Tena Brown, math and literacy coach at Jac-Cen-Del Elementary School gave a progress report to the school board at the regular meeting on Wednesday, October 15. Brown explained to the board that she serves as a resource to address student’s needs in math and reading.

“Our goal is to make the kids as best prepared as can be,” said Brown. She explained that she holds a joint planning meeting once a week with the teachers to discuss goals and strategies for the classroom as well as researching materials for teachers.

Brown thanked the board for taking a chance on the new position. “I’m really enjoying it,” she said.
In the elementary school report, Principal Leanna Phillippe reported that the PTO carnival was well attended with the Relay for Life food booth earning $1200. Also, the PTO fundraiser was a success. “We appreciate all of their efforts, said Phillippe.

Phillippe explained the requirements for the Title I school improvement new model. She said this is a pilot program of which Indiana is one of only six states currently participating. Under the new plan, implementing improvements required by the state will be easier. The plan will also require professional development for instructors, some of whom have already attended classes and conferences geared towards professional development. “We look at every opportunity to improve ourselves,” said Phillippe.
NEO2 computers have been purchased through a Rising Sun Regional Foundation grant and are being piloted in Mrs. Buxton, Mrs. Powers, and Mrs. Volz’s classs. Training sessions for the entire staff are planned for November 26 and January 2.

Phillippe reminded the board of upcoming important dates. Spell Bowl will be held on November 20 at JCDES. Bake It Take It for grades five and six will be on December 2 from 5-7 p.m. The Christmas program will be December 9 for the kindergarten through second grades and December 18 for the 5th grade swing choir and 6th grade band.

Third grade teacher Sandy Einhaus was recognized for her quick thinking when she came upon a choking student and used the Heimlich maneuver to dislodge the obstruction. Einhaus received a certificate of recognition and a $25 gift certificate from the Grub Company. “I was just glad I knew what to do,” said Einhaus.

In other business:

• The advanced art club was recognized for their donation of a handmade toy box to the Ripley County Community Foundation and sold at auction for $350.

• The board unanimously approved for interest income to be placed into the rainy day fund or the general fund as of January 1, 2009.

• Eugene Westerman was approved as Supermileage sponsor. Tim Sutton and Todd Keene were approved as girls basketball coaches.

• The new and revised NEOLA policies were unanimously approved.

• A special board meeting to approve the budget will be held on November 7 at 6 p.m.

All board members were in attendance along with Attorney Tim Day to advise. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, November 19 beginning at 6 p.m. in the high school cafeteria.