District updates: windows, roofs, track, bids and staffing ahead of the new school year

District staff updated the board on facilities and staffing work preparing schools for the coming year.

Facilities: Staff said delayed window shipments have arrived and installation has started; if all windows do not arrive in time, remaining units will be stored and installed later. Roof work at two buildings is near completion with a walkthrough/punch list expected next week. Track work is underway: crews have laid the base asphalt, and the rubber surface will be installed after curing (staff estimated about three weeks to cure before surfacing). Bid specifications for new school signs are being finalized and will be posted on the state procurement site; staff noted bond-funded projects require formal bidding even where estimates exist.

Athletics and staffing: Fall sports unofficially began; district staff presented a roster of paid coaching positions that follow the district’s negotiated schedule-B pay scales and noted some activities (bowling) remain classified as clubs. For junior-high wrestling and other programs, staffing and participation numbers will determine whether standalone programs run this year. District staff and Amber Wilson recommended hiring Gretchen Schum as an early childhood assistant teacher; the board was told the hire is contingent on required fingerprinting and certification verification.

Operations and planning: Staff reported ongoing work with architects (GMB/Chrisman) on weight-room remodel options and said a long-term planning committee meeting will follow this week to discuss phased work and funding dependencies. Several projects were described as contingent on revenue sources and final cost estimates.

Board members asked for continued updates as bid specs go to the state site and as construction milestones are met.