The Clarendon County School District Board of Trustees convened for its regularly scheduled meeting on Monday, March 3, at the Clarendon School District Offices, where members approved a stipend for teachers, reviewed departmental reports, and discussed ongoing district policies.
Following an executive session, Board Chair John Bonaparte confirmed that the board approved a $750 stipend for all certified teachers in recognition of their work during extended e-learning days.
Dr. Keisa Carr, Director of Communications and Community Relations, provided a statement emphasizing the district’s commitment to fair compensation:
“The Clarendon County School District is committed to ensuring that our teachers are fairly compensated for their time and dedication, especially during the extended e-learning days. Following Dr. Shawn Johnson’s request and the approval of the Board of Trustees, teachers will receive two half days off (February 21, already provided, and March 28) along with a $750 monetary payment.”
Dr. Carr also noted that teachers have already received over 7.5 hours of early dismissal throughout the school year. The Office of Finance is working to finalize the necessary processes for distributing the payments, though a specific date for when teachers can expect to receive them has not yet been set.
During the public comment portion of the meeting, speakers addressed a variety of topics, including a request from Manning Santee American Legion Baseball to place a commemorative plaque at the Manning High School baseball field. The board acknowledged the request and thanked the organization for its long-standing relationship with the district.
George Frierson reflected on the historical significance of March 3, recalling the 1970 Lamar Riots and the pivotal role South Carolina played in the Brown v. Board of Education case. He urged the board and community to remember the past while advocating for equitable education.
Resident Terrey Streath voiced concerns about transparency, requesting clearer communication and timely responses to public concerns raised at board meetings. “Public comment is meant to be a dialogue, not a formality,” Streath said. “When concerns are met with silence, it sends a message that our voices don’t matter.”
The board approved several overnight field trip requests during the meeting. The East Clarendon baseball team will travel to Myrtle Beach for the South Atlantic Maine Invitational Baseball Tournament from April 22-25. Walker-Gamble Elementary students were approved for two trips: a Jungle Jams field trip for first through fifth graders and a student trip to Myrtle Beach for 3K through first grade students from April 28-30. Manning High School’s Student Council will attend the state convention in Chapin from March 14-16. The Manning Elementary Beta Club will travel to Myrtle Beach for a leadership convention from March 27-28. Additionally, the Manning High School Golden Pride Marching Band will embark on college tours from April 23-24.
The Office of Finance presented a financial report for January, reporting year-to-date revenues of $25.9 million and expenditures totaling $24.2 million.
The Office of Personnel announced that preparations are underway for the 2025-26 contract cycle, ensuring employment agreements are issued before the May 1 deadline. The department is coordinating with schools and department directors to assess staffing needs.
Updates from the Office of Instruction highlighted preparations for SC Ready testing, with a focus on targeted interventions for students at all performance levels. Additionally, early childhood registration has officially opened, a milestone that has generated significant community interest.
The Office of Special Services reported full compliance with special education referral timelines and noted that the district’s special education graduation rate has surpassed the state average for the first time since consolidation.
The board discussed ongoing policy revisions, particularly procedural adjustments following district consolidation. Members acknowledged the need for continued policy updates to align with operational changes.
During the executive session, the board approved the release of three students to another school district where they had previously attended.
As the meeting concluded, members reflected on recent school visitations, highlighting positive engagement with students and staff. Additionally, board members honored the memory of June Briggs, a former District Two employee and board member, who recently passed away.
Chairman Bonaparte emphasized the board’s commitment to growth and community collaboration, encouraging residents to remain engaged and supportive as the district continues to evolve.
The next regularly scheduled board meeting is set for April 7, 2025.
