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Rutherford County Schools report enrollment, achievements and meal-cost estimates; new Poplar Hill middle school on schedule
Summary
Deputy Superintendent Kay Martin told the Health & Ed Committee that the district has roughly 50,765 students, highlighted student awards and a STEM Expo, provided meal prices and estimated a universal free-meals program would cost about $21.8–$22 million; she said Poplar Hill Middle School remains on schedule and explained reporting options for staff.
Kay Martin, deputy superintendent for Rutherford County Schools, briefed the Health & Education Committee on March 24, citing student achievements, enrollment figures and program updates.
Martin said there were no budget amendments and highlighted district successes: 12 state archery titles, strong performance in recent boys’ and girls’ basketball tournaments, and a STEM Expo at Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) that hosted 441 students presenting more than 220 projects. She noted Stewarts Creek High School was selected to host a 'History Rocks' celebration in Tennessee.
On enrollment and meal pricing, Martin reported the district’s enrollment was “around 50,765 students” when she checked that afternoon. She gave school meal prices as $2 for breakfast, $3.25 for elementary lunch and $3.50 for middle and high school lunches; she added that the alternate meal charged when a student reaches the district’s $60 meal-debt limit costs $1.42. Asked what universal free meals would cost for the district, Martin said that using averages from the past two years and USDA reimbursements, the district’s estimate is about $21.8–$22 million.
Martin also gave the district’s free-and-reduced rate as about 46% overall, and noted higher concentrations in Title I schools (she cited one elementary school at about 80%, a high school around 65% and a Title I middle school at about 73%), adding that the percentages depend in part on parents submitting forms.
On facilities, Martin said Poplar Hill Middle School is following the planned schedule with an expected opening later in August; the principal is hiring staff and a video tour is available on the district website. She told the committee that kindergarten registration has begun and that summer learning camp registration ends this Friday; additional elementary and middle-school slots were recently added.
A commissioner asked whether teachers or staff can report concerns anonymously; Martin replied staff can contact her or Dr. Sullivan by phone or email but cautioned that addressing a problem typically requires identifying details, and she said both she and Dr. Sullivan maintain open-door policies.
The committee approved the school update by voice vote. Martin offered to email requested data and follow up on specific questions.
