BOE Work Session Notes - April 28, 2020

The Kingsport City Schools Board of Education remotely held a work session on Tuesday, April 28, 2020. Several key items were discussed, including:
  • A presentation on KCS English/Language Arts education efforts;
  • A quarterly financial report;
  • An update on the Fiscal Year 2020-21 Budget process; and
  • A report on potential policy action at a future meeting date.
Work Session Audio
Detailed Work Session Notes
Dr. Rhonda Stringham, Assistant Superintendent - Instruction, and Emily Helphinstine, Coordinator of Literacy Programs, presented a report on how KCS is instructing students in the area of English/Language Arts (ELA).
  • ELA work is continuing, even with students currently working at home.  Teachers are supporting students in continuing literacy skill development through reading and writing activities.
  • Mrs. Helphinstine reviewed the philosophy behind how reading is taught in KCS, as well as the resources needed to help student achieve at the highest level.
David Frye, Chief Finance Officer, presented the Quarterly Financial Report.
  • Revenues, expenditures, and projections were reviewed as a part of the presentation.
  • To view the Third Quarter financial update, please click the file below.
Mr. Frye presented an update on the status of the FY 2020-21 Budget.
  • Discussions regarding budget decisions are ongoing.
  • Mr. Frye presented a review of Budget considerations, including potential revenue estimates for 2020-21.
  • Work is ongoing to determine best estimates of revenues and expenses for the coming year, given the anticipated economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • The expectation is that a Budget will be presented to the Board at the May BOE meeting for consideration and approval
Andy True, Assistant Superintendent - Administration, presented a draft resolution to the Board for review.
  • The resolution will be considered for approval at the May Board meeting and addresses the necessary suspension of certain Board policies due to situations arising from the COVID-19 pandemic and school closure.
  • Due to actions by the Governor and the State Board of Education, certain state rules and policies have been adjusted or allowed flexibility for this school year.  TCA 49-2-203 authorizes boards to govern their own policies, including suspension of local board policies.  
  • As the closure situation continues to evolve, it is anticipated that additional policies may need to be included due to changing rules, regulations, or logistics.
The next regular meeting of the Board of Education will be on Tuesday, May 12, 2020 at 6 p.m.  
Read and follow our blog, "We Are KCS" to learn more about the great people and programs of Kingsport City Schools. Check it out at www.WeAreKCS.com.