A topic during the meeting was the decision to change the game admission policy. The discussion was initiated by a board member, Kyle, who proposed that all students should receive free admission to home games across all seasons. The current policy only allowed for free admission for students participating in fall sports, excluding many elementary students. The board debated the potential impacts on families who had already purchased season passes for their children. Despite concerns about managing refunds for those families, the board decided to implement the policy change. Kyle made the formal motion, which was seconded and subsequently approved by the board.

Another issue discussed was the ongoing highway construction project in front of the school, which has been causing significant concern. The current road configuration, resulting from the project, lacks the envisioned design for student drop-offs and handicap accessibility. The absence of a designated drop-off area has led to confusion and frustration, with multiple communications to the state department seeking clarification. The construction has also failed to accommodate previous accessibility standards, particularly with the solid curb design preventing transitions onto the sidewalk. These issues have prompted discussions about escalating the matter to the state highway department for resolution.

The board also addressed the school levy, noting that there was no decline in the amount. However, it was emphasized that changes might occur by September 30th, but any shifts were expected to be minor. During the meeting, the board needed to certify the levy at its maximum. The actual figures would be finalized in December.

The superintendent highlighted school safety as a top priority, emphasizing the importance of regular communication with staff regarding safety protocols, including fire drills and lockdown procedures. The school recently passed its sprinkler system inspection and received positive feedback on fleet maintenance, with a 100% pass rate in a recent inspection handled by John Stockdale. Community feedback on safety concerns was encouraged, and the school is exploring the creation of a robotics club to foster student engagement.

Professional learning community (PLC) goals and curriculum updates were also discussed. An art curriculum for grades K through 8 was purchased over the summer to integrate art into classrooms, given the lack of a formal art program. Supplies and lesson plans were acquired to support this initiative. The school is also focusing on the READ Act, with training planned for October 21. Additionally, the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program has been well-utilized, despite uncertainties about its future location due to the sale of the Mayo building.

The meeting touched on various community activities and classes, such as an iPhone photography class aimed at teens and tweens and a crafting class led by Christe. Low enrollment numbers for these classes raised concerns about their viability. Other planned activities include a holiday-themed porch pot class and additional crafting sessions in spring, alongside after-school sports like soccer, bowling, and swimming. Upcoming community events mentioned included “Breakfast with Santa,” “Touch a Truck,” and “Art in the Park,” the latter being postponed due to rain.

Recognition was given to staff, students, and community members for their contributions to the school year’s success. Special thanks were extended to the Leroy Lions Club for their support and to Kurt Bill for donating a carpet remnant to a first-grade classroom. September was recognized as School Board Recognition Month, with acknowledgments given to board members for their efforts.

The board also discussed the pool manager position, which was set to be approved during the meeting. The previous manager’s resignation has led to an advertisement for the position, with considerations for combining this role with another opportunity within the school. There were also discussions about reimbursing licensing costs for new applicants who need certification.

The consent agenda included routine items like meeting minutes and treasurer’s reports, with minimal discussion. Fundraising efforts by various school activities were noted, including cheerleading selling pom-poms and a haunted house ticket sale by the one-act play. Personnel changes were addressed, including accepting resignations and approving hires for various coaching positions.