Meeker Board of Education members this week approved the Estimate of Needs and financial statement for 2023-2024 and accepted a bid for a sprinkler system for the baseball field.
They also agreed to a contract with the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office to provide a full time school resource officer.
School Supt. Jeff Pruitt informed board members this year’s Estimate of Needs totals $10,748,936.
That compares to the 2022-2023 Estimate of Needs of $9,359,648.58.
The board approved the contract with the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office for the full time school resource officer. Pruitt explained the Legislature earlier this year approved funding for three years for schools to contract for a full time resource officer and the funds are coming from there to pay for it.
He advised the board members the officer will cover both of the campuses.
A bid from Sowder Irrigation Systems of $13,795 was accepted for a new sprinkler system to be installed for the baseball field.
Board members also agreed to purchase a 14-passenger bus on state bid for $106,910. Pruitt told board members Esser Funds would be used to pay for it.
The board approved 2023-2024 Activity Funds including fundraisers/ expenditures for the period of Sep. 12, 2023 to Sep. 30, 2024.
Board members approved the FFA to attend the National Convention in Indianapolis, Ind., in November.
They agreed to a policy update.
They approved the operation of the following booster clubs in individual activity accounts for the 2023-2024 school year including: Archery, band, baseball, basketball, cheer, Cross Country/Track, Elementary PTO, football and softball.
They approved to sanction the Parent Booster Club for Ag Boosters for the 2023-2024 school year as well.
Without going into executive session, they approved offering a contract to Misty Mader, middle school teacher for the 2023-2024 school year. Pruitt explained this was due to addressing the size of a large class.
In their reports, High School Principal Brad Buxton advised the board that enrollment stands at 238 and has leveled out.
Homecoming is this week, he also informed the board.
The Meeker Education Center has 88 students taking virtual and blended classes, he said.
Middle School Principal Matt Jones said enrollment is 171, down a bit from the 175 last month.
Elementary Principal Sarah Flowers related to the board that enrollment is up a bit from 327 last month to 330 this month.
Under new business, the board approved the Cross Country team traveling to a meet in Fayetteville, Ark.