School Board Basks in Lobo Win
    by Donald Bard, Staff Writer ~~ The Monahans News ~September 21, 2009

Before, after and during the Wednesday, Sept. 16, Board of Trustees meeting, members enjoyed reliving the Lobo football victory over Sweetwater's Mustangs the previous Saturday.  Following a major renovation, the Sweetwater Stadium and the bathrooms were state of the art and ready for playoff guests.  Several Board members noted those playoffs might have to wait a few years.

Closer to home, MWP-ISD Superintendent Keith Richardson informed the Board, "Enrollment is at 1976, up 12 from this time last year and up 55 from school opening.    Pre-Kindergarten has 82 students."

Richardson also reported the construction projects continue to show progress.  "The contractors poured a lot of concrete, with two large pours at the high school that are looking very good," he said.  Richardson noted he had received a call from Campbell Construction regarding the sprinkler failure near the volleyball courts.  Although they were not responsible, Campbell sent the school district a check for $5,000 to cover the damage.  Board chair Bo Rose commented it showed a good business attitude; in the future, if there are any problems, it suggest that Campbell will make a good faith effort to resolve any issue.

After a brief but inclusive report from Assistant Superintendent Glenna Applewhite, the Board approved the District Improvement Plan.  Progress on the plan will be reflected in the District, and each school's rating as Acceptable or Exemplary.

The Board approved Arlen Gentry and Abigail Prichard from the Agricultural extension Services as adjunct staff members.  This is a yearly requirement and allow students to be counted on the school's attendance records if they are at an activity with either of the Extension Service staff.

Richardson noted four ISD vehicles had been placed up for bids.  A 1993 station wagon and 1984 pickup each received bids of $500.  The Board approved the sales.  The remaining two vehicles will be offered for sale without bids with "fair market values" being the determining factor.

The Board approved a bid of $100 for a lot on the southwest corner of N Calvin Ave. and E "A" St.  Board member Bill Clayton noted the building shown in the photo was no longer on the property.  In its final action of the evening, the Board entered into a closed session, then returned with the decision to hire Ashley Crawford to teach at Cullender Kindergarten.

The next meeting of the school board is set for 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 21, in the administration building.