Centre school board vacillates on board vacancy
Staff writer
Centre board members debated Monday on whether or how to replace a vacancy left on the board after Lincolnville representative Clay Simons resigned in April. Three people sent letters to the board volunteering to serve.
The board could vote to choose a replacement or wait until one would be elected next spring, when Simons’ term will be up.
“I don’t think I could pick one without it looking like favoritism,” Terry Deines said.
Board president Rick Basore was concerned that a vote could result in a tie, but he also was concerned that one community is not represented.
“I’m not comfortable choosing one,” Jeff Bina said.
“I have reservations,” Jesse Brunner said.
The board tabled the issue after Beeson said it is a personnel issue that could be discussed in executive session.
The board discussed the need to develop a policy on whether virtual students can be homecoming candidates and participate in junior/senior prom. By state statute, they already are allowed to participate in sports and graduation.
Some felt that students who move from a brick and mortar school to a virtual program should not have the same privileges as those who stay onsite. The board directed Beeson to research the matter and work with other professionals to develop a policy.
The board agreed to moving the changing table in the women’s bathroom from its present location just inside a bathroom door to a more private spot.
The board approved purchase of four new water tanks and de-liming of six on-demand water heaters.
Facilities manager Richard Idleman reported the water system has a softener but still gets hard water deposits.
Kansas Honors Scholars Brendan Bina and Dylan Deines appeared before the board and were commended for their good work.
Chief negotiator Mark Heiser and assistants Anita Svoboda and Jesse Brunner were re-appointed.
The board accepted the resignation of Kim Shannon Shields as assistant girls’ basketball coach.