Joint School District #171 holds meeting
Joint School District #171 board members Amy Jared, Alyce Arnsberg, John Schwartz and Theresa Graber were present at the Oct. 19 meeting held at the Cavendish-Teakean School. The agenda was approved as presented.
School Superintendent Dale Durkee noted the safety inspector was here Sept. 30. Many items have been corrected and the others will be included in the summer maintenance items to be corrected next summer.
Enrollment
Mr. Durkee noted that the October enrollment had six more students than in September but enrollment is down 63 students from this time last year.
Federal programs
Three people came from the state level to review the federal programs. They were impressed with faculty and staff. There were six “findings” and five of those included more parent involvement which is being worked on at this time. Faculty and staff were thanked for doing such a fine job.
Return to 2A classification
Orofino High School Principal Jerry Nelsen noted the state has approved his request to return to the 2A classification for sports.
Angie Baldus, Orofino Elementary School Principal, is in Idaho Falls receiving an award for being the Rookie Administrator of the Year.
Each administrator and program director gave an update on their buildings/programs.
Positive Behavior Supports Program
Mr. Bennett and Ms. Mundell explained the Positive Behavior Supports Program. This program promotes positive school outcomes for all students. It is designed to enhance the capacity of schools to effectively educate all students, including students with challenging social behaviors and to adopt and sustain the use of effective instructional practices.
This four element program is a comprehensive plan for safe, supportive and successful schools. They include: creating a caring school community, teaching appropriate behaviors and social problem-solving skills, implementing positive behavior support systems and providing appropriate academic instructions. Timberline Schools has four major expectations: responsible, respectful, positive and safe.
Finances
Mr. Nuxoll noted the district accounting staff receives high marks as the finances ending balances are in the best shape they have been in for several years. He also noted the Craig-Wyden funds and the new Secure and Rural Schools and Communities funds that the district will be receiving is another positive note for the district’s future.
There was a second reading on policy revisions concerning: purchasing, public works contracting and procurement and public works procurement of goods and services. The second reading was approved.
There was a first reading on policy revisions on Idaho Digital Learning Academy Class, hazing, harassment, intimidation, bullying, cyber bullying, menacing, student sex offenders, student records and reporting new employees. The first reading was approved.
A motion was made and approved for the emergency closure of Orofino Junior High School on Oct. 12-13 due to boiler problems.
The meeting went into executive session to discuss personnel evaluation.