DCSS board confirms fall schedule, expenses; principal interviews set

Demopolis schools will have a 176-day calendar for the 2020-2021 school year instead of 180 days.

The Board of Education voted Monday in a called meeting to approve the revised calendar. Classes now will begin Aug. 20, a week later than originally set. The revised date also “gives us plenty of professional development time before school starts,” Supt. Kyle Kallhoff told the board.

Kallhoff said he worked with both school system employees and parents on the calendar. Four of the days in the calendar are set aside for remote learning as well.

The board also approved the purchase of a new personalized assessment tests for K-8 and for high school reading and math. It also will be suitable for the dyslexic reader, Kallhoff said.

With the passage of the literacy act, school systems were given the choice of five assessment programs for K-3. The DCS board chose iReady not only for Westside Elementary students, but for those through eighth grade and for ninth graders who need extra help in reading and math.

The total cost of the iReady program is $36,000, but the state will reimburse the system $12 for every WES student.

In other action, the board approved a proposed project plan using ETF advanced technology funds for deferred maintenance and technology and equipment. That includes replacing an HVAC unit in the field house, another awning at U.S. Jones Elementary, replacing the gym floor at Demopolis Middle School. Also included will be replacing “very old servers” and updating the phone system.

The proposed plan has been submitted and is awaiting approval.

Kallhoff presented a draft of how the school system plans to use the $675,000 from the CARES Act. First will be reimbursement of the money spent since mid-March because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Looking toward the upcoming months and the challenges continuing with the coronavirus, the draft includes providing WiFi for remote learning to students in areas where there is not access; sanitizing and staff training; student support services, and providing grab-and-go lunches for students in the new school year, which will require hiring extra help.

Kallhoff told the board the final plan should be submitted by mid-June, and the funds should come to the school system in a fast turnaround.

The school system had 24 applicants for the position of principal at DHS. Kallhoff said four of those have been selected for interviews based on their resumes, experience and credentials and reference checks. They will be interviewed June 8 and 9.

He said DHS graduation will be held Friday, June 26, at 7 p.m. in Tiger Stadium. Social distancing will be practiced in the stadium and on the field. All graduates will wear facial coverings. In case of rain, the ceremony will be Saturday, June 27, at 9 a.m.

Each student will receive six tickets for family and friends. Both home and visitor bleachers will be used for seating.