School Board Approves Arts Council Auditorium Request, Teacher Raises, and Summer School Budget
The Hardeman County Board of Education held its monthly meeting on June 9, 2026. The meeting included support for the Hardeman County Arts Council’s facility challenges, approval of teacher salary increases, summer school funding, and updates on student achievement and district leadership.
One of the evening’s most notable discussions centered on the request from the Hardeman County Arts Center, (HCAC) which recently discovered significant structural damage to its building caused by winter ice accumulation. HCAC representatives Brandon Burvee and Anthony Pulse informed board members that engineers identified safety concerns involving the building’s roof trusses, forcing the organization to seek alternative venues while awaiting insurance decisions and repairs. According to Burvee, repairs could take four to six months once work begins, with plans likely involving roof replacement and structural reinforcement.
“We’re looking at a lengthy process,” Burvee said. “At this point, we know the roof is coming off the building.”
The Arts Center requested permission to use the auditorium at Bolivar Central High School for its upcoming production of Dear Evan Hansen, scheduled for Aug. 28–30. The musical addresses themes of mental health and bullying and will include a 15% discount on admission for high school students.
Following discussion, the board approved use of the auditorium and amended the facility fee from $750 to $500 plus the cost of personal and security.
Burvee also raised concerns about protecting production equipment stored in the school during rehearsals and requested improvements to backstage restroom facilities. School officials said they would review those issues but stopped short of guaranteeing specific changes.
In a separate request, Burvee asked about the possibility of using the Bolivar Elementary School gymnasium in September for a fundraiser benefiting the Carl Perkins Center. The board indicated that availability would need to be confirmed before further consideration.
Teacher Salary Increases Approved
The board unanimously approved a new teacher salary scale for the 2026-27 school year, which includes a 4% raise across all levels of the salary schedule. Director of Schools Dr. Christy Smith noted that the district recently increased its starting teacher salary for a bachelor’s degree to $50,000 and continues to prioritize maintaining smaller class sizes despite financial pressures.
“We try to keep our student-teacher ratios lower than many surrounding districts,” Dr. Smith said. “That’s a big benefit to teachers.”
Dr. Smith acknowledged that state minimum salary requirements for the upcoming year have not yet been finalized. If adjustments become necessary after state approval, the board may revisit the salary schedule later this year.
Summer School Budget Receives Approval
Board members also approved a summer school budget totaling $363,107.40. Officials reported that approximately 230 students are participating in summer learning programs this year. The majority of funding comes from the state, with expenditures largely directed toward personnel, including teachers, principals, bus drivers, and support staff. Students participating in summer programs will continue to benefit from educational activities at Lone Oaks Farm and other enrichment opportunities.
The board additionally approved numerous year-end budget amendments across various funds and grant programs. Most amendments involved reallocating money between budget categories to address rising costs, particularly medical insurance expenses and food service operations.
Officials also reported receiving $151,650 in insurance recovery funds related to damage caused by the winter ice storm.
Evaluation Results Presentation Delayed
The board voted to table discussion of the superintendent’s annual evaluation results until its next meeting. Board members explained that while the evaluation process has been completed, the results were not presented in a format that adequately broke down performance by category. Board members said they plan to request a revised report that better summarizes performance areas before presenting the results.
New School Leaders Announced
Dr. Smith also announced several administrative appointments for the upcoming school year. Dr. Sandra Cheairs will become the new principal at Bolivar Middle School. Aaron Gibson will serve as principal at Toone Elementary School, while Jessica Coleman will become principal at Whiteville Elementary School. Terry Mills will serve as assistant principal at Bolivar Middle School and Winter Griggs will serve as assistant principal at Whiteville Elementary School.
Academic Progress Continues
Dr. Smith highlighted encouraging academic results from recent state testing data. According to Dr. Smith, districtwide English Language Arts proficiency increased by 1% over the past two years and 9% over five years. Mathematics proficiency increased by 3% over two years and 12% over five years. The district also reported positive news regarding Tennessee’s third-grade retention law. Dr. Smith said no students are currently expected to be retained for testing-related reasons, provided they successfully complete required summer learning pathways.
“That’s really good news,” remarked Dr. Smith.
Celebrating Student Success
The meeting concluded with a review of achievements from Bolivar Central High School’s graduating class. Among the highlights, 165 students graduated, earning more than $2.8 million in scholarships. Nineteen students completed associate degrees through the Jackson State Community Middle College program before graduating high school, while students earned 100 industry certifications and 140 dual-enrollment credits.
Dr. Smith emphasized that partnerships with colleges, universities, and community organizations continue to create opportunities for students beyond graduation.
“That’s what it’s about,” Dr. Smith said. “Providing opportunities for kids and helping them get the things that they want to achieve and get on the pathways that they want.”
Click here to watch the full June 9, 2026, school board meeting on the Hatchie Press YouTube Channel.
Click here to read about the May 12, 2026, school board meeting.
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