The Monday, April 20 Rushford-Peterson School Board, like most board meetings now, was held virtually via Zoom. All board directors were in attendance, as well as Superintendent Jon Thompson and Administrative Assistant Laura Hahn. The meeting kicked off with a brief discussion regarding procedures for the new online format. It was noted that all meetings will be recorded and available online. “It’s a unique experience,” stated Thompson.
“When I think of comments, I think of complaints, that’s my superintendent’s mindset. I haven’t had one complaint to me,” said Thompson. “I have gotten a number of emails of support. I’m not used to those. It’s kind of nice, uplifting.”
Thompson did note, however, concerns from Middle and High School Principal Jake Timm. There have been some issues with technology and follow-up with students. “He’s concerned the newness or excitement of this is going to wear off. It’s tough to keep kids engaged,” acknowledged Thompson. “The governor made it clear from the start that we had to get it done and they allowed us eight days to do it. It wasn’t easy at all. I’ve had very little to do with this. It’s been the principals and teachers diving in, not complaining, but digging in. The parents and students have a can do attitude.”
Board Director Val Howe indicated she’d spoken to parents and there were no complaints. “They’ve been happy with what’s going on,” she noted.
Director Chris Grindland agreed. “My kids know exactly what to do and it’s been very smooth. We have friends all over the united states with school age children and it’s not the same for them. They’re not organized and don’t feel like they’re getting the education they should. It’s been so well done. Under the circumstances, I’m happy with everything that’s going on.”
“I agree with all of the praise,” said Director Bonnie Prinsen. “Don’t sell yourself short for your role in this [Mr. Thompson]. It takes a good leader to assign people to the right things and to give them the encouragement and space to let them do it. You’re the right leader.”
Thompson also noted praise for district staff. He stated childcare was one particular worry early on and it put a good amount of strain on the paraprofessionals, who he stressed were doing a good job. Support for Community Education Director Lisa Lawston was also at the forefront. “I sure value what she’s done, all year, but especially during this time.”
The school is currently putting together 220 or more bags, with breakfast and lunch, for students and their families. Again, Thompson had high praise for the nutrition department at the district. “They’re unsung heroes in my mind.”
“The teachers — it’s a different world for them,” continued Thompson. “They’re trying to do some things to have some fun. They’re trying to stay active.”
Lastly, Thompson thanked Hahn for her assistance with all the changes. “It’s gone better than expected,” he concluded.
The future of the remainder of the school year is anyone’s guess, but Thompson is remaining optimistic. “It’s tricky. I’d hate to start making alternate plans when they haven’t said we won’t be coming back to school,” he stated. “In a perfect world, if we’re able to come back in May, we’ll have graduation like we have in other years. Until then, we’re not going out with any other ideas. It won’t be traditional.”
Currently, prom is slated for May 16, the senior awards night May 17, and graduation May 24. The district is asking families to have patience as they, too, wait to see if the order to Shelter in Place is lifted. It is expected to end May 3 at 11:59 p.m.
Due to the modifications regarding distance learning, the Minnesota Department of Education has waived all statewide testing for the remainder of the school year. “It sounds simple and obvious, but it’s a big deal for the state. They rely on that data,” maintained Thompson.
The board did approve several facility improvement projects and related purchases. The current Operating Capital Fund Balance is estimated at $424,593, as of June 30. $152,064 of that is operating revenue from 2019-2020. Thompson stated the district is in good shape to stay within budget.
A listing of facility improvement projects was presented to the board. It includes 29 items, ranked in priority from low to high. Of the 29, 11 items are considered high priority. The district has expendable funding through Long-Term Facilities Maintenance in addition to Operating Capital funding.
Items of high priority include a buildings and equipment such as the garage for the school grounds near the practice football field (estimated at $35,000), a garage for the tractor and broom near the garbage area, a tractor to mow along ponds with brush and bucket attached ($27,000), and a new trailer. Items related to district grounds include refurbishment of the athletic track ($66,869), interseeding of the football playing field ($2,500), a tile line from the French drain to the west ditch near football field ($2,500), lime for the warning track of baseball field, playground wood chips (specially-rated), and automatic door closures for elementary/middle school gym (Fire and Handicap – $2,500).
The purchase of one last item, a Clorox electrostatic sprayer, is being prompted by the COVID-19 pandemic, but will serve the district well in other instances, such as regular cold and flu seasons. The ionizer is able to disinfect large areas of the school, including classrooms in one shot, the commons areas, restrooms, and more. Thompson did note that regular cleaning is still being conducted, but this will be an added defense. “It’s our best weapon going forward to make sure our building is sterilized. It sends a good message,” he said. The cost of the device is $4,102.
The board approved three of the high priority items — refurbishment of the track, interseeding of the field, and the purchase of the sprayer.
The next regularly scheduled meeting is Monday, May 18, at 5:30 p.m. At this time, it is expected that the meeting will be held in the high school forum room. Please watch the school’s website and other communications for modifications to location.
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