8/18/26 Board Work Session

The Craven County Schools Board of Education held a work session on August 18, 2026, focusing on various operational and strategic topics. Key procurement-related discussions included approval of repair and renovation projects funded by North Carolina lottery funds for Grover C Fields, Oaks Road, and Trent Park schools. The board unanimously approved pursuing a $99,280 pole vault facility project at Havlock High School, supported by a Big Rock Charitable Grant. The board also approved the EdMUM contract to support flexible student credit recovery and initial credit courses. Financial updates highlighted a positive fiscal year 2025-26 budget position with a $2.4 million savings and a fund balance of approximately 11%. The board approved a budget amendment to adjust coding and reflect federal grants and local funds. Facility updates included ongoing construction progress and concerns about the Freedom Middle School project timeline, with plans to hold the contractor accountable. A comprehensive five-year facility needs survey was accepted, identifying $251 million in projects, serving as a strategic planning tool for future capital improvements. The board discussed a conceptual plan for a new performing arts center at Newburn High School, with estimated costs between $12 million and $18 million, and a potential timeline for completion by mid-2028. The board agreed to develop criteria and a scorecard to guide future school combination and capital project decisions, aiming to leverage a $75 million commitment from county commissioners and state grants. Additionally, the board addressed public input concerns regarding athletic trainer services and air conditioning issues in school facilities. The meeting concluded with a motion to enter closed session for confidential matters.