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District discusses greenhouse and CTE program plans, funding limits and tractor procurement
Summary
Trustees and staff discussed greenhouse and hoop-house options, program visioning for the FFA and plant science classes, CTE funding restrictions (61A1 cannot fund infrastructure) and procurement options for a tractor (state John Deere bid vs. lease).
Board members and staff spent substantial time discussing plant-science facilities and career-technical education (CTE) programming.
Staff described a multi-part plan that could include a greenhouse, a hoop house and aquaponics features tied to the plant science and FFA programs. They emphasized that any building or permanent infrastructure cannot be paid for with 61A1 CTE funds; 61A1 supports instructional components but not construction. The district also received one-time 61D funds this year (staff said roughly $30,000) intended to support local CTE programs.
The board discussed operational considerations—water, electrical service, heating, access for supervision—and whether a new greenhouse should be designed for broader science-department use. Staff suggested allowing the new instructor a full year to inform final program and facility design.
On equipment, staff explained reasons for using the state bid with Greenmark (John Deere) for a tractor: compatibility with existing GPS systems and a state-approved bid price. The district is evaluating lease-versus-purchase options and asking vendors for quotes.
Several board members and community participants offered short-term options for hoop-house structures and in-kind assistance to accelerate student access while permanent plans proceed.
No purchase was authorized tonight; staff will return with bids and lease estimates for board consideration.
