SCS Board Work Session | Tuesday, August 4, 2026 - 10:00a

The Sarasota Schools Board held a work session on August 4, 2026, focusing primarily on the volunteer program and legal services. The volunteer program discussion covered the current structure, background check costs, volunteer engagement, and potential incentives such as fingerprinting fee rebates to encourage more active participation. The board considered cost implications, including the district subsidizing $64 of the $102 screening cost for level two volunteers, and discussed ways to improve volunteer tracking and communication through technology like the Raptor system. Additionally, the board reviewed the district's legal services contract with Shoemaker Lub and Kendrick, noting a consistent annual spend of approximately $1.88 million over three years. They discussed the scope of legal services, cost drivers primarily from litigation, and explored options for modifying the contract, including retainer models and hybrid in-house/outside counsel approaches. The board also considered implementing an annual evaluation framework for legal services to improve oversight and cost control. Policy updates related to volunteer responsibilities, ADA compliance, and board member rights were also presented for review.