Procurement Updates
The South Carolina Consolidated Procurement Code requires that all State agencies or agencies that have adopted a procurement code that is substantially similar to the State code formulate a Minority Business Enterprise Utilization Plan (“MBE Plan”). The MBE Plan is designed to ensure that minority businesses are offered the opportunity to fully participate in the overall procurement process of the district. The MBE Plan must be approved annually by the school board.
First Reading of District Cell Phone Policy
Mr. Grey Young presented policy JICJ–Prohibition of Personal Electronic Devices During the School Day for first reading. This policy is in response to the new state law banning student use of personal electronic devices during the school day and is in line with the recently released state model policy. The district began the ban at the beginning of the year under an administrative rule in anticipation of this policy. The board will vote on the policy at the next scheduled school board meeting.
Consideration of Approval of Changes to Procurement Manual
The board voted to approve the updated procurement manual as presented.
Consideration of Approval of District Energy Management Program
The board voted to approve the District Energy Management Program as outlined at the last school board meeting. The plan is designed to:
- Modernize District Infrastructure & Technology
- Maximize Operational Efficiency
- Reduce Energy/Water Costs & Consumption
- Demonstrate Wise Financial Stewardship
The plan consists of two phases:
- Phase 1
- Focus on high-impact Energy Conservation Measures
- Drive energy/operational savings and technology enhancements district-wide
- Prioritize LED sports lighting at high schools and Comporium Athletic Park
- Phase 2
- Address remaining elementary & middle school sports lighting
- Advance additional upcoming capital needs
- Evaluate other district facilities not included in Phase 1 – i.e., Administration, Transportation & Maintenance facilities
Through this program, in partnership with Schneider Electric, the district could save an estimated $22 million over 20 years that could be reallocated to fund other district initiatives.
Consideration of Approval of the 2025-2026 Calendar
The board voted to approve the 2025–2026 calendar as presented. The calendar features the following:
- Equal 90 day semesters
- Student Start Date Aug. 4
- Fall Break for students and eligible staff Oct. 6–10
- Thanksgiving Break Nov. 26–28
- Winter Break Dec. 22–Jan. 2
- Break for students and eligible staff in conjunction with Presidents’ Day Feb. 16–20
- Spring Break April 6–10
- Last Day of School May 29
