The board’s consideration of an invitation to join the Granite Ridge Conference was a focal point. Members discussed the potential benefits, such as improved competition opportunities for student athletes, particularly in lower-level games, which are currently less favorable in their existing conference. Concerns about travel times were addressed, with distances to new conference schools like Malacca and Foley being slightly longer than current trips, yet considered manageable. The board expressed optimism that the move would enhance the athletic experience and foster better competition.

Transitioning to the Granite Ridge Conference will require a one-year notice to the current conference, aligning with a broader realignment by the high school league.

In matters of facility upgrades, the board approved the construction of a lean-to structure at the football field locker room, funded by the booster club. This addition will provide extra space for athletes, accommodating larger student groups. The board also greenlit a project to build dugouts for the junior varsity softball team, addressing Title IX compliance by matching the facilities available to male baseball players. The dugouts’ construction will involve student participation from the shop class, with material costs covered by existing budgets.

Financial discussions revealed that a recent contract had generated $100,000, with funds allocated to various initiatives, including equipment purchases for the CTC center. However, a balance of $67,000 remains, with an emphasis on prudent financial management due to the lack of future funding from the initial source. The board also discussed the implications of adopting the proposed tax levy, which includes a 22% increase to maintain financial stability. The increase aims to reflect property value variations and net tax capacity.

Enrollment figures played a role in discussions, highlighting a notable increase in full-time PSO students from five to 15 or 16. This shift prompted considerations about online versus in-person class enrollments and their impact on school resources. The board acknowledged challenges in busing due to full capacity on existing routes, necessitating a new route and potentially adding $70,000 to $80,000 to the budget. This led to a broader conversation about the district’s obligations to provide transportation for open-enrollment students.

The meeting also touched on logistical concerns stemming from a planned remodel of Lakewood’s parking lot, which will require alternative parking arrangements for a three-week period. Efforts to identify solutions included exploring partnerships with local churches to accommodate student needs during this period.

The introduction of new interactive panels in classrooms was noted as an advancement in educational technology, replacing outdated smartboards. These American-made panels come with a maintenance program to replace faulty components at no extra cost. The board acknowledged the learning curve associated with the new technology, functioning as standalone computers, and anticipated a period of adaptation for teachers.

In personnel updates, Chris Glasman was welcomed as the new food service director, bringing enthusiasm and a fresh perspective to the role. Glasman shared experiences from his initial weeks, including the successful introduction of a “heirloom tomato and corn salad” that won over initially skeptical students.

The board also received updates on early childhood education initiatives, including a new curriculum from Scholastic for pre-K students and preparations for a forthcoming fall conference aimed at professional development for educators in this sector.