President Jacob Hunt called the first meeting of the new Rotary year to order on July 9
Kevin Courtney offered the prayer and led the pledge to the flag
Five organizations had been chosen to be the recipients of checks for $3,000. Four of the five checks were presented at the meeting by 2023-2024 Presidents Sonny Huntley and Greg Wynn. The organizations receiving the funds are: The Boys and Girls Club, Hopeful Horizons, First Tee, and The Children's Center. The fifth check will be presented on July 16 at The Sand Box.
Speaker:
Dr. Frank Rodriguez, Superintendent of the Beaufort County School District was our speaker..
He updated us on the state of the school district, its accomplishments and challenges. The school district is highly rated. It has 21,500 students, 20% of which are milti lingual, 10% special education - disabilities. There is a teacher shortage with compensation being a cause of the problem. Fifty eight percent are at poverty level and the district has been able to provide free breakfast and lunches for all in Beaufort County. Initiatives are to increase levels in English and math as well as increase graduation to 92% - it is currently at 88%. They are looking at ways that AI can benefit teachers. The district has a partnership with TCL which saves parents' money by taking classes at TCL while still enrolled in high school. One of the topics he discussed was security. The district's procedure exceeds state requirements and the drills and training are working. SRO are assigned to most schools. Dr Rodriguez also updated us on the new cell phone rules for students.
Next week - July 23 Meeting - Fun! You won't want to miss it, come play- Rotary Jeopardy!! Maybe YOU will be the winner