The Houston board of education changed the timeline last week for a construction project on the school’s campus west of the Hiett Gymnasium. The board okayed plans for an April 2008 bond issue that would require no increase in tax levy.
The decision came after consideration of community comments, advice from financial consultants and recommendations from the district architect, Sam Winn and Associates, said Superintendent Clinton Waters.
A revised plan includes a new science department with three classrooms and laboratory space, communication arts department and special services areas. One of the proposed communication arts rooms will have two to three practice rooms for debate and drama students, said Waters, who noted that plans are tentative and will be presented to patrons for further review and changes.
Waters said the total cost of the outlay will be determined after proposals for services are received.
In other matters:
-Heard a report from Citizens for Education on its May 14 award night. The committee is seeking for volunteers to service. It is expected that three vacancies will be filled this summer. Anyone interested should contact the superintendent’s office.
-The Committee for Education expressed concerns about the progress in replacing some instructors, specifically speech, drama and debate.
-Heard Jim Cherrington from the Missouri School Boards Association about its natural gas purchasing plan. The local board is expected to make a decision soon on the conversion from propane to natural gas.
-Accepted a bid of $450 per mowing from B & H Lawn Care of Houston for mowing services at school facilities.
-Approved seeking bids for services and supplies for the next school year. Those interested in submitting a bid for bread, milk, propane, fuel and pest control can request a bid letter from the superintendent’s office.
A special meeting is expected in June to discuss finalizing salaries, a budget and bond issue funding. It will be after the regular meeting June 11. No date has been set.