Superintendent reports subgroup growth, attendance and $97,749 safety grant; district recognizes students and coaches

Superintendent Dr. Belcher highlighted district academic and operational updates and brought forward recognitions for students, teachers and coaches.

Belcher told the board that recently submitted achievement data show the district's identified subgroups met growth and that the district will submit December headcount to the state as required. He noted several subgroup figures: the district currently identifies 6% of students as English-language learners served by nine staff, 29 teachers hold Advanced Individualized Gifted (AIG) certification, and economically disadvantaged students comprise roughly 52.7% of the student population. Belcher also flagged an increase in students identified with autism and stressed the need for targeted supports and professional development for staff serving students with disabilities, which the superintendent said are funded at about 13% from the state and place strains on local resources.

Belcher also reported a 94% average attendance rate for the district (down from a 96% start-of-year figure) and praised staff who support families and student programs. He announced that Davie County Schools had been awarded a Department of Justice Community-Oriented Policing Services (COPS) grant for $97,749 to bolster safety and communication during crises. "We have been approved for a COPS grant, ... in the amount of $97,749," Belcher said, crediting Mary Foster for her role in authoring the grant application.

The board then recognized student achievements across FFA competitions, fall athletic teams (women's tennis, cross country, cheer, football) and announced winners of the district holiday card contest across elementary, middle and high school levels.

The superintendent closed by thanking instructional coaches and support staff for behind-the-scenes work, and district leaders noted continuing cybersecurity training and technology improvements.