The Blair School Board meeting held on June 12, 2023, was packed with significant announcements and decisions that will shape the future of education in our community. The meeting covered a range of topics, including revisions to the school handbook, updates on construction projects, property purchases, potential renovations, financial matters, and academic developments. Here’s a detailed recap of the meeting’s highlights.
One of the main agenda items was the proposed changes to the school handbook. While the specific details were not discussed in depth, community members were encouraged to download the agenda to review the proposed amendments. The board plans to provide a comprehensive overview of the changes during the next meeting, scheduled for the second Monday of July. All concerned individuals are urged to attend and voice their opinions regarding the proposed alterations.
Significant progress was reported on ongoing building and transportation projects. The carpeting in two classrooms at North Primary School is nearing completion, ensuring a comfortable learning environment for students. Additionally, the installation of the HVAC system for the band is expected to be finished within the scheduled timeline. To facilitate the upcoming move, set to take place on June 30th, the board has hired 12 high school students to assist with the logistics.
The meeting also brought attention to the potential purchase of property located at 767 Iowa Street. The proposed building consists of 7,200 square feet of shop space, along with 1,200 square feet dedicated to classrooms and restrooms. Following an appraisal of $705,000, the board voted to approve the acquisition at a price of $695,000. Notably, the property presents an opportunity to create a regulation-sized grass soccer field, benefiting the entire community.
The future use of North Elementary School’s library sparked a lively discussion among board members. There were differing opinions regarding the removal of a wall that currently divides the space. Concerns were raised about the potential need to reconstruct the wall if the area were to be converted back into a school setting. While the proposal to remove the wall was voted down, there was further consideration for removing a half wall, which would require less extensive renovations and electrical adjustments.
Financial matters took center stage during the meeting. State aid was announced to have increased by $54,000, bringing the total to $493,000. Furthermore, a recent bill passed by the Nebraska legislature will provide an additional $200,000, raising the foundation money to $3.7 million. Dr. Gilson, the Superintendent, emphasized the importance of utilizing this surplus to reduce property taxes, providing relief to local taxpayers.
Several other noteworthy points were addressed. The meeting discussed student fees, substitute pay rates, the contract renewal of Dr. Gilson, current and projected school enrollments, upcoming playground equipment installations, and the gifted Geographic Information System (GIS) program valued at $17,000.
The board stressed the significance of conducting a thorough inventory and evaluation of existing books before considering additional purchases. With the consolidation of schools, this assessment aims to ensure appropriate book distribution among the various campuses. The meeting concluded with a reminder for community members to attend the next board meeting, scheduled for the second Monday of next month, to participate in discussions regarding the new student handbook.
From notes by Aimee Cothran. For changes, corrections, or additions email blairtoday@mail.com
Placing a link to the proposed amendments would save all of us from having to look for it.