Cheryl Montes

The Cobre Board of Education meeting included discussions and updates on several key areas. An update was provided on the search for a new Superintendent, with concerns raised about the spectrum of contractors and the timing of the search in relation to the School Board Elections. There were approvals for the use of facilities for the Red Paint Powwow and Softball practice for Youth programs, as well as the approval of the Elementary, CHS, Snell, and Athletic Handbooks. The board also discussed increasing the Athletic Pass Fee and the Board Retreat for 2021. Additionally, there were concerns raised about students being vaccinated before returning to school and the quality of math teachers. The board approved the Interim Superintendent contract during an executive session.

The meeting included presentations from Bayard Elementary 6th grade students on bridge building using STEM guidelines, and from the Theater Class and Disney's Aladdin, Jr. Production. The board discussed and approved the Automatic External Defibrillator (AED) Policy and the Per Diem and Mileage Act Policy. There was a discussion on the District Athletic Handbook, and public input was received regarding concerns about the hiring and evaluating of head coaches and the use of purchase orders for student meals. The board also addressed the reorganization of the Cobre Board of Education, approved the District Independent Auditor's Report and Financial Statements for the year ended June 30, 2018, and recognized Christopher and Anisse Salcido with the New Mexico School Board Excellence in Student Achievement Award for their work with the Special Olympics. Additionally, they approved the Roof Service Contract and discussed district-issued contracts, including the requirement for board approval based on contract value. The Superintendent provided a report, and the Student Representative reported on blueprints for new turf fields.

The meeting included discussions and actions on several key items. The board went into a closed executive session to discuss the Superintendent Evaluation and Contract Extension, but no action was taken during the session. The board also considered and approved an Amended Resolution Authorizing Sale of Bonds, Establishing Procedures for Sale and Delivery of Bonds, Authorizing Submission of Application for Financial Assistance and Project Approval to the New Mexico Finance Authority, and Authorizing Other Matters Related to the Issuance of the Bonds. Additionally, they accepted a donation from the Lions Crane Reading Foundation to purchase Mind Play Reading Coach Licenses and approved the Superintendent Evaluation. A motion to revert the Superintendent Contract to a one-year contract failed, but a motion to extend the contract to June 30, 2021, passed with a vote of three to two. Self-Board Evaluations were scheduled for the next board meeting.

The meeting included recognition of Kiwanis Students of the Month, updates from the Student Representative, and approval of several action items related to budget allocations for universal free lunch, comprehensive literacy, homeless emergency rescue, and school violence prevention programs. There was a discussion about the golf course budget line item and reports from the Finance and Audit Committees. The Superintendent provided updates on safety and security measures, strategic planning, and curriculum, including MOY test data. The board also reviewed fundraisers and tabled the closed session.

The meeting included discussions and actions regarding a resolution proposing a Capital Improvements Tax Ballot Question, updates on reentry and graduation plans, and facilities master planning. The board also addressed public input on the graduation ceremony and visibility issues at the softball field. Further agenda items included the approval of the 2021-2022 Bilingual Application, review of bills, and several budget adjustment requests related to PreK Initiative, Feminine Hygiene Products, GEER/Social Emotional Learning, and Operational Emergency Supplemental funds. The superintendent provided updates on SEG and the upcoming board election.