JACKSON CENTER – Jackson Center Local Schools distributed approximately 50 Google Chromebooks and WiFi hotspots to students as part of its coronavirus response, the school’s Board of Education learned during its March 16 meeting.
Jackson Center Local Schools was in session March 16, and teachers and staff prepared students for the state-mandated three week closure of schools, Superintendent Bill Reichert reported. All students were provided assistance to ensure the ability to communicate and work remotely, which included the distribution of the Chromebooks and hotspots.
Arrangements can be made for students to have appointments with teachers for approved requests.
Beginning March 17, the school’s cafeteria was to begin providing takeout lunches for students on the east side of the building in accordance with the current free, reduced or full pay status.
Planning is continuing for the school to address the ongoing situation.
Also during the meeting, the Board of Education approved the financial report.
The 2019 district valuation, provided by the county auditor, was received and is up from $79.4 to $79.9 million. This valuation includes all properties in Shelby, Logan and Auglaize counties that are within the district and reflected a modest increase for the first time since 2016.
The health insurance consortium, which is made up of six schools and Western Ohio Computer Organization, voted to accept revisions to the health savings account and preferred provider organization plans. These changes will be summarized and communicated to staff in the near future. They become effective Jan. 1, 2021.
The board approved two annual overnight field trips, provided circumstances allow for them. They include a sixth grade overnight field trip to Camp Willson, near Bellefontaine, from April 27 to April 29 and a Family, Career and Community Leaders of America overnight field trip to Columbus for state competition from April 23 to April 24.
The board had a 35-minute executive session to discuss the employment of public employees then approved contracts.
The board approved supplemental and pupil activity contracts including Hannah Meyer as assistant softball coach, Jill Schwartz as volunteer assistant softball coach and Cari Beth Noah as a new teacher mentor.
The board accepted the resignation and retirement of art teacher Sandra Corbet and part-time custodian Michele Ricker.
The Board of Education approved three local graduation seals that all public schools in Ohio must develop in accordance with the new state graduation requirements. A committee led by (4-12) Principal Reese and the guidance counselor, Mrs. Kohler, developed the criteria for the seals. A committee led by Principal Jeff Reese and Guidance Counselor Marilyn Kohler developed the criteria for the seals.
The board accepted the donation of fitness equipment, a Bowflex Max Trainer, from district Office Coordinator Debbi Tussing for use in the Staff Fitness Center.
The next Board of Education meeting is scheduled for 7 p.m. April 20.
