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School board approves initial bylaws and contract for Region 2 regional recovery program; Harbor Hope House name noted
Summary
The Norfolk School Board voted May 7 to approve initial bylaws and an initial contract to participate in a new regional recovery program for Region 2. The board authorized moving forward with the superintendent signing signature pages; members said the program is slated to open in August and will be known as Harbor Hope House.
The school board voted unanimously May 7 to approve initial bylaws and a contract to join a new multi-jurisdictional recovery program for Region 2.
Motion and vote: Doctor Martin brought the motion to accept and approve the initial bylaws and contract for the regional recovery program, and Board Member Thomas seconded the motion. The clerk called the roll; the recorded vote was all ayes (Bassin, Buffalo, Inge, Martin, Olson, Thomas, DeKalbajero). The motion carried and the board approved the initial bylaws and contract.
What the contract covers and next steps: Superintendent Dr. Birdsong and legal counsel had previously discussed that the initial version of the contract and bylaws is substantially final but might include minor edits; the attorney for the lead division (Virginia Beach) had circulated a version with comments. The superintendent was authorized to sign the signature pages once the participating divisions complete their internal approvals. The presenters said the program is expected to open in August and that, for public reference during the contract process, the entity is being called Region 2 in documents; presenters noted the recovery program will be called Harbor Hope House.
Purpose and partnerships: The regional program — previously described to the board in January — is designed to provide recovery and treatment-oriented educational supports for students with substance-use and related needs. Funding from the General Assembly was initially routed to the lead division (Virginia Beach), which is handling initial contracting on behalf of the region; participating divisions will hold the program’s governing documents and oversee local implementation as partners.
Board comment: Board members expressed support for proceeding quickly to stand up the program in time for an opening in August and highlighted the program’s potential to support students who need intensive, recovery-oriented services.
Formal action: The board’s vote approved the initial bylaws and contract and authorized the superintendent, consistent with her existing authority, to sign the signature pages when the documents are ready. The board did not ask to delay the superintendent’s signature pending additional changes but stated it would be briefed if any significant revisions occur.
