Jessica Ekern

The Board of Education meeting covered several key agenda items, including the approval of the agenda, payment of expenditures for specified checks, and the consent agenda. The Superintendent presented a report highlighting academic achievement, specifically noting the progress and gains in phonics and mathematics following the implementation of new curriculum resources. Additionally, the Board discussed and approved the purchase of a new maintenance van and updated staff leave policies. Finally, a preliminary budget overview was presented, focusing on revenue challenges, enrollment trends, and upcoming fiscal planning.

The board meeting featured a golden apple presentation recognizing retirees, including Donna Buds, Jennifer Pasco, and Ed Costley, for their years of service and dedication. The board discussed facility bond updates, including progress on the high school entryway and gym floor replacement. Key financial topics included a review of the state adequacy target, budget developments regarding state revenue, and projections for the upcoming fiscal year. Additionally, the board approved payment of various bills and discussed increasing course offerings and supporting FFA through new stipends, as well as declaring surplus property for future auction.

The meeting included the adoption of the agenda, a staff spotlight presentation, and recognition of donations made to the scholarship fund. Employees of the month were acknowledged. Discussion topics included recognition of an educator of the year, a report on school simulation programs, an update on district building facility reports, and an analysis of MAP/EOC test scores with plans for literacy and math curriculum adjustments and interventions to address student growth.

The board conducted a tax rate hearing and reviewed the proposed tax rate, noting an increase in assessed value. The board also received a presentation from a group expressing concerns regarding critical race theory. Other items included the recognition of educators who earned advanced degrees, acknowledgments of charitable donations to scholarship funds, recognition of employees of the month, and a presentation from the Facilities Solutions Group regarding long-term facility planning and project management services. Additionally, the board approved the consent agenda, which included transportation and specialized services.

The Board of Education meeting included the recognition of employees of the month and updates on district staff activities during the summer. The Board approved the consent agenda, which involved a review of non-food and milk bids, U.S. Cellular service costs, and payments to various colleges and universities. Additionally, the Board approved an Apple contract, policy updates, a dual credit agreement with a local community college, and the contracts for full-time and part-time School Resource Officers. Discussion also covered advertising sponsorship opportunities, personnel resignations, and the approval of 2021-2022 certified staff, horizontal level changes, and extra-duty/extended-day contracts.