Chad R. Spence

The Okolona School District's Dropout Prevention Plan aims to address community concerns regarding at-risk students. The plan uses key indicators (educational and economic risk factors) to identify at-risk students and sets objectives to improve early identification, reduce risk factors, strengthen home-school-community partnerships, and create partnerships to help students finish high school. The plan includes initiatives and support services focused on academic success, early identification, reducing risk factors, and strengthening partnerships. Specific strategies include high-quality instruction, data tracking systems (MSIS, Star Reading/Math, ELS), intervention programs (RTI, credit recovery), family engagement (Active Parents, automatic phone dialer, PTO/PTA), community partnerships (Partners in Education, Region 3 Mental Health Services), and professional development opportunities for teachers. The long-term goals are to increase the graduation rate, prevent dropouts, and raise student achievement.

The work session included discussions on the energy cost plan, payments to vendors (World's Finest Chocolate, Inc., Fuelman, Kelly Services, and Excellence Group), meal service for students, personnel recommendations for certified staff across different school levels, first readings of employee and student handbooks, a revised non-certified salary scale, and a proposed budget calendar. The superintendent also provided a report, including updates on a RUS grant and first-floor renovations. A financial discussion and executive session were also scheduled.