At the Blair, Nebraska school board meeting held on April 10, 2023, a number of noteworthy updates and decisions were made, showcasing the community’s support and dedication to the local education system.
Various generous donations were accepted at the meeting, including a $3,000 Cargill Grant for a GaGa ball pit at Deerfield Elementary School. This gift, given to Kim Leggott, a K-2 physical education teacher, ensures that both Arbor Park and Deerfield will now have GaGa ball pits. In another act of community support, Cubby’s convenience store has been donating $1 from every large pizza ordered and this quarter, they presented a check for $1,090 to the Blair School.
Chaz Fonda, the Blair High School band instructor, had also been participating in the Director Dollars campaign by Family Fare/Spartan Nash. By collecting $150,000 worth of receipts, Mr. Fonda managed to secure a $1,000 check from Spartan Nash, which will be used to purchase band equipment. The Rotary Club of Blair contributed as well, providing a $1,000 grant for the Skills Academy to cover necessary supplies.
In addition to these financial contributions, several events were discussed during the meeting. The cheerleading squad is scheduled to take professional photos on Sunday, July 11th. Meanwhile, eight students qualified for the FBLA State Leadership Conference, which will take place from June 25th to July 1st in Atlanta, GA. The students will engage in fundraising activities to cover the cost of their trip.
The board also announced several new hires, internal moves, and retirements. Important dates were shared, including the last day for students on May 19th, the last day for teachers on May 24th, and senior students’ last day on May 10th. Graduation for seniors is set for May 21st.
Looking ahead, Arbor Park Elementary School will undergo a lunchroom expansion and safety entrance project. The school district recently held a surplus supply auction, raising $8,427.04. Furthermore, new backboards will be installed at the high school, costing $19,000, and carpet installation projects are in the works.
The wrestling club is in need of a new hoist, costing $23,500. The club has generously donated $10,000, with the board covering the remaining $13,500. A freezer will be bid out for Arbor Park, and due to increased preschool registration, more staff will be hired.
The K-5 band requested $25,180 for new equipment. The board approved $10,000 for Deerfield and Arbor Park. The high school marching band presented a three-year plan, with costs of $19,800 in the first year, $10,100 in the second year, and $8,300 in the third year.
Seniors will have the opportunity to purchase a Chromebook for $25 after returning theirs. In sports news, the girls’ wrestling team now requires a dedicated head coach, and the creation of a reserve softball team will necessitate an additional coach, bringing the total coaching staff for girls’ softball to four.
From original audio by Aimee Cothran. Transcribed and edited by Don Harrold for BlairToday. Email blairtoday@mail.com for corrections, additions, or questions.
