North Clay Board Again Discusses Use of School Grounds for Park

North Clay school board members this week again heard comments from the public regarding the proposed use of a portion of school district property for a new village park.

Those who spoke were Darrell McKnelly, Terry Hronec, John Gullidge, C.R. Smith, Dennis Holkenbrink and Bryan West. The consensus of the speakers was of concern that the District might give up an asset of 20 acres in a time where revenue might be needed. Some commented on questions that had yet to be answered by the Park District and the school board. Others expressed some concern regarding legalities of the project and leasing. Hronec mentioned that the FFA Alumni group had approved donating $2,000/year for five years to the Park District to help them keep and improve their current location. Gullidge asked the Board for a timeline in making a decision on the issue.

No Park District representatives were on hand for the board meeting. No lease has been prepared for the Board to consider. Board member Jenny McKinney expressed concern that the funds generated by the lease being totally allocated to the FFA program when the ground was being farmed at no cost to the organization. Board member Tony Smith concurred that he would prefer seeing that money spread among several organizations. There was no action on the issue.

In other business, the North Clay board reviewed a sample policy from Superintendent Monty Aldrich on allowing advertising on campus to generate some revenue. Following discussion, the Board again tabled the issue.

Patty Smith spoke to the Board about a ban on her being on school grounds for the entire school year. Smith asked for permission to attend the junior high volleyball regional and 8th grade promotional exercises. The Board voted 7-0 to allow Smith to attend the 8th grade promotion provided there are no other incidents in the meantime.

Also, the Board granted permission for a demonstration to be presented in an effort to deter drinking and driving near Prom time; approved Healy Brothers Mowing for lawn care; discussed a request for leave for Teresa O'Dell from October through March, but denied the request; heard a presentation from Alice Robinson on her second grade teaching experience; approved a calendar for next school year and an amended calendar for this year; approved handbook changes for next year; renewed an agreement with SEPCO for food purchasing; renewed membership in the IHSA for next year; and rehired all certified teaching staff for next year.