Lisa Gebhardt

The Fayette R-III School District's Literacy Plan outlines a comprehensive K-6 strategy for literacy education. It emphasizes instruction founded on the science of reading, utilizing tiered support systems and specific resources. Key components include a robust assessment framework with universal screeners and progress monitoring, a structured approach to identifying and supporting students at risk for dyslexia, and a commitment to high-quality instruction, intervention, and enrichment across all grade levels and content areas. The plan also highlights the importance of strong leadership, continuous professional development, and active community and family engagement to ensure all students develop strong literacy skills in reading, writing, speaking, and listening, ultimately achieving individual success.

The meeting included spotlights on the FHS Interact Club's award and a student's trip to South Africa. Reports were given by the principals, covering enrollment, attendance, student recognition, and special programs. The curriculum report included a revised assessment plan and compliance in federal programs. The Superintendent reported on the district's accreditation status, band fundraising efforts, winter concerts, and upcoming board elections. The board approved student board representatives, a Wal-Mart grant application, and donations from the CMU Greek Students and the Fayette Rotary Club. The board also discussed the Proposition K.I.D.S. bond issue for the April 2018 election and set the date for the January board meeting.

The preliminary budget for the fiscal year 2021-2022 was discussed, including the operating fund, teachers fund, debt service, and capital fund. Tax rate information and assessed valuation by county were reviewed. Revenue sources including local, county, state, and federal sources were analyzed. Instructional and support expenditures were estimated, covering areas such as elementary, middle, and high school, special education, Title I, and various vocational programs. Non-current expenditures, including debt principal and interest, were also considered.

The meeting included a tax rate hearing where the tax rate for the 2016-2017 school year was set. Updates were provided on summer school, principal reports, curriculum, and summer projects. The annual Secretary of the Board Report was presented, along with the approval of the 2016-2017 tuition rate and bids for fuel and tires. Policy updates were approved, and items were designated for surplus. A donation to the FHS Golf Program was accepted. The Board of Education set a date for a daytime board meeting and reviewed the Fayette R-III School Board Member Code of Ethics, the Confidentiality Statement, and Operating Protocol. Board of Education Goals were reviewed and a board retreat was scheduled.

The meeting included a presentation of the National Model PLC School Award to Daly Elementary staff. The board discussed updated data collected from a staff survey regarding the 4-day school week. Reports were given by the principals of Daly Elementary and Clark Middle School, as well as the counselors from Daly/Clark and the High School. A transportation report provided information regarding current bus ridership and potential additional stops. The superintendent provided an update on professional development, Active Shooter/Intruder training, mental health services, CSIP objectives, and the Title I program. The board approved surplus items from the elementary music room and the FY'20 District Operating Budget. They also approved the 2019A and 2019B MSBA policy updates and discussed the possibility of adjusting the district calendar to a 4-day school week for the 2020-2021 school year. Grant applications were approved for the Imagination Library, risers for the choir, and funds for background checks for school volunteers. The Special Education Compliance Plan was also approved.