For the eighth consecutive year, the Houston School District received an “accredited with distinction” designation by the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, the Houston board of education learned Monday night.
Dr. Dan Vandiver reported that the annual report card from the state showed the district met the state’s criteria in all 14 areas.
The board also heard that plans are set for a public forum this evening (Thursday) to receive input on facility needs in the district. The meeting is at 6:30 p.m. in the Houston Middle School gymnasium.
In other matters, members:
-Continue discussions on a weekly early release of students to enhance professional development opportunities for staff. Vandiver said many schools in the state have adopted the concept as a means to provide time for teachers to work together, gain additional expertise and improve instruction.
Students would be dismissed about 90 minutes early one day a week. A change would eliminate the half days already built into the school calendar, Vandiver said. The board continues to gather information for consideration over the next several months, he said.
-Accepted a five-year agreement with Pepsi Mid-America for rights as the soft drink vendor for the district. Coca-Cola Enterprises sought the business.
-Awarded an 18-month contract with Ward Photography to take pictures for the remainder of the school year and next year. Vandiver said parents will be pleased to know that package prices are significantly lower than the current firm used by the district. Three bids were received.
-Approved an evaluation method for conducting the annual review of the superintendent. The process will be completed at the board’s January meeting.