The Haywood County School Board approved its consent agenda and meeting agenda by voice vote, approved two small intra-department transfers in the General School Purpose Fund ($2,275 and $725), announced an executive session with the board attorney, and heard routine director updates including holiday closures and student health services.
Haywood County Schools announced district-level award winners including Martin Rodriguez (novice teacher), Yolanda Taylor (district teacher of the year) and Anna Roberts (principal of the year); winners will represent the district in the state recognition program.
The Haywood County School Board voted unanimously to hire Renaissance Group and 4f Design to begin design work for a new county high school, with consultants warning design must start immediately to meet an August 2028 target.
The district approved a voluntary AirMed Care membership program for employees, payable by payroll deduction and at the employee’s election; administrators said the membership covers air transport costs that typical insurance often does not fully cover.
The board honored FFA regional officer Carson Osteen and recognized multiple students and staff for TBAS growth. It also approved overnight travel for FFA students to the state soil judging contest in Cookeville.
The board approved multiple budget amendments across the general fund, special revenue and federal projects funds, including a $40,000 preschool special education grant and Title I/II/III changes. Staff said they are monitoring federal shutdown risks and holding back expenditures where feasible.
The board approved three contracts with Academic Momentum to develop standards-aligned assessment items and professional development for Sunny Hill, Haywood Middle and Haywood High; two contracts are paid with state school-improvement funds while Eastside will require district funds.
Board approved changes to the district’s Disciplinary Hearing Authority (DHA) to remove a member whose supervisory role over counselors and social workers created a conflict of interest; a replacement with prior DHA experience will be appointed.
The board approved a job description that allows high‑school students enrolled in the Teaching as a Profession course to work (15 hours) as paid after‑school tutors under teacher supervision; administrators said the program is intended to give practical employment experience and potentially encourage future teachers.
District staff reported 51 educators currently on permits or waivers and described increased mentoring and support to help them advance to full licensure; the board approved the waiver requests.
