Beth Rumsey
Staff Writer

George Link, VPS Architects, updated the Jac-Cen-Del School Board on the building project at the regular school board meeting on Wednesday, May 21. According to Link, the site plan has been received and the project is moving forward.

Link explained the alternate projects if bids come in low will include a baseball/softball field; additional security and heater/chiller. The current project will include expansion of the cafeteria; additional science labs, music room and a multipurpose room for use by the community.

All Sports Day at the elementary will have a “survivor” theme, according to Principal Leanna Phillippe. Phillippe recognized fourth grade teacher Carol Volz’s class on winning a contest that will provide several books to local charities.

Reading Buddy volunteers were recognized for their work during the year with the kindergarten, first, and second graders who needed help with reading, meeting two to three days a week for 30 minutes each day. Jennifer Dodge, Lora Truesdell, Ruth Westerman, Deanna Youngman, Melissa Snelling, and Sharon Menchhofer were presented with plants as a token of appreciation.

Several sixth graders explained their work on a problem based learning project on owls. The students were given the opportunity to work in teams to learn about the owl ecosystems, completed crafts and performed a dissection on owl pellets.

The students completed a research project, which required them to prepare a brochure. The four best brochures will be available at the Versailles State Park Nature Center.

The Super Mileage Team will compete in Indianapolis with the challenge to create a vehicle with the highest miles per gallon. Eligibility requirements for each participating school include the submission of a detailed proposal that covers all aspects of design and construction of the car.

Students build their own cars under the supervision of a faculty member and are responsible for the design and construction of the car and for raising all funds needed for the project. Engines are provided by Briggs and Stratton Corp.

Students learn the technical and scientific aspects of building a car, work as a team and solve complex problems.

In other business:

• The "I Caught You" award was presented to Sarah Jaisle for her assistance during ISTEP testing for the junior high special ed.

• The termination of assistant cook Lori Sturgeon was unanimously approved.

All board members were in attendance. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday, May 19 beginning at 6 p.m. at the high school cafeteria.