Construction of the new cafeteria at Houston Schools is nearing completion.
Superintendent Scott Dill told board members at last week’s monthly meeting the district hopes to open the expanded cafeteria around Thanksgiving. Primary electrical work is completed in the expansion and exterior windows and doors were recently installed as part of a renovation of the current facility.
Other improvements on campus related to the $4 million bond issue approved by voters in April 2013 also continue. Dill said the district took delivery of a sizable quantity of steel this week for new construction that will connect the current high and middle school buildings. Floors in the section are currently being poured.
Dill also told board members a certificate of substantial completion has been signed on the $1 million project that repaired the roofs on the district’s four main buildings. He said there are a few minor leaks that will be addressed.
Other projects unrelated to the bond issue were recently finished by the maintenance staff. Three sets of bleachers were installed at Carter Field, which hosted the Class 2 District 8 softball tournament. Three new sets of doors were installed at Hiett Gymnasium.
Also at last week’s meeting, board members:
- Accepted the resignation of Ken Kautzman, the technology system coordinator, effective Dec. 31. Kautzman is retiring.
- Employed Lonnie Lee as the district wellness coordinator.
- Named Delinda Dixon the cheerleading sponsor for Houston Middle School basketball the remainder of the school year.
- Approved a request from Ryan Bowlin for early graduation contingent on him meeting all local and state requirements.
- Were given information about the feasibility of contracted food services from representatives of OPAA! Food Management, Inc. in Springfield.
- Heard and approved a health services evaluation from school nurse Michelle Moseley.
- Were led in the pledge of allegiance by seniors members of the Houston High School softball players Kylee Elmore, Lizzy Swindell and Olivia Woosley. The trio represented the seniors graduating from the Lady Tigers’ team that finished second in the district.