The Eureka Springs School Board met Monday night, and the evening began with two student presentations.
Students from the elementary EAST program, led by teacher Tilenna Hill, gave a detailed explanation of their accomplishments at a statewide conference in March. Board members said they were impressed with the projects and students’ presentation skills. The students confidently shook hands with the board while delivering their individual messages.
Students from Eureka Springs usually do well at state competitions for trade skills, but they rose to another level this year. Construction Tech advisor Jason Hill said he took 16 students to the competition, more than ever before. Of those 16, 11 placed in their areas of expertise.
The four students who earned first-place finishes will be eligible to attend national competitions in Georgia in June. Evan Agresto took first in plumbing, and Kameron Agresto topped the field in masonry. Aiden Barker earned top honors in electrical, and Roman Schuber excelled in extemporaneous speaking.
Middle School Principal Caen Dowell said students wrapped up state testing last week. The students “gave it their best,” and Dowell expects great results, although scores will not come back until October.
Middle School students enjoyed a field day outside, and a band concert was scheduled for Tuesday evening. Middle School students will present Aladdin Jr. this weekend.
Elementary Principal Clare Haozous mentioned a retirement luncheon for several teachers. She also said a preschool graduation is set for Friday at 9 a.m., and a kindergarten graduation is set for May 20 at 2 p.m.
In other business:
- The classified salary schedule included increases from $500 to $2,000.
- The list of athletic stipends was increased to include payments for an archery coach and a head coach and assistant for baseball.
- According to state law, each of the three schools must post a School Improvement Plan. These plans will appear on the district’s website.
- A grant of $130,000 will provide additional training for preschool and kindergarten teachers.
- Prior to the meeting, County Clerk Connie Doss administered an oath of office to the board members, in keeping with a new Arkansas law which will require board members to be sworn in annually.
- High School Principal David Gilmore will leave at the end of the year to become superintendent at Green Forest school district. He will be replaced by Dr. Jacob Hayward, whose previous position was middle school principal in Siloam Springs.