| The walls are going up on the new gym at Green River High School. |
Emery County School Board meeting for February was held at San Rafael Junior High School in Ferron. Principal Garth Johnson welcomed the board to his school and expressed his appreciation for the board for all they do for the students at San Rafael. “We have a reasonably young staff here at San Rafael, and we have many good quality veteran teachers. The mix of new and experienced works very good here,” said Johnson. “Every one of the staff here are concerned about kids.” He also stated that the new custodian at the school, Julie Housekeeper, is doing a tremendous job.
Johnson went on to inform the board about the two first year teachers at the school. Cole Pitchforth is teaching US history and world geography, and Kelly Nelson is teaching art. “They are both doing a great job,” said Johnson.
The Readers Club at San Rafael has 150 of the 250 students involved. “It is going fantastic and the rewards are really fun for the students. We had a turkey chase before Thanksgiving, and then there was the wet sponge throw where readers who completed certain requirements were able to throw wet sponges at some of the teachers,” Johnson continued.
“Another benefit to the Readers Club is the card they are given for reading the new books. The card allows them to take two friends and move to the front of the lunch line. This seems to be a great incentive,” Johnson stated.
Johnson reported that eight students from honor choir had traveled with their teacher, Hans Baantjer, to a state competition. This is the only overnight field trip for ninth graders. He said the behavior was excellent and this choir is a high quality organization. “It was a great experience for these students,” said Johnson.
Another incentive for students is the Dog Pound. At the end of every term, students who excel in grades, citizenship, service, extra curricular activities and attendance have a small celebration. Teachers give points in these areas. Prizes and given at the celebration.
Superintendent Kirk Sitterud requested approval from the school board concerning the way classified employees are paid. He said that if an employee has worked for the district for many years and applies for and receives a promotion, the starting pay in that job is usually less than what the employee is presently earning.
He gave the example of a school lunch worker who has worked for the district for 12 years. If that employee applies for and is given a lunch center manager position, that employee would take a cut in pay for a promotion. Supt. Sitterud requested the board to approve the action of moving the employee to the step that is closest to the amount they are making at present, and then increase one step for the promotion. The board approved.
In other actions taken by the board, Kimmalee Allred was approved as an aide for a special needs student at Cleveland Elementary. They also approved to enter into the same agreements with the cities for leasing of the water shares. The cities lease water shares from the district.
The board heard updates concerning the construction project at Green River High School, the swimming pool project, and a legislative report. The next school board meeting will be held March 7 at 7 p.m. at Canyon View Junior High School in Huntington.