Ashley Oates

The Adrian R-III Board of Education held an organizational meeting, followed by a regular meeting. During the organizational meeting, the Board declared Sine Die, and new members recited the Oath of Office. The Board elected Erin Sharp as President, Dave Knuth as Vice President, Gerold Stephens as Secretary, and Brad Ferguson as Treasurer. Nicole Thurman was elected as the MSBA delegate, and Ronnie Dennison as the MSBA alternate delegate.

The meeting discussed the district's debt service reserve fund and bonding capacity, including a potential $6.7 million no-tax-increase bond issue. It covered the importance of maintaining bonding capacity for future needs and the impact of bond ratings on interest rates. The discussion included the potential for refunding bonds to secure better interest rates. The meeting also addressed potential projects, including site plan upgrades, secure office entry enhancements at the elementary school, and the addition of a gymnasium. Options for the gymnasium were presented, considering seating capacity, locker rooms, and a weight room.

The Adrian R-III School District's 2024-2029 Comprehensive School Improvement Plan (CSIP) focuses on improving student academic preparedness and success. Key areas include increasing parent and community involvement through education, communication, and collaborative opportunities; actively recruiting, developing, and retaining high-quality instructional staff; increasing academic achievement by using research-based strategies, updating curriculum, and implementing support for success-ready graduates; and ensuring the safety and upkeep of school facilities. The plan aims to create a supportive environment that prepares students for success in their academic and career goals.