The Coffee County School Board convened on August 12, 2025, to discuss various agenda items, including student attendance, meal program updates, and policy revisions. The meeting began with a focus on student enrollment figures, revealing that there are currently 1,222 students in grades ten through twelve, with over 400 freshmen reported.
Following this, the board received a report on the school meal program from a staff member, who noted a significant increase in participation. Breakfast numbers rose by approximately 30% compared to the previous year, with 1,564 meals served on the day of the report, up from 1,203 last year. Lunch participation also saw an increase, with 3,030 meals served, marking a 343-meal rise from the previous year. The staff member acknowledged challenges in managing the increased volume of students in the lunch lines but expressed optimism about the positive feedback received regarding the meal program.
The meeting then shifted to recognition, where Michelle Mullican from Hickerson Elementary was honored for securing a $15,000 grant from the Lillian Ashley Foundation. Mullican plans to use the funds to develop an outdoor classroom and kitchen. She also shared her success in obtaining additional grants for a native garden project, further enhancing educational opportunities at her school.
As the meeting progressed, the board addressed policy updates. A significant point of discussion was the correction of a policy regarding parent-teacher conferences, which had erroneously stated that two conferences would be held instead of the current practice of one. The board decided to pull this policy from the consent agenda for further review.
The board also approved the consent agenda, which included a series of policy updates, with the exception of the pulled items. A quorum was confirmed, and the motion passed with a unanimous vote of 7-0.
In conclusion, the Coffee County School Board meeting highlighted positive developments in student enrollment and meal participation, recognized significant contributions from educators, and addressed necessary policy corrections, ensuring that the school system continues to adapt and improve for its students.