North Clay Board Discusses Renovation Work

North Clay school board members Wednesday discussed building renovation work.

The Board discussed whether to seek bids on some of the work. One report shared that windows will need to be pulled out and caps re-caulked on the 2003 junior high addition this summer. Members will work with the district architect to pursue the situation. One member discussed testing the bricks for freeze and thaw durability, and others asked if this work would be a fix for the entire problem.

There was also discussion on HVAC work for the high school gym in Louisville. It was agreed to seek bids on the work on a 5-2 vote with members Smith and Wilbanks voting against.

The Board voted to 5-2 to ban parent Becky McKnelly from district grounds for the balance of the current school year with members Dawkins and Adair voting against. McKnelly is accused of using profanity toward the high school principal as she left the high school office.

Board members heard a presentation from Clay City Ag and Math teacher Jamie Harvel regarding an educational tour she will lead to the South Pacific in July of 2019. Students from Clay City and Flora high schools are also being invited to attend. The trip would not be associated with the school, but Harvel will be visiting North Clay High School to present to students during an activity period.

The Board received information from teacher Brian Wattles on the PE/Health program, including CPR instruction, AED orientation, and dealing with a choking incident.

Board members hired Heather Rosch as a substitute cook and paraprofessional, Ashley Rose and Emily Blackwell as substitute paraprofessionals, Peggy Harris as substitute paraprofessional and substitute cook, and Darla Worthey as substitute administrative assistant. It was also decided to seek fuel bids, and the Board discussed but tabled for more information a request from class sponsors at the high school to take over concessions at high school events.

The Board hired Robbins-Schwartz on a retainer as the district's legal counsel; agreed to seek mowing bids; directed Superintendent Monty Aldrich to look at putting funds into the coming fiscal year's budget for possible purchase of a new driver education vehicle. 

Board members and administrators took time to discuss recent school shootings and protocol and strategies in place. Possible improvements were discussed and will be addressed. The Board also asked building principals to revamp an incentive program in place to present at the district's next strategic planning meeting.

The Board learned that Clint Holkenbrink and Kyle McKnelly both interviewed for the State FFA Degree and will be receiving that degree. They have advanced through all areas, and will receive their certificates and pins at the State FFA Convention in June. Also, the North Clay FCCLA had a successful day last Friday. Keisha Allen was re-elected Section 18 Secretary and Mason Harmon was re-elected Section 18 Treasurer for the next school year. There were five competitors; Breanna Hinton won gold in apparel construction, Olivia Ricketts received gold in professional career image, Mackenzie Rinehart won gold in personal childcare provider, Tonya Smith won gold in frosted cake decorating, and Kenzie Robertson won gold in international experience. All five will advance to State competition in April.