The Mountain Home Public Schools Board of Education met in regular session Thursday night.
In the facilities report, Director of Operations Chris Knight, presented a preliminary report to the Board from the fire engineers who conducted an inspection of the big top during the Christmas break. Preliminary findings outlined several key improvements necessary to enhance safety within the big top including increased lighting; enhanced smoke detection systems; improved egress capabilities; expanded walking access; and installation of stand piping throughout the structure to facilitate firefighter access for hose hook-ups.
The next steps involve engaging with the engineer to conduct a water flow test within the big top to determine if there is sufficient water pressure to support the installation of stand piping without the need for a fire pump.
In Board action items, the Board approved four purchases for the launch of a the new High-Impact Tutoring Grant Program which was recently developed by the Arkansas Division of Elementary and Secondary Education following the passage of the LEARNS Act. The program will provide additional instructional support to students through high-impact tutoring. At the beginning of February, the district was awarded a grant for the program with a reimbursable amount totaling $331,685. The vendors approved for the project were Bailey Education Group in the amount of $216,000; Booknook, Inc. in the amount of $70,225; Waterford in the amount $32,230; and $13,320 for additional services and materials.
The Board was presented with a proposal for the 2024-25 district salary schedule. The proposed changes did not include a raise to any areas, but were needed for clarification within the schedule. The Board approved the proposed calendar unanimously.
In last months meeting, the Board asked input from the PPC, CPPC and staff to approve a calendar option for the 2024-25 school year. Based on the feedback given, the majority chose option 1. The Board approved the proposed calendar as presented.
A copy of the calendar can be viewed with this story at ktlo.com.
Board approved 2024-2025 School Calendar by heatherlink on Scribd
The Board also approved two individuals to do business with, who are related to employees of the district; Mackenzie Drewry as a choreographer for the dance team and Shelby Singletary of 101 Pastries and Cream.
During Board discussion, PPC Chair, Madison Ingle shared a proposed plan for how new stipends could be created and existing stipends updated. More on this will be shared in the coming months.
In the personnel report, the Board decided to add responsibilities to the Director of Student Services role which was held by the late Ron Czanstkowski, who served in the position for many years. The Board decided the role would also oversee the Guy Berry campus as the Principal, the Transportation department and the new Safety and Security Coordinator. The student transfers and homeschool requests once in the Director of Students Services role, will not be handled by existing employees.
The personnel report can be viewed with this story at ktlo.com.
MHPS Personnel Report 2.15.24 by heatherlink on Scribd
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