School Board Reviews, Approves Policies

The Cheyenne County School District No. 1 Board of Education met June 20, reviewing and approving five policies, an agreement with Rauner and Associates, P.C., to perform the 2021-2222 District Financial Audit and reviewed a “Turf Tank” contract proposal.

The board approved the Open Enrollment Resolution on how to determine what number of students will be allowed into the district. At issue is if the district would be near its bench mark for specific grade levels and the board is petitioned for students from outside of the district to enter the district.

The board also approved a policy on parental involvement. Superintendent Jay Ehler said it is a policy renewed annually. By the policy, parents may check out textbooks and may review curricular materials, and parents are encouraged to make appointments with principals to visit classes, assemblies and other instructional activities. Parents can also request permission to attend counseling sessions in which their child is involved. Policy 5018 is linked to Policy 5057, Parent and Family Engagement Policy.

Policy 5045 addresses student fees, from clothing required for specific courses and activities, to Chromebook insurance. Board member Brenda Smith asks what is the recourse if a family cannot afford the fees. Ehler said that students would be considered under the free and reduced lunch category.

Policy 5054, on Bullying, also an annual requirement, created some discussion on conduct that occurs off school grounds and on social media platforms. Board President Mike Palmer said a lot of bullying starts off school grounds. The board also discussed when bullying involves a relationship between the bully and the victim, which falls under a different policy.

The board also agreed to a contract with Montana Markus as the new Ag teacher and FFA advisor. She has an Animal Science degree and is in a transition to teach program.

The board also approved an Interlocal Agreement for Day School/Treatment. The agreement is for a facility in Scottsbluff. Students needing this level of attention are driven to Kimball where they meet with other students and transported to Scottsbluff.

The board discussed a proposal for a Turk Tank contract to paint the athletic fields. The contract, at $10,000 for the first year, the system is said to reduce labor costs and be more precise in painting designs on the fields. The proposal was turned down because of costs.

The board also talked about the recent Elevate community discussion on suicide held at the high school on May 26. Board members Mike Palmer, Brenda Smith and Kathy Nienheuser, in attendance at the meeting, expressed the appreciation for the effort.

In the principals report, Sheri Ehler reported on planned QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) is training for people to help those who might be considering suicide.