October 14, 2025 at 6:00 PM - Board of Education Regular Meeting

Discussion:  In attendance:  Dr. Trey Duke, Sheri Arnette, Lisa Trail, Ken Rocha, Don Bartch, Daniel Owens, Maria Johnson, Taylor Brown, Adam Bryson, Jeremy Lewis and Bradley staff, Tiffany Strevel, Sia Phillips, Liz Rueby, Sarah Johnson, Melinda Crook, Alex Juneau, Tawana Harper, and staff from Reeves Rogers and Bradley.

Assistant City Attorney Lauren Bush and City Liaison Bill Shacklett

Discussion:  The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Monroe Brown, a first grade student at Salem Elementary and Piper Brown, a third grade student also at Salem Elementary, and Lorelai Wingfield and James Joye, both students at Black Fox Elementary 

Discussion:  Representatives from the following three schools attended the meeting with principals speaking about their schools and staff and accepting the "Level 5" school yard signs. 

Mitchell Neilson Elementary: Adam Bryson, Sarah Johnson, Melinda Crook, and Alex Juneau 
Reeves Rogers Elementary: Liz Rueby, Tawana Harper, and staff
Bradley Academy: Jeremy Lewis and staff 
 

Discussion:  Mr. Daniel Owens told the Board that we should receive the audit report for last year by the first of November.  
Jimmy Richardson said that he appreciates the guidance from Jobe Hastings and Associates, and he is glad to have them back to keep us accountable. 

Discussion: 

Dr. Duke presented information he plans to share at the upcoming City Retreat and wanted the Board to review it first.

He reported that current district enrollment stands at 8,915 students, which is 360 fewer than last year. Of those, 81 are kindergarten students—the equivalent of four classrooms. Dr. Duke noted that this decline is consistent with trends across the state and not unique to MCS. Sixth-grade enrollment is also down 48 students compared to last year, and since 2022, the district has seen a reduction of more than 200 sixth-grade students, likely due to families moving to the county for middle school.

He explained that lower enrollment may also be influenced by factors such as the 3rd-4th grade transition, increased homeschooling, vouchers, and the growth of charter schools. These variables make enrollment forecasting more challenging.

Dr. Duke noted that while private and homeschool numbers continue to rise, he anticipates a kindergarten enrollment increase next year. He reviewed PowerPoint slides showing enrollment and capacity by school, highlighting that seven schools are operating at over 90% capacity, with the most significant growth occurring in specific city areas.

Dr. Duke identified Black Fox Elementary and Salem Elementary as areas of concern, noting that approximately 300 homes are currently under construction near Salem, which is already at 92% capacity.

He reminded the Board that the Capital Improvement Plan lists a new school at an estimated cost of $55 million. After reviewing this information with the city last year, the project was deferred to 2028, as the current need does not warrant a new building.

Instead, Dr. Duke proposed exploring an addition at Cason Lane Academy, which is operating at 74% capacity and has available land for expansion. Adding eight classrooms (accommodating approximately 160-180 students) along with a small gym, cafeteria, and restrooms could increase the school’s capacity by about 400 students, relieving west-side overcrowding. He estimated the cost of such an addition to be $9-11 million, significantly less than constructing a new school, and with lower ongoing operational expenses. He clarified that he is not recommending immediate action but wanted the Board to be aware that this project is forthcoming.

Looking ahead, Dr. Duke said the district will continue to study sixth-grade enrollment trends and explore possible sixth-grade hub models to provide the best experience for families.

He concluded by stating that this presentation was intended to give the Board an early look at the information that will be shared with the City Council, emphasizing that a new building is not the only option being considered.

During discussion, Vice Chair Campbell acknowledged that the proposal primarily addresses west-side needs and asked about possible rezoning. Dr. Duke responded that forecasting remains difficult but that some limited rezoning may be needed, particularly around Salem Elementary, potentially in two phases toward Cason Lane.

Dr. Duke added that growth in vouchers, charter schools, private schools, and new county schools will also impact future enrollment patterns. He reiterated that a kindergarten increase is expected next year, and as new homes are completed in the Black Fox and Salem areas, rezoning of some neighborhoods may be necessary. He also noted that Pre-K and sixth-grade programs are under review.

Board Member Karen Dodd asked if Cason Lane Academy is the only site suitable for an addition. Dr. Duke confirmed it is the only location with sufficient space. Ms. Dodd stated she would like to minimize rezoning if possible.

Board Member Barbara Long asked about pre-zoning new subdivisions. Dr. Duke replied that while it could be done, it would be challenging if families could see a nearby school but were zoned elsewhere, and transportation would have to be addressed.

Board Member Jimmy Richardson remarked that not all families can afford private schools and emphasized that MCS has a strong future because of the quality of its schools and educators.

Board Member David Settles added that vouchers have not primarily served lower-income families, as many cannot afford the remaining tuition costs.

Dr. Duke agreed, stating that the majority of students will continue to attend MCS schools, and the district must be prepared for them.

Chair Moore commented that although long-term enrollment projections are difficult, she believes the district’s reputation for quality education will encourage more families to choose public schools. She emphasized that MCS schools are a strong value and a great choice. Dr. Duke added that the district will maintain high standards and that the fifth goal of the 2026-2031 Strategic Plan is to communicate to the community that MCS is a quality choice.

Mr. Settles concluded by noting that MCS provides an environment where educators want to stay long-term and said the district will continue to "ring that bell" to promote its excellence.

Mrs. Long asked if the Cason Lane Pre-K program is full. Dr. Duke confirmed it is and said that if the district moves toward a sixth-grade hub model, some Pre-K classes may be relocated to areas with more space.

In summary, Dr. Duke reiterated that forecasting enrollment is increasingly difficult, but the district anticipates growth next year and is exploring all options—including additions and rezoning—rather than solely a new school construction.

Discussion: 

Dr. Duke reported that he had received several inquiries regarding the potential impact of the federal government shutdown on the district. He explained that approximately 10% of the district’s budget comes from federal funds, including Nutrition, IDEA, and Title programs.

Dr. Duke noted that there have been no interruptions to district operations, as these grants are awarded in the summer and states have already received the allocated funds from which the district is currently drawing. While no new federal grants are being issued during the shutdown, the district’s core federal funding remains unaffected at this time.

He also shared that the federal government’s layoffs of special education staff have not impacted the district, as services are coordinated through the state and continue without interruption.

 

Discussion: 

Chair Moore announced that the Discovery Guild Group, which supports the Discovery Center, will host a fundraising event on October 24. She invited board members to attend and noted that proceeds from the event will fund field trips for all 2nd grade and Title I classrooms to the Discovery Center.

 

Discussion:  The meeting adjourned at 7:03 p.m.