By Grady Sue Saxon/Special to The Leeds News
Everything continues to go well at our schools, Thanks to the faculty, staff, parents and all involved for their careful planning and follow-up. Keep up the good work.
Labor Day - September 7- School Closed
The schools and central office will be closed for Labor Day on September 7. Have a restful and fun holiday and bring our students back on Tuesday on time, ready and eager to learn
Open House - Question Question: Why wasn't the elementary school included in our Open House on Sunday? Answer: The middle school sand high school are in brand new buildings that the public had not had an opportunity to tour. And, because they are new, it seemed appropriate to hold a formal dedication. Although we are very proud of how nice our elementary school looks and how well equipped it is, the renovation is not yet complete. Hopefully, the last phase will be completed next summer. At that time, the BOE will consider holding an open house to show it off to the community.
Hearing Officer - Question Question: What does a hearing officer do and who is our hearing officer? Answer: Attorney ft Lee Barnes is the school system's hearing officer.
Before I explain what he does, I need to provide a little background information. The Hearing Officer is utilized when a student's misbehavior is a Class Ill Offense. Class I, II, and Ill Offenses are described on pages 40 through 50 in the Code of Student Conduct that was sent to parents on the first day of school. On page 48, you will see that the first Class Ill offense results in suspension. These include, but are not limited to, unauthorized possession of alcoholic beverages and/or drugs, arson, battery against a school employee, robbery by force, stealing, illegal school entry, criminal mischief, possession of firearms or other weapons, sexual or lewd acts, major student disorder, unjustified activation of a fire alarm, fireworks, hazing, three Class II offenses, and etc. The principal (or designee) is responsible for assembling the appropriate documentation (see pages 48-49) that will be the basis for the Hearing Officer's conclusion. Formal due process procedures are on page 49.
Now, let's get back to Mr. Barnes. I asked him to tell me what he does so I could give a complete answer. To save space, I have done some summarizing and rewording but, in general, he provided the following information. Since Mr. Barnes was appointed to this position, he has opened 189 files. Initially, each file includes a report from the school that indicates the student's offense and information about the student. He prepares a legal notice according to the disciplinary handbook. Prior to the. hearing, he meets with a school official to discuss the accusations and receive a preliminary opinion. When conducting the hearing, they evaluate school attendance, grades, behavioral problems, and other variables, including home structure and recent activities. At the hearing, all parties, including the school administrator, parent and child are given an opportunity to speak. At that time, the Hearing Officer chooses the best course of action for the child. This can range from probation to attending alternative school or expulsion to referral to juvenile court. In most cases, the decision is made upon completion of the hearing; however, in some cases, the parties are notified by mail. After the hearing, a summary of the actions are mailed to all parties.
Mr. Barnes and the school system have been able to establish a mentoring and counseling program through Dr. Carl Marbury, the founder of CLEAR. CLEAR is a non-profit organization that provides these services to our students and community at no cost. This has been very helpful in getting the students back on track.
Mr. Barnes stated that he has found the position of Hearing Officer to be very rewarding because it has allowed him to influence and, hopefully, change the life of a child that is on the wrong path. He believes that, with the right support system, every child can be successful.
Let me add that the Board is pleased to have made some changes in the location and expectations of the Alternative School, Next week, I'll include information on how we are trying to provide services that will motivate these students to change their behavior and set positive goals for themselves.
Faculty/Staff Introduction: Leeds Middle School
Today, I'd like you to meet the new employees at the middle school. When you see them, let them know you are glad to have them in the Leeds School System. Christopher Brooks is the 8th grade physical science teacher and high school volleyball coach. He has a B.S. in Biological Science from Clemson University and a Master’s of Education (General Science) from the University of Montevallo. He and his wife, Kimberly, have been married for six years. He also holds a B.S. in Exercise Science (USC-A) and a Masters in Exercise Physiology (USC. Sabra Dalton is the 7th Grade Special Education teacher. She holds a Masters degree from U.A.B in special education. She is the mother of two girls and one adult son. Their activities revolve around church and sports. Stephanie M. Smith is the 7th grade math teacher. She has a B.S. in Civil Engineering from Auburn University. Mrs. Smith, her husband, Devin, and their four children have lived in Leeds for 18 years. They are members of Valley View Baptist
Church. She is also a member of the Beta Lambda Chapter of Delta Kappa Gamma Society International (an organization that recognizes key women educators).
And, One More Question Question: Will the gyms or theater be available for use by community organizations? Answer: No decision has been made on this. The superintendent and Board are researching the way other systems handle the use of their facilities. We are also looking into appropriate guidelines and fees. We must consider the cost to the system in the way of utilities, wear and tear, cleaning up before and after, etc. When the information is gathered, Mr. Moore will make a recommendation and bring it to the BOE for a vote.
A Closing Reminder
Because we are a team that works together, every day takes us closer to our goal to be the best system possible and to see that our children become the best that they can be. Just keep in mind - it's all about the children. Go, team!
