Clinton County Board of Education held its monthly business meeting Monday at the former Central Office building with all members present, as well as several individuals who were recognized during Bulldog Boost.

Pastor Bob Sawyer gave the opening moment of inspiration, speaking briefly on the topic of wisdom. He also commended the school district and staff for the work they are doing during these trying times.

Two Clinton County Middle School eighth grade Advanced Writing I students were recognized, including Valarie Latham and Ella Smith, who both read their writings to the board members and audience.

Not present, but a student who was also recognized, was Justin Slone, the 13 year old who was featured in the October 8 edition of the Clinton County News article about saving his father’s life.

October is also National Principals Month, and Superintendent Dr. Tim Parson and the board recognized all school principals and assistants from the Early Childhood Center, AES, CCMS, CCHS and Foothills Academy for their hard work and dedication.

Those recognized included Sheldon Harlan, Sabra Albertson, Adam Davidson, Angela Sloan, Josh Moons, Ken Dearborn, Lori Dalton, Todd Messer and Stesha Flowers.

Superintendent Parson gave his monthly report, discussing a new initiative he plans to put in place, termed “Together Days,” as well as updating the board on the COVID-19 situation, noting there was a shortage of substitutes to fill in for the number of teachers that are currently on temporary quarantine.

Both he and board chairperson Leslie Stockton also commended the staff on the work they were doing with virtual and in-class instruction through these extraordinary times.

Parson also said he had Esports coaches lined up and that computer-based sport should be available for both fall and spring. However, although bass fishing is still a sport being pursued, no one has yet to apply for a coaching position as of early this week.

Following the monthly finance report by Finance Director Mike Reeves, the board voted on a trio of orders pertaining to a new DFP (District Facilities Plan), including the approval of the new plan, advertise for Community Leaders (LPC) and approved Bobbi Ann Stone as the board member to serve on the local planning committee.

In relation to the district’s new facilities plan, they also approved Tim Eaton with Kentucky Plan Management, to facilitate the committee’s work and offer guidance.

The board also approved an emergency BG-1 for a cooler replacement at Clinton County High School.

Reeves said three bids had already been received and each was very close. He estimated the total cost of the cooler replacement to be close to $125,000.00.

Dr. Parson noted that it was important to let the public know the costs the district is expected to have to replace equipment and make repairs to the existing high school when it comes to moving forward on the need for a new facility in the future.

The board also voted to purchase two new buses through the KISTA program at a cost of $243,213 for both. Reeves noted the cost of the buses is about $30,000 higher than the last time buses were purchased.

The board also approved the annual district staffing document listing all certified and classified positions; approved several shortened school days at three schools for students with disabilities; and approved standard non-resident pupil contracts with both Wayne and Cumberland counties for the school years 2021 through 2024.

The board also adopted the meeting agenda at the start of the session and approved monthly consent items of approval of minutes, subsequent disbursements and payment of bills.

No public comments were made during the public comment period and the 45 minute meeting was adjourned.

The next board work session is scheduled for Thursday, November 12, and the next regular business meeting for Monday, November 16. Both meetings will begin at 5 p.m. at the old Central Office board room on Business 127 North.