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The Lincoln County Board of Education approved several key action items Monday evening during a special-called meeting, including progress on the high school renovation project, changes to board policies, and a contract renewal with Lite the Nite Technologies.

Superintendent Bruce Smith called the meeting to order, joined by board members Christine Killen (chair), Tyler McGuffey (vice chair), Jennifer Broadbent, Phillip Coots, and Gloria Sneed.

Among the items approved was a contract renewal with Lite the Nite Technologies, a vendor the district uses to assist in securing E-rate and other grant funding. Officials described the agreement as a long-standing, as-needed partnership to help the district pursue state and federal funding opportunities.

The board also gave the green light to pay application No. 1 and change order No. 1 for the ongoing Lincoln County High School renovation project. Branscum Construction submitted the application and outlined two major updates: asbestos abatement in specific classroom and gym areas, and the proposed removal of student lockers in certain hallways.

According to district officials, the locker removal would free up hallway space and eliminate the need for repainting aging metal lockers. The $18,000 change order was described as cost-effective and time-efficient, as demolition crews are already on site. Administrators emphasized that while the project timeline may shift by several days, the work is not expected to delay the start of the school year.

“Our target is still to open by August 25,” said director of operations Brad Smith. “We’ve had clear communication with contractors, and we’re doing everything possible to keep that timeline intact.”

Board members expressed some concern about granting additional time, noting the potential ripple effects on other areas of the project. However, district staff reassured them that key safety features — including secure classroom doors and a functioning intercom system — remain the top priority for completion before school begins.

The board also conducted first readings and discussions on several policy revisions, including classified staff evaluations, school staffing flexibility, and Title I parent and family engagement. One update aligns the classified employee evaluation schedule with certified staff, moving evaluations from every three years to every five years. Another change allows school councils to reassign extended workdays based on building needs and employee availability.

In closing remarks, board members praised the scope of the renovation project and discussed future plans for phase two, which will include updates to athletic facilities and the school’s front entrance. Officials said bid documents for that phase could be ready as early as next week.

The meeting adjourned with all action items passed unanimously.