Alex School District 56

The board discussed and approved a variety of items, including numerous school fundraiser activities for the upcoming year and contracts with the Oklahoma Department of Career and Technology Education. They also approved a Memorandum of Understanding and disability services agreement with the Washita Valley Community Action Council, along with an emergency/crisis intervention plan, the annual dropout and student college remediation report, and the financial budget. The superintendent provided an update on school accreditation, meal services, future projects, and the administration of the ACT assessment. Additionally, the board approved the hiring of a reading intervention teacher, waiver applications for adjunct teachers, and the purchase of land lots in Alex.

The board discussed written policies and procedures for post-issuance compliance and disclosure obligations, though no action was taken on these items. The board voted to award the bid for $1,940,000 in General Obligation Combined Purpose Bonds to BOK Financial Securities, Inc. Additionally, the board approved a resolution providing for the issuance of these bonds, which includes provisions for the form of bonds, registration, and the levy of an annual tax for payment of principal and interest.

The board approved policies regarding public participation and public complaints. Discussion topics included updates on greenhouse projects, student counts, parent-teacher conferences, professional development, and academic assessments. The board authorized an increase in the credit limit for the Prosperity Bank card, approved a transfer of funds from the bond fund to the general fund, and accepted a staff resignation. Additionally, the board conducted an executive session to discuss the superintendent's evaluation, approved the purchase of a new sound system, and discussed long-term district projects.

This strategic plan for Alex Public Schools outlines comprehensive strategies for utilizing ARP/ESSER III funds to address the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Key focus areas include implementing prevention and mitigation measures, such as enhanced air quality, improved cleaning protocols, and social distancing. The plan also addresses learning loss through the employment of specialized instructors, targeted intervention programs, and supplemental curriculum. Other essential expenditures cover property and liability insurance and workers' compensation. Furthermore, the plan emphasizes responding to the academic, social, emotional, and mental health needs of all students, particularly those disproportionately affected by the pandemic.

The board received an administrative update and approved several items, including fundraising activities, the student and teacher/staff handbooks for the 2020-21 school year, and policies regarding online instruction and virtual learning. Additionally, the board approved a transition from school days to instructional hours for the 2020-21 school year and authorized the establishment of a money market account. The Superintendent also provided a report to the board.