During a recent meeting of the Fox C-6 School District Board, several key topics were discussed, highlighting both school achievements and pressing safety concerns.
The meeting commenced with the approval of the agenda for September 24, 2024, followed by student ambassadors from Fox and Seckman High Schools sharing updates on school activities. Fox High School's ambassador, Natalie Young, reported on the successful start of the school year, including a marketing project where students operated lemonade stands, raising over $200 each. She also celebrated the excitement surrounding the school's new turf football field and the dedication of a hallway to long-serving teacher Art Casey. The grand opening of a new school addition is scheduled for September 26, inviting community members to tour the updated facilities.
Seckman High School's ambassador, Emma Eads, recounted the recent annual powder puff game, where seniors triumphed over juniors, and highlighted the football team's victory against Melville High School. Eads also invited the community to the upcoming homecoming festivities, including a parade and dance.
Superintendent Paul Bridal addressed the meeting with a somber note, recognizing the recent passing of former principal Dr. Kevin Rossiter, who served the school for 44 years. A moment of silence was observed in his honor.
Bridal then shifted focus to a critical issue affecting schools nationwide: safety threats. He reported a significant increase in school-related threats, with 125 violent tips reported in Missouri from July to September, compared to just 137 for the entire previous year. The superintendent emphasized that all threats reported within the district were thoroughly investigated and deemed unfounded, but underscored the seriousness with which the district treats such incidents. He detailed the protocols in place, including collaboration with law enforcement, investigations of social media posts, and disciplinary actions for students involved in making threats.
Bridal reassured parents and guardians that student safety is the district's top priority, urging them to engage in conversations with their children about the importance of reporting concerning posts rather than sharing them. He concluded by calling for community support in addressing these threats, stating, \"School threats are not a joke, and they will not be tolerated.\"
The meeting also included a brief presentation on bond defeasance, indicating ongoing financial discussions within the district. Overall, the meeting highlighted both the vibrant school spirit and the urgent need for vigilance regarding student safety.