Board adopts Neola policy updates; discussion scheduled on energy drinks and early-graduation practices

The board approved Neola Policy Updates, Vol. 34, No. 2, on a motion by Doug Schwartz, seconded by Dennis Purtell; the vote was unanimous. The policy update was presented and adopted with no recorded nay votes.

During discussion, Principal Foster estimated that approximately 20 students graduate early after the first semester each year. He described the early-graduation process: students must meet eligibility criteria, meet with a school counselor to create a post‑graduation plan, and then meet with a parent and the principal to finalize the plan. Board member Kelly Datka raised a concern about students' ability to purchase energy drinks from vendor-owned vending machines on campus; Superintendent Francois clarified the machines are owned by the food-service vendor and that revenue from sales supports the vendor relationship and benefits the district indirectly. The board agreed to add the vending/energy‑drink topic to the next regular meeting agenda for further discussion.

The policy updates themselves were adopted as presented; the vending discussion produced a direction to continue the conversation at the next scheduled meeting.