Columbus Elem board approves 1-on-1 paraprofessional hire and adds two substitutes to sub list

Carrie K., a school staff member, told the board that Angela Fugate, the district’s 1-on-1 paraprofessional, is moving to the West Coast and must be replaced because the one-on-one support is required under the student’s individualized education program (IEP). Carrie recommended hiring a candidate who has worked as a substitute in Roundup, Upton and Columbus and who shadowed the student for several days.

The board discussed the candidate’s familiarity with the school and the ease of transition: Carrie said the candidate had completed state and federal background checks and that payroll paperwork is already in place, allowing the hire to start when school resumes. A motion to approve the hire was recorded as moved by Russ and seconded by Sue; trustees voted in favor and the chair announced the motion carried.

Carrie also asked the board to add two people—Carrie Wilson and Brianna Getz—to the district’s general substitute list, noting subs are called on an as-needed basis and must complete the same background checks. Trustees asked to meet the candidates before assigning them to specific grade levels; one trustee noted recent graduates sometimes fit elementary assignments better than high school roles. The board voted to add the two names to the list and affirmed that the superintendent and building principals determine where substitutes are deployed.

The meeting concluded after a motion by Jay to adjourn; trustees seconded and voted in favor.

The board discussed personnel matters on the agenda and took formal votes to approve the hire and expand the substitute list. No additional documents, contracts, or effective dates were provided during the meeting.