Trustees approve revised policy and HVAC upgrades at Big Sky High School

The Missoula County Public Schools (MCPS) Board of Trustees convened on May 13, 2025, to discuss several key issues impacting local schools, including a revised policy on device confiscation and significant upgrades to Big Sky High School's HVAC system.

One of the primary topics was the approval of Policy 3630, which addresses the handling of confiscated devices at both middle and high school levels. The board unanimously approved the revised policy after a brief discussion, noting that a previous requirement for parents to pick up confiscated devices had been removed. This change aims to streamline the process and reduce barriers for students and families. The board received minimal public feedback on this policy, indicating a smooth transition toward its implementation.

In addition to policy updates, the board reviewed a personnel report and discussed the awarding of a bid for HVAC upgrades at Big Sky High School. The project, which is set to enhance the school's heating and cooling systems, was recommended for approval pending successful negotiations with Garden City Plumbing. The base bid for the project is $36,200, with potential additional costs bringing the total to approximately $144,700. The upgrades will include replacing outdated cabinet heaters and improving control systems in various areas of the school, addressing long-standing maintenance issues.

These decisions reflect the board's commitment to improving educational environments and ensuring that facilities meet the needs of students and staff. As the board moves forward with these initiatives, the community can expect enhanced learning conditions and a more responsive approach to school policies.