01:28The most notable decision made during the meeting was the approval to create and advertise a position for an Algebra boot camp, which will be supported by a Title V grant. The boot camp is designed to provide 12 hours of student instruction and 3 hours of preparatory time for teachers. The initiative aims to bolster students’ algebra skills before the end-of-course assessments. The boot camp is set to take place in late July, and the targeted students will be identified based on their current algebra course performance.

05:45Following the approval of the boot camp, the board unanimously passed a revised salary schedule for the 2024-2025 school year. This revision represents the first salary increase for school administration and instructional staff since the 2017-2018 academic year. Board members expressed gratitude for the hard work put into securing these raises, acknowledging the challenges posed by inflation and the need for further compensation adjustments for non-instructional staff.

07:14Budget discussions were also a focal point of the meeting. The board is closely monitoring the ongoing state budget negotiations, which impact funding for the district. The superintendent highlighted the importance of the Rural Renaissance initiative, which could bring substantial financial resources to small school districts in the panhandle. The district’s budget requests are currently included in both the House and Senate proposals, with the Senate offering more favorable numbers.

10:13Transportation concerns were addressed, with board members discussing the need for a workshop to plan for new bus acquisitions. The district is exploring options to secure new buses through favorable financing arrangements.

The meeting also provided updates on the construction of a new fieldhouse, with plans to complete the project by August. Board members expressed optimism about the progress, noting advancements in electrical work and interior finishing.