August 9, 2021 at 6:30 PM - Monthly Meeting

Discussion:  Mr. Tharman shared that the school's grant request to the Cole Foundation, Morgan Foundation, and Dane G. Hansen had been denied. Still waiting to hear from the Masonic Lodge and the GNWKS Phillips County grant requests.

Discussion:  Mr. Tharman shared that Noah, Hal, Julie, Cindy W., and Foster B. had done a lot of work this summer.  Revival Lawn Care has done a great job with the weed control, mowing, and getting the front lawn sprinklers working.  Contractors are finishing up carpet in three rooms, painting, new ceiling, electrical work, kitchen appliances, sidewalks, etc. Window replacement is to start August 19th.  A big thank you to all that have helped with those projects. 

Discussion:  Meeting returned to open session at 7:41 pm.  The board recommends an emphasis on cleaning in the main gathering areas and providing staff with the necessary cleaning supplies for classrooms.  Social distancing in classrooms will be determined by the teacher and the number of students.  Masks are not required, but are available.  
The 2020 - 21 reopening plan will be reviewed again at the next meeting.  The hope is to have an updated plan ready, in case we would need to use it, but there is no implementation at this time. 

Discussion:  Mr. Tharman went over the 2021 - 22 budget with the board members and answered questions.  The budget and the revenue neutral rate hearings will be held on September 13th at 6:30 pm in the Almena conference room during the monthly board meeting.  

Discussion:  The KDOL visited the school and did a safety inspection.  Those identified areas have been addressed and fixed.  The report on the repairs is due September 22nd.  

Discussion:  The highway #383 project will require the state champion sign, at the edge of Almena, to be relocated.  They requested a quote to have the sign moved.  Joy Sides was able to get a quote from Christensen Construction for that project.  The bid was submitted to the State of Kansas.  It will be a couple of years before the move happens ... so keep thinking about a new location. 

Discussion:  Mr. Tharman updated the board on enrollment: we have gained 10 - 13 new students, but have lost a some also.  We will not know the exact numbers for a week or so.  Teachers come back this week and school starts next.  Kinze, Amber, Sheri, and Sommer have done a great job with getting enrollment set up and almost completed.   Reminder of the Back to School breakfast sponsored by the Congregational Church.  Looking forward to an exciting school year. 

Discussion:  Mr. Gebhard reported that the summer has flown by.  Weightlifting was a success this year and a big thank you to Mrs. Thalheim and Mrs. Lowry for their assistance. 
PreK - 4 open house is Friday, August 13th.