The Poplarville School Board met in the School Board conference room on Thursday at which time they presented awards to Poplarville High School Ocean Bowl members, Poplarville High School Principal John Will and Board Finance Director Samantha Sandifer. The board agreed to keep the school year calendar consistent with years previous, and as the board voted on personnel recommendations there was discussion on why Coach Walker was not on the renewal list.

The meeting began on a positive note about Poplarville High School’s quiz bowl team for oceanographic sciences, the Fish Fighters. The team was recognized for their win at the regional Hurricane Bowl in March and progression to the national competition in May. Team members received certificates and congratulations from the board.

Poplarville High School Principal John Will accepted the schools Program of Research and Evaluation for Public Schools Value Added Award for Biology 1 in 2013 and English 2 in 2013.  The award takes into consideration socioeconomic influences of the student population and groups schools accordingly.

Superintendent Carl Merritt accepted the PSD for Financial Reporting award on behalf of Samantha Sandifer, who was unable to attend the meeting. Merritt said Sandifer’s rating on the financial audit that the award was based on was an example of the fine job she is doing.

The board passed a motion to retain the current calendar for the 2014-2015 school year.

In a motion to approve recommendations for contract renewals, retirements and resignations, there was discussion regarding Coach Eddie Walker’s employment. Board member Shirlene Magee asked why Coach Walker’s name was not on the renewal list. She was told that it was a personnel matter and that the coach has due process rights, which should he choose to pursue, will come before the board at that time. The motion was to approve personnel changes passes with Magee abstaining.

In other matters the board unanimously approved:

—  2013 Consolidated Federal Programs Amendment #4.

—  A business associate agreement with Hattiesburg Clinic.

—  Application for extended school year 2014.

—  Memorandum of Understanding with William Carey College to allow their student teachers to come to the high school.

—  Polices for IGAA Student Religious Liberties, Literacy Based Promotion, and Students at Risk for harming themselves.

—  Advertise for sealed bids for 2014-2015 services.

—  Revised school board policies.

—  Purchase of a new school bus.

—  Financial reports.

—  Consent agenda.