At the April 11, 2016 meeting of the Bethel Board of Education, students presented information to the board about the high school’s week of service. On Monday, the school hosted a presentation by Sarah Whitstone that asked students to examine the idea of stereotypes and the role of these stereotypes in society. She asked students to think about issues that no one wants to talk about. On Tuesday, the school hosted approximately 20 nonprofit organizations at the school to provide information to the students on opportunities to volunteer in the community. On Wednesday, the Community Blood Center came to the school to accept blood donations from students over the age of 18. Thirty-three students voluntarily donated a pint of blood to the organization, which equates to providing hope for 99 other people who desperately need blood. On Thursday, the students signed up for the organizations they wanted to serve. Finally, on Friday, the students went out into the community to serve. They volunteered with 17 different organizations and provided 468 hours of service throughout the community. The students hope to reach out to other schools to establish similar programs there. One student said, “This is one of the most meaningful activities that I have participated in as a high school student.”
In the superintendent’s report, Superintendent Virginia Potter reported that the students at Bethel have participated in a number of enriching activities. The Music Boosters raised over $2400 at their annual fundraising dinner. In addition, several students participated in the regional Power of the Pen competition. As a result of the regional competition, Hayden Parsons qualified to participate at the state level. Several students also attended the Math Pentathlon in Indianapolis and were recognized for their achievements. Twelve of the 22 students who attended received medals.
Potter also noted that the district is reviewing the grading scale for the district. A large number of districts have changed their grading scale to allow students earning a 90 percent or above to receive an A. Bethel’s grading scale requires a 94 or above to qualify for an A. Some people believe this puts Bethel students at a disadvantage when applying for college or scholarships. The board is evaluating the policy and will make recommendations on an appropriate strategy.
For the school construction project, Owner’s Representative Joe Hackleroad reported that the project is going well. Pending weather restrains, the builder is scheduled to pour the cafeteria floor on May 12, 2016. Once this is complete, 25% of the floor will be finished. In addition, the steel erectors will be placed over the next five weeks. He also reported that the road-widening project will begin at the end of May. The only major part of the project that remains to be bid is for the furniture, fixtures and equipment. Many of the bids have been below projected costs; therefore, the costs are within the projected budget for the building.
Potter made the following announcements April 4 through April 22, 2015 Open Enrollment Packets can be turned in to the Bethel Central Office. The office is open from 8:00 to 11:00 a.m. and from 1:00-to 3:00 p.m. on school days. The packets are available on the homepage of the school website. . In addition, kindergarten registration is scheduled April 13 and April 14m 2016 from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. and from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. in the conference room. The kindergarten registration requirements are available on the Elementary School page on the school website
The following community events are scheduled. On April 14 through-April 16, 2016 the high school band and choir will presents Les Miserables in the auditorium. In addition, the school will host the Bethel Alumni Dinner on May 7, 2016 in the high school gym. The school will also welcome grandparents to the school on May 9, 2016 for Silver Bee Day. Reservations are required and can be made with the Elementary Office.
In regular business, the Bethel BOE designated Bricker & Eckler LLP as authorized legal counsel for the Bethel Local School District, to be used on an as-needed basis for consultation on labor and employment matters and any other legal services required.
At the recommendation of Potter, The Bethel BOE approved a contract with SecurCom, Inc., as recommended by Shook Touchstone, to serve as the contractor for the Technology & Security package of the Bethel Building Project.
In personnel matters, the board approved a one year limited contracts for the following individuals for the 2016-2017 school year. They approved Alisha Gross as for Middle School Science and Molly Haun for Middle School Math/Language Arts.
They also approved a three years step increase for Ashley McElroy effective April 11, 2016.
In addition, the board accepted the resignation of the Health Care Clinician Lisa Davenport effective April 18, 2016: Furthermore, they accepted the resignation of the Treasurer Karen Newman effective June 30, 2016.
In other business, the board approved the release from their contracts all of the supplemental employees at the conclusion of the 2015-2016 school year. This non-renewal process is a standard procedure. These positions will be considered open until the board approves contracts for the 2016-2017 school year.
The next meeting of the Bethel BOE is scheduled for May 9, 2016 at 7:00 p.m. in the auditorium.
