“I know that money is very thin these days, but that would be detrimental to our schools. Schools need more money, not less,” said Pineville superintendent Michael White.
The state of Kentucky requires that two percent of a public school’s budget be kept for contingency to cover any unforeseen costs that may arise. Without it, many schools could face a budget crisis. Some may not have money for improvements, and others may end up in the red if costs arise unexpectedly. No word from Frankfort yet, on whether Stumbo’s suggestion will be implemented.
The board also gave their final approval to the plans for the new gymnasium. Architect Bill Richardson expects to take the plans to Frankfort for state approval by early next week. Once the state approves the plans the school will begin the bidding process.
Pineville High School Principal Bill Keyes announced the creation of a student advisory council that will meet with him weekly to give their input on school issues. Twelve students make up the council: three seniors, three juniors, two representatives from eighth, ninth and tenth grades. Keyes also informed the board of a skill improvement plan that has been implemented to assist students in improving their knowledge of core curriculum. Two teachers are available to tutor students in math, reading, science and social studies.
Elementary School Principal Bobby Bennett was pleased to tell the board of the star reader program. Each student’s reading skills have been assessed in relation to grade levels. Consequently, the school’s library will now offer books arranged according to reading levels. Students can read at their own level and challenge themselves to move on to the next one when they are ready.
Pineville Elementary School fifth graders will also begin raising trout in the near future. The Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife has added Pineville to the list of schools participating in a program that teaches students about the ecosystems and anatomy of the fish as they watch them grow. The aquarium and other costs will be furnished by an unnamed donor, and the fish will be released into Clear Creek after four to five months in the care of the students.
The school board also approved a number of items including amending the calendar to compensate for the days missed because of illness and fund raiser requests. The board approved a bus purchase to replace the oldest in the lot, approved the Halloween carnival, taking place on Halloween night, and consented to moving forward with a water line project.
Contact Correspondent Lorie Settles at correspondent@middlesborodailynews.com.
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