School Board Accepts Single Snow Removal Bid

By Crystal Howerton
 
 The October meeting of the KCR-1 Board of Education was held in the boardroom on Tuesday evening, October 16, 2007.
There were no citizen’s communications to share, however, Superintendent D.J. Leverton and Board President Joe Delaney did report community feedback on the Homecoming activities of the past week.  There were numerous compliments regarding the Powder Puff game, pep rally, etc. but a few parents voiced concerns about the late night on Thursday.  Supt. Leverton suggested improving the schedule of activities for next year in order to allow elementary school children and the football players to enjoy the Homecoming activities and still get enough rest for the following school day.
Administrators’ reports were read and approved.  Principal Andy Turgeon added that the safety backpacks containing items necessary in case of an emergency have been installed in each of the classrooms.  According to Prin. Turgeon, the backpacks will speed up reaction time during emergencies and especially assist substitute teachers. 
Marilyn Waite reported that Varsity football games and other school events, including the recent band performances could be viewed on Edina channel No. 19.
CTA Representative Desirae O’Neal recognized Susan Drew as the October Outstanding Educator of the Month and read a biography.
Supt. Leverton provided Board members with an update on the high school roof project stating that the project should reach completion within 10 to 14 days, weather permitting.  
He also presented information on an alternative school concept through the NEMO Special Education Cooperative following a visit to the Chillicothe Alternative Center.  "The alternative school will function independent of the Knox County R-1 School District and the other members of the NEMO Special Education Cooperative," explained Supt. Leverton.  "Approximately nine area schools have shown an interest in developing an alternative school for the use of area districts."  He estimated that 3 to 4 students enrolled at Knox County would possibly benefit from this program. Leverton said the Cooperative is discussing the possibility of locating the alternative school in the MACC Jim Sears Northeast Technical Center, however that will depend on Moberly Area Community College.  Supt. Leverton will serve on the advisory committee for the establishment of the alternative school.
On-site Director Cyndy Bliem-Sharp reported that Knox County R-1 recently received over $19,000 in after school grants for which she had applied through an initiative by Governor Matt Blunt to expand math and science related after school programs.  The funds will be used to establish an elementary computer lab and to encourage Girls in Technology (GIT), which will target young ladies in middle school.
Board members accepted the only bid submitted for snow removal from Nichols Snow Removal, Jamie Nichols, for services rendered as stated in bid specifications in the amount of $580 per instance.  Last years services were also provided by Nichols Snow Removal.
The plan for After School Tutoring presented by Elementary Principal Marty was approved as presented. Tutoring will commence the last of week of October and focus on areas of math and reading.  Bus routes for the 2007-08 school year were also approved and Veteran’s Day activities were discussed.
  Before adjourning, Marilyn Waite presented information on the district’s dual credit enrollment numbers, which is being taken advantage of by a number of students.