The Franklin County School Board met Monday, Oct. 10, at 7pm to discuss the newest updates, as well as cover any topics from the previous meeting that required further discussion.

Superintendent Tammy Chavis begins by stating that several ECA positions were eliminated. Due to this, the school board could direct some extra funds, while minimal, to other positions. She also states that starting Oct. 28, the new payroll will be in effect.

Speaking for Amber Orozco, school board attorney, was Chavis for the Additional Appropriation Hearing covering the spending of bond proceeds. A reminder to everyone that those speaking need to sign in on the sheet with their name and address. As there were no speakers present, no discussion was needed and the motion to move on was approved.

Regarding expenditures, there were no discussions.

Kendra Sparks spoke next to provide updates on the Operations Fund balances from Sept. 30. She then moved on to resolutions. The first, between her and Chavis, was the resolution to authorize change of funds from educational to operational at roughly $1M. The motion was approved following a 7-0 vote. She next proposed the resolution of adoption plans. Any prices within the budget listed are slightly higher due to a percentage range and do not reflect the actual costs. The motion was also approved 7-0.

Next up were awards. The school board would like to congratulate three FCHS students who were selected as Lilly finalists:
· Derek Brimhall
· Stephanie Billman
· Peyton McCreary

Denny Dorrel was selected as Educator of the Month and was nominated by a coach. He is in his fifth year as athletic director alongside 14 years of coaching football. Those who know Denny can always find him on the field or out on the farm. Congratulations Mr. Dorrel!

Emma Doerflein was selected as Support Staff of the Month and was nominated by three colleagues. She is in her fourth year working for Franklin County Schools. Emma is very dedicated to her job, and to her students even moreso with how much effort she provides them. Emma is also known to go above and beyond to show kids how much fun school can be. Congratulations Mrs. Doerflein!

The school board next allowed Chris Bundy and Jill Brack to speak about their top goals for the school year. Both agreed on striving for better marks in language arts, math, and attendance.

The attendance rate has lowered significantly, and the goal percentage is now 96% or above. Jill states that measures are being considered to help students understand how important attendance is to their education, as well as the enjoyment they can have in school while there. Bundy agreed, though his percentile is up to 97% for the goal. Next up was a focus on language arts and math. Both principals explained how the NWEA testing works, along with scores, and how these tests are modified to encourage students. Jill also states that the tests themselves are modified to increase or decrease difficulty based on a student's answer to help them persevere. Further discussions on the three goals will be held later.

The school board will meet again next month to continue discussion of all topics, updates, and public concerns.