By Pat Maurer
Correspondent
In his report to the board regarding options for another bond issue, Superintendent Jim Walter said, “Conducting a community survey via EPIC MRA or Perspectives remains an option this winter.” He continued, “I have interviewed both survey businesses this past December for potential use.”
He said, “Surveys would take one to three months to complete from development to final report and end goals would include identifying roadblocks to passage along with voters are willing to approve.”
Walter said, “A number of small facility projects have been completed during the Christmas break and still more are in the planning states for completion by the end of the fiscal year. “
He said, “Emergency doors along the high school’s east side were replaced as well as the carpet in the middle school west wing hallway. In short order, the re-keying RFP (Request for proposal) will be active.” He added, “We are anticipating your approval in February or March.”
He said, “We are still waiting on the state regarding our 31aa allocation/approval for playground equipment and school safety measures.”
Walter said, projects for this winter include “glass repairs, heating equipment repairs and another set of door repairs at the high school, all eminent this winter, but minor in terms of budget impact.”
Clare BOE approved of a new k-4 math program – Into Math and approved new Reveal Math for grades 5-12. Both programs will commence wit the 2024-25 school year.
In has report to the board, Walter said, “Reveal Math (McGraw Hill) and Into Math (Houghton Mifflin) are resources approved in all area by EdReports (curriculum vetting resource), and emphasize building foundational skills along with critical thinking & problem solving.”
The BOE approved a trip requested by High School Drama teacher Devis Burke to Chicago for high school Drama students to see the Broadway Show, Mrs. Doubtfire on March 1, 2024.
Another request, to allow members of the Clare High School Business Professionals of America who qualify in Regional competition to participate in the State Leadership Conference competition from March 7-10, 2024 in Grand Rapids, was approved by the BOE. Eligibility for the event was determined by performance in regional competition.
A second request, for students who qualify at the State Leadership Conference, to attend the National Leadership Conference competition in Chicago on May 10 through May 14.
Other business at the regular meeting included:
An administrative update of the Clare Primary School presented by Curinne Demeuse, Primary School Dean of Students.
A presentation by Taylor Roberts, Chartwell’s Food Service Director who presented updates relevant to the district.
Board Policy updates (a first reading).
Approval of bills payable for December totaling $277,108.31 and a payroll of $709,423.76.