Norfolk City Public Schools public meetings in 2022
43 substantive meetings from 2022, with official agendas or minutes and plain-English summaries.
School Board Business Meeting & Public Hearing
The Norfolk School Board will convene a closed executive session to discuss legal matters, personnel, student services, and an unsolicited proposal for Maury High School under the Public Private Educational Facilities and Infrastructure Act. They will also vote on a resolution certifying the closed session. A public hearing at 6 p.m. and a business meeting at 7 p.m. follow the closed session, but the agenda provided only details the closed session portion.
- Motion to enter closed session for personnel, student record, and legal consultation discussions
- Legal matters include lawsuits and workers' compensation claim filed by former employee Cheryl Jordan
- Discussion of unsolicited proposal concerning Maury High School filed under PPEA and Board policy DJFZ
- Consideration of appointment and contract for a Board Clerk candidate for January 2023 organizational meeting
- Resolution certifying that the closed session complied with Virginia Freedom of Information Act
The School Board approved a new academic programming model for Ruffner 3-8 and adopted policies regarding instructional and supplementary materials. The board also approved the 2023 legislative agenda and the November financial report.
- Approved Ruffner 3-8 Academic Programming Model (5-2)
- Approved Policy IIA: Instructional Materials & Policy IIAB: Supplementary Materials Selection and Adoption (7-0)
- Approved 2023 NPS Legislative Agenda (7-0)
- Approved November Monthly Financial Report (7-0)
- Approved personnel report including elections, resignations, and retirements (7-0)
- Approved Student Support Report (7-0)
- Approved minutes for Nov. 2 and Nov. 16, 2022 (7-0)
- Approved motion to enter executive session (6-0)
School Board Governance Training, Work Session & Public Hearing
The School Board will hold a governance training, work session, and public hearing. The work session includes an NPS Equity Report review, policy reviews on instructional and supplementary materials, and a strategic plan update. The board will vote on a supplement to Policy BDDHZ/KDZ regarding public participation. The public hearing will address the Ruffner 3-8 Academic Programming Model and Maury High School educational and facilities planning.
- Public hearing on Ruffner 3-8 Academic Programming Model and Maury HS educational and facilities planning
- Vote on supplement to Policy BDDHZ/KDZ: Public Participation at School Board Meetings and Public Hearings
- Review of NPS Equity Report Fall 2022 and individual school equity reports
- Policy review: Policy IIA Instructional Materials and Policy IIAB Supplementary Materials Selection and Adoption
- Strategic plan update with first-quarter grades, chronic absenteeism, and PALS data
The School Board approved a supplement to the policy regarding public participation at meetings and hearings. The board also conducted governance training and reviewed reports on equity, student attendance, and reading data.
- Approved supplement to Policy BDDHZ/KDZ: Public Participation at School Board Meetings and Public Hearings (6-1)
School Board Student Appeal Hearing
The School Board's 3-member committee will hold a closed executive session to hear a student's appeal of a long-term suspension. The session is authorized under Virginia FOIA exemptions for discussing student disciplinary records and consulting with legal counsel. The board will later vote on the disposition of the appeal and certify the closed meeting.
- Motion to enter closed session citing Va. Code §2.2-3711(A)(2) (student records) and (7)-(8) (legal advice)
- Resolution certifying the executive session complied with Virginia FOIA requirements
- Disposition of the student appeal hearing requiring a board vote
Bring Your Legislators to School Day
Norfolk City Public Schools is hosting a Bring Your Legislators to School Day on November 30, 2022. The event includes school visits and a legislative overview at Booker T. Washington High School.
- School visits at Booker T. Washington HS, Camp Allen ES, Easton Preschool, Lake Taylor School, Northside MS, and St. Helena ES
- Joint Legislative Discussion at Booker T. Washington HS
- Legislative Overview with Dr. Noelle M. Gabriel and Dr. Sharon I. Byrdsong
- Discussion of NPS' Legislative Priorities with Kathy Burcher
School Board Student Appeal Hearing
The Norfolk School Board will hold a closed executive session to hear appeals of long-term student suspensions. The board will vote on the outcome of the hearing and certify the closed session.
- Closed executive session for student appeal hearing
- Vote required on disposition of student appeal hearing
- Certification of executive closed session
- Meeting held at School Administration Building, 800 E. City Hall Avenue
School Board Business Meeting
The Norfolk School Board will hold a business meeting on November 16, 2022, starting with a closed executive session to discuss personnel, legal issues, student support, and the superintendent's evaluation. The board will then vote on a resolution certifying the closed session. No public action items are listed on the agenda beyond procedural items.
- Motion to enter executive closed session for personnel, legal, student support, and superintendent evaluation
- Discussion of personnel matters (candidates, appointments, evaluations)
- Discussion of student support services matters
- Resolution to certify the executive closed session in accordance with Virginia FOIA
The School Board approved the October 2022 monthly financial report, personnel report, and student support matters. The board also adopted policies regarding organizational meetings and public complaints about learning resources. A vote on legislative priorities was deferred to December 14, 2022.
- Approved October 2022 monthly financial report (6-0)
- Approved personnel report for administrative, teacher, and classified staff (6-0)
- Approved policy BCA: School Board Organizational Meeting (6-0)
- Approved policy KLB: Public Complaints about Learning Resources (6-0)
- Approved Student Support Matters (6-0)
- Approved minutes for October 5, 12, and 26, 2022 (6-0)
- Tabled vote on legislative priorities until Dec. 14, 2022
- Approved motion to allow member Rodney Jordan to join virtually (6-0)
Cancelled--School Board Student Appeal Hearing
The Norfolk City Public Schools Board meeting scheduled for November 9, 2022, was cancelled. The agenda included a closed executive session to discuss student disciplinary appeals and legal counsel consultation.
- Cancelled: Student Appeal Hearing
- Closed Executive Session: Student disciplinary appeals
- Closed Executive Session: Legal counsel consultation
- Resolution certifying executive closed session
- Disposition of the Student Appeal Hearing (vote required)
School Board Governance Training & Work Session
The Norfolk School Board will hold a governance training session and a work session to discuss legislative priorities, facility planning for Maury High School, and policy reviews.
- School Board Governance Training (The Valbrun Group)
- NPS Legislative Priorities for SY23 (Advantus Strategies)
- Educational and Facilities Planning for Maury High School
- Ruffner 3-8 Update
- Policy Review: BCA, KLB, and KLB-R
The School Board held a governance training session and a work session to review legislative priorities and facility plans. Members reached a consensus to seek additional public feedback and hold a public hearing regarding the proposed replacement of Maury High School. The board also reviewed the academic program and enrollment plan for Ruffner 3-8.
- Approved straw poll to continue governance training with The Valbrun Consulting Group (8-0)
- Consensus reached to conduct additional surveys and a public hearing for Maury High School Option B2
- Proposed public hearing for Ruffner 3-8 for Dec. 7, 2022
School Board Business Meeting
The Norfolk School Board will convene a closed executive session to discuss personnel matters, including the superintendent's contract and evaluation, and student support services. The meeting will reconvene in open session at 7:00 p.m. to certify the closed session.
- Closed session for personnel and legal matters
- Superintendent contract renegotiation
- Superintendent evaluation process
- Student support services matters
- Public comments deadline October 25, 2022
The School Board approved special rules of order regarding public comment periods and the meeting agenda. The board also held a closed executive session to discuss personnel, student support, and the superintendent's contract and evaluation.
- Approved special rules of order regarding public comment periods (4-3)
- Approved resolution certifying the executive closed session (7-0)
- Approved motion to enter executive session for personnel, student support, and superintendent matters (7-0)
- Approved amended business meeting agenda with Personnel Report moved to 5.03 (4-3)
- Denied amendment to move Citizens' Comments on Non-Agenda Items to 7.01 (3-4)
SB Special Call Meeting & Closed Executive Session
The Norfolk City Public Schools School Board is meeting for a special call session and closed executive session to discuss the superintendent's contract and legal matters. The meeting will be held at the School Administration Building.
- Closed executive session to discuss superintendent contract and legal matters
- Motion to enter closed session for personnel evaluation and contract renegotiation
- Resolution certifying the executive closed session was conducted in accordance with Virginia law
The School Board met in a closed executive session to discuss the division superintendent's annual evaluation and contract renegotiations. The board certified that the closed meeting was conducted in accordance with the Virginia Freedom of Information Act.
- Approved motion to enter closed executive session (6-0)
- Approved resolution certifying the executive meeting (7-0)
SB Governance Training & Work Session
The School Board will enter a closed executive session to continue renegotiating the superintendent's contract and evaluating the superintendent's performance. Following the closed session, the board will hold governance training from 12-4 PM. In the public work session starting at 4:05 PM, the board will receive an update on school accreditation for the 2022-2023 school year and a strategic plan monitoring update. The meeting includes votes on entering the closed session and certifying its compliance with Virginia's Freedom of Information Act.
- Vote to enter closed executive session for superintendent contract renegotiations
- Superintendent contract renegotiations and annual evaluation (closed session)
- Resolution certifying the closed executive session (vote required)
- School accreditation update for 2022-2023 (presentation and discussion)
- Strategic plan monitoring update ('Continuing the Drive')
The School Board held a governance training session and a work session covering school accreditation and strategic plan updates. The board voted to enter and subsequently certify a closed executive session regarding the superintendent's evaluation and contract renegotiations.
- Approved motion to enter closed executive session for superintendent evaluation and contract renegotiations (7-0)
- Approved resolution certifying the executive closed session was conducted in conformity with Virginia law (7-0)
School Board Business Meeting
The Norfolk City Public Schools School Board will convene a closed executive session to discuss personnel matters, student support services, and legal counsel, followed by a public business meeting. The meeting will be held at the School Administration Building.
- Closed executive session on personnel and student matters
- Swearing-in ceremony for student representatives Nya Muir and Jordynne Wicker
- Discussion on superintendent contract renegotiation
- Public comments accepted via email or in-person
- Live stream available on WNPS Ch. 47 and online
The School Board approved a comprehensive consent agenda including payroll, personnel actions, and 43 policy updates. The Board also approved the monthly financial report for July and August 2022. Additionally, student representatives Nya Muir and Jordynne Wicker were sworn in.
- Approved bills and payroll totaling $27,835,861.37 (July) and $35,199,066.15 (August)
- Approved personnel report for administrative, teacher, and classified staff
- Approved 43 policy updates including nondiscrimination, food services, and public records
- Approved August 17, 2022 meeting minutes
- Approved July/August 2022 Monthly Financial Report (6-1)
- Certified the executive closed session (7-0)
SB Governance Training & Work Session
The Norfolk School Board is meeting for a governance training and work session. The board will discuss strategic plan updates and approve a policy on electronic participation. The session includes a closed executive meeting to discuss the superintendent's evaluation and contract negotiations.
- Policy BDD Electronic Participation in Meetings from Remote Locations (vote required)
- Motion to enter closed executive session
- Superintendent's Evaluation Goal Setting for SY23
- Superintendent Contract Negotiations
- Resolution Certifying an Executive Closed Session (vote required)
The School Board held governance training and a work session to review legislative updates and facility planning. The board reached a consensus to bring the 'Continuing the Drive' Strategic Plan update to a formal vote on September 21, 2022.
- Consensus reached to move Strategic Plan update to a Sept. 21 vote (5-2)
POSTPONED: NPS Parent & Guardian Forum, Hosted by Board Chair Carlos Clanton
The Norfolk City Public Schools Parent & Guardian Forum scheduled for Thursday, August 18, 2022, has been postponed. The meeting was to be held at Richard Bowling Elementary School and hosted by Board Chair Carlos Clanton. Additional details are forthcoming.
- Postponed: NPS Parent & Guardian Forum hosted by Board Chair Carlos Clanton
- Location: Richard Bowling Elementary School, 2700 E. Princess Anne Road
- Scheduled time: 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
- Type: Informational meeting
- Adjournment: Meeting adjourned at 7:00 p.m.
School Board Policy Committee Meeting
The Norfolk School Board Policy Committee will discuss and review 40 proposed policies and regulations, including topics on firearms, student absences, and public records. The meeting will also cover minutes from the previous June 17, 2022, committee session.
- Review of 40 proposed policies and regulations
- Policy minutes from June 17, 2022
- Proposed policy on firearms on school property
- Proposed policy on student absences, excuses, and dismissals
- Proposed policy on requests for public records
SB Special Call Meeting & Governance Training
The Norfolk City School Board is meeting for governance training provided by The Valbrun Group. The board will also consider personnel matters and the superintendent's contract in a closed executive session.
- Approval of the Personnel Docket
- Superintendent annual evaluation and contract renegotiation
- Governance training conducted by Valda Valbrun of The Valbrun Group
- Closed session discussion regarding billing for the Valbrun Group contract
The School Board held a special call meeting that included a closed executive session and governance training by The Valbrun Group. The board approved the personnel docket and certified the legality of the closed session.
- Approved motion to enter closed executive session for personnel, contract, and legal matters (7-0)
- Approved resolution certifying the closed executive session (7-0)
- Approved the personnel docket (7-0)
SB Hybrid Business Meeting
The Norfolk City School Board will hold a hybrid business meeting with discussion and votes on several items. They will review a feasibility study for Maury High School, vote on the NPS Strategic Plan monitoring calendar, school crisis plans, and a contract modification with the Valbrun Group. The meeting also includes two closed executive sessions for personnel and legal matters.
- Discussion of Maury High School feasibility study (Fraley & HBA Consultants)
- Vote required on school crisis plans review
- Vote required on The Valbrun Group contract modification
- Vote required on NPS Strategic Plan monitoring calendar
- Back to School Update for SY23
The School Board approved the monitoring calendar for the NPS Strategic Plan (Continuing the Drive) after requesting the addition of pre-pandemic baseline data. The board also received a feasibility study presentation regarding Maury High School.
- Approved NPS Strategic Plan monitoring calendar (7-0)
- Approved motion to enter closed executive session (7-0)
- Approved resolution certifying closed executive session (7-0)
- Approved agenda with amendments (5-2)
School Board Business Meeting
The School Board will convene for a closed executive session to discuss personnel matters, student support, and the superintendent's evaluation. Following the closed session, the board will hold a workshop regarding the NPS Strategic Plan goals and objectives.
- Closed Executive Session for personnel, student support, and superintendent evaluation
- NPS Strategic Plan Goals and Objectives Workshop
The School Board certified that a closed executive session was conducted in accordance with the Virginia Freedom of Information Act. Members discussed goals and objectives for the NPS Strategic Plan, though no official vote was taken on the plan's content. Committee assignments for the 2023 school year were placed on hold.
- Approved motion to enter closed executive session (6-0)
- Approved resolution certifying the executive closed session (7-0)
- Approved adoption of the Business Agenda with amendments (6-1)
- Tabled School Board Committee Assignments for SY23
SB Retreat and Work Session
The School Board is holding a retreat and work session to review preliminary SOL, STAR, and PALS academic data. The board will also discuss capital improvement planning and facilities updates. A closed session is scheduled for the annual evaluation of the division superintendent.
- Annual evaluation of the division superintendent in closed session
- Review of 2021-2022 preliminary SOL, STAR, and PALS academic data
- Capital Improvement Planning (CIP) and facilities update
- School Board governance training
The School Board approved the meeting agenda and certified a closed session regarding the superintendent's annual evaluation. Members reviewed preliminary student academic data and received updates on the Capital Improvement Plan, including roof and HVAC projects.
- Approved School Board's Agenda (7-0)
- Approved motion to enter closed session for superintendent evaluation (7-0)
- Approved resolution certifying the closed executive session (7-0)
SB Governance Training
The Norfolk School Board is holding a retreat for governance training on July 5, 2022. During the meeting, the board will vote to elect an interim chair and an interim vice chair. The remainder of the session is devoted to governance team training led by The Valbrun Group.
- Election of interim chair of the School Board (vote required)
- Election of interim vice chair of the School Board (vote required)
- Governance team training by The Valbrun Group
The School Board held governance training and conducted elections for interim leadership positions. Carlos Clanton was elected as Interim Chair and Dr. Noëlle Gabriel was elected as Interim Vice Chair.
- Elected Carlos Clanton as Interim Chair of the School Board (4-2)
- Elected Dr. Noëlle Gabriel as Interim Vice Chair of the School Board (5-2)
SB Special Call Meeting: SB Budget
The Norfolk City Public Schools School Board is convening a special call meeting to discuss and vote on the 2022-2023 budget revisions. The session is scheduled for Thursday, June 30, 2022, at 4:30 p.m. at the School Administration Building.
- Special call meeting to discuss and vote on the 2022-2023 budget revisions
- Meeting location: School Administration Building, 800 E. City Hall Avenue
- Agenda packet includes FY 2023 Budget Revisions and June 2022 budget revisions
- Public attendance available in person or via live stream on WNPS Ch. 47
- 100% identification verification required to enter the School Administration Building
School Board Policy Committee Meeting
The Norfolk City Public Schools Policy Committee will meet to discuss policies and regulations for school building administration and professional staff grievances. The agenda includes reviewing minutes from the April 29, 2022, meeting and a review of student health services.
- Discussion of policies for school building administration
- Review of professional staff grievance procedures
- Review of student health services
- Review of April 29, 2022, policy committee minutes
School Board Business Meeting
The Norfolk City School Board will convene a closed executive session to discuss personnel matters and student discipline, followed by a public business meeting. The board will also certify that the closed session complied with Virginia law.
- Closed session to discuss personnel and student discipline
- Discussion of litigation: Cheryl Jordan v. Norfolk City School Board
- Public comments accepted via email until June 14, 2022
- Live stream available on WNPS Ch. 47 and online platforms
- 100% identification verification required to enter School Administration Building
The School Board held a closed executive session to discuss personnel, legal, and student support matters. Following the session, the board certified that the meeting complied with the Virginia Freedom of Information Act and adopted the business agenda.
- Approved motion to amend closed session to discuss performance and salary of two employees (4-2-1)
- Approved final motion to add discussion of Clerk and Director of Human Resources performance to closed session (7-0-1)
- Approved resolution certifying the executive closed session (7-0)
- Approved adoption of the Business Agenda and Personnel Docket removing Personnel A (7-0)
School Board Student Appeal Hearing
A three-member committee of the School Board is meeting to conduct student appeal hearings. The proceedings will take place in a closed executive session to protect scholastic records and consult with legal counsel.
- Student disciplinary appeal hearings
- Motion to enter closed executive session per Virginia Freedom of Information Act
- Vote on the disposition of the student appeal hearing
School Board Work Session
The Norfolk City Public Schools School Board will hold a work session to review strategic priorities, discuss a proposed pay and compensation study, and review policy for student athlete cardiac arrest.
- Review of 5-year strategic plan
- Discussion of pay and compensation study recommendations
- Review of Title I, II, III, and IV annual plans
- Policy review for student athlete sudden cardiac arrest
- Superintendent evaluation process discussion
The School Board held a work session to discuss a new strategic plan focused on student excellence, workforce, and safety. Members also reviewed a proposed four-year, $13 million plan to address salary compression for 1,701 employees. No formal votes were recorded on these items during the session.
- Recognized student representatives Karma Johnson and Shivani Rastogi with plaques and medals
School Board Business Meeting
The Norfolk School Board will convene a closed executive session to discuss personnel appointments, student disciplinary matters, and advisory committee candidates, followed by a public business meeting at 7 p.m. The agenda is largely procedural with no specific votes or financial decisions listed for the open session.
- Motion to enter closed session under Virginia FOIA for personnel and student matters
- Review of applications for Special Education, School Health, Career & Technical, and Gifted Education advisory committees
- Resolution certifying the closed session complied with Virginia law
- Adoption of the business agenda at the reconvened 7 p.m. meeting
The School Board held a closed executive session to discuss personnel, student support, and legal matters. Following the session, the board approved the business agenda and the consent agenda.
- Approved motion to enter closed executive session (7-0)
- Approved resolution certifying the executive closed session (7-0)
- Approved adoption of the business agenda with adjustments (6-1)
- Approved the consent agenda (7-0)
School Board Work Session
The Norfolk City School Board will vote on a motion to enter an executive closed session to discuss prospective candidates for advisory committees, employee matters, and legal consultations. A resolution will then certify that the closed session complied with the Virginia Freedom of Information Act. The board will also receive updates on the Gifted Education Five-Year Plan and the 2022 summer school programs, and review several board policies.
- Motion to enter executive closed session (Item 1.03) to discuss advisory committee candidates, personnel actions, and legal matters
- Resolution certifying the executive closed session in compliance with the Virginia FOIA (Item 2.02)
- Gifted Education Five-Year Plan update (Item 3.01)
- Presentation of NPS 2022 Summer School Programs (Item 3.02)
- Review of multiple School Board policies (Item 4.01)
The School Board entered a closed executive session to discuss candidates for several advisory committees and subsequently certified the session. The board also reviewed updates to the Gifted Education Five-Year Plan and the 2022 Summer School Programs.
- Approved motion to enter closed executive session for advisory committee appointments (7-0)
- Approved resolution certifying the executive closed session (7-0)
School Board Policy Committee Meeting, April 29, 2022
The Norfolk City Public Schools Policy Committee met to review and discuss 13 policy and regulation recommendations, including student safety, transportation, and board governance. The committee also reviewed minutes from a previous meeting and adjourned.
- Review of 13 policy and regulation recommendations
- Student Transportation Services policy update
- Restraint and Seclusion policy update
- Student Athlete Sudden Cardiac Arrest policy update
- Review of March 18, 2022 Policy Committee minutes
School Board Business Meeting
The Norfolk City School Board will meet in closed executive session to discuss personnel appointments, student disciplinary matters, and legal consultation. The open business meeting reconvenes at 7 p.m. after the closed session. The agenda is largely procedural with no specific votes on contracts or policies listed.
- Motion to enter closed session under Virginia FOIA for personnel, student support, and legal matters
- Resolution certifying that the closed session was conducted lawfully (vote required)
- Public comments accepted in person, by phone, or email until April 19 at 4:30 p.m.
- Meeting streamed live on Swagit, YouTube, and WNPS Channel 47
The School Board approved the Special Education and Career and Technical Education plan proposals for SY23. The board also approved several school policies, textbook adoptions for music and reading (grades 3-5), and the monthly financial report.
- Approved Special Education Annual Plan Proposal for SY23
- Approved Career and Technical Education Plan Proposal (Perkins) for SY23
- Approved Reading (3-5) and Music Education Textbook Adoptions
- Approved school policies BFC, BFE-CHD, CHD-BFE, DG, GBR, and LI
- Approved Monthly Financial Report subject to Audit (6-0)
- Approved March bills and payroll totaling $48,420,023.07
- Approved motion to enter closed executive session (5-0)
- Approved resolution certifying executive meeting (6-0)
School Board Work Session
The Norfolk City Public Schools Board will hold a work session on April 6, 2022 to discuss several academic affairs items, including proposals for special education, career and technical education, and textbook adoption. The agenda includes a motion and a resolution to enter an executive closed session, each requiring a board vote. Additional items cover volunteer program updates, grade and attendance data, and policy review updates.
- Motion to Enter Into Executive Closed Session (vote required)
- Resolution Certifying and Executive Closed Session (vote required)
- Special Education Annual Plan Proposal for SY23
- Career and Technical Education Plan Proposal (Perkins) for SY23
- Reading (3-5) and Music Education Textbook Adoption Review
The School Board voted to enter a closed executive session to discuss a contract for governance training services and related legal advice. Other agenda items, including CTE and Special Education plans and textbook adoptions, were presented for discussion but not voted upon.
- Approved motion to enter closed executive session for governance training contract discussion (5-1)
- Approved resolution certifying the closed executive session was lawfully conducted (5-0, 1 abstain)
School Board Student Appeal Hearing
The Norfolk City School Board's 3-member committee will hold a student appeal hearing for a long-term suspension, meeting in closed executive session as permitted by Virginia law. The board will discuss disciplinary matters and consult with legal counsel. After the closed session, the board will vote on a disposition of the appeal. The meeting is largely procedural and confidential due to student record protections.
- Motion to enter closed executive session to discuss student disciplinary matters and consult legal counsel
- Student appeal hearing for a long-term suspension (no details disclosed)
- Resolution certifying that the closed session complied with Virginia Freedom of Information Act requirements
- Vote on disposition of the student appeal hearing
School Board Policy Committee Meeting, March 18, 2022
The Norfolk City Public Schools School Board Policy Committee will meet to review policies and regulations, discuss resignation of staff members, and approve minutes from the previous meeting.
- Review of policies and regulations
- Discussion on resignation of staff members
- Approval of February 18, 2022 meeting minutes
School Board Business Meeting
The Norfolk City Public Schools School Board will hold a business meeting starting at 7:00 p.m. The agenda includes a closed executive session to discuss student disciplinary appeals and personnel matters, followed by a public business meeting.
- Closed executive session for student disciplinary appeals
- Closed executive session for personnel discussions
- Closed executive session for legal counsel consultation
- Public comments accepted via email until 4:30 p.m.
- Meeting streamed live on WNPS Ch. 47
The School Board upheld a Superintendent's recommendation to impose a 364-day long term suspension on a student, while allowing them to attend Madison in person. The Board also approved the personnel report and adopted the business agenda.
- Imposed 364-day long term suspension on student with permission to attend Madison in person (7-0)
- Approved personnel report including administrative, teacher, and classified personnel actions (7-0)
- Approved adoption of the business agenda (7-0)
- Approved consent agenda (7-0)
- Certified executive closed sessions regarding student appeals and personnel/legal matters (7-0)
School Board Work Session & Public Hearing
The Norfolk City School Board will hold a work session to discuss the proposed 2022‑2023 academic calendar, an employee appreciation bonus, and a request to appropriate unassigned fund balances. The board will also review the superintendent’s FY2023 budget proposal and vote on a governance training update. A public hearing will be held to gather input on consolidating Easton Preschool, Madison Alternative Center, and Tidewater Park Elementary into a repurposed Ruffner 3‑8 School and on rezoning students at Lindenwood Elementary.
- Proposed NPS Academic Calendar SY2022‑2023 (subject 2.01)
- NPS Employee Appreciation Bonus – Superintendent’s recommendation (subject 3.01)
- Request for appropriation of unassigned fund balance and revenue sharing true‑up for FY2021 (subject 3.02)
- Superintendent’s proposed budget for FY2023 (subject 4.01)
- Public hearing on facilities plan consolidation and Lindenwood rezoning (subject 7.02)
The board held a public hearing regarding the consolidation of Easton Preschool, Madison Alternative Center, and Tidewater Park Elementary into a repurposed Ruffner 3-8 School for 2023-2024, as well as rezoning for Lindenwood Elementary. The session also included discussions on the 2022-2023 academic calendar and employee bonuses.
- Held public hearing on consolidation of Easton Preschool, Madison Alternative Center, and Tidewater Park Elementary into Ruffner 3-8 School
- Held public hearing on rezoning of students at Lindenwood Elementary School
- Discussed proposed SY2022-2023 Academic Calendar
- Discussed proposed $11.7M employee appreciation bonus
School Board Special Call Meeting
The Norfolk School Board will discuss and potentially vote on eliminating the requirement that students wear masks on school property and ending the COVID-19 vaccination/testing mandate for employees. The board will also consider disciplinary actions against employees for violating the vaccine/testing requirement. A closed session will precede the public vote.
- Vote on resolution eliminating student masking requirement
- Vote on eliminating employee COVID-19 vaccination or weekly testing requirement
- Discussion of disciplinary actions against employees for violating vaccine/testing policy
- Closed session for legal consultation on mask mandate and employee mandate
- Public may attend in-person or watch livestream
The School Board voted to remove the COVID-19 vaccination and weekly testing requirement for employees. It also approved a resolution ending the mask requirement for students on school property effective March 1, 2022, while maintaining mask requirements for employees, visitors, and students on school buses.
- Eliminated COVID-19 vaccination or weekly testing requirement for current and future employees (5-0)
- Approved resolution eliminating student masking requirements on school property effective March 1, 2022 (5-1)
- Maintained mask requirements for school board officers, employees, contractors, parents, and visitors
- Maintained mask requirements for students on school buses per Federal law
- Approved motion to enter closed executive session to discuss employee disciplinary actions and legal counsel (6-0)
- Approved resolution certifying the executive closed session (6-0)
School Board Policy Committee Meeting, February 18, 2022
The Norfolk City Public Schools Policy Committee met to review and discuss a set of administrative policies and regulations. The agenda includes items regarding staff resignation, transfers, and the voluntary retirement savings program. The meeting also covered policy minutes from a previous session.
- Review of policies on staff resignation and transfers
- Discussion of voluntary retirement savings program
- Review of policy minutes from October 15, 2021
- Policies on custody of school funds and supplementary pay
- Policies on relations with educational accreditation agencies
School Board Business Meeting
The Norfolk City Public Schools Board will vote on a motion to convene a closed executive session at 5:00 p.m. The session will cover personnel matters, student support matters, the award of a contract for governance training services, and legal counsel consultations. After the closed session, the Board will adopt a resolution certifying that the meeting complied with the Virginia Freedom of Information Act. The agenda also includes routine items such as roll call and adoption of the business agenda.
- Motion to go into Executive Closed Session (vote required)
- Resolution certifying the Executive Closed Session (vote required)
- Discussion of awarding a public contract for governance training services
- Personnel matters: interviews and decisions on prospective candidates
- Student support matters: disciplinary issues involving student records
The School Board approved the consent agenda, including payroll reports and meeting minutes from January. The board also entered and certified a closed executive session to discuss personnel, student support, and contract awards.
- Approved January bills and payroll totaling $36,396,941.38 (7-0)
- Approved meeting minutes for Jan. 12 and Jan. 19, 2022 (7-0)
- Approved motion to enter closed executive session (5-2)
- Approved resolution certifying the executive closed session (7-0)
- Approved amendment to move Use of Facilities to item 5.03 (5-2)
- Approved amendment to move Personnel Docket and add Mask Mandate to agenda (7-0)
- Denied motion to move Adoption of Business Agenda to item 3.03 (2-5)
School Board Mid-Year Retreat
The Norfolk School Board holds a mid-year retreat to discuss facilities and educational planning, including a presentation from Cooperative Strategies. The meeting also covers strategic plan strategies and board priorities, but no votes or decisions are scheduled.
- Presentation from Cooperative Strategies on facilities and educational planning (attached reports: NPS_FinalReport_20210706.pdf and NPS_Feb4_BOE_WorkSession_FN.pptx)
- Review of 5-year strategic plan strategies and board priorities (accreditation, academic achievement, climate, safety, capital improvements)
- Call to order, roll call, and adjournment (procedural items)
The School Board reached a consensus to move forward with a public hearing on March 2, 2022, and a subsequent vote on March 16, 2022. These actions concern the consolidation of Easton Preschool, Madison Alternative Center, and Lindenwood Elementary School. The board also reviewed a Facilities Master Plan presentation regarding school rebuilds and rezonings.
- Reached consensus to hold public hearing on March 2, 2022, for Easton Pre-K, Madison, and Lindenwood ES
- Reached consensus to vote on March 16, 2022, regarding Easton Pre-K, Madison, and Lindenwood ES
School Board Work Session
The Norfolk City Public Schools School Board held a work session on February 2, 2022, at the School Admin. Bldg. The meeting included a closed executive session regarding legal counsel and Governor Youngkin's Executive Order No. 2, followed by a review of Winter 2021 STAR data and updates on legislative and governance matters.
- Closed executive session regarding Governor Youngkin's Executive Order No. 2
- Review of Winter 2021 STAR data (Math and Reading)
- Discussion of 5-Year Strategic Plan priorities
- Governance training update
- Future agenda item suggestions
The School Board held a work session featuring a review of mid-year STAR academic data and a legislative update. The board voted to enter and then certify a closed executive session regarding legal advice on state executive orders.
- Approved motion to enter closed executive session for legal briefing on Governor Youngkin's Executive Order No. 2 (7-0)
- Approved resolution certifying the executive closed session was conducted in conformity with Virginia law (7-0)
School Board Student Appeal Hearing
A three-member committee of the School Board will meet in a closed executive session to conduct student appeal hearings. The session involves discussing disciplinary matters related to long-term suspensions and consulting with legal counsel.
- Student appeal hearing regarding long-term suspension
- Discussion of student disciplinary matters and scholastic records
- Consultation with legal counsel regarding student appeals
School Board Policy Committee Meeting, January 21, 2022
The School Board Policy Committee will meet to discuss policy recommendations and review minutes from a previous meeting. The agenda includes items regarding staff administration, voluntary retirement savings, and relations with accreditation agencies.
- Review of Policy Minutes from October 15, 2021
- Discussion on Administration in Policy Absence
- Review of Support Staff Assignments and Transfers
- Review of Voluntary Retirement Savings Program
- Review of Relations with Educational Accreditation Agencies
School Board Business Meeting
The Norfolk School Board will hold a closed executive session to discuss personnel, student support, and legal advice regarding Governor Youngkin's Executive Order No. 2. Following that, the board will convene a business meeting to consider a vote on a COVID-19-related action. The public may comment in person or by email by January 14.
- Motion to enter closed session includes discussion of Governor Youngkin's Executive Order No. 2
- Board action related to COVID-19 requiring a vote (public hearing)
- Resolution certifying the closed executive session
- Public personnel docket (January 19, 2022) and supplemental docket
- Student support matters discussed in closed session
The School Board directed the Superintendent to continue adhering to existing health mitigation plans, including mask requirements for individuals in schools and on buses. The Board also approved the personnel report and December bills and payroll.
- Directed Superintendent to maintain mask requirements in schools and on buses (7-0)
- Approved Personnel Report including administrative, teacher, and classified actions (6-1)
- Approved December bills and payroll totaling $37,578,872.62 (7-0)
- Approved motion to allow Dr. Noëlle Gabriel to attend via Zoom (6-0)
- Approved motion to enter executive closed session (7-0)
- Approved resolution certifying the executive closed session (7-0)
School Board Work Session
The Norfolk City School Board is conducting a work session to review operational and academic affairs. The meeting includes a swearing-in ceremony and updates on staff vaccinations and the Governor's proposed budget.
- Swearing-in ceremony for Leon Rouson, Ph.D.
- Updates on School Board mandated COVID-19 vaccinations for staff
- Updates on Governor Northam's proposed budget
- School Resource Officer Program Evaluation Review
- Second reading of School Board Policy GCBDZ regarding Employee Leave
The School Board conducted a work session featuring a presentation from The Valbrun Consulting Group regarding governance training and equity. The board also received an update on staff COVID-19 vaccination and testing compliance.
- Sworn in Leon, Ph.D. Rouson to the Norfolk School Board
- Requested proposal from Valbrun Consulting Group for governance training by Jan. 19