Director Don Dobbs reported the status of the proposed Alpha School in Harrogate. He met with Mayor Bill Fultz to discuss the need and financing for the school. Currently about 40 pre-school students in the area would qualify to attend if such a school existed. Fultz requested that the School Board agree to repay the Industrial Board for the cost of a pre-school building. The Industrial Board would be involved in obtaining grants or loans for construction. Dobbs explained that School Board does not have the authority to make that obligation. The annual budget, as determined by the County Commission, would determine the repayment method.
Dobbs reported that a recent meeting of the board, principals and supervisors was held. They discussed cell phone use by students and staff. Dobbs will research the subject elsewhere in the state before proposing a definite policy. The meeting also gave everyone involved an opportunity to review the policy manual for the school system.
Two proposed calendars for school year 2007-08 were discussed. For identification they were labeled “A” and “C”. The Claiborne County Education Association recommended approval of “C.” Dr. Roy Ellis made a motion to approve “A.” His motion failed for want of a second. The board then approved “C” with only Ellis voting no. The two proposals contained five differences, three of which would have a serious impact on student and family planning.
Proposal “A” would have scheduled four-day fall and spring breaks including two school days and two weekend days. May 16, 2008 would have been the last day of the school year.
Proposal “C” would have scheduled nine-day fall and spring breaks to include five school days and four weekend days. The last day of school would be May 26, 2008. As stated earlier this proposal was approved.
Dobbs presented a first draft recommendation for a retirement incentive program within the school system.
He emphasized there are numerous scenarios possible and that no decisions have been made. The full board authorized Dobbs and School Board Chairwoman Michelle Huddleston to work under executive privilege in order to develop a plan that would benefit everyone involved.
Dobbs told the board that road construction near Claiborne High School has created a water runoff problem for a local landowner. Dobbs expects the county commission to request diversion of that water onto appropriate school property. He asked board members to look at the location in question before the formal request is received.
Ed Baldwin is a staff writer for the Claiborne Progress. He can be reached via e-mail at ebaldwin@claiborneprogress.net.
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