A recently completed school district facility will be showcased during an upcoming open house, the Houston board of education heard Tuesday.
The building at First and Ozark streets was completely renovated during the summer by school staff and opened at the start of the school year. Theresa Hudson, Houston Alternative Learning Opportunities (HALO) coordinator, presented an evaluation to the board. She said that the program has eight students, with some transitioning in and out of the program. HALO is geared toward students with combined behavior and academic needs, though more programs may be added in the future.
The public open house is 4 to 6 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 17.
PROGRAM EVALUATIONS
Amy Smith, elementary nurse, presented the health services program evaluation, highlighting procedures, training and improved communication within the district and with the community. The program evaluation was approved unanimously.
Jeff McNiell, communications, presented the communications program evaluation. The program evaluation was approved unanimously.
Wytney Steelman, professional development, presented the professional development program evaluation. She stated that an innovative 10-person committee, a teacher mentoring program and better evaluation of which conferences staff attend are strengths of the program. Funding is a concern, according to Steelman. The program evaluation was approved unanimously.
OTHER MATTERS
- Rebecca Wardrop was recognized as the middle school student of the month for the character trait of honesty.
- The board unanimously approved the Missouri School Boards’ Association 24C Update as presented. It includes updates to lactation support, part-time and substitute employment, staff health and safety, professional short-term leaves, support staff leaves, special education, students in foster care, test integrity and security, the A+ Scholarship program, student discipline, inventory management and accommodations for students with disabilities.
- The board unanimously approved Policy ECA-2-AP(2) as presented. It concerns requiring a potential school protection officer to have worked for the district for one year.
- A policy on student welfare during sports and activities was discussed. No action was taken.
- Marty Merckling, board member, questioned the district’s compliance with state statutes on purchases requiring bids and public notice. Dr. Justin Copley, superintendent, stated that the district is making every effort to comply in spite of logistical challenges. The statute in question is RSMo 105.454. The board approved the consent agenda on a 6-1 vote, Merckling voted no.
- Matt Robertson, transportation director, presented the annual bus route report. He stated that the longest route is approximately two hours. The routes were approved as presented.
- The Hazard Mitigation Plan Resolution was approved as presented. It is required to apply for grants through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and Missouri State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA).
- Stephanie Barbagiovanni, curriculum director, gave an update on 2023-2024 assessment data. The district had 99% participation and saw improvement in several areas, some of which was contributed to improved diligence from the students by making the assessments count toward their grades. Some areas did see a decline. The 2024-2025 assessment plan was approved.
- Building principals and department directors gave updates on their goals, focus areas and current happenings.
- Brody Adkison, student liaison, updated the board on boys and girls state and athletic and activity successes.
- Brent Hall, athletic director, discussed a potential esports program with board members. It has received lots of interest from students as an after-school option. Esports are video games that are played in a highly organized competitive environment. It would require the school to acquire or build new technology. No action was taken.
- Copley updated the board on improvement planning and surveys, funding for various projects and construction projects including a new pavilion at the elementary playground. He also discussed potential netting, dugout and fence improvements at the softball field.
- The food director will give an update to the board on the district’s new program that provides students with free meals.
- Merckling questioned the financial efficacy of a trip that a few staff members and students went on to tour area school districts’ Family and Consumer Science (FACS) kitchens. The trip allowed the staff and students to determine the best way to develop a kitchen. The district previously decided to not hire an architect for the project.
The next regular board meeting is at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 12 in the high school library.