Alva Review-Courier -

South Barber School Board President Steven Allen called the Jan. 8 regular monthly meeting to order Monday night.

New board member Bryan Quick took his place at the table to replace Dooli Rugg, who moved out of the district in 2017. All other members were present including: Deb Helfrich, Mariah Doherty, Mike Miller, Mark Pollock and Melissa Simpson.

Following an executive session at the end of the meeting, the board approved two separate resolutions: 2018-10 and 2018-11. Each resolution calls for 167 days of expulsion for a student (who was not named in open session). This regards the inappropriate pictures on social media issue that happened at South Barber last fall.

Quick abstained from the voting on both resolutions. Simpson abstained on the first vote and voted no on the second resolution, according to the superintendent.

The other executive session item was possible contract, salary and negotiations for the superintendent. The item was tabled until February.

More South Barber Board Business

The resignation/retirement of Cheryl Swartz as the family and consumer science and web design teacher and also as the sponsor for the Family, Career and Community Leaders of America was approved. Her resignation is effective at the end of the FY2018 school year. She taught 12 years at South Barber and the remainder at USD254 Medicine Lodge and Sharon.

Grade 7-12 Principal Brent Shaffer said it is their intent to continue with the program Swartz implemented.

Payment of current bills totaling $326,659.50 received board approval.

In her update to the board regarding accreditation, outcomes, missions, goals, etc., Williams said they continue with adoption of an English/language arts, adding high school science, Pathways to Business; etc. They are also offering negotiations training for board and educators.

Allen told the other board members that at the time of his election his address was fine. He’s checked with the secretary of state and the Kansas Association of School Boards. He suggests making Kiowa all one district. Several board members agreed since it seems increasingly difficult to get people to serve on boards.

Student Achievements and Upcoming Events

Shaffer reminded everyone that this Friday night, Jan. 12, it’s Pack the House Night as South Barber hosts Cunningham for basketball. The First State Bank provides free admission for everyone to the game.

Miss Kansas will be at South Barber High School Jan. 19 at 10 a.m. to speak on her platform issue: Remove the Labels: Be Unstoppable.

South Barber will host a forensics meet Feb. 3 and needs judges.

South Barber will host the Regional Scholar’s Bowl Feb. 1.