Superintendent changes fall break schedule, urges caution after student struck at crosswalk

During the Sept. 11 meeting, Dr. Barnett announced changes to the district's fall break and recounted an incident in which a student was struck while using a campus crosswalk.

Dr. Barnett said the district shifted this year's fall break to include the Friday before the traditional Monday'Tuesday break because Friday had been one of the highest absenteeism days. "In the past, it was Monday and Tuesday. This year, we changed it to a Friday, Monday," he said, adding the district coordinated the change with the county fair so students may attend the fair on the Monday without charge.

Dr. Barnett also described a recent incident in which a student was hit while crossing at a crosswalk. He said a bus had stopped and the student had started across the crosswalk when a car struck him. "That young man is back at school. Thank god. And, and he's he's recovering well," Dr. Barnett said, adding the district had sent a message to principals asking staff to remind students not to assume vehicles will stop and urging the public to pay attention around campuses.

The superintendent emphasized the district's focus on student safety and called on parents and drivers to be vigilant, particularly during high-traffic morning and afternoon periods around campuses. He said the district has been publicizing bus videos and other safety measures and thanked staff and the board for supporting safety efforts.

Dr. Barnett closed the superintendent report by noting the next regular board meeting is scheduled for Thursday, Oct. 16, 2025, with a 3:30 p.m. work session.