The meeting was called to order by Chairperson Larry Muse. Also present were Don Neal, Superintendent and Gordon Germain, Board Counsel.

Additional attendees were Mr. Neal's mentors: Charles Higdon, Superintendent of Taylor County Schools and Fred Carter, Executive Director of Coaching & Mentoring Leadership Series for onboarding new Superintendents.

Superintendent, Don Neal presented the board his Capstone Presentation (new superintendents are required to participate in capstone reports that review the annual progress they have made in meeting profession growth plan standards which include strategic leadership, instructional leadership, cultural, human resources, managerial leadership, collaborative, and influential leadership.

Mr. Neal shared the Capstone report through a PowerPoint format (all board members and mentors were presented with Capstone in booklet form to follow along with as well) as he discussed the details. He opened the presentation with "Thanks" to the Board Members, your ILP Team, KASA Cohort 12 Team Trainers, and Wayne County Stakeholders including staff, students, parents, and community members.  This was followed by some great pictures featuring students, staff, and community members participating in some noteworthy events such as a Science Fair, A Transition Fair, a Middle School Art Performance, Lions Club Support for Students during ACT Testing, a Family Learning Night, and other important school year events. 

Following Mr. Neal's presentation Mr. Higdon and Mr. Carter addressed the board and expressed their positive impressions of Mr. Neal and how well this year has gone. Several board members also expressed their appreciation for the great job Mr. Neal has done.

Summarizing the report, Mr. Carter wrote " The proof is in the pudding.  This really has been a phenomenal first year and the students of Wayne County are blessed with clean, well-kept facilities and the outstanding educational opportunities available to them because of the work you, the Board, your Administrative Team Members, the teachers, the students, the parents, and the school community members have devoted this year and in previous years to the Wayne County School District.  The pride in that district is very evident.  You also have much for which to be proud and the best really is yet to come for the Wayne County Schools!!!

Congratulations again upon a great Capstone and an even better first year as a New Superintendent.  I am very proud of you, Don, and I expect to witness your continued professional growth as you continue to gain that valuable experience.  Best wishes as you complete this initial year and make the transition to year two.  This was a wonderful Capstone and a true celebration in every sense of the word!

A copy may be found in the Minute Abstract Files # 168.

Approval to adjourn

Order #158 - Motion Passed:  Approval to adjourn passed with a motion by Mr. Jarrod Criswell and a second by Mr. Larry Muse.