BIC Board makes final building changes

The Buffalo Island School Board made final changes to the proposed new PreK-12 grade facility, discussed personnel policies, and the cost of season tickets during its meeting Monday, July 14.

Architects John Mixon and Hardy Little were back at the BIC School Board to discuss final design options for the proposed united PreK-12 united campus. Board members discussed window design, letter color and spacing, and putting signage up for citizens to see. The architects will make the final changes by the end of the week (July 18) and a sign marking the location with an overview of the new proposed facility should go up by the end of the month. It will be the first look residents will have of the new facility. Other signs will be placed at campuses in the coming weeks. Later in the meeting Superintendent Gaylon Taylor announced the district did receive approval of its proposed building plan but funding approval would not be known until May 2015.

The board then went on to hear from Matthew Sills of the district's personnel policy committee. Superintendent Taylor explained that the district follows the Arkansas School Board Association recommended policies but some polices do need to be more personalized for the district. New policies include the creation of a sink bank for teachers, how per diems a done, and giving the faculty to trade a sick day for a personal day. The board unanimously voted to adopt the personnel policies for certified and non-certified personnel.

When discussing financials Taylor took some time to explain to board members how revenue is calculated and what is included in the district's revenue. He also talked about expenses and how all that information is used in budgeting.

"We have to be good stewards for the district," Taylor said. "I think we have had a really good year. I just wanted to take some time to tell you all how we get our money and what we use it for."

The board approved the financial statements unanimously before moving on to talk about season ticket prices. It was recommended that season ticket cost be raised from $65 to $75 with junior and senior high students getting in for free. Board members approved the price change and agreed to allow the junior and senior high students into games for free as long as they behave and follow rules. Students can have the privilege of attending games for free taken away. Board member also asked Taylor to look into finding a better way to mark reserved seats, which he agreed to do.

In other business the board approved the hire of Lori Cornish, Hannah Danielle Barnes and Scott Petznick. The board approved the renewal of insurance for buildings, vehicles, equipment and liability insurance for the preschool program.

The board also approved giving Nancy Spencer a stipend for school duty manager.