Demopolis BOE discusses early school dismissal
By Jan McDonald
At their meeting Monday, Demopolis City School Board members discussed the difficulties of closing schools early for athletic events held outside of Demopolis and the problems many working parents have trying to find a way to pick up and care for their children.
Linda Russell and Olen Kerby both said they had received calls from concerned parents, as did superintendent Kyle Kallhoff. Russell said she has talked with members of other school boards and found they have the same problems.
One of the problems of the early dismissals is that the same classes are missed. Kerby suggested flipping the schedule and holding afternoon classes in the morning. Board member Carolyn Moore said shortening the class time but holding all classes might be a solution.
“Work comes to a halt when parents have to get kids from school early,” said Jim Stanford.
The board took no action but suggested that each school work out how to address the problems involved.
Continuing the practice of honoring outstanding students and teachers from the schools, Kallhoff recognized science teacher Ashley Brock and student Brandon Franklin from Demopolis Middle School and teacher Beth Fleming and Gabriel Deerman from Westside Elementary.
The board approved:
- An agreement with West Alabama Public Transportation to provide bus service for students at 76 cents per mile and $12.28, paid for by the students.
- A contract with Cornerstone Educational Consultants, LLC to modify and update comprehensive salary schedule to go into effect Oct. 1, 2016. Kallhoff said no employee will be affected negatively.
- Non-renewal of two certificates of deposit with Trustmark Bank for $160,000 each. The board will review available rates and take out more CDs after the first of the year.
In personnel matters, the board approved:
- Maternity leave for Elaine Wright, Nicole Greene and Patricia Bolden, all from U.S. Jones Elementary.
- Resignations of Jeremiah Dial, technology coordinator, and Lillie Granger, WES lunchroom worker.
- Elouise McKnight as a substitute and removed Roy Brown from the sub roster.
- Laura Davidson to sub for April Johnson, DHS receptionist, out on medical leave, and Sherry Feller, to return as needed to complete work while Jessica Dial, central office secretary, is out for maternity leave.
- Posting the position of Technology Coordinator.
The next meeting of the board will be held Dec. 14.
