Attending the meeting was Kelly Haaland; Big Sandy Superintendent, Darin Genereux; Chairman, Brad Weaver, (new board member) Glen Terry replacing resigned Brandon Gasvoda, Heather Pleninger, Maryetta Engle; Big Sandy School clerk, Kelly Rutledge; new school board member and Heather Wolery, Big Sandy Principle, were not in attendance.
Guests presented topics to be placed on the next month agenda. Thomas Dilworth after visiting with Melanie Schwarzbach Pioneer Activity Director said he would take the lead on fixing the tennis courts. He would like to have it placed on next month’s agenda. He’s absolutely positive they can with local support and volunteer workers cut the cost of the $90,000 bid. There is already a large number of support. He will come prepared to present a plan to fix the courts so there would be two full size tennis courts as well as two basketball courts.
Marla Ray approached the school board about placing an art project, a creative intelligent design mural, on the wall next to the music room. It will be placed on the agenda.
Lindsay Boyce approached the school about a new Bus Route, to be discussed at the next board meeting. It has to be decided what kind of route it is and if it’s a bus route the Chouteau County Commissioners must approve the route first.
Maintenance was discussed and it was noted there needs to be some new school locks and keys in a variety of areas. As always, every summer there is some painting being done. It was noted that the Big Sandy Booster club came and painted.
Technology was discussed and after a number of months, they have decided to replace the old computers that the teachers are currently using by purchasing some new computers. There will be a new Big Sandy School Web page this year as well. It was also noted that in 2020 Windows 7 will no longer be supported by Windows a concern for next year.
The Coach’s Handbook is being reviewed and it was noted that coaches need to be aware of attendance. Historically it is understood if students are not in school they aren’t allowed to practice that night. It was approved and the wording will be included in the handbook.
There was a wide variety of subjects quickly reviewed under new business. Collective Bargaining Agreement concerning health insurance was approved.
Individual Transportation payments from rural homes got approval because it will be same as last year. If they have to take their children to school because there is no bus to pick up the students they are paid per mile to meet the bus, or to bring the students all the way to town.
A new Cheerleader Advisor was needed. Heather Dilworth said she would step into that position. The board approved. Amanda Robertson would also like to be considered as a substitute teacher. Approved
Alarm system for boilers and walk-in freezer were approved, due to the risk of failure without anyone knowing.
Membership to Montana School Board Association, Montana Rural Education Association, and Montana Schools Property & Liability Insurance were approved.
There were a number of policy changes. These are required due to court orders or legislative law. They were discussed and acknowledged and all of them were approved except for two required changes, because there wasn’t enough explanations to go with the policies.
Maryette Engle let the board members know about some training board members can take.
