School board approves two tech specialist positions and a grant‑funded behavior tech role

The Tipton County School Board voted to add two entry‑level technology specialist positions and to approve a grant‑funded behavior technician position for preschool students with disabilities.

Human resources supervisor Latoya Avery asked the board to approve two new technology specialist positions, saying the district needs additional staff to support Chromebooks, access points and increasingly complex instructional and operational technology. Avery said the combined cost for the two positions — including salaries and payroll liabilities — could range from $125,000 to $175,000; that total will be reflected in the general purpose school fund (account 72250, object code 121) in January when finance presents budget amendments. Starting pay was described as likely in the $40,000–$45,000 range depending on certifications and experience. The motion to approve the two positions was made by Jenkins and seconded by McCain; the board approved the request by voice vote.

Separately, the special education team requested a 10‑month behavior technician position to serve students with disabilities in pre‑K and preschool classrooms. Staff said the role will assist with functional behavior assessments and behavior intervention plans and support teachers and paraprofessionals. The position is funded under fiscal year 2026 by a recently awarded Partnership for Systemic Changes preschool grant; finance will present budget amendments to recognize the funding in the federal projects fund (account 01/1942, budget account 72220, object code 135). The motion to approve the behavior tech position was made by Edwards and seconded by Eubanks and carried by voice vote.

Board members and staff said the technology positions are intended to be entry level and that applicants with CompTIA certifications would be preferred but not strictly required; staff noted much training occurs on the job. The district reported it currently supports technology across 14 schools and described the new roles as necessary to maintain 1:1 Chromebook access and expanding wireless and lab needs. Finance staff will present the specific line‑item changes in a future budget amendment.