Candida Sullivan

Correspondent

Springdale Elementary School welcomed the school board this month. Kindergarteners and first graders, dressed in Dr. Seuss hats, awed the audience as they read Dr. Seuss books; Green Eggs and Ham and Cat in the Hat. Chairman, Sam Owens stated the students reminded them they are the focus of the Claiborne County Board of Education.

Claiborne County Schools were among the ten or twelve schools out of the, 146 State of Tennessee school system, which reached expectations on test scores. Owens praised teachers for all of their hard work.

The board took another step toward being ‘Shovel Ready’ should any Stimulus money become available for Claiborne County Schools. Prior to the monthly meeting in an open workshop, an architect from Pendland Group Architect, based in Knoxville, TN, presented the board with a draft of a possible blue print to renovate Midway Elementary School. The blue print showed an 80 percent increase in the school. The additions would correct all problems at Midway adding twenty-four new classrooms, expanding the cafeteria, and rerouting as well as reducing traffic flow at peak times. However, the estimate exceeded even the possible Stimulus amount by more than half. Rumors state the most Claiborne County could receive would be $1.5 million dollars—if ANY at all—while the estimate exceeded $4 million dollars. Dr. Shoffner requested the architect draft something more compatible. The whole purpose for the blue prints was to be ready in the event money does become available. According to the research by the Central Office compiled daily, blue prints are required to be considered for any money. The board has taken all necessary steps and is now waiting to see what happens next. They feel it would be horrible if they missed an opportunity to help the school system, simply because of negligence.

One of the resolutions raised a concern for board member, Dr. Ellis. The money from the sale of the Old High School was to be deposited into the General Purpose Fund. Dr. Ellis stated the money was earmarked for special programs. Board members couldn’t recall the allegation. Dr. Ellis stated he did not want the money spent on the sewage project at Midway Elementary School nor for the purpose of purchasing land. Owens explained the money would be deposited into the budget for next year and Dr. Ellis would participate in creating that budget. During that time, board members decide how the money will be earmarked. Board member, Michelle Huddleston explained the resolution was to simply deposit the money into the budget—it was not earmarking the funds. The resolution passed reflecting the money going into the Fund Balance.

The anonymous drug hotline has been implemented. The number is 526-9911. Students are encouraged to report drugs, weapons, or alcohol in the school system. Dr. Shoffner will review all calls and direct any pertinent information to the appropriate authorities. An additional system is being reviewed called tip 411. It would enable students to send a text message to Resource Officers should any problems arise. Resource Officers would be able to communicate with the anonymous student to assess the severity of the situation, and proceed aptly. The only way the identity of the student could be discovered would be through legal action. Franklin High School, in Franklin, TN has already implemented the system. Franklin Students said they would be more likely to send a text message rather than by phone. Dr. Shoffner will meet with the high school principals to discuss their views on the matter. Tip 411 will be further discussed at the next board meeting.

The board approved a request to the State of Tennessee for approval of a new curriculum course to be implemented at Claiborne County High School. The name of the proposed course is, History of East Tennessee. Teacher, Christopher Fultz would be elected to teach the course. It would be an elective course geared toward the history of the region, and cultural, while creating a greater appreciation for East Tennessee.

Abby Adams, Field Coordinator, with Appalachia Service Project, Inc. addressed the board and requested the use of Forge Ridge School for approximately eight weeks during the summer. Appalachia Service Project is a Christian ministry, open to all people, that addresses the housing needs of Central Appalachia. They would pay rent of $5,000.00 for use of the school. The group does have their own insurance and the school system would not be liable under any circumstances. The board agreed to a partnership and supported their efforts.

The Tentative School Calendar, used for several years, was approved. Dr. Ellis stated he believed students and teachers have too many days off in the fall and spring. Vice Chairman, Cindy Debusk asked the board if they had considered starting the new school year later. The board did agree to look into changes for the next calendar.

When field trips were reviewed, Michelle Huddleston said the time limit on the request for approval of field trips is unacceptable. Some schools are raising money, and making all necessary arrangements before bringing their request before the board. The board is looking into a new policy for field trips.

Dr. Ellis stated he wasn’t aware of the Centralization of Food Services. He was assured there were two workshops involved in the Centralization as well as approval by the board. Dr.Shoffner agreed to pull the minutes from the meeting where it was approved.

Board member, Dave “Coach” Chesney donated and presented (at his own expense) trophies to Springdale Girls Basketball Team for winning the County Championship. He also gave them Tennessee House Resolution certificates from State Representative Dennis “Coach” Roach.

Candida Sullivan

Correspondent

Springdale Elementary School welcomed the school board this month. Kindergarteners and first graders, dressed in Dr. Seuss hats, awed the audience as they read Dr. Seuss books; Green Eggs and Ham and Cat in the Hat. Chairman, Sam Owens stated the students reminded them they are the focus of the Claiborne County Board of Education.

Claiborne County Schools were among the ten or twelve schools out of the, 146 State of Tennessee school system, which reached expectations on test scores. Owens praised teachers for all of their hard work.

The board took another step toward being ‘Shovel Ready’ should any Stimulus money become available for Claiborne County Schools. Prior to the monthly meeting in an open workshop, an architect from Pendland Group Architect, based in Knoxville, TN, presented the board with a draft of a possible blue print to renovate Midway Elementary School. The blue print showed an 80 percent increase in the school. The additions would correct all problems at Midway adding twenty-four new classrooms, expanding the cafeteria, and rerouting as well as reducing traffic flow at peak times. However, the estimate exceeded even the possible Stimulus amount by more than half. Rumors state the most Claiborne County could receive would be $1.5 million dollars—if ANY at all—while the estimate exceeded $4 million dollars. Dr. Shoffner requested the architect draft something more compatible. The whole purpose for the blue prints was to be ready in the event money does become available. According to the research by the Central Office compiled daily, blue prints are required to be considered for any money. The board has taken all necessary steps and is now waiting to see what happens next. They feel it would be horrible if they missed an opportunity to help the school system, simply because of negligence.

One of the resolutions raised a concern for board member, Dr. Ellis. The money from the sale of the Old High School was to be deposited into the General Purpose Fund. Dr. Ellis stated the money was earmarked for special programs. Board members couldn’t recall the allegation. Dr. Ellis stated he did not want the money spent on the sewage project at Midway Elementary School nor for the purpose of purchasing land. Owens explained the money would be deposited into the budget for next year and Dr. Ellis would participate in creating that budget. During that time, board members decide how the money will be earmarked. Board member, Michelle Huddleston explained the resolution was to simply deposit the money into the budget—it was not earmarking the funds. The resolution passed reflecting the money going into the Fund Balance.

The anonymous drug hotline has been implemented. The number is 526-9911. Students are encouraged to report drugs, weapons, or alcohol in the school system. Dr. Shoffner will review all calls and direct any pertinent information to the appropriate authorities. An additional system is being reviewed called tip 411. It would enable students to send a text message to Resource Officers should any problems arise. Resource Officers would be able to communicate with the anonymous student to assess the severity of the situation, and proceed aptly. The only way the identity of the student could be discovered would be through legal action. Franklin High School, in Franklin, TN has already implemented the system. Franklin Students said they would be more likely to send a text message rather than by phone. Dr. Shoffner will meet with the high school principals to discuss their views on the matter. Tip 411 will be further discussed at the next board meeting.

The board approved a request to the State of Tennessee for approval of a new curriculum course to be implemented at Claiborne County High School. The name of the proposed course is, History of East Tennessee. Teacher, Christopher Fultz would be elected to teach the course. It would be an elective course geared toward the history of the region, and cultural, while creating a greater appreciation for East Tennessee.

Abby Adams, Field Coordinator, with Appalachia Service Project, Inc. addressed the board and requested the use of Forge Ridge School for approximately eight weeks during the summer. Appalachia Service Project is a Christian ministry, open to all people, that addresses the housing needs of Central Appalachia. They would pay rent of $5,000.00 for use of the school. The group does have their own insurance and the school system would not be liable under any circumstances. The board agreed to a partnership and supported their efforts.

The Tentative School Calendar, used for several years, was approved. Dr. Ellis stated he believed students and teachers have too many days off in the fall and spring. Vice Chairman, Cindy Debusk asked the board if they had considered starting the new school year later. The board did agree to look into changes for the next calendar.

When field trips were reviewed, Michelle Huddleston said the time limit on the request for approval of field trips is unacceptable. Some schools are raising money, and making all necessary arrangements before bringing their request before the board. The board is looking into a new policy for field trips.

Dr. Ellis stated he wasn’t aware of the Centralization of Food Services. He was assured there were two workshops involved in the Centralization as well as approval by the board. Dr.Shoffner agreed to pull the minutes from the meeting where it was approved.

Board member, Dave “Coach” Chesney donated and presented (at his own expense) trophies to Springdale Girls Basketball Team for winning the County Championship. He also gave them Tennessee House Resolution certificates from State Representative Dennis “Coach” Roach.