Fastfacts - April 8, 2025 (Vol. 20, Issue 17)

New Amplifiers Should Improve Two-Way Radio Communications on High School Campuses

School Board members briefly discussed a $1.25 million purchase of new bi-directional amplifiers before approving them, hoping they will improve spotty communications on some high school campuses.

The equipment, purchased with funding from the Safety and Security Department, will enhance radio communications 24/7, particularly for those using campus radios and those communicating with School Resource Officers, first responders, and others.

The units will specifically address public safety frequencies on the campuses of Belleview, Dunnellon, Forest, and West Port High Schools, and are designed to eliminate dead spots and improve radio communications reliability. 

The equipment will come from Motorola Solutions, Inc., of Chicago, through its authorized agent, Tri-Co Communications, Inc., of Lecanto, Florida. 

'Heroes in the Classroom' Program Expands

A state-funded program placing retired first responders and veterans in the classroom as teachers is expanding thanks to School Board support and the Florida Legislature. 

The "Heroes in the Classroom" Program allows individuals who have been honorably discharged from the military or retired from a first-responder career to launch a new career as a professional educator with a one-time $4,000 signing bonus.

Additionally, those teaching in high-demand content areas can also receive a $1,000 annual bonus.

Recipients must show documentation of:

• No disciplinary action against them in the last five years;
• Agreement to teach at least two consecutive years in the same district; and 
• Copy of their professional or temporary teaching certificate.

MCPS currently has 10 teachers participating in the program including two who teach in high-demand areas. 

For more information, contact the Human Resources Department. 

Myriad of Items Garner School Board Support

School Board members also voted on several items impacting purchases, job descriptions, and other topics.

For purchasing, approvals included:

• Janitorial and Custodial products, equipment, and related items - $1.2 million
• Asphalt paving and related services - $200K
• Temporary labor for Food Service substitutes - $200K
• Tree-trimming services - $140K
• 2025 John Deere Gator TX utility vehicle - $9,678

Board members also approved the following job descriptions linked for convenience:

• New Job Description - Benefit Clerk (Risk Management)
• Revised Job Description - Accountant I
• Revised Job Description - Accountant II
• Revised Job Description - Senior Accountant (Budgeting)

Regarding rezoning, School Board members also scheduled a public hearing for April 22, 2025, to discuss and vote on the Liberty/Howard Middle School proposal. For more information, view the April 3, 2025, School Board work session via this link. 

MATHcounts student winners pose after being recognized for their achievements by School Board members, Superintendent Dr. Gullett, teachers, and district personnel.