Kenowa Hills board enters closed session to review emergency operations plans; approves routine business and recognitions

The Kenowa Hills Board of Education met Jan. 22, 2024 at Central Elementary School. President LaBotz called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. and the board recorded members present: Courtade, Gustinis, Hart, LaBotz, Roberts, Robinson and Turner. The board acknowledged donations to the district and presented Certificates of Appreciation to the transportation department for exemplary bus inspection results. The minutes also note a proclamation from Governor Whitmer recognizing School Board Recognition Month.

Central Elementary Principal Dr. Horner and Assistant Principal Mr. Bernard, joined by Speech Pathologist Kathy DeYoung and teachers Margaret Sicilian and Marsha Martinez, presented a Central Elementary spotlight on the school's use of the Capturing Kids' Hearts framework and the SUNS program. Student representatives Jake Jonker and Ronan Jameyson reported on issues they and their peers view as important. Assistant Superintendent Bill Dinkelmann provided a strategic-plan update and suggested establishing quarterly mini checkpoints for progress reporting.

During the action portion of the meeting, the board approved the consent agenda, which included the Jan. 8, 2024 organizational meeting minutes and annual education reports. Later, Member Courtade moved and Member Gustinis supported a motion to enter closed session under M.C.L. 15.268§8k for review of Emergency Operations Plans. A roll-call vote carried 7-0. The board entered closed session at 7:51 p.m. and returned to open session at 8:26 p.m. President LaBotz adjourned the meeting at 8:35 p.m.

The minutes record that the public-comment period produced no remarks. The record does not disclose details from the closed-session review beyond the statutory authority cited (M.C.L. 15.268§8k) or any subsequent directions resulting from that review.