Lovington School District

The meeting included procedural items such as the call to order and determination of a quorum, followed by the adoption of the agenda. The new business section focused on the consideration and action regarding a transition to a 4-Day School Week. The meeting also included an executive session before adjournment.

The primary focus of the meeting was to discuss the feasibility of implementing a 4-day balanced calendar for the 2026-2027 school year. Key motivations for this proposal included long-term sustainability, recruitment and retention of high-quality staff, and instructional effectiveness, noting that many regional districts are adopting similar models to combat educator shortages. The discussion confirmed that instructional rigor and required hours would be maintained through longer, more focused instructional days and integrated professional development. The Board was asked to authorize the Superintendent to move forward with planning and investigation into the transition, including logistical considerations such as transportation, utility savings, holiday scheduling adjustments (like ensuring Friday serves as the off-day when Monday is a federal holiday), and potential start/end time adjustments to meet the mandated instructional hour requirement of 1140 hours (or 7.65 hours per day including a 30-minute lunch). The urgency for calendar approval is tied to the upcoming budget approval deadline.

The meeting commenced with the approval of the agenda, which included moving item E6 to the front of business. Recognition segments highlighted the achievements of spelling bee winners from various schools (Yarro Elementary, Sixth Grade Academy, Taylor Middle School) and acknowledged the dedicated work of the maintenance department, specifically mentioning their extraordinary efforts during a recent school shutdown due to severe winter weather. The technology team was also recognized for their essential support, particularly their assistance during the rollout of the audio enhancement system. Following these acknowledgments, a presentation was given on middle-of-the-year assessment data for K8 in reading and math, showing growth trends across all campuses, including Lano, Lee, Jefferson, and SGA. Specific data points discussed involved movement of students into higher performance categories (green) and reduction in those significantly below grade level (red/yellow).

The meeting included several recognitions for community members and staff, specifically Mr. and Mrs. Graham for their dedication to the Lovington schools and community, and Christy Hendershot for establishing the Interact Club and her service. Recognition was also given to Mr. Payne for his leadership as the student council adviser and his involvement in events like the Halloween bash. Abigail Sch. was recognized for her achievement as vice state vice president of Skills USA and her trip to Washington D.C. The new director of finance, Carrie Gray, was welcomed. Additionally, thanks were extended to the Deming Schools for their assistance in transporting the football team after a transportation issue arose. A discussion regarding district assessment data for K through 12 students, including I Ready and Amamira assessments, and projected student growth in reading and math was presented.

The meeting commenced with the welcome of a new board member and the adoption of the agenda. A significant portion of the meeting involved special recognitions for staff achievements: Shaun Lee Caviier for becoming the district's first nationally board certified teacher, Mr. Peyton Haggler for receiving the 2026 ACT National New Teacher of the Year award, and Mrs. Montana Haggler for receiving the Milin Educator Award. Discussions also covered transportation logistics, particularly concerns regarding bus availability for spring sports and tournaments, which were being actively managed. Financial matters included a board member's concern regarding the food service fund balance, which was attributed to timing delays in USDA reimbursements. The board then proceeded with the reorganization, maintaining current officers and reconfirming members for the Finance and Audit committees.