Board members realize traditional calendar is popular
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“We’ve basically used this time to look at what we’re doing and where we want to go as a system, both long range and short range,” said board member Deborah Watlington.
The school board has attended annual retreats since 1995 as a way to give detailed attention to planning and procedure not always possible during monthly meetings. Such retreats are common with other school boards across the state, as well as local governmental bodies.
Retreats are always held outside Warren County so that, by law, no votes may be cast or action taken on the issues discussed. As a result, the issues must be brought up for vote during the board’s regularly scheduled meetings.
The introduction of a system-wide alternative calendar was one of the most controversial issues discussed. While not saying what their end decision will be, school board members did say the overwhelming community support for the traditional calendar is on their minds.
School facility issues also took up much of the agenda. Topics discussed included: the renovation or replacement of Nunley Stadium, the building of an multi-sport fieldhouse at the high school, what to do with the currently unusable building “A” at Bobby Ray Elementary, and building a new school in Centertown.
Last year’s federal No Child Left Behind Act was also given ample attention. Of concern are local teachers who are teaching out of certification, and seventh- and eighth-grade teachers teaching on elementary certification, both of which are not allowed under the new law.
Other issues discussed include: a pilot program for high school seniors who need two or less credits to graduate, awarding six points for advanced placement classes, teacher absenteeism, use of school facilities, drug testing, custodians, and proficiency rates.
School board retreat
Some key topics discussed at the retreat include:
• Renovating or replacing Nunley Stadium
• Building a new school in Centertown
• Drug testing