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SP board approves project resolutions
With South Putnam gearing up for a renovation project described as a “once-in-a-generation” opportunity, the South Putnam School Board approved resolutions pertaining to such Wednesday evening.
Taking the lead from Stacy Barclay of Sutherlin, Zeiner & Barclay, the board approved a resolution determining a need for the estimated $1.6-$1.8 million project, as well as two others related to having a building corporation.
With no questions on the first resolution, Barclay outlined that there have been several agreements with the South Putnam High School Building Corporation with previous projects. With the resolution approving a Sixth Amendment to Lease, the corporation will be allowed to receive proceeds and ensure payments.
The project as a whole is to focus on comprehensive infrastructure, security and vehicle needs throughout the corporation. The improvements are to be funded through a general obligation (GO) bond, which is backed by an entity’s credit and taxing ability.
Barclay clarified that the building corporation just has to have a name, but encompasses the project’s whole. With that, the council adopted the third resolution approving its actual formation.
In other business:
• With Joe Roach abstaining, the board approved updated classified employee benefits and compensation. Supt. Corey Smith noted that the policy was the result of several months of getting feedback and scenario testing.
• The board voted to reject a bid for resurfacing the parking lot at Central Elementary School. Smith said it was the only one received and “well beyond” budgeting expectations. He added that the project will be bid out again in the fall for work to be possible next year.
• With more attorney changes having been made, the board approved another updated memorandum of understanding with the Town of Cloverdale and Cloverdale Schools for a school resource officer. Smith said with this new MoU, the three entities will be moving into the hiring process.
“I’m looking forward to closure on this consideration,” Wade Fanning commented before the board’s approval.
• The board approved an MoU with an undisclosed organization for an off-campus evacuation site. South Putnam High School Asst. Principal John Skomp, also the school safety specialist, provided that the partnership is a positive one.
To a question from Board President Lisa Cooper, Skomp said an evacuation would be flexible for either the middle-high school or Central Elementary School. Meanwhile, Smith responded that, “We’re working on it” as to an evacuation plan for Fillmore Elementary School.
• The board heard from Beva Miller and Tia Kirchner, the Putnam County Health Department’s school liaison and medical office manager, respectively, about health needs of students. Echoing comments to the Cloverdale School Board, both provided that they could assist with curriculum and mobile vaccinations.
The board also approved the following personnel report:
• Resignations: Brittany Pell - Fillmore Elementary teacher; Shyniya Lyles - Central Elementary instructional assistant; and Timothy Parrish - Fillmore Elementary custodian;
• Maternity leave: Josie Hacker - Central Elementary teacher (December-May 24);
• Employment: Katie Downing - Fillmore Elementary instructional assistant; and Cena Bain - MS/HS special education teacher.
The board also recognized Terri Beasley for her 30 years of service to South Putnam. Acknowledging that she has fulfilled different roles during her tenure, Smith thanked Beasley for her “ever so kind spirit” and dedication.
“It’s been a pleasure working with you,” Smith said before Cooper presented Beasley with a plaque. “Thank you very much for everything you’ve done for South Putnam and for me.”
With Lee Cline absent, Corporation Treasurer Hilarie Logan and new Executive Secretary Erin Roach joined Smith and the rest of the board for the meeting.
The next regular meeting of the South Putnam School Board is set for Wednesday, Aug. 9 at 7 p.m. in the South Putnam MS/HS Learning Center.