The Selma Board of Education met Thursday before a full house at Clark Elementary School for its regularly scheduled meeting.

The board reviewed financial statements, which stated that the city school system had $2.9 million in its accounts during December of last year, with $635,000 in money markets and $26,000 in investments.

For the year, the system had a total of $7.8 million and, after expenses, was left with just over $171,000. Board members also reported that the school system had collected more than $500,000 in taxes for the last fiscal year but was still waiting on tax payments from the city, which are slated to be paid soon.

Board member Tanya Miles raised concerns over a $9,000 phone bill, which is the monthly rate for all of the schools and the administrative offices, and Selma City Schools Superintendent Dr. Avis Williams reported that they school system is looking into a new service which would lower the monthly rate and provide the school system with upgraded services.

The board approved a budget amendment which would clear the way for left over federal funds to be spent.

Williams then began recognizing various students and employees for their recent achievements, first of which was the Clark Elementary Science Club, whose members were on hand to describe some of the projects they’ve worked on recently, including coding robots and building stable structures.

R.B. Hudson Middle School’s Robotics Team was also recognized for having team members win the Congressional App Challenge for their “Snackable” creation, which allows students to digitally purchase snacks.

Williams also presented employees in the school system’s Transportation Department with certificates of appreciation, as well as school counselors in recognition of National School Counselors Week.

Selma High School students in the National Technical Honor Society, which requires members to have a GPA of 3.5 or higher and at least 100 hours of community service, were also recognized.

Michael Johnson briefly addressed those in attendance about his Youth Empowerment Summit, which is currently taking place at Wallace Community College – Selma.

“I truly believe that the kids have unlimited potential,” Johnson said. “I really do think the sky is the limit.”

Johnson noted that he is gearing up for the “Shark Tank” style competition scheduled for Friday, which gives high school students an opportunity to present their business ideas.

“It’s just a way to get them to think outside the box,” Johnson said. “Take what you have, make the most of it and always believe in yourself.”

A slew of new positions were passed by the board with only board member Brenda Randolph-Obomanu abstaining. Those positions are Coordinator of Early and Social Emotional Learning, Coordinator of College and Career Readiness and Behavior Intervention Specialist.

The board will hold its next meeting on Tuesday, March 5 at 5 p.m.