Ralls County R-II School Board Update...After the October 15 Meeting

The School Board met on October 15th and the following update was provided.
Students & employees were recognized for their accomplishments including Habit Heroes, Students of the Month, Band Competition 1st place, Cross Country Team 1st Place, FFA Grant, NE Counselor of the Year, and Nurse Communication

Chad Ford with Commerce Bank thanked the board for partnering for the lease purchase $1,050,000 financing and Dennis McMillen, Center Mayor, spoke with the board and expressed interest in the Center ball field and concession stand.

Administration and director reports were reviewed and a few topics were discussed. Topics included compliance notification for special education, educator evaluations, school events at all levels, academic assessments, and routine modifications for COVID.

A resolution was approved to borrow a portion of the lease purchase for facility improvements from the June ballot questions.

The change orders presented by the architect were approved. The architect fee structure was approved for the next phase of projects.

The Federal Programs review was approved along with the schedule of program reviews for the coming year.

The bus routes for the 2020-2021 school year approved along with the inclement weather routes for snow routes/hard surface routes only.

The School Resource Officer (SRO) program was discussed including success from the past two years. A year to year contract with the Ralls County Sheriff Office will be supported.

COVID19 limitations for spectators at winter sports and events was discussed as an option due to indoor seating. Crowds will not be limited, visiting schools will have limited seating and visitors are asked to not attend if they are symptomatic. In addition, Pixellot will be added to our HS and JH gymnasiums for streaming of events so spectators may watch from home, if they choose. The school district will cover the cost of this service.

Enrollment numbers were shared, a slight decrease in enrollment has been experienced the past few years. We will continue to monitor this trend and make adjustments in the future, if necessary, to be fiscally responsible.

Facility planning work sessions have been planned for November 4th and December 9th to develop ideas for the next phase of projects in the 2020 Vision Projects campaign.

The CSIP goal progress was reviewed.

Reports for information included: attendance, food service, and transportation.

The next meeting of the Ralls County RII School Board is set for Thursday, November 19, at 7:00 p.m.