If Not Now, When

There's a cliché meant as motivation and good planning that also applies for major projects: “There's no time like the present!”

Likewise, contractors and building project managers will say the cost “will never be any cheaper than it is today.”

That is what concerns the Leyton Schools community. In the February 8 school board meeting, the board discussed why bids were coming in significantly higher than a year earlier. Board members discussed options including renovating the science room in phases, and seeking grants to help fund the project. Of concern is that the project could include removal of asbestos.

In the March 8 meeting, board member Ryan Borges said the board is facing a dilemma that continues to becoming increasingly difficult. In 2020, bids came in at about $260,000. Costs are now approaching $400,000, according to Borges. Borges said the concern is two District accounts total about $412,000. Board member Lisa Carter questioned if the board's focus is the children, or the funds. Borges motioned to approve the work at a bid not to exceed $364,000, excluding asbestos removal. Carter was appointed to fill one of the two board vacancies that occurred recently. Sam Schumacher, Carter, Ashely Boman and Kevin Henke applied for two open board seats. Henke withdrew his name prior to interviews by the board.

The board also approved Interim Superintendent Charles Bunner's contract. Bunner was approved as interim superintendent following District Superintendent Chris Leary put on administrative leave. Brunner assumed responsibilities as interim superintendent in a special meeting of the school board in February.

During his report, Interim Superintendent Bunner said the Fire Marshall inspected the District and determined the buildings to be in compliance. The Fire Marshall did see the handicapped seating accessibility in the gymnasium and 'Push to Exit' buttons on two doors.

The communities of Gurley and Dalton are at odds... with themselves. The way to get past it is to forgive, and work together.

That is the message from one of the speakers at the Leyton School District Board of Education meeting on March 8.

The Leyton School District and the community have been embroiled in a conflict over how Supt. Leary was relieved of his duties and actions by the board. Leary remains on staff but is on administrative leave early this year.

In the March 8 meeting, Tara Houlden addressed the board. She said if a person is in the role of public service, that person must serve everyone, and be transparent. She also said the board needs to support the administration.

“All students deserve a quality education. The staff of your schools are also your constituents. You should be the best of small towns, not the worst,” she said.

Ashley Boman also addressed the board. She thanked the board for the opportunity to apply for the open seats on the board. She added she was contacted by a board member who encouraged her not to apply for the board position.

“I applied to help the school,” not for herself or her children.

“The negative brought into this community is divisive,” she said.

Jennifer Eckhart asked the board when teachers can return to teaching instead of committing time to answering grievances. Board president Suzy Ernest simply replied “when complaints stop.”

James Ernest encouraged community members to work together, forgive whatever has occurred in the past.

“I've listened to a lot of this. People have voted for change. Change is not easy,” he said.