At their May 17 meeting, the Lanesboro school board reviewed the recent community meeting that was held to discuss the proposed facility updates and renovations. “I just want to comment that it was an exceptionally well-run meeting,” Executive Director of the Lanesboro Arts Board, John Davis said. He was impressed with the turnout. “It shows how much everyone cares about the school,” he stated.
The school board members agreed with Davis. “I thought we had great participation at the meeting on Wednesday,” Superintendent Matt Schultz commented. Board member Steve Snyder pointed out that while leading his small group discussion during the meeting, he heard several ideas that the facilities committee had not thought of and which they will definitely be discussing. “The input from the (Lanesboro) residents was fantastic,” he said.
Board member Dave Ruen commented that his small group had already moved past the bond mode and were talking about flooring choices and other details. “You get the feeling that they’re all behind this,” he commented.
It was noted that the general consensus of the public was that the original 1959 boilers should be replaced during the project instead of waiting a few years down the road when they fail. Another point was made that the facilities committee needs to be sure to focus on the district’s future needs when finalizing the plans for the renovations. The board appreciated all of the comments and questions and are looking forward to moving ahead with the project. The latest information about the facility project can be found on the school’s website at the bottom of the “Our District” tab.
The ALICE training will be held on June 4 for all school staff. The training will prepare them in case there is ever an active shooter situation at the school. Local law enforcement will play a part in the training during the live scenarios.
The first workday at the ball field recently took place with a good turnout, as reported by Superintendent Schultz. The volunteers were able to tear down the backstop and grandstand as well as move the dugouts back.
A resignation from social studies/physical education teacher Anthony Johnson was approved by the board. A change in the FMLA leave of absence request from Dana Norby was approved as well.
The board approved a management plan in regards to lead levels in the school water system. Legislature now dictates that schools test their water for lead every five years. The Lanesboro school district did their most recent testing in May 2017 and passed with low to negligible levels.
The adjustments to the Teacher Assessment, Reflection, and Growth Protocol were approved by the board as well as the Superintendent Evaluation Timeline.
A resolution was passed allowing the school to continue its membership in the Minnesota State High School League.
The board reviewed the current student fees and approved them with no changes. The athletic and activities participation fee will continue to be free, and the game admission fees, as set by the conference, will be $5 for adults and $3 for students.
The student handbooks were reviewed and several minor changes were approved. Cell phone usage will continue to be allowed between classes, which the board was in favor of rather than prohibiting cell phone use completely while at school. “We’re teaching kids to use the technology that we give them responsibly,” Superintendent Schultz said, adding that the staff’s focus will be on appropriate use of devices.
The next Lanesboro School Board meeting will be held on June 21 at 7 pm.
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