By AMBER PATINO
The Holmes District School Board met in regular session on Tuesday, November 18, addressing its annual reorganization and setting the meeting schedule for the upcoming year.
Board member Natalie Miller was appointed Chair of the Board, succeeding Wilburn Baker, who held the position for the past four years. Following Miller’s appointment, the board approved a motion to nominate Baker as Vice Chair.
Following the reorganization discussion, the HDSB recognized members of Bethlehem High School’s (BHS) Beta Club, Poplar Springs High School’s (PSHS) Beta Club, and Ponce de Leon High School’s (PDLHS) Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) for their accomplishments at both the state and national levels of their respective organizations. The board also gave special recognition to BHS student Madison Williams, who was recently named the district’s Sunshine State Scholar.
In other business, the board approved a motion to advertise a public hearing for a possible policy change intended to bring the district’s procedures into alignment with Florida Statute 286.01114. This statute ensures the public’s right to be heard on matters before a governmental board or commission, promoting transparency and civic engagement.
Before any changes are adopted, the public hearing notice will be advertised for 21 days. Following that period, the board will hold a hearing to receive public input before discussing and potentially approving the policy change.
Prior to adjourning, the board approved a motion to maintain its current meeting schedule, which sets regular sessions for 9 a.m. the second Tuesday of each month and for 6 p.m. the fourth Tuesday of each month.
The next regular meeting of the HDSB is scheduled for 9 a.m. Tuesday, December 9.
Staff Report 
Ali Moreland 