring Police Department agreement) forward; following discussion, the board approved the agreement to continue SRO services at Academy, Woodlawn Elementary and Sebring Middle School. John Verity (safety and security) described the cost-sharing arrangement and Chief Carl Hoagland of the Sebring Police Department said the department will ensure officers are present whenever students are on campus, citing obligations under the Safe Schools Act.

Personnel and finance items: The board approved the superintendent's personnel recommendations by roll call and accepted monthly financial statements for November and December. Director of Finance Stephanie Hanks warned that while the general fund is projected to finish above 3%, the health fund's declining balance may require a year-end transfer that could lower the fund balance under 2%.

Procurement and discipline: The board awarded contracts for network security (iBoss), Ruckus/ICX switching equipment, Howard Technology Solutions, and HVAC pre-purchase packages; motions, seconds and roll-call votes carried each award. The board also approved recommended expulsions and academy placements as presented.

Compliance report: The Office of Safe Schools reported two unannounced compliance visits during Oct.1–Dec.31; one campus had a mechanical door fault that was immediately remedied and the state's acceptance of the remedy was reported. The board accepted the compliance report.

Votes at a glance (recorded in the meeting transcript): agenda adoption — motion moved by Mrs. Howard, second Mr. Whitten (recorded yes votes); SRO agreement — approved after discussion; personnel recommendations — approved; financial statements — approved; contract awards for technology and HVAC — approved; expulsions and academy placements — approved; safe-schools compliance report — accepted.

What's next: Board members noted additional discussion is anticipated on health fund strategies and possible workshops to evaluate fleet/outsourced wellness components used in other counties.