School board hears policy updates

The Comanche Board of Education met in a regular session Nov. 9.
Board members approved various routine consent agenda items, including the calendar year 2022 board meeting schedule and the approval of a resolution calling for the annual school board election. The board also approved General Fund, Child Nutrition Fund, Building Fund, and Building Bond Fund encumbrances.

Superintendent Julie Bills discussed with the board the new transfer policies that go into effect on January 1. These policies will take the place of the open and emergency transfers. Bills shared with the board and discussed the sample classroom transfer capacity to be posted on the website. The total grade capacity is listed in the policy. Districts must report publicly the capacity to accept transfers for each grade level at each school site by the first day of January, April, July, and October under the new law. Transfers for the 21-22 term will be taken beginning March 1, 2022.

Bills updated the board on COVID-19 quarantine numbers and indicated that the numbers are remaining relatively low. The district has experienced several staff members being out for extended periods of time. The opportunity to provide diagnostic COVID testing for staff, volunteers, and students will begin after the Thanksgiving Break.

The district will send home consent forms and information at that time.

Bills reported that on October 1 there were 943 students enrolled, which is an increase of 21 over last year. She also shared the success of the Cross Country teams, band, and academic teams. Mrs. Bills also updated members that at this time there are not any indoor facility guidelines for capacity.

Board vice president Thomas Winton shared concerns discussed at the site safety meetings during the district’s last Professional Development day.

Bills shared that the district is working to address the concerns. Glass safety film was also discussed. Superintendent Bills shared that the district is obtaining quotes.

“Jason Hawkins tested the RAVE app, an emergency communication tool, and the district is working to ensure staff receives notifications”, Bills informed the board.

Bills shared that the district is working on an Expanded Learning Grant in partnership with Gabrielle’s House for extended summer learning opportunities. This would be for students grades K-5, with three weeks in June and three in July.