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Parents and board discuss Applied Technology Center funding; board renews Palmetto School lease
Summary
Parents and advocates urged more reliable funding and communication for Applied Technology Center programs, while the board approved a one‑year lease renewal for the Palmetto School and discussed relocation of decommissioned playground equipment for partner preschools.
Parents, community members and school leaders used the Dec. 10 board meeting to press the district on funding and support for career and technical education at the Applied Technology Center (ATC) and to consider a lease renewal for a partner program.
Dr. Christine White, a parent and hospital medical director, said ATC students and instructors are enthusiastic but that some project‑level funding is not reaching classrooms: "We always sent students in the past, and now we can't afford to send students anymore," she said, adding that the district appears to have a disconnect between higher‑level line items and classroom purchasing needs. White asked the board to explore clearer communication and solutions so funds "land where they need to land." Board members acknowledged the concern and pledged to work with ATC staff to identify priorities and potential community partners.
Earlier in the meeting administrators recommended renewing the Palmetto School lease for one year so the partner program can continue using flex‑learning space (cafeteria, gym and track). The presenter said the partner currently serves about 63 children, 20 of whom are preschool age, and identified playground access as a need. Board members discussed the feasibility of relocating a decommissioned playground from another site and pledged to follow up. The board approved the lease renewal by unanimous vote.
No new district funding appropriation was approved at the meeting; the discussion produced commitments by staff and trustees to inventory needs, consult partners and return with options.
