Board approves construction change orders, accepts audit and clears international trip and policy first reading

The Henderson County Board of Education on March 16 accepted an unmodified annual audit, approved two construction change orders on ongoing school projects, approved an international student trip for summer 2028 and approved the first reading of a volunteer policy change that will reduce volunteer background‑check barriers.

Auditor Mr. White summarized the district audit and told the board "there was no findings at the financial statement level nor at the federal program level," meaning the audit firm did not identify reportable findings that would require a corrective action plan. The board recognized finance and school staff for responsiveness during the audit.

Construction updates noted steady progress at East Heights (roof dried in and interior finishing) and continuing work at South Middle (geothermal drilling, hydronic piping). Two change orders were presented and approved by voice vote: Change Order 5‑1 for BG25‑225 (South Middle HVAC) to lower a ceiling to accommodate ductwork and piping; and Change Order 01 for BG25‑430 (culinary renovation and parking lot asphalt) to relocate a fresh‑air intake and extend a separating wall. The board approved both change orders unanimously.

On student travel, the board approved a request to allow staff to proceed with an international educational trip planned for summer 2028 to Dublin, London and Paris. The superintendent recommended approval so organizers could begin communications with families and finalize logistics.

The board also approved the first reading of policy 3.6 on volunteers, a revision intended to remove barriers by allowing the district to cover some background‑check costs and by reducing the frequency of required checks, subject to superintendent approval for costs. Policy staff noted the intent is to strengthen community partnerships by making volunteer service more accessible.

Routine business included approval of a nine‑item consent agenda, acceptance of minutes and standard financial reports. Treasurer Mr. Stokes reported receipts and expenditures for February 2026; the figures reported in the meeting were receipts of $766,215 and expenditures of $914,825 for the month (a net decrease; transcript formatting of these numbers was irregular—see clarifying details). The paid warrant report showed $4,436,791.93 in payments between Feb. 17 and March 16, 2026; the board approved the warrants.

All votes described during the meeting were taken by voice and recorded as unanimous.