A proposal for new restroom facilities was made to the California R-I School Board at its regular meeting, Wednesday, Oct. 21.
Representatives of the Softball and Baseball booster clubs, Jan Trachsel and Derek VanLoo, discussed the need for restroom facilities, to include a concession area, at the new ball field, and the proposal to raise funds for the construction. Board approval was sought before the fundraising events begin.
The board discussed what is actually needed, including location, size, capacity and construction materials. Although a concrete block structure would more closely match the facility at the football field, it was pointed out that a metal building, with wood or metal frame, would more closely match the shop building on the west and the weight room on the east. A committee consisting of the booster club representatives, the superintendent and board members will meet to determine design plans so cost estimates can be sought. When an actual cost is determined, the board plans to approve the organization beginning fundraising for the project.
A demonstration of the uses of the new Chromebooks by the science teachers of the elementary and middle schools was given to board members. Information was given about the using Chromebooks in science lab work, and how it links to video, "virtual labs," and allows the user to go through different scenarios. With a Chromebook, the science teachers are using a science curriculum in which the students can transition from textbooks to using the Discovery Education "book" online.
An example shown was of testing for density of different materials. A pre-lab portion involves videos about density, then the student is able to go on to use the computer program to simulate testing for density. A follow-up is answering questions with input from the instructor.
The elementary teachers illustrated for the board members how the school can monitor the students progress in learning the materials in the curriculum. With the data available, the teachers are able to determine which of the students need more assistance on the material.
Other special business at the meeting included the awarding of a Missouri Option CHS diploma. and a staff resignation
Kagan Wolfe received his CHS diploma, earned under the Missouri Options program. Friends and family were present for the presentation by School Board President Jay VanDieren. Wolfe plans to enroll in State Technical to study motorcycle mechanics and technology, work for a motorcycle company and eventually start his own business.
The board accepted the resignation of Dale Graff, Food Services Director, who is retiring effective Oct. 31.
Elementary School Principal Daniel Williams reported the current enrollment at 617, an increase of two from last month. It is the end of the quarter and the staff is working on the eValuate assessment software The assessments serve as benchmarks to determine what individual instruction the students may need.
The two events, "Muffins for Moms" and "Donuts for Dads" were successful with more than 1,000 total served on those days. The cookie dough fundraiser gave the elementary building a net profit of over $9,000. The proceeds will be used to purchase additional Chromebooks. The McDonald's McTeacher Night was also successful, resulting in $850 for the school. The P.T.O conducted a Pizza Hut fundraiser, resulting in a pizza party donated to three classrooms and pizzas donated to the school staff for lunch. The California Kids fourth and fifth grade vocal student group, directed by Stacy Friedrich, includes 54 students. They have performed at several local events.
A building safety and security walk through assessment has been conducted for the elementary school and grounds. Several areas of concern were noted, with changes recommended. Plans are to take care of these possible problem areas soon.
Middle School Principal Matt Abernathy reported 285 students enrolled. The groups "Music Connection" and "Pinto Express" have held fall concerts. A professional development day for the school staff was a nine-hour training on Mental Health First Aid -Youth. A variety of disorders were discussed. A course-completion certification was received by those completing the program. The African Library Project (ALP) is being promoted to collect k-5 grade gently-used books to develop a library in Swaziland. The goal is 1,000 books and $500 to ship them.
High School Principal Sean Kirksey reported that on a recent professional development day, the staff reviewed the district goals, constructed building teams to address each of the district goals and assigned roles and collective commitments for each team. He indicated that it was a very productive day.
Kirksey also reported the NEE (Network for Education Effectiveness) teacher evaluation process has begun. At the point of the report, 52 observations had been completed and a self-assessment form filled out by each teacher evaluated.
In other business, the board approved a number of MSBA Board Policy updates and approved the Memorandum of Understanding and Billing Notice with Nichols Career Center for the 2015-16 school year. The value of the training was discussed by the board, with the recognition that the variety of programs available at Nichols could not be met locally for anywhere near the same cost effectiveness.
The board also approved Sanders' seeking bids for a new riding mower, tractor, brush hog, bobcat, gator and maintenance truck. Funds were transferred for this purpose and for tuck pointing at the high school, as well as additional technology needs for the year.
The next regular board meeting is Wednesday, Nov. 18.