Deidra R. Parr

The board meeting included the recognition of various retirees and addressed several new business items. Key actions included the evaluation of the Superintendent, approval of a math coach addendum, authorization for staff to attend professional development training, and the approval of a memorandum of understanding with the Salvation Army. Additionally, the board accepted a bakery bid, approved various travel and conference requests, authorized the purchase of virtual learning software, and approved budget supplements and transfers. The board also handled personnel matters, including employments, resignations, and volunteer approvals.

The board discussed school improvement council reports and reviewed several correspondence items regarding school travel requests and student activity participation. New business focused on adjustments to the school calendar to make up days lost due to a work stoppage, the approval of the school calendar and board meeting schedule for the upcoming school year, athletic practice scheduling, and approval of facility change orders. Additionally, the board reviewed personnel matters including employment recommendations, resignations, retirements, and leaves of absence.

The meeting agenda includes discussions on finances following a stipend grievance settlement, multiple travel and competition requests for staff and student groups, and the renewal of communication software services. Other topics include the request for a three-year salary enhancement for Speech Pathologists, the issuance of requests for proposals for a beverage contract and a greenhouse, and a proposed change to Local School Improvement Council reporting requirements. Additionally, the Board will review personnel matters, including various employment postings, resignations, and volunteer approvals, as well as requests for budget supplements, transfers, and payment of current bills.

The board meeting included recognition of various student achievements in band, orchestra, chorus, basketball, and athletic competitions. Key business items addressed included the approval of several professional development and student field trips, the authorization of a real estate conveyance to a local fire department, and the acceptance of bids for facility maintenance projects, specifically pool deck and locker room resurfacing and the purchase of a floor scrubber. The board also held an executive session regarding a grievance, discussed rescheduling a faculty senate meeting, reviewed COVID-19 protocols regarding optional masking, and approved personnel actions including new hires and staffing assignments.

The board discussed requirements for instructional time as mandated by the state department of education, the incorporation of professional development days into the school calendar, and the scheduling of holidays. A specific focus was placed on the benefits of scheduling a full week off for Thanksgiving to manage student absenteeism and substitute costs. The board evaluated two proposed calendars and requested the development of an additional option that concludes the first semester prior to Christmas break for further review at a future public meeting.