Board approves two special‑services positions to address student safety; cost to district just over $23,000 for remainder of year

Summary

After a request from Director of Special Services Sarah Pratt, the board approved a full‑time and a part‑time special‑services position to respond to complex student needs. Pratt said approximately 55% of the salaries are reimbursable and the district’s net cost for the remainder of the school year is just over $23,000.

Sarah Pratt, the district’s director of special services, asked the board Jan. 12 to approve two additional positions to address ongoing, complex student needs and associated safety concerns.

Pratt requested a 6.75‑hour‑per‑day position at Bridgewater Elementary and a 3.375‑hour‑per‑day position at Spring Creek Elementary. Pratt told the board that with an approximate 55% reimbursement of salaries the total net cost to the district for the remainder of the school year would be “just over $23,000.”

Board members discussed moving the item immediately to individual action so hires could proceed more quickly. Board member Ben moved to move the request to individual action that night; the motion passed. At the items for individual action later in the meeting the board moved to approve the request, with Ben making the motion and Corey seconding; the board voted to approve the additional FTE.

What this means: administration said the positions are intended to reduce safety risks and provide more targeted support in buildings with complex needs. The positions will move forward under normal hiring procedures and with the expectation of partial reimbursement.