Executive Session, Work Session, Community Input Session & Business Meeting

Summary: BOARD MEMBERS:
Mr. Diijon DaCosta, Sr., Board Chair
Mrs. Deirdre P. Pierce, Vice Chair
Mrs. Anna Hill
Ms. Whitney McGinniss
Ms. Allyson Gevertz
Mrs. Vickie B. Turner
Dr. Joyce Morley

Dr. Devon Q. Horton, Superintendent

Summary: It is requested that the DeKalb County Board of Education adopt the August 12, 2024 work session and business meeting agenda.

Motion by: ________________
Seconded by: _____________
Vote: ______________

Summary: Presented by: Dr. Devon Q. Horton, Superintendent

Summary: Presented by: Mrs. Anna Hill, Board Member, District 1

Request: It is requested that the Board of Education recognize Deeksha Khanna of Chamblee Charter High School for receiving the Fourth Award in Behavioral and Social Sciences for her science project titled, Elucidating the Behavioral, Pathogenetic, and Therapeutic Implications of Selectively Inhibited Monogenic Variants in Fragile X Syndrome Associated Genetic Epliepsy in Drosophila Melanogaster. The competition took place during the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) in Los Angeles on May 17, 2024.

Details: Deeksha Khanna's project, titled Elucidating the Behavioral, Pathogenetic, and Therapeutic Implications of Selectively Inhibited Monogenic Variants in Fragile X Syndrome Associated Genetic Epliepsy in Drosophila Melanogaster, presented at the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair on May 17, 2024, explored the genetic and therapeutic aspects fo Fragile X Syndrome (FXS) using fruit flies (Drosophila melanogaster) as a model organism.

This study provided valuable insights into the mechanisms of FXS and the role of genetic mutations in its manifestation, potentially guiding future therapeutic strategies for managing FXS-related epilepsy.

Contest Structure
The fair covers a wide range of scientific disciplines, including animal sciences, behavioral and social sciences, biochemistry, biomedical and health sciences, chemistry, computational biology and bioinformatics, earth, and environmental sciences, and many more.

Financial impact: None

Contact: Ms. Stacy E. Stepney, Chief Academic Officer, Division of Curriculum & Instruction, 678.676.0731,
Dr. Sean R. Tartt, Deputy Chief Academic Officer, Division of Curriculum & Instruction, 678,676.0731,
Dr. Rose Prejean-Harris, Assistant Superintendent, 6-12 Division of Curriculum & Instruction, 678.676.0731,
Mrs. Stephanie Brown-Bryant, Director, K-12, Teaching & Learning, Division of Curriculum & Instruction, 678.676.0161

Effective: August 12, 2024

Status: Attorney Approval Not Required

Summary: Presented by: Ms. Whitney McGinniss, Board Member, District 2

Request: It is requested that the Board of Education recognize Nia Stephen of DeKalb Arts Academy for her documentary titled, Out with the Old and In with the New: A New Economic Pathway for Black Women. Her documentary was showcased in the Oprah Winfrey Theater of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture. The showcase took place during the National History Day (NHD) National Competition at the University of Maryland, June 9-13, 2024.

Details: National History Day (NHD) 2024 is a year-long academic program that involves over half a million middle and high school students globally in historical research projects based on an annual theme. For 2024, the theme was "Turning Points in History".

Contest Structure
Students start by creating projects in one of five categories: documentaries, exhibits, performances, websites, or papers. These projects begin at the school level and can advance through regional and affiliate contests, culminating in the National Contest.

National Contest
The 2024 National Contest was held from June 9-13 at the University of Maryland, College Park. Nearly 3,000 students, along with their families and teachers, gathered for a week of competitions, educational activities, and celebrations.

Financial impact: None

Contact: Ms. Stacy E. Stepney, Chief Academic Officer, Division of Curriculum & Instruction, 678.676.0731,
Dr. Sean R. Tartt, Deputy Chief Academic Officer, Division of Curriculum & Instruction, 678,676.0731,
Dr. Penny Mosley, Assistant Superintendent, P-5, Division of Curriculum & Instruction, 678.676.0137,
Mrs. Stephanie Brown-Bryant, Director, K-12, Teaching & Learning, Division of Curriculum & Instruction, 678.676.0161

Effective: August 12, 2024

Status: Attorney Approval Not Required

Summary: Presented by: Mr. Elijah Palmer, Chief of Staff, Chief of Staff Division

Summary: Presented by: Mrs. Patricia Smith, Board Chair, DeKalb Schools Educational Foundation, Inc.

Summary: Presented by: Dr. Devon Q. Horton, Superintendent

Summary: Presented by: Mr. Diijon DaCosta, Sr., Board Chair

Summary: Presented by: Dr. Devon Q. Horton, Superintendent

Status: Attorney Approval Not Required

Summary: Presented by: Mr. Erick Hofstetter, Chief Operating Officer, Division of Operations

Request: It is requested that the Board of Education approve an amendment to the existing easement with the City of Dunwoody to allow for the maintenance of utilities serving the City of Dunwoody property.

Details: The City of Dunwoody has requested an amendment to the existing 2017 North Access Easement. The City of Dunwoody is looking to expand the current access easement which provides access to the Austin Elementary driveway to reach the Dunwoody Nature Center to now also include maintaining utilities that service the nature center. The City of Dunwoody is building an addition to the Nature Center that would require a new water line to be installed. The amendment will allow the City of Dunwoody the right to construct, install, operate, alter, repair, modify, and replace lines within the easement area. This amendment to the easement will not impact access to the Austin Elementary facility.

Financial impact: There is no financial impact on the DeKalb County School District or the City of Dunwoody associated with this easement request.

Contact: Mr. Erick Hofstetter, Chief Operating Officer, Division of Operations, 678.676.1447
Mr. Hans G. Williams, Director of Planning & E-SPLOST Programming, Division of Operations, 678.676.1588

Effective: Upon Board Approval

Status: Approved by the Office of Legal Affairs

Summary: Presented by: Mr. Erick Hofstetter, Chief Operating Officer, Division of Operations

Request: It is requested that the Board of Education approve an easement to Georgia Power to allow for an upgrade to electric distribution facilities to improve electric service reliability to the New Elementary School at Dresden.

Details: This project's purpose is to install and maintain electrical and communication lines and facilities to existing and future structures. Georgia Power requests permission to maintain, repair and rebuild on all equipment including wires, transformers, service pedestals, and cables to strengthen the service to the New Elementary School at Dresden site. Overhead lines in certain areas may be more prone to outages caused by trees contacting lines or vehicular collisions. Removing any trees and other obstructions to the lines and equipment will help in providing the area with quality service.

Financial impact: As this easement will directly benefit Dekalb County School District, the financial impact of this easement will be $1000.00 paid by Georgia Power to the DCSD.

Contact: Mr. Erick Hofstetter, Chief Operating Officer, Division of Operations, 678-676-1447
Mr. Hans Williams, Director of Planning & E-SPLOST Programming, Division of Operations, 678-676-1588

Effective: Upon Board Approval

Status: Approved by the Office of Legal Affairs

Summary: Presented by: Mr. Erick Hofstetter, Chief Operating Officer, Division of Operations

Request: It is requested that the Board of Education authorize Dekalb County School District (“DCSD”) to use the Cooperative Agreement between Omnia Partners and Carahsoft Technology Corporation to purchase the two-year license for the Inframappa software and services. Inframappa database software will manage DCSD’s building information. The services provided will include field verification of capital assets and scanning of all building documents for an amount not to exceed $251,612.90 for the initial contract period.

Details: Operations staff continues to improve and make the Work Order Management System more efficient. The team has recognized finding accurate information can be time consuming, requiring technicians to leave the field and return to the service center to locate the correct documents in storage. DCSD would like to properly inventory all major building system equipment and compile the information in a unique location. The field verification of capital assets will give DCSD an updated account of all assets. No Dekalb team member will be needed in the verification process, so daily responsibilities of maintaining safe learning environments will not be interrupted. The Inframappa software will allow users to share building information across all departments. Accurate information is accessed in seconds from one cloud-based location.

The current request for a total of $251,612.90 be a two-year license which will allow for the completion of the field verification, scanning of building documents, and use of cloud-based software. The Inframappa license will allow for unlimited users for DCSD staff in the platform. The agreement would include licensing renewal options. It is anticipated that the scanning of documents and field verification process will commence shortly after Board approval.

Financial impact: The total budget of $251,612.90 from this project is allocated from the cost code (100.2600.543009.00011.7520.9990.8013.040.0000) under the Operations’ Division General Fund Budget.

Inframappa Solutions and Services will be a one-time cost of $251,612.90 allocated from the General Fund budget for a two-year package license with the option of renewal.

Contact: Mr. Erick Hofstetter, Chief Operating Officer, Division of Operations, 678.676.1447
Mr. Bobby Moncrief, Director of Facilities Management, Division of Operations, 678.676.1478
Mr. Hans G, Williams, Director of Planning & E-SPLOST Programming, Division of Operations, 678.676.1588

Effective: Upon Board Approval

Status: Approved by the Office of Legal Affairs

Summary: Presented by: Mr. Erick Hofstetter, Chief Operating Officer, Division of Operations

Request: It is requested that the Board of Education approve the purchase of gasoline and diesel fuel from James River Solutions, LLC as the primary supplier, Sunoco, LP as the secondary supplier, and Boswell Oil Company as the tertiary supplier through the North Georgia Fuel Cooperative ("NGFC") (BL051-23) in an amount not-to-exceed $8,100,000 for the dates September 1, 2024, through August 31, 2025.

Details: Pursuant to Board Policy DJE III D(3)(d), Exception to Competitive selection, the Purchasing Department is authorized to make purchases through contracts formally solicited and obtained by the State of Georgia and through “inter-governmental and educational cooperatives, alliances, and consortiums to achieve cost savings and administrative efficiencies based on economies scale”. As such, NGFC agreement is the result of several entities combining their fuel requirements to obtain the advantages of high-volume purchases, including administrative savings and other benefits. It was formed with the specific purpose of purchasing fuels at very high volumes to obtain the best discount and lowest pricing.

The NGFC bid was approved on June 4, 2024, by Gwinnett County Board of Commissioners, who acted as the Principal Procurement Agency for the North Georgia Fuel Cooperative.
This bid was formally solicited and awarded to James River Solutions, LLC as the primary supplier, and Sunoco, LP as the secondary and Boswell Oil Company as the tertiary. These entities are all approved vendors of the North Georgia Fuel Cooperative. In the event the primary supplier is unable to fulfill their services or cannot provide services, the second and/or tertiary supplier may be used.

Financial impact: This purchase in an amount not-to-exceed $8,100,000.00 will be charged to the General Operations Energy fund code: 100.2700.562000.00011.7190.1320.8013.040.0000.

Contact: Mr. Erick Hofstetter, Chief Operating Officer, Division of Operations, 678.676.1447
Mr. Cedric A. Burse, Director, Fleet Services, Division of Operations, 678.676.1385

Effective: Upon Board Approval

Status: Approved by the Office of Legal Affairs

Summary: Presented by: Mr. Erick Hofstetter, Chief Operating Officer, Division of Operations

Request: It is requested that the Board of Education approve the agreement between the DeKalb County School District ("DCSD") and DeKalb County Government to serve as the vendor for SY24-25 After School Snack program.

Details: During SY24-25, School Nutrition Services will provide snacks to the designated nine centers (eight schools). Snacks served must meet federal meal pattern requirements. Afterschool snacks must contain at least two different components of the following four: a serving of fluid milk; a serving of meat or meat alternate; a serving of vegetables or fruits or full-strength vegetable or fruit juice; a serving of whole grain or enriched bread or cereal.
Snacks are picked up from each school by the Parks and Recreation Supervisor and delivered to each Center.

Financial impact: There is no impact to the DeKalb County School District general budget. School Nutrition Services will gain the projected revenue of $47,025 less expenditures by serving as the vendor in support of this agreement.

Contact: Mr. Erick Hofstetter, Chief Operating Officer, Division of Operations (678) 676-1447
Dr. Connie R. Walker, Executive Director of School Nutrition Services (678) 676-1780

Effective: Upon Board Approval

Status: Approved by the Office of Legal Affairs.

Summary: Presented by: Erick Hofstetter, Chief Operating Officer, Division of Operations

Request: It is requested that the Board of Education approve a budget reallocation in the amount of $2,091,200 from Program Contingency which will allow the proper funds to be allocated to the necessary project cost code for the capital improvement at Clarkston High School.

Additionally, it is requested that the Board of Education approve the award of RFP No. 24-752-022 to Centennial Contractors Enterprises, Inc., the most responsive and responsible offeror whose proposal is the most advantageous to the Board based on the evaluation factors, for general contractor services for Clarkston High School for the lump sum amount of $2,091,200.

Details: Specific details related to the scope of work for this Request for Proposal can be found on the DeKalb County School District’s solicitation website at https://dekalbschoolsga.ionwave.net/

The RFP was issued on March 28, 2024, and notification of the upcoming bid was sent via email to more than 180 vendors from the DCSD vendor list, 1,392 vendors through the State of Georgia Procurement Registry. The solicitation was advertised in the Champion and posted on the DCSD website. Seventeen (17) people attended the virtual mandatory pre-proposal meeting on April 11, 2024, representing thirteen (13) general contractor firms. Two (2) proposals were received on May 23, 2024, for the Clarkston High School Capital Improvements Project. Both proposals were deemed responsive and were evaluated by a selection committee.

Centennial Contractors Enterprise, Inc., will be responsible for the general contracting work as outlined in the proposal documents. The DeKalb County School District’s Standard Firm Fixed Price Contract will be used. The award of this contract will allow for the commencement of the construction of this project. Centennial Contractors Enterprises, Inc. is located at 3200 Cobb Galleria Parkway, Suite 210, Atlanta, Georgia 30339.

Financial impact: The total contract amount for the Clarkston High School Capital Improvements project in the amount of $2,091,200 will be allocated from the construction cost code SP5NEWFAC.21335.GENERALCONTRACTOR under the voter-approved E-SPLOST V program. A budget reallocation of $2,091,200 from program contingency is required to fund this project.

Contact: Mr. Erick Hofstetter, Chief Operating Officer, Division of Operations, 678.676.1447
Mr. Richard Boyd, Director of Design and Construction, Division of Operations, 678.676.1483

Effective: Upon Board Approval

Status: Approved by the Office of Legal Affairs

Summary: Presented by: Mr. Erick Hofstetter, Chief Operating Officer, Division of Operations

Request: It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the award of RFQu No. 24-752-023 for Professional Architectural and Engineering Continuing Contract Services to ECS Southeast, LLC, Goodwyn, Mills, and Cawood LLC, Matrix Engineering Group, Inc., Nova Engineering & Environmental, LLC, Oasis Consulting Services, S&ME, Inc. and United Consulting the most responsive and responsible firms whose proposal best meets the requirements set forth in the Proposal Documents and contract obligations identified herein.

Details: Specific details related to the scope of work for Geotechnical, Environmental and Construction Testing Services can be found on the DCSD solicitation website at http://www.dekalbschoolsga.ionwave.net

The RFQu was issued on April 25, 2024, and notification of the upcoming bid was sent via email to 46 vendors from the DCSD vendor list and 677 vendors through the State of GA Procurement Registry. The solicitation was advertised in the Champion, posted on DCSD website. Twenty-three (23) people attended the pre-proposal meeting on May 7, 2024, representing thirteen (13) firms. On May 30, 2024, proposals were received from seven (7) firms. All of the proposals were responsive and evaluated by a selection committee.

This recommendation is based on the review and evaluation of the proposals received to ECS Southeast, LLC, Goodwyn, Mills, and Cawood, LLC, Matrix Engineering Group, Inc., Nova Engineering & Environmental, LLC, Oasis Consulting Services, S&ME, Inc., and United Consulting are the responsive, responsible bidders. Upon Board approval, this contract can be renewed annually for up to four (4) years. ECS Southeast, LLC is located at 4860 Clark Howell Highway, College Park GA 30349, Goodwyn, Mills, and Cawood LLC, is located at 6120 Powers Ferry Rd NW Suite 200, Atlanta, GA 30339.
Matrix Engineering Group, Inc. is located at 4358 Chamblee Tucker Road Suite 3 Tucker, GA 30084. Nova Engineering & Environmental, LLC is located at 3900 Kennesaw 75 Parkway Suite 100 Kennesaw, GA 30144. Oasis Consulting Services is located at 45 Woodstock Street, Roswell, GA 30075. S&ME, Inc. is located at 3380 Town Point Drive, NW Suite 140 Kennesaw, GA 30144. United Consulting is located at 625 Holcomb Bridge Road, Norcross, GA, 30071.

Financial impact: It is anticipated that the cost for these services may exceed $100,000.00 within a fiscal year and will be allocated from various General Fund and E-SPLOST charge codes. Board Policy DJE requires the Board of Education to approve the expenditure of any vendor that provides goods and/or services to the school system that may exceed $100,000.00 in purchases for the fiscal year. All single purchases over the $100,000.00 threshold will be brought back to the Board for formal approval in accordance with Board policy

Contact: Mr. Erick Hofstetter, Chief Operating Officer, Division of Operations, 678.676.1447
Mr. Richard Boyd, Director of Design and Construction, Division of Operations, 678.676.1483

Effective: Upon Board Approval

Status: Approved by the Office of Legal Affairs

Summary: Presented by: Mr. Erick Hofstetter, Chief Operating Officer, Division of Operations

Request: It is requested that the Board of Education approve the award of RFQu No. 24-752-029 for construction management services for Group 1 Security Vestibules to Lefko Development, Inc./dba Lefko Construction the most responsive and responsible Offeror whose proposal is the most advantageous to the Board based on the evaluation factors set forth in the Request for Qualifications solicitation document.

In addition, it is requested that the Board of Education approve a not-to-exceed amount of $100,000, for the Pre-Construction Phase Fee associated with this contract agreement. The Final GMP will be presented to the Board of Education for approval as indicated below:


The Final Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP) will be presented in January 2025.

Details: Specific details related to the scope of work for this Request for Qualifications can be found on DeKalb County School District’s (DCSD) solicitation website at http://www.dekalbschoolsga.org/solicitations/.

The RFQu was issued on April 25, 2024, and notification of the upcoming solicitation was sent via email to 50 vendors from the DCSD vendor list and 225 vendors through the State of GA Procurement Registry. The solicitation was advertised in the Champion and posted on DCSD website. Thirteen (13) people attended the mandatory pre-proposal meeting on May 9, 2024, representing six (6) construction managers. Three (3) statements of qualifications were received on May 30, 2024, for Group 1 Security Vestibules. All three (3) were deemed responsive and evaluated by a selection committee. This recommendation is based on the evaluations.

Lefko Development, Inc./dba Lefko Construction will be responsible for the construction management services as set forth in the proposal documents. The DeKalb County School District’s Standard Form of Construction Management Contract will be used. The award of this contract will allow for the commencement of the pre-construction phase of the construction management services for this project. Lefko Construction Company is located at 105 Mansell Circle, Roswell, Georgia 30075.

Financial impact: The total budget of $100,000 for the Pre-Construction fee and reimbursable expenses associated with the contract agreement for Group 1 Security Vestibule project will be allocated from multiple cost codes under the voter-approved E-SPLOST VI program identified on the attached Facility Cost Code and Cost List.

Contact: Mr. Erick Hofstetter, Chief Operating Officer, Division of Operations, 678-676-1447
Mr. Richard Boyd, Director of Design and Construction, Division of Operations, 678-676-1483

Effective: Upon Board Approval

Status: Approved by the Office of Legal Affairs

Summary: Presented by: Mr. Erick Hofstetter, Chief Operating Officer, Division of Operations

Request: It is requested that the Board of Education approve the award of RFQu 24-752-030 for Architectural and Engineering Services for Group 2 Security Vestibules to SSOE, Inc., the most responsive and responsible Offeror whose submittal is the most advantageous to the Board based on the evaluation factors, for the lump sum amount of $896,250.

Details: The scope of work for this project includes Architectural Engineering Services for Group 2 Security Vestibules for DCSD Projects listed in Exhibit B. Additional project information can be found on the DeKalb County School District’s solicitation website at https://dekalbschoolsga.ionwave.net/.

The RFQu was issued on April 25, 2024, and notification of the RFQu was sent via email to over 60 vendors from the DCSD vendor list and 843 vendors through the State of GA Procurement Registry. The solicitation was advertised in the Champion and posted on the DCSD website. Seventeen (17) people attended the virtual mandatory pre-submittal conference on May 9, 2024, representing twelve (12) architectural/engineering firms. On May 30, 2024, submittals were received from nine (9) firms. All nine (9) firms were deemed responsive and evaluated by a selection committee. This recommendation is based on the evaluations.

SSOE, Inc. submitted the most responsive and responsible submittal and will be responsible for the architectural and engineering design work as set forth in the solicitation documents. The DeKalb County School District’s Standard Form of Contract for Architectural Services will be used for this project SSOE, Inc. is located at 1001 Madison Avenue Toledo, Oh 43604.

Financial impact: The total budget of $896,250.00 for Architectural Engineering Services for Group 2 Security Vestibules will be allocated from multiple cost codes under the voter-approved E-SPLOST VI program identified on the attached Facility Cost Code and Cost List.

Contact: Mr. Erick Hofstetter, Chief Operating Officer, Division of Operations, 678.676.1447
Mr. Richard Boyd, Director of Design and Construction, Division of Operations, 678.676.1483

Effective: Upon Board Approval

Status: Approved by the Office of Legal Affairs

Summary: Presented by: Mr. Erick Hofstetter, Chief Operating Officer, Division of Operations

Request: It is requested that the Board of Education approve an E-SPLOST V budget reallocation in the amount of $178,235.81 from Project Contingency, which will allow the proper funds to be allocated to the necessary project cost code for the Centennial Contractors Change Order No. 1 at Briar Vista Elementary School.

Additionally, it is requested that the Board of Education approve Change Order No. 1 to Centennial Contractors Enterprises, Inc. for a not-to-exceed amount of $178,235.81 for DeKalb County School District ("DCSD") requested items as outlined in the Change Order No. 1 documents.

Details: Specific details related to the scope of work for this Request for Proposal can be found on the DeKalb County School District’s solicitation website at https://dekalbschoolsga.ionwave.net/

The RFP was issued on June 8, 2023, and notification of the upcoming bid was sent via email to more than 150 vendors from the DCSD vendor list and 2,329 vendors through the State of Georgia Procurement Registry. The solicitation was advertised in the Champion and posted on the DCSD website. Twenty-Four (24) people attended the virtual mandatory pre-proposal meeting on June 22, 2023, representing thirteen (13) general contractor firms. Two (2) proposals were received on July 27, 2023, for the Briar Vista Elementary School and Henderson Mill Elementary School Major Building System Replacement Project. Both proposals were deemed responsive and evaluated by a selection committee. This recommendation is based on the evaluations.

Centennial Contractors Enterprises, Inc. was awarded the project at the October 16, 2023, DCSD Board Meeting.

This Change Order No. 01 covers the approved additional scope for the DeKalb County School District requested items.

Financial impact: The total amount of $178,235.81 for Centennial Contractors Enterprises, Inc. Change Order No. 1 will be allocated from the general contractor cost code (SP5FACCON. 35735.GENCONTR) under the voter-approved E-SPLOST V program. A budget reallocation of $178,235.81 from project contingency is required to fund this Change Order No. 1.

Contact: Mr. Erick Hofstetter, Chief Operating Officer, Division of Operations, 678-676-1447
Mr. Richard Boyd, Director of Design and Construction, Division of Operation, 678-676-1483

Effective: Upon Board Approval

Status: Approved by the Office of Legal Affairs

Summary: Presented by: Mr. Erick Hofstetter, Chief Operating Officer, Division of Operations

Request: It is requested that the Board approve a budget reallocation from Program Contingency to the necessary project cost code (SP5FACCON.35435.PRECONST) in the amount of $160,883.96. The reallocation will allow funds to be placed in the ESPLOST project budget to pay Mobile Modular Management Corporation, for the removal of the portable classroom units and the monthly lease payments.

Details: The proposed modular buildings are to accommodate temporary classroom needs at E.L. Miller Elementary during the E-SPLOST V Major Building System Replacement project. The reallocated funds will cover the expenses for monthly lease payments and removing the modular units.

Mobile Modular Costs BAI
Monthly Lease for 5 Months $74,090.00
Cleaning and Removal Fee $86,793.96
Total Budget for Mobile Modular $160,883.96

Financial impact: The total budget reallocation of $160,883.96 from E-SPLOST V Program Contingency will be transferred to the pre-construction cost code (SP5FACCON.35435.PRECON) under the voter-approved E-SPLOST V program for the E. L. Miller Elementary Major Building System Replacement project.

Contact: Mr. Erick Hofstetter, Chief Operating Officer, Division of Operations, 678.676.1447
Mr. Richard Boyd, Director of Design and Construction, Division of Operations, 678.676.1483

Effective: Upon Board Approval

Status: Approved by the Office of Legal Affairs

Summary: Presented by: Ms. Monika Davis, Chief Information Officer, Division of Information and Instructional Technology

Summary: Presented by: Mr. Joel B. Thibodeaux, CIA, Director of Internal Audits & Compliance, Chief of Staff Division, 678-676-0740

Request: It is requested that the DeKalb Board of Education authorize the District to engage Gartner, Inc. utilizing the Georgia statewide contract (#99999-SPD-SPD0000208-0014) for the provision of flat-fee, subscription based advisory and consulting services to the Office of Internal Audits & Compliance for an amount not to exceed $96,900.

Details: Our critical priority is to modernize and mature DCSD's Internal Audit function to become more forward-looking and best in class.

Financial impact: $96,600 from the FY2025 Internal Audits & Compliance departmental budget (Loc. 7230).

100-530000-00011-7230-9990-8010-010-0000

Contact: Mr. Joel B. Thibodeaux, CIA, Director of Internal Audits & Compliance, Chief of Staff Division, 678-676-0740

Effective: September 1, 2023 - following Board approval and execution of the service agreement.

Status: Approved by Legal Affairs

Summary: Presented by: Presented by: Mr. Byron Schueneman, Chief Financial Officer, Division of Finance

Request: It is requested that the Board of Education accept the June 2024 Monthly Financial Report.

Contact: Mr. Byron Schueneman, Chief Financial Officer, Division of Finance, 678.676.0278

Status: Attorney Approval Not Required

Summary: Presented by: Mr. Byron Schueneman, Chief Financial Officer, Division of Finance

Request: It is requested that the Board of Education approve the non-resident student annual tuition fee of $6,263.36 for the 2024-2025 school year, as calculated using State provided formula in the attached spreadsheet.

Financial impact: Non-resident tuition is revenue for the general fund

Contact: Mr. Byron Schueneman, Chief Financial Officer, Division of Finance, 678.676.0289

Status: Attorney Approval Not Required

Summary: Presented by: Mr. Byron Schueneman, Chief Financial Officer, Division of Finance

Request: It is requested that the Board of Education authorize the fifth of five - settlement funding payment in the amount of $22.5 million in accordance with the provisions of the Final Approval of the Settlement Agreement and Order. American Legal Claims, LLC is appointed as the Settlement Administrator.

Details: The District’s obligations for FY2025 in regard to the Gold Case litigation settlement include making the fifth/final settlement payment in the amount of $22.5 million by Monday, October 7, 2024.

Financial impact: General Fund Legal Expense Budget - FY25 $22,500,000.
Budget Code - 100.2300.530002.00011.7080.9990.8010.080.0000

Contact: Mr. Byron Schueneman, Chief Financial Officer, Division of Finance, 678.676.0278
Mr. Lance McConkey, Comptroller, Division of Finance, 678.676.0445

Effective: Upon Board Approval

Summary: Presented by: Mrs. Tasha Davis Mills, Chief Human Resources Officer, Division of Human Resources

Request: It is requested that the Board of Education approve the August Human Resources Report.

Contact: Mrs. Tasha Davis Mills, Chief Human Resources Officer, Division of Human Resources, 678.676.1200.

Effective: Upon board Approval

Status: Attorney approval not required

Summary: Presented by: Mrs. Michelle Dillard, Chief of Schools, Division of Schools & Leadership

Summary: Presented by: Ms. Stacy Stepney, Chief Academic Officer, Division of Curriculum & Instruction

Summary: Presented by: Dr. Kishia K. Towns, Chief of Wrap Around Services, Division of Wrap Around Services

Request: It is requested that the Board of Education approve the Letter of Agreement between College AIM, INC., and the DeKalb County School District (DCSD), for an additional year for an amount not to exceed $140,000. The contract renewal is through June 30, 2025, and will be in accordance with the existing fee structure provided in the vendor’s service agreement. This request supports Strategic Goal Area 1 Student Academic Success with Equity and Access.

Details: College AIM guides and supports high school students to and through college, including technical college, two-year colleges and four-year institutions, by (among other things) running workshops to help students explore and connect to post-secondary opportunities, providing individual post-secondary advising, taking students on college visits, counseling students regarding financial, academic and social support services through college graduation, and providing scholarships and access to scholarship opportunities.

College AIM will provide total school “post-secondary prep” programming at McNair, Stone Mountain, Towers, Cross Keys, and Lithonia High Schools. Programming will include both Access (during high school) and Success (post-graduate) support for students.

To reach the students outlined above, College AIM would place a team consisting of one Post-secondary Access Coach, one Post-secondary Success Coach and at least one Program Specialist at each of the five partner schools. There, the team would work closely with school-based and district personnel including administrators, counselors, teachers, post-secondary transition specialists and the Office of Student Advancement to coordinate programming. Programming would include both Access (during high school) and Success (post-graduate) support for students.

Access Programming (during high school, to support post-secondary enrollment) will include:

College Prep Workshops - for 9th-11th grade students.
Individual Post-secondary Advising - for all 12th grade students and FAFSA support.
Local, state-wide, and out-of-state college visits - for 9th through 12th grade students,
Scholarships - including the CAPS Scholarship, Goucher/College AIM Scholarship, BLEST Scholarship, Genevieve Ramsey Scholarship, DeKalb Alphas Scholarship and Dell Scholarship
College Admit Day - College fair with free applications and on-the-spot acceptances and scholarship awards.
College 101 - Series of workshops for 12th grade students.
Signing Day - Celebration for all students from partner high schools who are enrolling in post-secondary education programs.


Success (post-graduate, to support post-secondary matriculation, graduation, and career success):

Summer Melt Prevention - Intensive student outreach and tracking in June and July to ensure that students enroll in college.
Financial Support - Access to College AIM’s emergency and enrollment assistance funds.
Individual Skill-based Success Coaching - for students in their first postgraduate year.
Daily Office Hours - Virtual support with academic, social, and financial challenges
Career Coaching - Workshops for our college students on a variety of topics.

Financial impact: The total budget of $140,000 for the College AIM program will be allocated from Purchased Professional and Technical Services:
Account Code: 100.1000.530000.03111.7370.9990.8010.090.0000

Contact: Dr. Kishia K. Towns, Chief of Wrap Around Services, Division of Wrap Around Services, 678-676-1811
Christopher Key, Executive Director of Student Advancement, Division of Wrap Around Services, 678-485-9544

Effective: Upon Board Approval

Status: Approved by General Counsel

Summary: Presented by: Dr. Norman C. Sauce III, Chief of Student Services, Division of Student Services

Request: It is requested that the Board of Education approve the award for RFP 24-589 for the English Learners Program Evaluation and Master Planning to RMC Research Corporation as the most responsive and responsible bidder to perform a comprehensive program evaluation, and master development of the DCSD English Learners Department for an amount not to exceed $183,136.97.

Details: In accordance with the formal procurement procedures published by the Georgia Department of Education, the Request for Proposal (RFP) was issued May 23, 2024. Electronic notification was sent to 195 vendors from the DCSD vendor list, 2,638 vendors through the State of Georgia Procurement Registry (GPR), and 687 vendors through IonWave, the DeKalb County School District’s solicitation portal. The solicitation was advertised in the Champion Newspaper for two (2) consecutive weeks beginning May 23, 2024. Four (4) proposals were received on June 25, 2024, for the English Learners Program Evaluation and Master's Planning. Three (3) proposals were deemed responsive and evaluated on the following criteria: Firm’s Overview, Scope of Services, Firm’s Relevant Experience and Expertise, Professional References, and Cost of Services. The firm’s profile including ownership structure, history, and organization chart; scope of services including methodology and strategies; relevant experiences in comparable K-12 school districts; and three written references.

Financial impact: The financial impact to the general funds for school year 2024-2025 will not exceed the amount $183,136.97.

Division of Student Services Charge Code:
100.2300.530000.00011.8740.9990.8010.094.0000

Contact: Dr. Norman C. Sauce III, Chief of Student Services,, Division of Student Services, 678-676-1079

Dr. Evelyn Hall, Executive Director, English Learners Program/Title III and DeKalb International Screening Center, Division of Student Services, 678-676-6602

Effective: August 19, 2024 - August 18, 2025

Status: Solicitation Reviewed and Approved by General Counsel

Summary: Presented by: Dr. Norman C. Sauce III, Chief of Student Services, Division of Student Services

Request: It is requested that the Board of Education approve the purchase of supplemental instructional resources for the Division of Student Services in an amount not to exceed $­­4,000,000.

Details: The DeKalb County School District will purchase supplemental instructional resources to support the academic success of students served through the Division of Student Services in accordance to Board Policy DJE (III.D.3.g).

Financial impact: The total financial impact for SY2024-2025 is not to exceed the amount of $4,000,000.

The purchase amount will be paid using Title III grant, IDEA federal funding, and general funds.

Charge codes:





Exceptional Education
404.2100.553200.05021.7340.2824.8010.094.2024 ( )
100.1000.553200.00011.7340.2021.8010.094.0000


English Learners Department
460.1000.553200.07221.7130.1816.6015.094.2024

Title III Funds will be used to purchase these resources.


Gifted
100.2213.553200.00011.7340.2021.8010.094.0000
100.1000.561000.00011.7340.2021.8010.094.0000

Contact: Presented by: Dr. Norman C. Sauce III, Chief of Student Services, Division of Student Services
Dr. Evelyn Hall, Executive Director of English Learners Department, Division of Student Services
Mrs. Kiana King, Executive Director of Exceptional Education, Division of Student Services
Mrs. Emmika Atkinson, Coordinator III, Gifted & Talented, Division of Student Services

Effective: August 12, 2024-August 11, 2025

Status: Attorney Approval Not Required

Summary: Presented by: Dr. Candace Alexander, Chief of Accountability & Continuous Improvement, Division of Accountability & Continuous Improvement

Request: It is requested that the Board of Education approve the purchase of SAT Exams from College Board for the SY24-25 test administration in an amount not to exceed $375,000.

The requested purchase is a testing expenditure that does not require bid per the District’s Purchasing Board Policy (DJE).

Details: This proposed budget item is requesting funds not to exceed $375,000 to cover the costs of the SAT for both juniors and seniors in SY 2024-2025.

SAT School Day administration will be held in Fall 2024 for seniors and Spring 2025 for juniors for the 2024-2025 school year. Students will take the SAT digitally using their school-issued devices for testing, ensuring a smooth experience for students.

Administrators and teachers will be provided professional learning with a holistic understanding of the SAT test and test administration processes and procedures by the Assessment Administration department and through SAT training webinars.

The SAT executive will host a workshop for school leaders to improve DCSD educators’ foundational knowledge of the SAT, help educators identify curricular connections, analyze key performance data points, and implement strategies to provide students with the rigor and relevance to improve achievement.

The Assessment Administration Department, in collaboration with the Division of Information & Instructional Technology, will assist schools with the assessment implementation, including test planning, administrative set-up, required processes, and any operational and technological needs.

Financial impact: The financial impact is an amount, not to exceed, $375,000 for FY25.

The purchase amount will be paid using general funds budgeted to the Department of Assessment Administration, Charge code: 100.2210.553200.00011.7540.9990.8010.030.0000

Contact: Dr. Candace Alexander, Chief, Division of Accountability & Continuous Improvement, Division of Accountability & Continuous Improvement, 678.676.0300
Dr. Felicia G. Rhone, Director, Assessment Administration, Division of Accountability & Continuous Improvement, 678.676.0300

Effective: October 2024

Status: Approved by Office of Legal Affairs

Summary: Presented by: Dr. Yolanda Williamson, Chief of Community Engagement & Innovative Partnerships, Division of Community Engagement & Innovative Partnerships

Request: It is requested that the Board of Education accept the donation of $41,765.06 from the Dunwoody Elementary School’s Parent Teacher Organization as a one-time donation per Board Policy DFK “Gifts and Bequests Guidelines”.

Details: Dunwoody Elementary School’s Parent Teacher Organization is requesting approval to accept their one-time donation of $41,765.06 for the cost of materials, delivery, and construction of an outdoor classroom wood structure.

The DeKalb County School District Operations Division has worked with the Dunwoody Elementary School administration and the Parent Teacher Organization to ensure these improvements meet all design and construction standards and guidelines. General contractor Jewel of the South via EZIQC Contract No.: GA-C10-040820-JOS will provide general contractor services for this project.

Financial impact: The agreement would require a one-time donation of $41,765.06 that will be provided by Dunwoody Elementary School’s Parent Teacher Organization. There is no financial impact to the district.

Contact: Dr. Yolanda Williamson, Chief of Community Engagement & Innovative Partnerships, Division of Community Engagement & Innovative Partnerships, 678.676.0218
Mr. Erick Hoffstetter, Chief Operating Officer, Division of Operations, 678.676.1447
Mr. Richard Boyd, Director of Design and Construction, Division of Operations, 678.676.1483

Effective: Upon Board Approval

Status: Approved by the Office of Legal Affairs

Summary: Presented by: Mr. H. Eric Hilton, Chief Legal Officer, Division of Legal Services, 678-676-0159

Request: It is requested that the Board of Education (“Board”) approve the renewal of the Insurance Producer Services for Property and Casualty Insurance Agreement with Edgewood Partners Insurance Center d/b/a EPIC Insurance Brokers and Consultants (“Epic”) for an annual fee not to exceed $150,000.

Details: In March of 2017, the Board approved Epic as the District’s sole insurance producer through the RFQ process. From March of 2017, until June of 2022, Epic provided good insurance producer and consulting services to the District’s Risk Management Department. From June of 2022, until August of 2022, the District utilized the services of another insurance producer. However, at its business meeting on August 10, 2022, the DeKalb County Board of Education (“Board”) approved an Insurance Producer Services for Property and Casualty Insurance Agreement with Epic, for an annual fee not to exceed $150,000.00. This agreement was pursuant to RFP 22-490, entitled Insurance Producer Services for Property and Casualty Insurance.

At its business meeting on July 10, 2023, the Board renewed its contract with Epic. A renewal of the Epic contract is recommended by the District’s Risk Management Department. Epic is a qualified insurance broker dedicated to servicing all the District’s insurance needs. This includes, but is not limited to, helping with the District’s annual insurance renewal procedures for its insurance policies as well as providing guidance when losses occur, and when claims must be filed.

Financial impact: This is a budgeted expense within the Risk Management budget. The cost code is 100.2600.552000.00011.7490.9990.8010.050.0000 and the amount of the expense is $150,000.

Contact: Mr. H. Eric Hilton, Chief Legal Officer, Division of Legal Services, 678-676-0159

Mr. Glinton R. Darien, Jr., Director of Legal Affairs, Division of Legal Services, 678-676-0403

Status: Approved by General Counsel

Summary: Presented by: Mrs. Marissa Key, Executive Director of Legal Affairs, Division of Legal Services

Request: It is requested that the Board of Education amend Board Policy GAEB: Sexual Harassment of Employees.

Details: The proposed revisions to Board Policy GAEB: Sexual Harassment of Employees are recommended to align with the current Title IX regulations.

Financial impact: There is no financial impact to the District.

Contact: Ms. Noga Baruch, Legal Counsel, Hall Booth Smith, PC, Attorneys at Law, (404)954-5000.

Effective: Upon Board Approval

Status: Approved by the General Counsel

Summary: Presented by: Mrs. Marissa Key, Executive Director, Legal Affairs, Division of Legal Services

Request: It is requested that the Board of Education amend Board Policy JCAC: Sexual Harassment of Students.

Details: The proposed revisions to Board Policy JCAC: Sexual Harassment of Students are recommended to align with the current Title IX regulations.

Financial impact: There is no financial impact to the District.

Contact: Ms. Noga Baruch, Legal Counsel, Hall Booth Smith, PC, Attorneys at Law, (404)954-5000.

Effective: Upon Board Approval

Status: Approved by the General Counsel

Summary: Presented by Marissa Key, Executive Director, Division of Legal Affairs

Request: It is requested that the Board of Education amend Board Policy IFBG: Internet Acceptable Use.

Details: Board Policy IFBG: Internet Acceptable Use, is being amended to include expectations around IT security, artificial intelligence (AI), and emergent technologies. The proposed revisions address the evolving digital landscape and ensure a secure and responsible use of technology within our organization. The revised policy will also govern IT Security and Artificial Intelligence regulations. The supporting IT Security regulation will outline clear expectations for IT security, emphasizing the importance of protecting our network and data from unauthorized access and cyber threats. The AI regulation will set forth guidelines for the ethical and responsible use of AI, ensuring that AI applications are transparent, unbiased, and respect privacy rights. By implementing the proposed policy revisions and implementing IT Security and AI regulations, the District will provide a comprehensive framework to guide our digital practices and create a safer and more responsible digital environment for all users.

Financial impact: None

Contact: Ms. Noga Baruch, Legal Counsel, Hall Booth Smith, PC, Attorneys at Law, (404)954-5000

Effective: Upon final Board approval.

Summary: Presented by: Mrs. Marissa Key, Executive Director of Legal Affairs, Division of Legal Services

Request: It is requested that the Board of Education accept an amendment to Board Policy BBA: Board Officers for First Read. The proposed revisions are requested to update the policy and to clarify the current language. This policy has been reviewed and analyzed by the Board Policy Committee. The Committee agrees on the recommended revisions.

Details: The purpose of the Board Policy Review Committee is to ensure the ongoing review, development, and refinement of Board policies governing the District. The Board Policy Review Committee has the goal of promoting transparency, accountability, and compliance with state, local, and federal laws while fostering a safe, equitable, and inclusive environment for all within the District.

Financial impact: There is no financial impact to the District.

Contact: Ms. Noga Baruch, Legal Counsel, Hall Booth Smith, PC, Attorneys at Law, (404)954-5000

Effective: Upon Board Approval

Summary: Presented by: Mrs. Marissa Key, Executive Director of Legal Affairs, Division of Legal Services

Request: It is requested that the Board of Education accept an amendment to Board Policy BBE: School Board Attorney for First Read. The proposed revisions are requested to update the policy and to clarify the current language. This policy has been reviewed and analyzed by the Board Policy Committee. The Committee agrees on the recommended revisions.

Details: The purpose of the Board Policy Review Committee is to ensure the ongoing review, development, and refinement of Board policies governing the District. The Board Policy Review Committee has the goal of promoting transparency, accountability, and compliance with state, local, and federal laws while fostering a safe, equitable, and inclusive environment for all within the District.

Financial impact: No Financial Impact to the District

Contact: Ms. Noga Baruch, Legal Counsel, Hall Booth Smith, PC Attorneys at Law (404) 954-5000

Effective: Upon Board Approval

Status: Attorney Approval Not Required

Summary: Presented by: Mrs. Marissa Key, Executive Director of Legal Affairs, Division of Legal Services

Request: It is requested that the Board of Education accept a recommendation to Board Policy BBF: Advisory Committees for First Read. The proposed recommendation is to delete this policy and combine it with Board Policy BBC: Board Committees. This policy has been reviewed and analyzed by the Board Policy Committee. The Committee agrees on the recommendation.

Details: At the April 15, 2024 meeting of the DeKalb County Board of Education, the Board Policy Review Committee was established. The purpose of the Board Policy Review Committee is to ensure the ongoing review, development, and refinement of Board policies governing the District. The Board Policy Review Committee has the goal of promoting transparency, accountability, and compliance with state, local, and federal laws while fostering a safe, equitable, and inclusive environment for all within the District.

The Board Policy Review Committee reviewed and analyzed Board Policy BBF: Advisory Committees and determined that it should be deleted and combined with Board Policy: BBC Board Committees. As a result, it is requested that this policy be deleted.

Financial impact: No Financial Impact to the District

Contact: Ms. Noga Baruch, Legal Counsel, Hall Booth Smith, PC Attorneys at Law (404) 954-5000

Effective: Upon Board Approval

Status: Attorney Approval Not Required

Summary: Presented by: Mrs. Marissa Key, Executive Director of Legal Affairs, Division of Legal Services

Request: It is requested that the Board of Education accept an amendment to Board Policy BBC: Board Committees for First Read. The proposed revisions are requested to update the policy, to clarify the current language to include language from Board Policy BBF: Advisory Committees. This policy has been reviewed and analyzed by the Board Policy Committee. The Committee agrees on the recommended revisions.

Details: The purpose of the Board Policy Review Committee is to ensure the ongoing review, development, and refinement of Board policies governing the District. The Board Policy Review Committee has the goal of promoting transparency, accountability, and compliance with state, local, and federal laws while fostering a safe, equitable, and inclusive environment for all within the District.

Financial impact: No Financial Impact to the District

Contact: Ms. Noga Baruch, Legal Counsel, Hall Booth Smith, PC Attorneys at Law (404) 954-5000

Effective: Upon Board Approval

Status: Attorney Approval Not Required

Summary: Presented by: Mrs. Marissa Key, Executive Director of Legal Affairs, Division of Legal Services

Request: It is requested that the Board of Education amend Board Policy BBBE: Board Member Compensation and Expenses.

Details: The purpose of the Board Policy Review Committee is to ensure the ongoing review, development, and refinement of Board policies governing the District. The Board Policy Review Committee has the goal of promoting transparency, accountability, and compliance with state, local, and federal laws while fostering a safe, equitable, and inclusive environment for all within the District.

Financial impact: No Financial Impact to the District

Contact: Ms. Noga Baruch, Legal Counsel, Hall Booth Smith, PC Attorneys at Law (404) 954-5000

Effective: Upon Board Approval

Status: Attorney Approval Not Required

Summary: Presented by: Marissa Key, Executive Director, Legal Affairs, Division of Legal Services

Request: It is requested that the Board of Education amend Board Policy GBRI: Professional Personnel Personal Leaves and Absences.

Details: Board Policy GBRI: Professional Personnel Personal Leaves and Absences is being amended to align with state law and to update the current language in keeping with the newly adopted style guide. The policy currently says a new teacher will be credited with up to forty-five days of unused sick leave if that sick leave was earned in another public school district. The proposed amendment replaces the word "teacher" with "employee" in alignment with state law. The remaining revisions are proposed to update the current language in keeping with the recently adopted style guide.

Financial impact: None

Contact: Mrs. Marissa Key, Executive Director, Division of Legal Affairs, Division of Legal Services, (678) 676-0503.

Effective: Upon Board Approval

Status: Attorney Approval Not Required

Summary: It is requested that the DeKalb County Board of Education adjourn the August 12, 2024 executive session and convene the work session and business meeting.

Motion by: ___________
Seconded by: __________
Vote: ________

Summary: Presented by: Mrs. Tasha Davis Mills, Chief Human Resource Officer, Division of Human Resources

Summary: Convened by: Mr. Diijon DaCosta, Sr., Board Chair

It is requested that the DeKalb County Board of Education convene the August 12, 2024, business meeting.

Motion by: _________________
Seconded by: ________________
Vote: ____________

Summary: Convened by: Mr. Diijon DaCosta, Sr., Board Chair

*Speakers
1. Deborah Jones
2. Daniel Sobczak
3. Violet Pelletier
4. Willie Pringle
5. Ricardo Francis

Summary: It is requested that the DeKalb County Board of Education approve the August 12, 2024, consent agenda items.

Motion by: _____________
Seconded by: ___________
Vote: _______

Summary: Presented by: Mr. Diijon DaCosta, Board Chair

Summary: Presented by: Mr. Diijon DaCosta, Board Chair

Summary: It is requested that the DeKalb County Board of Education adjourn the August 12, 2024, work session and business meeting.
Motion by: ____________
Seconded by: __________
Vote: _____