Students lauded for robotics and music; district mourns staff member Carmela Boseley

An eighth-grade student, Anna, briefed the board on a planned middle-school dance slated for January 24 and warned that low ticket sales could lead to cancellation; parents and staff discussed options to subsidize costs and a volunteer DJ to reduce the break-even ticket requirement.

"My name is Anna, and I'm in eighth grade," the student said as she outlined the event and thanked staff for support. Parents asked why tickets cost $5; staff members explained the nominal fee typically supports class treasury expenses, the DJ and refreshments, and said hardship accommodations and volunteer help could reduce costs.

The board also recognized the district's robotics and music programs. Malone congratulated the EA robotics team for strong performance and noted the program's expansion into A, B and C teams. Presenters described this year's VEX game, "High Stakes," and explained students learn technical skills such as soldering and design; the program partners with Bettis to provide engineering mentors. Malone also praised the music program and cited student Ian Munn's participation in the MBA District 1 Orchestra.

Malone offered condolences to the family of staff member Carmela Boseley and asked the community to join in a moment of silence. "As we mourn his passing, this is a difficult time for all of us," Malone said in the meeting transcript, which contains some inconsistent name forms; the board asked the community to support affected students, families and staff.

The meeting recorded no formal vote related to these recognitions or the dance beyond routine procedural approvals; follow-up items included staff assistance for event logistics if needed.