BASCOM The Hopewell-Loudon Board of Education reviewed a proposed drug testing policy at Wednesday's meeting. The policy is to apply to student athletes in grades 7-12 and would apply at any time during the entire year until graduation or completion of the tournament season. Tests may be at the beginning of the season, randomly or by referral for suspicious behaviors. The $20 cost of the initial testing is to be covered by the district.
Superintendent Nicole Jiran emphasized the intent of the policy is to be a preventive and would not jeopardize the student's academic standing.
This policy will be voted on at the November meeting and could be enforced by the first of the year.
Jiran invites the public to attend the State of the School presentation at 6:30 p.m. Oct. 24.
Elementary principal Jennifer Losey said students are to Skype with soldiers in Afghanistan for the Veterans' Day celebration, scheduled for Nov. 9. School choir and band also are to participate.
Elementary students are preparing for the annual Veteran's Day Supply Drive. Students are to collect and pack care packages to be sent to Afghanistan where local soldier Chad Acton will distribute them. A list of items for donation can be viewed on the district's website. The school is seeking about $1,000 in contributions to cover the cost of shipping these packages.
Losey asked to be notified if there are other local soldiers who would like to receive a care package.
Construction of the new school facility continues to progress on schedule.
Brickwork should be completed and the building enclosed within the month. Tours of the building will not be scheduled until after the floors are finished.
Jiran announced students and staff are to be invited in early January to sign the concrete gym floor before the wood floor is laid.
Jiran said the state grade card report still is considered conditional, but the ratings show the elementary school is excellent, but the high school has slipped to effective.
Treasurer Veronica Reinhart presented the five-year forecast. It shows the emergency operating levy will expire in 2014. The district enrolls 294 out-of-district students, which brings in $1,685.208. Reinhart anticipates the district should realize $14,000 this year from the casino tax, but should average $60,000 per year in the future.
The board resolved to accept bids for the loose furnishings and technology for the new building. The bid openings will be scheduled in November.
The board took action to approve New York City for the senior class trip and a job description for maintenance supervisor.
The board is to meet at 6 p.m. Nov 8.
