Parent volunteer Stacy Schultz spoke to the Lanesboro school board at their October 17 meeting about the ongoing book drive. So far, over 900 books have been donated to the school library, most of which came from members of the community. Three boxes were donated from Half Price Books in Apple Valley. Other books were donated by the Minnesota Authors and Illustrators organization.
The library staff and volunteers are working hard to get the new books taped, barcoded, and out on the shelves for students to read. They have also been weeding out the current books, removing ones that are worn out or outdated.
Schultz showed the board members some of the vintage books that had been found on the shelves. Many first editions were discovered, some of which have high values. The books are being set aside, and their use will be determined later.
Board member Steve Snyder gave the Finance, Facilities, and Long-Range Planning Committee report. Several outside vendors did a walk-through of the school to suggest areas that could be remodeled or renovated.
Superintendent Matt Schultz has been looking into possibilities for a baseball field and will update the board when he knows more. He plans to apply for the Twins Community grant to help with costs.
The Health and Safety Committee completed their manual and submitted it to the board for approval. They are still working on acquiring a floor plan that clearly shows where all the fire alarms, extinguishers, and other safety features are located within the school. The committee also made emergency bags for each classroom. The bags contain basic emergency supplies such as a first-aid kit, flashlight, class list, etc. Teachers will be able to grab the bag on their way out the door for fire drills, lockdown drills, and other situations.
Board member Steve Snyder asked if a defibrillator is available on school grounds and was assured that there are several.
Burt Hungerholt was hired to work in custodial services. Melissa Heiden and Allyson Evans were both hired to work in the school daycare. A resignation from Tyler Fleming was accepted by the board.
James Semmen was approved as the head girls basketball coach and Chris Hanson as the head boys basketball coach.
The board reviewed the second reading of policies 515 regarding the protection and privacy of pupil records and 526 regarding the hazing prohibition policy.
Superintendent Schultz obtained a quote from Big Sprinkler, a company from Oklahoma, for an above ground irrigation system for the football field. Big Sprinkler had the best price out of all the companies that Schultz priced, coming in at under $7,000. The pump would pull water from the river for the irrigation system. The board approved the purchase.
Activities Director Jodi Peterson informed the board that the scoreboard has been installed and is running at the football field. “Thank you notes have been sent out to the appropriate people,” she said.
Superintendent Schultz noted that the district is still looking for bus drivers and encouraged anyone interested to apply.
The Truth in Taxation meeting was scheduled to take place during the board’s meeting on December 21 at 7 p.m. The next Lanesboro School Board meeting will be held on November 16 at 7 p.m.