Centennial High School Governance Council

AGENDA

 

Members: Stephanie Rogers, Elected Parent (2025); Erin Schwartzenfeld, Elected Teacher Member (2025); Amber Leggett, Elected Teacher Member (2026); Sanjay Barooah, Elected Parent (2025); Jennifer D’Amico, Elected Parent (2026); Adam Miller, Appointed Staff Member (2026); Gail Ritchie, Appointed Staff Member (2025); Vacant, Nominated Community Member (2026); Ratima Guest-Smith, Nominated Community Member (2025); Amaya Johnson, Appointed Student (non-voting member); Katie Jones, Appointed Student (non-voting member); Dr. Opie Blackwell, Principal (non-voting member)
__________________________________________________________________

August 15, 2024 at 7:15 a.m.
Learning  Commons Conference Room

Centennial School Governance Council Norms:

1.      Be on-time, present, engaged, and respectful of one another.

2.      Make sure everyone’s voice is heard by listening and allowing everyone a chance to express themselves.

3.      Speak up when you have an opinion or question.

4.      Focus on making decisions for the students and faculty of CHS (look at all programs and areas of needs).

Detail	Responsible Party
Call to Order	Blackwell
Action Item: “May I have a motion to approve the meeting agenda.” [Call 1st & 2nd] then [Call for Vote – In Favor and Opposed]	Blackwell
Action Item: “May I have a motion to approve the previous meeting minutes.” [Call 1st & 2nd] then [Call for Vote – In Favor and Opposed]	Blackwell
Discussion: Welcome of 24-25 SGC Elected Members & Appointed Members (5 minutes) ·         Amber Leggett, elected teacher ·         Jennifer D’Amico, elected parent ·         Adam Miller, appointed staff member ·         Amaya Johnson, appointed student ·         Katie Jones, appointed student
Discussion: Nomination of Community Members for vacant 2024-2026 position. ·         Sara Butler: see interest statement at bottom	All
Action Item: “May I have a motion to approve ___ as a community member on the Centennial SGC serving a term from 2024 – 2026.”	Blackwell
Discussion (20 minutes): ·         Review SGC handbook roles for chair, vice chair, and parliamentarian. ·         Once nominations are accepted for one position, move to the below action item to conduct a vote on that person or multiple people to select the position. Review SGC handbook rules for all SGC members being on a communications/outreach, budget/finance, or principal selection and select memberships to add to minutes.	Blackwell
Action Item: “May I have a motion to approve ___ as council chair.” [Call 1st & 2nd] then [Call for Vote]
Action Item: “May I have a motion to approve  ___ as council vice chair.” [Call 1st & 2nd] then [Call for Vote]
Action Item: “May I have a motion to approve  ___ as council parliamentarian.” [Call 1st & 2nd] then [Call for Vote]
Discussion: Assignment of council members to Communications and Outreach, Budget and Finance, and Principal Selection Committees.	Blackwell
Discussion: Strategic Priorities (5 minutes)   A reminder of the 4 areas we’ve set as CHS strategic priorities: ·         School Beautification / Improvement Initiatives: (Future ideas: outdoor eating area). ·         Safety Enhancements and Needs: (Future ideas: continue improving signage on interior hallways). ·         Relationships & Routines – Pathways2Life partnership continued. ·         School Communication Strategy and Enhancement: (Future: add a communications manager contracted position for approx. $8,500 per semester)	Blackwell
Discussion – Superintendent’s Parent Council Update (5 minutes): ·         Updates, if any, from Supt. Council provided.	D’Amico
Discussion – Superintendent’s Student Council Update (5 minutes): ·         Updates, if any, from Supt. Council provided.	Johnson
Discussion – Principal Information Report (20 minutes): ·         Communications Director and Direction (Celia Cody!) ·         Enrollment & Staffing Update ·         FCS Strategic Planning Process ·         First Week of School	Blackwell
Public Comment (if applicable from approved speaker request form)	Blackwell
Action Item: “May I have a motion to adjourn the meeting.” [Call 1st & 2nd] then [Call for Vote]	Blackwell

 

Sara Butler Candidate Statement: My professional role as Director of Marketing at Cox Enterprises, inc. requires a collaborative mindset, a commitment to constructive problem-solving, and a willingness to approach important topics with diplomacy and good faith.  I am a consensus builder who believes in servant leadership, which is a style of management that puts the needs of the team first and prioritizes the success of the organization above personal accolades.

For the past 20 years I have focused on online content and audience engagement on a variety of platforms, including mobile and social media. My experience in demographic analysis and trendcasting gives me a view into the social environments today's teenagers are immersed in. I am accustomed to setting my own generational biases aside to fairly assess the needs and interests of Millennials and Gen Z, as well as the upcoming "Generation Alpha" who will be entering high school in the next year or two.

Centennial High School Governance Council 

Summary of Meeting Actions 

August 15, 2024, 7:15 a.m. - Learning Commons 

(This meeting does allow time for public comment) 

  

Members Present: Opie Blackwell, Adam Miller, Gail Ritchie, Erin Schwartzenfeld, Sanjay Barooah, Amber Leggett, Amaya Johnson, Katie Jones, Stephanie Rogers, Jennifer D’Amico, Ratima Guest-Smith 

Members Added: Sara Butler (added to members present after approval of her community role) 

Members Absent: none 

Council Action Items (the council acted on the following items): 

 

• Approval of August 15, 2024, Agenda. 

• Schwartzenfeld motioned and Miller seconded. Unanimous approval. 

• Approval of May 16, 2024, Meeting Minutes 

• Rogers motioned and Barooah seconded. Unanimous approval. 

• Approval of Sarah Butler as Community Member of the Centennial SGC for a 2024-2026 term.  

• Schwartzenfeld motioned and D’Amico seconded. Unanimous approval. 

• Approval Sanjay Barooah of as Chair of the Centennial SGC for the 24-25 year.  

• Rogers motioned and Butler seconded. Unanimous approval. 

• Approval of as Stephanie Rogers Vice Chair of the Centennial SGC for the 24-25 year.  

• Butler motioned and Guest-Smith seconded. Unanimous approval. 

• Approval of Ratima Guest-Smith as Parliamentarian of the Centennial SGC for the 24-25 year.  

• Rogers motioned and D’Amico seconded. Unanimous approval. 

• Approval of adjournment.  

• Guest-Smith motioned, and Rogers seconded. Unanimous approval. 

 

 Centennial High School Governance Council

Meeting Minutes – August 15, 2024, 7:15 a.m.

(This meeting does allow time for public comment)

 

Members Present:  Opie Blackwell, Adam Miller, Gail Ritchie, Erin Schwartzenfeld, Sanjay Barooah, Amber Leggett, Amaya Johnson, Katie Jones, Stephanie Rogers, Jennifer D’Amico, Ratima Guest-Smith

 

Members Absent: none

 

Guests: Sarah Butler

 

 

        I.            Call to Order

The meeting was called to order at 7:16 am

 

     II.            Action Items

·       Approval of August 15, 2024, Agenda.

Schwartzenfeld motioned and Miller seconded. Unanimous approval.

 

·       Approval of May 16, 2024, Meeting Minutes

Rogers motioned and Barooah seconded. Unanimous approval.

 

·       Approval of Sarah Butler as Community Member of the Centennial SGC for a 2024-2026 term. Schwartzenfeld motioned and D’Amico seconded.  Unanimous approval.
 

·       Approval Sanjay Barooah of as Chair of the Centennial SGC for the 24-25 year.  Rogers motioned and Butler seconded.  Unanimous approval.
 

·       Approval of as Stephanie Rogers Vice Chair of the Centennial SGC for the 24-25 year.  Butler motioned and Guest-Smith seconded.  Unanimous approval.
 

·       Approval of Ratima Guest-Smith as Parliamentarian of the Centennial SGC for the 24-25 year. Rogers motioned and D’Amico seconded.  Unanimous approval.
 

·       Approval of adjournment. Guest-Smith motioned, and Rogers seconded. Unanimous approval.

 

  III.            Discussion Items

A.     Welcome of 24-25 Elected and Appointed Members

·       All members introduced themselves.
 

B.     Nomination of Community Member(s) for vacant 2024-2026 position.

·       Sarah Butler was nominated and approved for this position.
 

C.      Review Council Member Elected Roles

·       Vacant council positions were discussed, and duties explained.
 

D.     Review council member committees and make assignments for 24-25 year

·       There are three standing committees: Budget and Finance, Outreach and Communications, New Principal Committees

·       Budget and Finance: Rogers, Butler, Ritchie, Guest-Smith. Rogers will be chair

·       Outreach and Communications: D’Amico, Butler, Guest-Smith, Leggett.  Guest-Smith will be chair.

·       New Principal Committee: Barooah, Rogers, Miller, Schwartzenfeld
 

E.      Discussion of council’s past strategic priorities

·       School Beautification

·       Safety Enhancements and Needs

·       Relationships & Routines

·       School Communication Strategy and Enhancement

 

F.      Superintendent’s Parent Council

·       Jennifer D’Amico is Centennial’s representative member.
The next meeting will be in September.

 

G.     Superintendent’s Student Council

·       Amaya Johnson is Centennial’s representative member. Katie Jones will assist as needed.
 

H.     Principal’s Update

·       Communications Director and Direction: Ms. Celia Cody shared her connection to the school and her marketing background. This is a new position, and we are developing our plan of communications.  Have sent out a survey about the perception of our brand to the all the stakeholders: parents, students, staff, and community.  What does Centennial want to be known for and how do we brand accordingly. New Instagram is centennial_knights.  How do we consolidate what we already have on social media will be a focus. New theme for August is #backtoblueandblack

·       Enrollment and Staffing Update: Budget is based on enrollment predictions.  We were projected at 1680 students. At end of first day, we were 1578 students.  We are back up to 1634, which is under our predicted enrollment.  More information about potential changes will come later this week.

·       FCS Strategic Planning Process: Dr. Blackwell discussed the County’s 6 overarching goals of the strategic action plan and the metrics that go with them.  This plan will be developed by Centennial this fall.  Choices will be narrowed down by each school.

·       First Week of School: Katie Jones shared that she found everyone much more open this year. Amaya Johnson shared that with the new cell phone policy engagement is up and she is excited for the new Smart Pass system.  Schwartzenfeld said it went very smoothly.  She notices the difference in engagement.  Coach Miller said student feedback is positive from students.

I.        Next meeting will be September 19, 2024.
 

   IV.            Adjourn

The meeting was adjourned at 8:32 am.

Centennial High School Governance Council

AGENDA

 

Members: Stephanie Rogers, Elected Parent (2025); Erin Schwartzenfeld, Elected Teacher Member (2025); Amber Leggett, Elected Teacher Member (2026); Sanjay Barooah, Elected Parent (2025); Jennifer D’Amico, Elected Parent (2026); Adam Miller, Appointed Staff Member (2026); Gail Ritchie, Appointed Staff Member (2025); Sara Butler, Nominated Community Member (2026); Ratima Guest-Smith, Nominated Community Member (2025); Amaya Johnson, Appointed Student (non-voting member); Katie Jones, Appointed Student (non-voting member); Dr. Opie Blackwell, Principal (non-voting member)

__________________________________________________________________

September 19, 2024 at 7:15 a.m.
Learning Commons Conference Room

 

Centennial School Governance Council Norms:

1.      Be on-time, present, engaged, and respectful of one another.

2.      Make sure everyone’s voice is heard by listening and allowing everyone a chance to express themselves.

3.      Speak up when you have an opinion or question.

4.      Focus on making decisions for the students and faculty of CHS (look at all programs and areas of needs).

 

 

Detail	Responsible Party
Call to Order	Barooah
Action Item: “May I have a motion to approve the meeting agenda.” [Call 1st & 2nd] then [Call for Vote – In Favor and Opposed]	Guest-Smith
Action Item: “May I have a motion to approve the previous meeting minutes.” [Call 1st & 2nd] then [Call for Vote – In Favor and Opposed]	Guest-Smith
Discussion (5 minutes): SGC Updates from Facilitator Katie Kinsey   From Aug. 15th E-mail to SGC Members ·         Fall 2024 Officer Training Sign-Up ·         Fall 2024 Cross Council Sign-Up ·         State Schools Superintendent Council Opportunity Shared 8/15 to students from Blackwell	Barooah
Discussion (30 minutes): FCS Strategic Planning Process	Blackwell
Discussion: Council Priorities (5 minutes)   There are 4 areas we’ve set as CHS strategic priorities. We will review Safety Enhancements and Needs due to recent school events in the greater Atlanta area: ·         Safety Enhancements and Needs: (Review: Safety related protocols, equipment, etc. Future ideas: continue improving signage on interior hallways).	Blackwell
Discussion: Communications Manager Position Funding Approval (5 min)	Blackwell
Action Item: “May I have a motion to approve the use of $17,000 in strategic support funds to pay for a contracted communications manager position.” [Call 1st & 2nd] then [Call for Vote – In Favor and Opposed]	Guest-Smith
Discussion – Superintendent’s Parent Council Update (5 minutes): ·         Updates, if any, from Supt. Council provided.	D’Amico
Discussion – Superintendent’s Student Council Update (5 minutes): ·         Updates, if any, from Supt. Council provided.	Johnson / Jones
Discussion – Principal Information Report (5 minutes)	Blackwell
Public Comment (if applicable from approved speaker request form)	Barooah
Action Item: “May I have a motion to adjourn the meeting.” [Call 1st & 2nd] then [Call for Vote]	Guest-Smith

 

Centennial High School Governance Council

Summary of Meeting Actions

September 19, 2024, 7:15 a.m. - Learning Commons

(This meeting does allow time for public comment)

 

Members Present: Opie Blackwell, Gail Ritchie, Erin Schwartzenfeld, Sanjay Barooah, Amber Leggett, Stephanie Rogers, Jennifer D’Amico, Ratima Guest-Smith, Sara Butler

Members Added: Sara Butler (added to members present after approval of her community role)

Members Absent: Adam Miller, Amaya Johnson, Katie Jones

Council Action Items (the council acted on the following items):

 

·       Approval of September 19, 2024, Agenda.

o   Rogers motioned and Schwartzenfeld seconded. Unanimous approval.

·       Approval of August 15, 2024, Meeting Minutes

o   Rogers motioned and D’Amico seconded. Unanimous approval.

·       Approval of $17,000 in strategic support funds to pay for a contracted communications director.

o   Rogers motioned and Butler seconded. Unanimous approval.

·       Approval of adjournment.

o   Rogers motioned, and Ritchie seconded. Unanimous approval.

 

Centennial High School Governance Council Meeting Minutes – September 18 2024, 7:15 a.m.

(This meeting does allow time for public comment)

 

Members Present: Opie Blackwell, Dr. Gail Ritchie, Erin Schwartzenfeld, Sanjay Barooah, Amber Leggett, Stephanie Rogers, Jennifer D’Amico,

Ratima Guest-Smith, Sarah Butler

 

Members Absent: Adam Miller, Katie Jones, Amaya Johnson Guests: Katie Kinsey- SGC Facilitator

I.            Call to Order

The meeting was called to order at 7:16 am

 

II.            Minutes and Agenda

 

●      September Minutes

Motion to approve minutes- Stephaie Rogers, Motion seconded- Erin Schwarzenfield . Votes-Unanimous approval.

 

●      September Agenda

Motion to accept agenda - Stephanie Rogers, Motion seconded- Jennifer Amica Votes: Unanimous approval

 

III.         Action Items

 

●      Community Manager

A motion was made by Stephanie Rogers to allocate $17,000 from the Strategic Funds for the contracted Community Manager position. The motion was seconded by Sara Butler

 

Votes: Unanimous approval. Motion Passed

 

* $17,000.00 approved from Strategic Fund for the Community Manager, who will manage social media platforms and streamline school communications.

 

IV.             SGC Council Cross Council - Katie Kinsey

●      Katie Kinsey- SGC Facilitator self introduced and sat as a guest to observe Centennial SGC board meetings. Ms Kinsey discussed the Fulton county SGC cross council meetings for all schools, stating the goal is to exchange ideas, network, and observe how other SGC councils operate throughout the district. The district aims to increase engagement and conversation between governance boards and to better align uniform school’s strategic plan goals district wide.

 

●      Student Governance Council Officer Training: Sept 23 & 26 9 am-11am North Learning Center

 

2.

.

 

●      SGC Cross Council meeting: Alpharetta High School Oct 9, 2024 5 pm-7pm Ratima Guest-Smith- Community member will represent of Centennial H.S

 

●      State Superintendent Council: Dr Blackwell discussed the opportunity for student representation on the State Superintendent Advisory Council. The application deadline was September 6. In the absence of SGC student representatives, he was unsure if Centennial had any applicants

 

V.   Action Items:

 

Fulton County Strategic Planning- Opie Blackwell provided an overview of FCS District six strategic plan goals, asking the SGC to outline and priorities those specific to Centennial High School

 

●      Strategic Plan Goal #1: Enhance Performance

Goal: Implement a school-wide initiative to improve performance on milestones, Measurement Goal:Achieve proficiency or better.

Rationale: Our goal is to support developing learners and elevate their skills to reach proficiency.

 

●      Strategic Plan Goal #2: Prioritize Safety and Operational Efficiency

Goal: Decrease school discipline referrals.

Out-of-school suspensions (OSS) and In-school suspensions (ISS) were down by 40% in 2023.

 

Key Question & Discussion:

 

●      What contributed to the decrease in OSS and ISS?

●      Develop a uniform and consistent procedure across the board for OS / ISS

●       Decrease ISS from full-day to half-day

 

Strategic Plan Goal #3: Ensure Impactful Programming

.                  Goal: Take into consideration what a higher level learning environment looks like.

 

Strategic Plan Goal# 4 Strengthen Workforce Engagement

-                              Goal Increase certified employee retention rate

 

Key Questions:

 

●      Does Centennial conduct exit interviews?

●      Is there clear data on staff turnover rates?

●      Should we consider implementing a mid-year survey from staff

 

3.

 

●      Strategic Plan Goal# 5 Utilize Fiscal Resources Effectively

 

Goal: Local funds ( student activity fund) used to pay for events vs. state funds.

 

Decrease student activity fund b/c we have a new booker who advises that maintaining a utilization rate above 81% will keep us in good standing.

 

Strategic Plan Goal # 6 Deepen Community Connections

Goal: Decrease the percentage of student absence by 10%

VI.  Action Items Community Manager

A motion was made by Stephanie Rogers to allocate $17,000 from the Strategic Funds for the contracted Community Manager position. The motion was seconded by Sara Butler

 

Votes: Unanimous approval.        Motion Passed

 

Note: Community Manager, who will manage social media platforms and streamline school communications.

 

 

Principal’s Update

 

●      Safety and Improvement Initiatives:

○      Kristen McCabe, CSA, added for safety -improvements.

○      Notable reduction in tardiness and in-school suspensions (ISS) due to the implementation of a digital bathroom pass.

●      Parent Inquiries:

○      Questions were raised regarding new safety protocols following the Appalachian High shooting:

■      Utilization of the new safety officer,

■      inquiry about metal detectors.

■      What processes being developed to empower students to provide feedback on "at-risk" students or general concerns

●      Feedback from Sara Butler:

○      Suggested exploring additional options for students to report at-risk concerns. which includes building better relationships in in flex classes and

■      How students can provide feedback on "at-risk" students.

●      Feedback from Sara Butler:

○      Suggested additional reporting options for students and emphasized building relationships during classroom and homeroom time/

 

Next meeting will be October 17, 2024.

Adjourn:

The meeting was adjourned at 8:34 am.

Centennial High School Governance Council

AGENDA

 

Members: Stephanie Rogers, Elected Parent (2025); Erin Schwartzenfeld, Elected Teacher Member (2025); Amber Leggett, Elected Teacher Member (2026); Sanjay Barooah, Elected Parent (2025); Jennifer D’Amico, Elected Parent (2026); Adam Miller, Appointed Staff Member (2026); Gail Ritchie, Appointed Staff Member (2025); Sara Butler, Nominated Community Member (2026); Ratima Guest-Smith, Nominated Community Member (2025); Amaya Johnson, Appointed Student (non-voting member); Katie Jones, Appointed Student (non-voting member); Dr. Opie Blackwell, Principal (non-voting member)
__________________________________________________________________

October 17, 2024 at 7:15 a.m.
Learning Commons Conference Room

Centennial School Governance Council Norms:

1.     Be on-time, present, engaged, and respectful of one another.

2.     Make sure everyone’s voice is heard by listening and allowing everyone a chance to express themselves.

3.     Speak up when you have an opinion or question.

4.     Focus on making decisions for the students and faculty of CHS (look at all programs and areas of needs).

Detail	Responsible Party
Call to Order	Barooah
Action Item: “May I have a motion to approve the meeting agenda.” [Call 1st & 2nd] then [Call for Vote – In Favor and Opposed]	Guest-Smith
Action Item: “May I have a motion to approve the previous meeting minutes.” [Call 1st & 2nd] then [Call for Vote – In Favor and Opposed]	Guest-Smith
Discussion (5 minutes): SGC Updates from Fulton County Schools From Sept. / Oct. e-mails to council members	Barooah
Discussion (15 minutes): Value-added Flexibility Request: Teaching as a Profession Waiver to Condense Pathway Course Sequencing	Marie Robinson, CTAE dept. chair
Discussion (15 minutes): FCS Strategic Planning Process & Centennial’s High Level Actions and Progress Monitoring Metrics	Blackwell
Action Item: “May I have a motion to approve the drafted 2024-2025 Centennial strategic plan as presented and discussed.” [Call 1st & 2nd] then [Call for Vote – In Favor and Opposed]	Guest-Smith
Discussion – Cross Council Updates (5 min)	Guest-Smith
Discussion – Information from FCS SGC Facilitator Newsletters (5 min)	Barooah
Discussion – Superintendent’s Parent Council Update (5 minutes): ·       Updates, if any, from Supt. Council provided.	D’Amico
Discussion – Superintendent’s Student Council Update (5 minutes): ·       Updates, if any, from Supt. Council provided.	Johnson / Jones
Discussion – Principal Information Report (5 minutes)	Blackwell
Public Comment (if applicable from approved speaker request form)	Barooah
Action Item: “May I have a motion to adjourn the meeting.” [Call 1st & 2nd] then [Call for Vote]	Guest-Smith

 

Next Meeting Suggestions:

·        Hold Public Comment on Value-Added Flexibility Request for CTAE Pathway

·        Communications Manager Updates

·        Council 4 Priorities Update in Facilities Upkeep / Improvements

Centennial High School Governance Council

Summary of Meeting Actions

October 17, 2024, 7:15 a.m. - Learning Commons

(This meeting does allow time for public comment)

 

Members Present: Opie Blackwell, Gail Ritchie, Erin Schwartzenfeld, Sanjay Barooah, Amber Leggett, Stephanie Rogers, Jennifer D’Amico, Ratima Guest-Smith, Sara Butler, Adam Miller, Amaya Johnson, Katie Jones

Members Absent: None

Council Action Items (the council acted on the following items):

 

·       Approval of October 17, 2024, Agenda.

o   Butler motioned and Ritchie seconded. Unanimous approval.

·       Approval of September 19, 2024, Meeting Minutes

o   Butler motioned and Barooah seconded. Unanimous approval.

·       Approval of strategic action plan draft for 24-25.

o   Rogers motioned and Butler seconded. Unanimous approval.

·       Approval of adjournment.

o   Rogers motioned, and Butler seconded. Unanimous approval.

 

Centennial High School Governance Council Meeting Minutes: October 17, 2024, 7:15 a.m. Centennial High School, Learning Common Conference Room

Members Present: Sanjay Barooah, Stephanie Rogers, Jennifer D’Amico, Ratima Guest-Smith, Sarah Butler, Erin Schwartzenfeld, Amber Leggett, Adam Miller, Amaya Johnson, Katie Jones, Opie Blackwell, Dr. Gail Ritchie

Guests: Mrs. Robinson , CTAE Chair

Call to Order:

The meeting was called to order at 7:16 a.m.

Approval of Minutes and Agenda:

●      Minutes from October:

Motion to approve: Stephanie Rogers Seconded by: Require correction Result: Unanimous approval

●      Agenda for October:

Motion to approve: Stephanie Rogers Seconded by: Require correction Result: Unanimous approval

Announcements/Updates:

●      Student Advisory Council Meeting—October 21:

No further details were provided.

●      SGC Cross Council Meeting—Ratima Guest-Smith The meeting offered insights on developing a strategic action plan. Ratima Guest-Smith noted the importance of spending more time with high schools similar to Centennial rather than engaging with elementary and middle schools. A report of meeting highlights was distributed.

●      Superintendent Council Report:

No report (canceled due to hurricane).

●      2024 Fulton County Graduation Rate Report: Centennial's graduation rate increased to 93.8%, making the school one of 15 high schools to achieve a rate in the 90th percentile, demonstrating significant improvement.

●      First Medical Emergency Drill: Feedback

●       and questions included:

○      How quickly did CPR begin?

○      Was the AED properly hooked up?

Action Items:

●      International Baccalaureate (IB) Program—Approval Request:To maintain the IB Program, the school must present a case for its value, impact, and return on investment. Dr. Blackwell, along with Dr. Von B., the IB Coordinator, will review the program’s value at the November meeting.

●      Teaching as a Profession Course – Waiver Request:

Requesting a waiver to condense the program from 72 weeks to 37 weeks, which involves reducing seat time and justifying the value added Currently, 11 students are enrolled in the introductory course.

Process: Submit a narrative, hold a public hearing, and provide an opportunity for public comments. SGC vote in December. Lastly, Go to the Fulton County Board for offering The program will be offered in the 2025–26 school year.

Question: Sara Butler asked if there are any cons to shortening the program.

 

●      Fulton County Strategic Planning Prioritization: Dr Blackwell requested to prepare and finish the Strategic plan with up-to-date high-level action plan as well as authorization to submit draft per SGC later review

A Motion was made and voted on but not captured to reflect in Nov minutes

●      Goal # 1: Ensure Impactful Programming: Discussion on exposing students to higher-level courses.

 

●      Question: Stephanie Rogers asked how Centennial plans to increase the number of students in advanced programs, such as IB, AP, and Dual Enrollment.

Feedback: Katie Jones emphasized the need for more program options.

 

●      Goal #2: Prioritize Safety and Operational Efficiency Dr. Blackwell discussed adjustments to the tier referral system, which has shown promising results.

 

High-Level Action: Support Professional Learning Groups.

 

Principal’s Update:

●      Next Meeting: Celie Codie, Communication Director, will provide an update.

●      Further discussion on the "Teaching as a Profession" course.

 

Next meeting: November 21, 2024

Adjournment:

The meeting was adjourned at 8:22 a.m.

(Note: The motion re Strategic Action Plan was not properly captured in the meeting minutes and will be added later.)

Centennial High School Governance Council

AGENDA

 

Members: Stephanie Rogers, Elected Parent (2025); Erin Schwartzenfeld, Elected Teacher Member (2025); Amber Leggett, Elected Teacher Member (2026); Sanjay Barooah, Elected Parent (2025); Jennifer D’Amico, Elected Parent (2026); Adam Miller, Appointed Staff Member (2026); Gail Ritchie, Appointed Staff Member (2025); Sara Butler, Nominated Community Member (2026); Ratima Guest-Smith, Nominated Community Member (2025); Amaya Johnson, Appointed Student (non-voting member); Katie Jones, Appointed Student (non-voting member); Dr. Opie Blackwell, Principal (non-voting member)
__________________________________________________________________

November 21, 2024 at 7:15 a.m.
Learning Commons Conference Room

Centennial School Governance Council Norms:

1.     Be on-time, present, engaged, and respectful of one another.

2.     Make sure everyone’s voice is heard by listening and allowing everyone a chance to express themselves.

3.     Speak up when you have an opinion or question.

4.     Focus on making decisions for the students and faculty of CHS (look at all programs and areas of needs).

Detail	Responsible Party
Call to Order	Barooah
Action Item: “May I have a motion to approve the meeting agenda.” [Call 1st & 2nd] then [Call for Vote – In Favor and Opposed]	Guest-Smith
Action Item: “May I have a motion to approve the previous meeting minutes.” [Call 1st & 2nd] then [Call for Vote – In Favor and Opposed]	Guest-Smith
Discussion (5 minutes): SGC Updates from Fulton County Schools From Oct. / Nov. e-mails to council members	Barooah
Discussion & Public Comment (5 minutes): Value-added Flexibility Request: Teaching as a Profession Waiver to Condense Pathway Course Sequencing.	Barooah
Action Item: “May I have a motion to approve the Value-added Flexibility Request for Centennial’s Teaching as a Profession pathway condensing” [Call 1st & 2nd] then [Call for Vote – In Favor and Opposed]	Guest-Smith
Discussion & Public Comment (15 minutes): Value-added Flexibility Request to sustain an existing program – IB Magnet.	Von Biberstein, Blackwell
Action Item: “May I have a motion to approve the Value-added Flexibility Request for Centennial’s International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme existing program continuation” [Call 1st & 2nd] then [Call for Vote – In Favor and Opposed]	Guest-Smith
Discussion – Strategic Support Funds (5 Minutes): Updates and Plans for January Presentation to SGC.	Blackwell
Discussion – Superintendent’s Parent Council Update (5 minutes): ·       Updates, if any, from Supt. Council provided.	D’Amico
Discussion – Superintendent’s Student Council Update (5 minutes): ·       Updates, if any, from Supt. Council provided.	Johnson / Jones
Discussion – Principal Information Report (5 minutes)	Blackwell
Public Comment (if applicable from approved speaker request form)	Barooah
Action Item: “May I have a motion to adjourn the meeting.” [Call 1st & 2nd] then [Call for Vote]	Guest-Smith

 

Next Meeting Suggestions – January 16^th:

·        Communications Manager Updates

·        Strategic Support Funds Proposals

Centennial High School Governance Council

Summary of Meeting Actions

November 21, 2024, 7:15 a.m. - Learning Commons

(This meeting does allow time for public comment)

 

Members Present: Opie Blackwell, Adam Miller, Gail Ritchie, Erin Schwartzenfeld, Sanjay Barooah, Amaya Johnson, Jennifer D’Amico, Stephanie Rogers  

 

Members Absent: Amber Leggett, Katie Jones, Sarah Butler, Ratima Guest-Smith 

 

Guests: Dr. Andrea Von Biberstein 

 

Council Action Items (the council acted on the following items):

 

·       Approval of November 21^st meeting agenda. 

• Rogers motioned and Ritchie seconded. Unanimous approval 

·       Approval of October 17 Meeting Minutes. 

• Rogers motioned and Miller seconded. Unanimous approval. 

·       Approval of Teaching as a Profession waiver to condense Pathway course sequencing. 

• D’Amico motioned and Rogers seconded. Unanimous approval 

·       Approval of International Baccalaureate Value Added-Flexibility  

• Rogers motioned and Miller seconded. Unanimous approval. 

·       Approval of meeting adjournment. 

• Rogers motioned and D’Amico seconded. Unanimous approval. 

 

Centennial High School Governance Council

Meeting Minutes –November 21, 2024, 7:15 a.m.

(This meeting does allow time for public comment)

 

Members Present: Opie Blackwell, Adam Miller, Gail Ritchie, Erin Schwartzenfeld, Sanjay Barooah, Amaya Johnson, Jennifer D’Amico, Stephanie Rogers

Members Absent: Amber Leggett, Katie Jones, Sarah Butler, Ratima Guest-Smith

Guests: Dr. Andrea Von Biberstein

         I.            Call to Order

·       The meeting was called to order at 7:19 am

     II.            Action Items

·       Approval of November 21^st meeting agenda.

o   Rogers motioned and Ritchie seconded. Unanimous approval

·       Approval of October 17 Meeting Minutes.

o   Rogers motioned and Miller seconded. Unanimous approval.

·       Approval of Teaching as a Profession waiver to condense Pathway course sequencing.

o   Information was presented at the previous meeting, and the council can vote today. The board will need to approve this change. If approved, can go into effect Fall 2025.

o   D’Amico motioned and Rogers seconded. Unanimous approval

·       Approval of International Baccalaureate Value Added-Flexibility

o   Rogers motioned and Miller seconded. Unanimous approval.

·       Approval of meeting adjournment.

o   Rogers motioned and D’Amico seconded. Unanimous approval.

 

  III.            Discussion Items

 

A.     SGC Updates from Fulton County

·       Strategic action plan for Centennial is in good shape

·       Charter dollars reminder

·       Value-Added Flexibility
 

B.     Value-added Flexibility Request for the Teaching as a Profession Pathway.

·       The council discussed that the required public commentary period and posting requirements were met for this VAF that was discussed at the previous meeting.
 

C.      Value-added Flexibility Request for the International Baccalaureate Program Magnet.

·       The council was provided information and a reminder that at last month’s meeting Dr. Blackwell mentioned that some process, unknown at that time, was going to be required of schools like Centennial who have “unique programs” to complete an action item to retain the program.

·       The council discussed that the required public commentary period and posting requirements were met for this VAF.

·       Dr. Blackwell provided background today to the council about the district’s interest in the value-added flexibility process being the method for schools to “apply” to retain these unique programs. The district is setting metrics for these unique programs and is monitoring return on investment.

·       Dr. Andrea von Biberstein presented information to the council on Centennial’s IB programme including background, current course offerings, current outcomes, and statistics related to the programme.

·       Dr. Blackwell provided insight into what the overall goal outcomes of this type of program are.
 

D.     Strategic Support Funds

·       Dr. Blackwell discussed updates to strategic support funds. Donation from North Point Community Church approved funds for $17000 for Communications director, money will return to our funds totaling $46,000.

·       Dr. Blackwell mentioned that we will discuss where funds can be spent at a later meeting.
 

E.      Superintendent’s Parent Council

o   Mrs. D’Amico provided an update from the two previous parent council meetings. September meeting discussed district State of the schools, Limewise (an app.) was discussed to monitor students computers using AI, Checkmate was discussed, virtual learning expansion to 12%. The Nov. 14th parent council meeting discussed Annual Perception Survey, support staff in media center, district has lost 7% of student body in district and this can impact staffing, district calendars are provided two years in advance and discussed proposed calendars/breaks for the 25-26 school year.

 

F.      Superintendent’s Student Council

·       Giving students a voice

·       District is focusing on literacy rate- district wants to expand virtual learning

·       Discussed drugs in schools and bringing people into schools that can talk with students that have real life experiences with these struggles.

·       HR discussed teacher development programs  
 

G.     Principal’s Update

·       Dr. Blackwell discussed the most recent updates at Centennial HS. He sent a letter to the community yesterday providing updates and highlights to the entire community that the council can read for many pieces of great news as well as information on our focus areas.

·       The school rating on Great Schools (used on Zillow for people to see school ratings) gave a college success award

·       Allocations were discussed. The board approves the first step in budgeting process (school allotment guidelines) and is in draft currently, will be approved in December.

o   The district is proposing that High schools will receive a 50% position for MTSS/RTI (district has already given us 50% in previous years- will allot of another position making this a full time position)

o   District proposing to adjust counselor to student ratio

o   Proposing for every school to have 2 campus security associates however this will impact in other areas- district will not fund graduation coach/ media specialist paraprofessional

o   Proposing to reduce per pupil cost

·       Limewise- all students have attended town hall to discuss limewise to ensure all students understand that if they are on their district laptop no matter where they are, it is always being monitored.

 

H.     Next meeting- January 16^th, 2025

 

   IV.            Adjourn

The meeting was adjourned at 8:31 AM

Centennial High School Governance Council

AGENDA

 

Members: Stephanie Rogers, Elected Parent (2025); Erin Schwartzenfeld, Elected Teacher Member (2025); Amber Leggett, Elected Teacher Member (2026); Sanjay Barooah, Elected Parent (2025); Jennifer D’Amico, Elected Parent (2026); Adam Miller, Appointed Staff Member (2026); Gail Ritchie, Appointed Staff Member (2025); Sara Butler, Nominated Community Member (2026); Ratima Guest-Smith, Nominated Community Member (2025); Amaya Johnson, Appointed Student (non-voting member); Katie Jones, Appointed Student (non-voting member); Dr. Opie Blackwell, Principal (non-voting member)
__________________________________________________________________

January 16, 2025, at 7:15 a.m.
Learning Commons Conference Room

Centennial School Governance Council Norms:

1.     Be on-time, present, engaged, and respectful of one another.

2.     Make sure everyone’s voice is heard by listening and allowing everyone a chance to express themselves.

3.     Speak up when you have an opinion or question.

4.     Focus on making decisions for the students and faculty of CHS (look at all programs and areas of needs).

Detail	Responsible Party
Call to Order	Barooah
Action Item: “May I have a motion to approve the meeting agenda.” [Call 1st & 2nd] then [Call for Vote – In Favor and Opposed]	Guest-Smith
Action Item: “May I have a motion to approve the previous meeting minutes.” [Call 1st & 2nd] then [Call for Vote – In Favor and Opposed]	Guest-Smith
Discussion (5 minutes): SGC Updates from Fulton County Schools From Dec. e-mails to council members	Barooah
Discussion (5 minutes): Value-added Flexibility Request: IB Science Course Graduation Requirement Waiver.	Von Biberstein
Discussion – Strategic Support Funds (20 Minutes): ·       Pathways2Life ·       AVID ·       PBIS ·       Safety & Security / Improvements ·       International Baccalaureate	Blackwell & Presenters
Discussion – Superintendent’s Parent Council Update (5 minutes): ·       Updates, if any, from Supt. Council provided.	D’Amico
Discussion – Superintendent’s Student Council Update (5 minutes): ·       Updates, if any, from Supt. Council provided.	Johnson / Jones
Discussion – Principal Information Report (5 minutes)	Blackwell
Public Comment (if applicable from approved speaker request form)	Barooah
Discussion – Next Meeting (2 minutes) ·       Question about whether the council would like to establish a meeting in 1-2 weeks for approval of some or all of the strategic support funds items presented and discussed today. ·       Schedule next meeting on Feb. 27th to provide additional time for budget development before presenting at the Feb. 27th meeting for budget approval. (High School budgets must be SGC approved by March 7th.)
Action Item: “May I have a motion to adjourn the meeting.” [Call 1st & 2nd] then [Call for Vote]	Guest-Smith

 

Next Meeting Suggestions – February 27^th:

·        Communications Manager Updates

·        Strategic Support Funds Updates

·        Strategic Plan Updates