On the 24th of November, the School Board convened over Zoom to address a number of community concerns as well as an agenda of educational updates throughout the district. These meetings can seem like a lot to process, so we at the Etown Expression are here to compress all that was discussed into a few digestible points.
- Members of the community expressed their concerns about the district’s plan to consolidate the elementary schools by moving third grade to Bear Creek and sixth grade into the middle school. Community members against this transition argued that students’ emotional and social needs will not be properly met in a larger building. In addition, some expressed concern about the challenges that accompany having to make new friends each year. Statistics were provided about projected population growth that suggested that the current elementary school buildings will be needed to support the growing student numbers at the elementary level.
- A parent of a 9th grader expressed concern with the title and associated content of the 9th grade Health and Wellness course. She believes the title does not accurately reflect the course load as “psychology” and sex education “are not health and wellness.” She also insisted that a detailed syllabus and permission slip be provided to parents in advance, along with the option for parents to opt their child out of the course.
- Students of the month of November were honored (Jett Kelly and Emma Buettner) and their resumes were read. Each thanked the Board and participating members for the opportunity.
- 38 families were successfully assisted by the efforts of this year's Thanksgiving Food Drive.
- The 2020 Audit was reviewed. This is when an outside entity reviews the financial record of the district. The district received a clean unqualified opinion (which is essentially the highest rating). Records are in order and no irregularities or concerns came up.
- The Department of Education has updated and revised the guidelines for responding to COVID cases in schools of varying sizes. EASD intends to follow those guidelines. Our Superintendent and School Board President will sign an attestation form outlining their commitment to following and enforcing guidelines. The board voted to continue to follow the semester one model through to the end of the year (hybrid for middle and high school, in person for elementary school) with a fully online option as well.
