Sarasota County Schools Logo

THE SCHOOL BOARD OF SARASOTA COUNTY, FLORIDA

Landings Administrative Complex

1980 Landings Blvd. 

6:00 PM

 

August 6, 2024 Board Meeting

Call to Order
Flag Salute
Superintendents Report
Hearing of Citizens - Agenda
Approval of Consent Agenda
1.APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA
Description
Gap Analysis:
Previous Outcomes:
Expected Outcomes:
Strategic Plan Goal:
Recommendation:
That the Consent Agenda be approved as presented.
Contact:
Financial Impact:
Consent Agenda
Approval of Minutes
2.APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Description
Gap Analysis:
Previous Outcomes:
Expected Outcomes:
Strategic Plan Goal:
Recommendation:
That the minutes be approved as presented.
Contact:
Financial Impact:
Approval of Instructional/Classified Personnel Report
3.APPROVAL OF INSTRUCTIONAL/CLASSIFIED PERSONNEL REPORT
Description
The Human Resources Instructional/Classified Personnel Report has been added to the agenda item for approval.
Gap Analysis:
Previous Outcomes:
Expected Outcomes:
Strategic Plan Goal:
Recommendation:
That the Human Resources Instructional/Classified Personnel Report be approved as presented. 
Contact:

AL HARAYDA    al.harayda@sarasotacountyschools.net

ASHLEY ROMADKA   ashley.romadka@sarasotacountyschools.net

JODY DUMAS   jody.dumas@sarasotacountyschools.net

MICHAEL KEMP   michael.kemp@sarasotacountyschools.net

Financial Impact:
General Items
4.APPROVAL OF THE 2024-2025 SARASOTA COUNTY SCHOOLS STUDENT PROGRESSION PLAN
Description

In accordance with state statute, Sarasota County Schools is required to annually update and provide information to our parents/guardians, students, and community regarding the requirements for students to progress from one grade to another, as well as establishing diploma pathway options. The 2024-25 Student Progression Plan is aligned to [F.S. 1008.25(2)] requiring each Florida district school board to establish a comprehensive plan for student progression that explains a student’s progression from one grade to another based on the student’s mastery of the standards in s. 1003.41. The Sarasota County Schools’ Student Progression Plan is based on mastery of English Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies standards. The updated Student Progression Plan is aligned to state statutory changes and school district policies updates and revisions.

Gap Analysis:

The attached revisions to the Student Progression Plan are required to clarify current practice and to maintain compliance with legislative requirements.

Previous Outcomes:

The Student Progression Plan met state requirements, specified student progression, and served as a resource for students, parents, and staff.

Expected Outcomes:

The Student Progression Plan will provide continuity for a comprehensive program for student progression aligned with current legislative and district requirements.

Strategic Plan Goal:

Pillar 1 – Every Student Achieves

Priority 1.1 – Establish a Solid Foundation

Recommendation:
That the 2024-2025 Sarasota County Schools Student Progression Plan be approved as presented. 
Contact:

MICHELLE ANDERSON   michelle.anderson@sarasotacountyschools.net

RACHAEL O'DEA   rachael.o'dea@sarasotacountyschools.net

Financial Impact:
N/A
Agreement/Contracts
5.APPROVAL FOR REALIDADES SPANISH A&B 2 YR. GAP INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS FOR 24-26 SCHOOL YEAR
Description
Instructional Materials and Library Services is seeking approval for the use of Digital courseware for a 2-year license for Spanish Levels A & B. These levels are used in our Middle Schools.
Gap Analysis:
State of Florida pushed the adoption of Foreign Language Instructional Materials until school year 26-27; therefore, a 2-year gap is needed for these materials.
Previous Outcomes:
Previous outcomes relating to foreign language textbook included, and not limited to Improved Student Performance, Teacher Satisfaction, Curriculum Alignment, Increased Inclusivity, Stake holder Engagement, and Professional Development.
Expected Outcomes:
To enhance Student Achievement, increase teacher effectiveness, enhance Curriculum Quality, increase accessibility. features for students with different learning needs, stakeholder involvement through collaboration throughout the adoption process.
Strategic Plan Goal:

Pillar 1 - Every Student Achieves

Priority1.3 - Embrace Strong Instruction

Recommendation:
That the Digital courseware for a 2-year license for Spanish Levels A & B GAP materials be approved as presented. 
Contact:

ROSEMARY SCHMIDT   rosemary.schmidt@sarasotacountyschools.net
MICHELLE ANDERSON   michelle.anderson@sarasotacountyschools.net 
MEGAN GREEN   megan.green@sarasotacountyschools.net

RACHAEL O'DEA   racheal.o'dea@sarasotacountyschools.net

Financial Impact:

$86,400.00.

Funding Source: General

6.APPROVAL FOR REALIDADES SPANISH INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS FOR LEVELS 1-4 FOR THE 25-26 SCHOOL YEAR
Description
Instructional Materials and Library Services is seeking approval for the use of Digital courseware for a 1-year license for Levels 1-4.
Gap Analysis:
State of Florida pushed the adoption of Foreign Language Instructional Materials until school year 26-27; therefore, a gap year is needed for 25 26. The board already approved 24 25 school year last year.
Previous Outcomes:
Previous outcomes relating to foreign language textbook included, and not limited to Improved Student Performance, Teacher Satisfaction, Curriculum Alignment, Increased Inclusivity, Stake holder Engagement, and Professional Development.
Expected Outcomes:
To enhance Student Achievement, increase teacher effectiveness, enhance Curriculum Quality, increase accessibility features for students with different learning needs, stakeholder involvement through collaboration throughout the adoption process.
Strategic Plan Goal:

Pillar 1 - Every Student Achieves

Priority 1.3 - Embrace Strong Instruction

Recommendation:
That the Digital courseware for a 1-year license for Levels 1-4 GAP year for school year 2526 be approved as presented. 
Contact:

ROSEMARY SCHMIDT   rosemary.schmidt@sarasotacountyschools.net

MICHELLE ANDERSON michelle.anderson@sarasotacountyschools.net 

MEGAN GREEN   megan.green@sarasotacountyschools.net

RACHAEL O'DEA    rachael.o'dea@sarasotacountyschools.net, 

Financial Impact:

$124,124.00

Funding Source:  General

7.APPROVAL OF THE AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE SCHOOLHOUSE LINK / SAFE CHILDREN COALITION AND THE SCHOOL BOARD OF SARASOTA COUNTY, FLORIDA TO PROVIDE MCKINNEY-VENTO HOMELESS EDUCATION ACT SERVICES
Description
The Interagency Agreement delineates the relationship and responsibilities shared between the Schoolhouse Link / Safe Children Coalition and the School Board of Sarasota County, Florida to provide services for homeless children and youth and families in transition throughout Sarasota County.
Gap Analysis:
In Sarasota County McKinney-Vento services (McKinney-Vento Act of 1987 as last amended by Every Student Succeeds Act of 2015) are provided through the Schoolhouse Link program, a partnership between the Safe Children Coalition, Inc. and the Sarasota County School Board. The McKinney-Vento Act guarantees school enrollment for anyone who, due to a lack of housing, does not have a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence. Schoolhouse Link / Safe Children Coalition serves as the district’s official “homeless liaison” and operates as an advocate helping students in transition attend and succeed in school.  In addition, the program provides support to the entire family by linking them with essential service providers and community resources. are provided to students in residential transition to help them enroll, attend and/or succeed in school.
Previous Outcomes:
The Interagency Agreement between Schoolhouse Link / Safe Children Coalition, Inc., and The School Board of Sarasota County has been in effect since July 1, 2010. Over 350 families are served and supported annually.
Expected Outcomes:

This partnership enables children in transition to:

  • enroll and attend school no matter where they live or how long they have lived there
  • have access to the same public education provided to housed children.
  • enroll in school and attend classes while required documentation is being gathered
  • receive free lunch
  • maintain stability at the school of origin through transportation
Strategic Plan Goal:

Pillar 2 - Every Student Supported

Priority 2.2 - Respond to Student Needs

Recommendation:
That the Interagency Agreement between Schoolhouse Link / Safe Children Coalition and the School Board of Sarasota County, be approved as presented.
Contact:

AMANDA COKER    amanda.coker@sarasotacountyschools.net

DEBRA GIACOLONE   debra.giacolone@sarasotacountyschools.net

KIRK HUTCHINSON   kirk.hutchinson@sarasotacountyschools.net

RACHAEL O'DEA   rachael.o'dea@sarasotacountyschools.net

Financial Impact:

$75,000

Funding Source: Title 1 and Title 4

8.APPROVAL OF THE AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE SCHOOLHOUSE LINK / SAFE CHILDREN COALITION AND THE SCHOOL BOARD OF SARASOTA COUNTY, FLORIDA TO SUPPORT HOMELESS EDUCATION SERVICES FOR HOMELESS CHILDREN AND YOUTH
Description
The Interagency Agreement delineates the relationship and responsibilities shared between the Schoolhouse Link / Safe Children Coalition and the School Board of Sarasota County, Florida to provide services for homeless children and youth and families throughout Sarasota County.
Gap Analysis:
In Sarasota County McKinney-Vento services (McKinney-Vento Act of 1987 as last amended by Every Student Succeeds Act of 2015) are provided through the Schoolhouse Link program, a partnership between the Safe Children Coalition, Inc. and the Sarasota County School Board. The McKinney-Vento Act guarantees school enrollment for anyone who, due to a lack of housing, does not have a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence. Schoolhouse Link / Safe Children Coalition serves as the district’s official “homeless liaison” and operates as an advocate helping students in transition attend and succeed in school.  In addition, the program provides support to the entire family by linking them with essential service providers and community resources. are provided to students in residential transition to help them enroll, attend and/or succeed in school. This agreement allows for 3.5 district funded staff to enact these services.
Previous Outcomes:
The Interagency Agreement between Schoolhouse Link / Safe Children Coalition, Inc., and The School Board of Sarasota County has been in effect since July 1, 2010. Over 350 families are served and supported annually.
Expected Outcomes:

This partnership enables staff to support and serve homeless students and families to:

  • enroll and attend school no matter where they live or how long they have lived there
  • have access to the same public education provided to housed children.
  • enroll in school and attend classes while required documentation is being gathered
  • receive free lunch
  • maintain stability at the school of origin through transportation
Strategic Plan Goal:

Pillar 2 - Every Student Supported

Priority 2.2 - Respond to Student Needs

Recommendation:
That the Interagency Agreement between Schoolhouse Link / Safe Children Coalition and the School Board of Sarasota County, be approved as presented.
Contact:

AMANDA COKER   amanda.coker@sarasotacountyschools.net

DEBRA GIACOLONE   debra.giacolone@sarasotacountyschools.net

KIRK HUTCHINSON   kirk.hutchinson@sarasotacountyschools.net

RACHAEL O'DEA   rachael.o'dea@sarasotacountyschools.net

Financial Impact:

$118,000

Funding Source: Title IX

Materials Management
9.APPROVAL TO PURCHASE MATERIALS AND/OR SERVICES FROM VENDORS UNDER COOPERATIVE CONTRACT WITH A LEAD AGENCY THAT UTILIZED A COMPETITIVE PROCESS FOR COMPREHENSIVE HVAC
Description
The Purchasing Department has researched and reviewed the competitive solicitations that are available for these purchases and has determined that the use of the attached contracts for the purpose cited presents the best value and/or is in the best interest of the School Board.
Gap Analysis:
This contract is used for general HVAC repairs, maintenance, and upgrade of equipment and controls. This contract is essential to supplement district staff during periods of increased workload.
Previous Outcomes:
The School Board approved as presented.
Expected Outcomes:
Contract will be approved as presented.
Strategic Plan Goal:

Pillar 4 - Every School Equipped

Priority 4.2 - Create High Quality Infrastructure

Recommendation:
That the cooperative contracts awarded to Ameresco Inc. for the anticipated purchase of materials and/or services be approved as presented.
Contact:
JODY DUMAS   jody.dumas@sarasotacountyschools.net
MICHAEL KEMP   michael.kemp@sarasotacountyschools.net
Financial Impact:
Not to exceed: $500,000.00
Funding source: Capital
Construction
10.ACCEPTANCE OF CONSTRUCTION SERVICES’ PROJECT COMPLETION AND APPROVAL FOR FINAL PAYMENT TO CONTRACTOR WITH THE CERTIFICATE OF COMPLETION FOR THE NORTH PORT HIGH SCHOOL WEIGHT ROOM RENOVATION 2023 DB CONTRACT
Description

All work has been completed and all required closeout documents have been received from the contractor. The final project costs have been internally audited, and the final payment application and backup #22401828-03 are enclosed. The Director of Construction Services has determined that the project is complete in accordance with state statutes.

Gap Analysis:

Acceptance of this item allows the project to be completed, unspent funds to be returned, closeout to be finalized, and final payment to be made to the Construction Manager.

Previous Outcomes:

These items are submitted to the Board for all completed projects. The item officially closes out the project financially and frees up District staff for new projects.

Expected Outcomes:

Acceptance of this item will close out the project financially and free up District staff for new projects.

Strategic Plan Goal:

Pillar 4 - Every School Equipped

Priority 4.2 - Create High Quality Infrastructure   

Recommendation:

That the project be accepted as complete, and the final payment and certificate of substantial completion be approved as presented.

Contact:

JANE DREGER   jane.dreger@sarasotacountyschools.net

JODY DUMAS   jody.dumas@sarasotacountyschools.net

MICHAEL KEMP michael.kemp@sarasotacountyschools.net

Financial Impact:

There is no financial impact to close a project. The financial impact is done via Change Order included in the Construction Services Change Order item.

Funding Source: Capital

11.ACCEPTANCE OF CONSTRUCTION SERVICES’ PROJECT COMPLETION AND APPROVAL FOR FINAL PAYMENT TO CONTRACTOR WITH THE CERTIFICATE OF COMPLETION FOR THE SARASOTA HIGH SCHOOL PORTABLE MOVES 2022 PHASE 2 DB CONTRACT
Description

All work has been completed and all required closeout documents have been received from the contractor. The final project costs have been internally audited, and the final payment application and backup #22203569-18 are enclosed. The Director of Construction Services has determined that the project is complete in accordance with state statutes.

Gap Analysis:
Acceptance of this item allows the project to be completed, unspent funds to be returned, closeout to be finalized, and final payment to be made to the Construction Manager.
Previous Outcomes:

These items are submitted to the Board for all completed projects. The item officially closes out the project financially and frees up District staff for new projects.

 

Expected Outcomes:

Acceptance of this item will close out the project financially and free up District staff for new projects.

Strategic Plan Goal:

Pillar 4 - Every School Equipped

Priority 4.2 - Create High Quality Infrastructure   

Recommendation:

That the project be accepted as complete, and the final payment and certificate of substantial completion be approved as presented.

Contact:

JANE DREGER   jane.dreger@sarasotacountyschools.net

JODY DUMAS   jody.dumas@sarasotacountyschools.net

MICHAEL KEMP michael.kemp@sarasotacountyschools.net

Financial Impact:

There is no financial impact to close a project. The financial impact is done via Change Order included in the Construction Services Change Order item.

Funding Source: Capital

12.APPROVAL AND/OR RATIFICATION OF CONSTRUCTION SERVICES’ CHANGE ORDERS
Description

The Construction Services' change orders are summarized on the enclosure for ease of review. Included in these change orders is a ($118,600.75) deduct for Direct Material Purchases and the corresponding ($7,216.05) deduct for sales tax savings, an add of $60,493.61 to adjust a prior flooring DPO, and a ($185,881.80) deduct to return unspent funds for two closed projects. These change orders result in an overall contract decrease of ($251,204.99).

Gap Analysis:

Change orders are utilized on construction contracts to adjust the original contract amount for various circumstances. These may include adjustments for an increase or decrease in project scope, adjustments needed to close a contract and return unspent project funds to the district, or for removing the purchase of large items from a contract so the district can purchase these items directly from vendors to save sales tax. The attached documents detail the associated change orders for this item on multiple projects.

Previous Outcomes:

Change orders reflect construction project progress and occur normally as a result of conditions on the construction project and district staff managing the costs associated with each project, including deductive change orders to allow the district to save sales tax.

Expected Outcomes:

This system has resulted in significant, ongoing savings and allows district staff to continue to maximize these benefits, especially as the construction market becomes more competitive.

Strategic Plan Goal:

Pillar 4 - Every School Equipped

Priority 4.2 - Create High Quality Infrastructure  

Recommendation:

That the Construction Services’ change orders be approved and/or ratified as presented.

Contact:

JANE DREGER   jane.dreger@sarasotacountyschools.net

JODY DUMAS   jody.dumas@sarasotacountyschools.net

MICHAEL KEMP   michael.kemp@sarasotacountyschools.net

Financial Impact:

$7,216 - Sales Tax Savings

$185,881.80 - return of unspent project funds

Funding Source:  Capital

Food and Nutrition
13.APPROVAL OF STUDENT MEAL PRICES FOR THE 2024/25 SCHOOL YEAR
Description

This item establishes the breakfast and lunch student meal prices for the upcoming school year.  It represents an increase in the cost of paid meal prices to cover the increased cost of labor and food. 

 

2024/25 meal prices:

 

Breakfast

  Paid - $2.25 all grade levels

  Reduced - $0.30 all grade levels

  Free - $0.00 all grade levels

 

Lunch

  Paid

  Elementary school - $3.25

  Middle school - $3.75

High school - $3.75

  

  Reduce all grade levels - $0.40

  Free all grade levels - $0.00

Gap Analysis:
If the prices do not increase as requested the costs of meal production will exceed the revenue from sales.  This will deplete the fund balance by the end of the school year.
Previous Outcomes:
In previous years the Board has approved the proposed meal prices as presented.
Expected Outcomes:
That the Board will approve the proposed meal prices as presented.
Strategic Plan Goal:

Pillar 4 - Every School Equipped

Priority 4.1 - Maintain Sustainable Financial Practices

Recommendation:
That the meal prices for the 2024/25 school year be approved as presented. 
Contact:

SARA DAN   sara.dan@sarasotacountyschools.net

JODY DUMAS   jody.dumas@sarasotacountyschools.net

MICHAEL KEMP  michael.kemp@sarasotacountyschools.net

Financial Impact:
$770,000 anticipated revenues
New Business
Hearing of Citizens - General
Board Members Comments/Assignments
Announcements/Comments
Adjournment