Student Services told the board the district has expanded use of EverFi lessons across grades, reported growth in student participation, and said packet data show updated enrollment figures.
School district staff told the board May 13 that a community walk-through of Howard Middle School is scheduled for May 28 ahead of demolition; work also continues at Orangeburg-Wilkinson High and Eastlake Elementary.
After a student advisory council presentation, the Orangeburg County School District Board approved $381,913.52 to install vape-detection sensors in middle and high schools using e-cigarette settlement and remaining USDA funds.
The board approved a pay increase for summer-school staff: $50 per hour for certified teachers and $25 per hour for teacher assistants and classified staff.
Following executive session, the board approved superintendent recommendations for certified contract renewals, nonrenewals, hires and reassignments; the meeting also recorded routine agenda and minutes approvals and the adjournment vote.
Board heard progress reports on the new Robert E. Howard Elementary School groundbreaking (state-supported), work at the OW site and Eastlake repairs, including clarification that a new retention pond is designed to prevent flooding.
During the district's March 25 budget workshop, board members pressed administrators about athletic field safety and equipment needs while administrators described expanded district support for uniforms, security and band instruments.
At a March 25 budget workshop, financial adviser Bob Damron told the Orangeburg County School District board that most pre‑consolidation bond debt is nearly retired, the district is on track with referendum bonds, and a June resolution to participate in the SKAGO/SCAGO pooled issuance program is expected.
At the March 25 budget workshop the district reported a June 30, 2024 fund balance of $43.7 million, outlined FY25 revenue reductions, and identified FY26 priorities including a proposed $1,500 teacher pay increase, a bus‑driver schedule adjustment and possible retention and signing bonuses.
Walter Bennett, CEO of MUSC Health Orangeburg, briefed the school board on expanding local health services and workforce partnerships, and Superintendent Foster announced a Change SC pop-up market pilot in Branchville on March 31.