FEMA building close to completion

• The FEMA building is close to being completely finished, with just a few items left to complete. Plans are underway for a grand opening in the near future.

• The football practice field water leak was determined to be a defective sprinkler. Parts have been replaced in the sprinkler head, and it is now back in working order.

• CTE Enhancement Grant has been received as a second round award, for $48,403 of $64,537 total for a skid steer. Staff are excited to add skid steer curriculum to the agricultural program. In addition, a grant has been received to cover expenses for laptops for students to learn how to operate the plasma cutter in the agricultural program.

• Wills thanked City of Salem Administrator Sally Burbridge and Police Chief Joe Chase for their work and partnership in helping bring a school resource officer to Salem R-80 in the near future. Wills reported, “They have been open and honest in how we can shape and develop this position into a strong asset to our district and community.”

• There have been several nurse staffing changes. Staff currently at the Salem Middle School will be moved to William Lynch, and the High School nurse Jessika Gray will cover Salem High School and Salem Middle School.

• Copeland has developed a well-rounded application process to recognize teachers and staff at Salem R-80 each month, with a “Teacher of the Month” and “Staff Member of the Month” to be awarded.

• Tech Director Brian Andrews worked to repair the football field scoreboard, with thanks expressed from Wills.

• Wills and the board discussed long-range planning on Upper Elementary and William Lynch Elementary, with plans to eventually combine both.

• Work on the athletic track could start as early as this week. Students, staff, and community members will need to stay off the track while repairs take place.

• Salem R-80 attorneys are reviewing the contract for the Upper Elementary roof replacement due to previous hail damage. Work should begin this fall, reported Wills.

Reports were provided by administrators, including William Lynch Elemntary Principal Herman Blau, Upper Elementary Principal Branden Piatt, Middle School Principal Rachel Green, and High School Principal Jody Heavin.

Under new business, the following were approved, as presented:

• Bus routes

• Intervention, Title, and Dyslexia Plan

• CTS contract for OT/PT services, passing 6-0-1

Staff changes reported in open session included:

• Transfer of Faye Parker from Salem Middle School to William Lynch Elementary

• Resignation/Retirement of William Lynch Head Nurse Debbie Baird

In closed session, the board discussed personnel, student, and real estate issues. The board accepted the resignation of Alaina Santhuff as Middle School assistant volleyball coach.