Jessica Iovinelli

The Building and Grounds (B&G) Committee meeting covered several agenda items related to facilities and security updates. Key discussions included the presentation for the Indian Trail boiler replacement project, which involved reviewing bids and ensuring compliance, with final approval scheduled for the regular board meeting. An update was provided on the 2019 school security audit progress concerning alarm systems, cameras, and access control, which is nearly complete. Discussions also addressed the multi-year plan for door hardware replacement, including a change order to add Ardmore door hardware to the current summer scope. Fire alarm system installations at Indian Trail and the District Office were nearing completion, aided by a successful $50,000 school maintenance grant application for the Indian Trail system. Landscaping updates included removing overgrown shrubs near buildings and replacing them with sod, implementing cost efficiencies for watering. Exterior lighting system remediation at various schools, including Wesley and Indian Trail, was underway using new LED fixtures in pilot areas. Finally, progress on 2020 construction projects was reviewed, including updates on the Ardmore Early Childhood Center, Indian Trail specialist area, and the new board room, alongside a review of the 2021 schematic design and budget, which currently ranges from $45 to $55 million for hard costs.

The meeting included the approval of the minutes from the July 28, 2021 session and the accounts payable for August 2021, totaling over two million dollars across various funds. Committee reports detailed summer facilities work, including tours of new Innovation Centers at Lincoln and Lake Park schools, which will serve as models for the district. Discussions also covered the 2022 capital improvement project at Indian Trail Junior High, which involves transforming the former library into an Innovation Center. Superintendent reports covered the successful first day of school and an unexpected power outage on the second day that necessitated an early dismissal for students at Indian Trail and Army Trail campuses. Other items included updates on the scheduling of the first Citizens Advisory Committee meetings and departmental reports detailing preparations for the new school year, including challenges with bus driver shortages, and a review of current health and safety curriculum topics for elementary and intermediate grades, including compliance with newly enacted state legislation regarding sexual health education standards.

The meeting addressed school safety, innovative learning spaces, and presentations regarding the history and rationale behind changing the learning environment for students. Discussions included efforts to secure a FEMA grant for the fire department, library renovations, COVID-19 trends, facilities plans, and potential enhancements to the outdoor classroom. The board also discussed capital improvement projects, including renovations of the Indian Trail round building and potential HVAC replacements, ceiling and lighting upgrades at Fullerton and Stone schools. Additionally, there was a celebration of staff recognition efforts, a decrease in COVID-19 activity, and plans for the eighth-grade promotional exercise.

The Board of Education meeting included a moment of silence in honor of Dr. Scott Hton. The meeting involved approving accounts payable and payroll for November 2020, and an amended payroll for October 2020. A presentation was given on the district and school improvement plans, focusing on social-emotional learning, literacy, math, and parent engagement. The superintendent reported on the transition to full remote learning after the Thanksgiving holiday and the goal to return to in-person hybrid learning on January 5th, dependent on the ability to safely staff the schools.

The meeting addressed several key areas, including capital improvement projects, facility wings construction, and HVAC replacement projects. Discussions also covered issues at the loading dock, potential seasonal workers for snow removal, and stage renovations. The administrative team is focusing on a district-wide goal to develop collective efficacy among staff, with initiatives such as administrative coaching and peer walkthroughs. Reports were given on the first day of school, construction updates, and the district's 403b plan, which is under review. The district is also partnering with Dr. John Claussen to train staff on student engagement strategies. The literacy committee is implementing new initiatives, including 'literacy in the loo.'