South Barber Board of Education welcomes two new members, honors others for years of service

 

January 15, 2020

Yvonne Miller

This is the look of the new South Barber Board of Education at the January 2020 meeting: (from left) Bryan Quick, Deb Helfrich, Jenna Mostert, Mark Pollock, Ryan Molz and Emily Lohmann. Not pictured: Mike Miller.

Monday night the South Barber Board of Education held their regular January 2020 meeting that lasted just under two and a half hours.

Following multiple executive sessions, one of the board's actions was extending the contract of Superintendent Dr. Mylo Miller through 2022.

Two agenda items were for possible action concerning the hiring of 7-12 Principal Brent Shaffer and teacher and Athletic Director Steve Roberts as assistant high schools boys basketball coaches. Following executive session, the board took no action on either of those items. When asked about who is assisting head boys basketball coach Brett Mott, Principal Shaffer replied, "We're filling in as needed. That's what you do in a small school."

Walter Fry Says Farewell to South Barber after 56 Years

The name Walter Fry is synonymous with South Barber and the community of Kiowa. Fry told the Newsgram he taught math at SBHS for 17 years, the last six of those he was assistant principal and athletic director. Then he continued his career with the First State Bank of Kiowa from 1980 to 2013. Fry served on the South Barber Board of Education many and was board treasurer until now 2020.

The board accepted Fry's resignation as treasurer at the meeting Monday night. Fry said he and his wife Kay have lived in the same home in Kiowa for 53 years where they raised their two children. They've decided to move near their grown children, "five grandkids and five great-grandkids, and be a part of the family life." Fry said they've bought a home in Moore (near Oklahoma City). The remodeling should be ready for them to move in by April, he said.

"We're going to miss this town. We love it," Fry said of Kiowa.

New Board Members at Table, All Honored for Service

January is School Board Recognition Month, which Superintendent Miller said a great opportunity to say thank you to the South Barber board "who are committed to the success of every student in our community."

At this January board meeting, new members Jenna Mostert and Emily Lohmann, both mothers of young children, took their seat at the board table for the first time.

Other board members that Superintendent Miller recognized for their years of service are: President Mark Pollock, seven years; Vice President Bryan Quick, 13 years; Deborah Helfrich, 20 years; Ryan Molz, one year; and Mike Miller (who was absent) three years. Board Clerk Julie Johnson and Superintendent Miller also sat at the board table.

"Our board members develop policies and make complex decisions that shape the future of our education system. They are accountable for an annual budget of $5.7 million, 233 students, 54 employees and 2 buildings," the superintendent said.

"They also meet with legislators and other policy makers to advocate for our schools to make sure every child has access to an excellent education. We are grateful to have this opportunity to formally say 'thank you' to each of them," Miller said.

More South Barber Board Business

Payment of current bills totaling $359,524.50 received board approval.

President Pollock also represents South Barber on the South Central Kansas Special Education Cooperative (SCKSEC). He said the cooperative plans to meet at Haskins (which was the Behavioral Center) in Sharon to see what they are looking at whether it be a remodel or different option. Pollock said he is interested in considering some less costly options.

Board members discussed possible action concerning reorganization of the district board assignments to at-large positions. For now though, the board decided to leave the assignments as they are currently – District I and II.

After discussion, the board approved using an "activity" credit card for the high school with a limit of $2,500. This is for organizations like FFA, FCCLA, IA, vocal, band, etc., who need to make a purchase online when only a credit card will be accepted. The funds would come from the organization. Kay Roberts, who is in charge of activity funds, would oversee these transactions.

South Barber Student Achievements and More News

Dr. Miller said the new bleachers for the gym are on a scheduled timeline. The players and coaches will sit on the visitor side with the scoring table on that side.

South Barber's grant for the storm shelter/large room was approved by FEMA for the federal funding.

Congratulations to SB 6th grader Danielle MacKinney for winning the D.A.R.E. Essay Contest.

The school says a big thank you to local law enforcement for providing free SB hoodies for K-6 students. The fifth-grade class donated to Kiowa's Ministerial Alliance Food Bank in lieu of a classroom gift exchange this Christmas, which has administration saying thank you.

The SB Forensics Meet is Feb. 1. Coach Meagan Henry is always seeking judges for the event if you are interested.

 

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