Review of a number of policies, student handbooks, a bus contract addendum and substitute teacher rates were all discussed when the Wayne Community Schools Board of Education met in regular session on Monday.
The board annually reviews policies dealing with the topics of bullying, student fees, homeless students and parent involvement.
Superintendent Dr. Mark Lenihan explained to the board what the district is doing in regard to each of these polices. He noted that in dealing with bullying, the district works to encourage positive behavior and "lots of training" takes place among the staff.
In regard to student fees, the district is obligated to pay fees for students who receive free and reduced lunches for things that students are required to have. Dr. Lenihan said there have not been a lot of requests for use of these funds.
An explanation of Policy 5418, which deals with Homeless Students was given, including how a student would qualify and what services are offered.
The policy involving parent involvement pertains mainly to the Title program. A number of activities are held throughout the school year to encourage parent involvement with students' education.
During the old business portion of the meeting, board members approved on second reading the policy updates and the second reading of the K-6 2022-23 Student Handbook.
Considerable discussion was held on the First Student Bus Contract Addendum.
The bus company had requested a 4.5% increase for services for the coming school year. The multi-year contract signed in 2020 had stated there would be a 2.75% increase each year.
Reasons for the need for the 4.5% increase were discussed and following discussion, board members voted unanimously to approve the original contract's request for a 2.75% increase.
During the new business portion of the meeting, board members approved the policy acknowledging the superintendent as CEO of the district and approved on first reading the Superintendent Evaluation Handbook.
Substitute teacher rates will increase to $135 per day for the coming school year.
Dr. Lenihan said he had contacted schools in the area to determine what substitute teachers are paid. These range from $130 to $145 per day. Currently the rate for the Wayne district is $120 per day.
A quote from Sterling for $27,822 for the purchase of 100 Chromebooks was approved.
Dr. Lenihan said the district has applied for a grant for the purchase of these computers, but it is not known at this time if the grant will be received. He said the district could also use ESSER funds for the purchase.
An engagement letter will be sent to Dana F. Cole & Company for the district's annual audit. The cost is not to exceed $12,800 with an additional $4,000 for a single audit.
Conversation was held on the possibility of adding an additional mental health therapist through Heartland Counseling. It was noted there have been positive outcomes since the first therapist began working in the district in March of this year.
Grant money is available to pay the costs associated with this position.
Information was shared in regard to work taking place at the schools this summer.
Jordan Widner, Director of Maintenance, told the board that demolition of the steps on the west entrance to the high school is underway. He also said a chiller went out that cools the junior high portion of the building and talked about the process of getting it fixed before school starts.
Information was shared on where the district is at in regard to the Strategic Plan. Several portions have been completed and additional work will be completed in coming weeks.
Dr. Lenihan explained to the board members where the process of hiring a Construction Manager at Risk (CM@R) was at, the school's accreditation and presented a budget update, along with the timeline for approving the upcoming year's budget.
The Wayne Community Schools' Board of Education will next meet in regular session on Monday, Aug. 8 at 5 p.m.
