By: Ryan Duey
Various topics were discussed during USD 379’s regular Board meeting on Monday, October 14th including: transportation updates, financial outlooks, budget decisions, federal programs, P/T Conferences, technology updates, handicap parking, and more.
Citizen Mark Cunningham addressed the Board concerning the lack of handicapped parking at the football stadium. Board President Tracey Claeys stated that he has spoken with the Public Safety Committee on this and is waiting to hear back.
Mr. McCoy spoke with the Board about transportation items within the District. He said they currently have no open bus routes, as staff has been trained to fill the routes. They are currently working on a Pilot Program to try and get more local citizens and district workers their CDLs. A CDL Proxy testing will be available on November 7th at the Clay Center High School for those wanting to start testing for their CDL at no fee. The proxy test will be limited to 40 people. By bringing the proxy testing to Clay Center they hope to work to get more people licensed as bus drivers, conveniently. McCoy also spoke of a possible propane activity bus for the district. A propane bus is approved for a Federal Rebate just like an electric bus, while offering more reliability than an electric bus based on research at this point.
President Claeys thanked Jaclyn Pfizenmaier, Andrea Gibson, and Cathy Carlson for stepping up when August Zeller was on maternity leave. The Board approved to offer each lady $1000 for the three months of extra work while Zeller was on leave.
Superintendent Brett Nelson spoke to the Board about the Stopit App used in the District. It’s a great tool being used by students that is connected to administrators and is monitored by the local police department. This app offers two-way communication in the case of a school threat.
Jaclyn Pfizenmaier informed the Board that the District currently does not have a Driver’s Education Instructor, and they are working on a plan for the year.
The Board moved to approve the advertisement agreement within the District with the motion passing 6-1. The Board also moved and unanimously approved to accept the bid for the replacement of the parking lot lighting at CCCMS from Advanced Electric.
After executive sessions, the Board approved employments and resignations within the District.
The Board will hold a Special Meeting on Monday, October 28th to take a facility tour of the bus barn at 8:45 a.m.
