Explorers Program and School Safety Discussions Continue

Potomac School Board

POTOMAC - Funding for the Friday Explorers program, school safety and staff changes dominated the Potomac School Board meeting March 12.

The parent group striving to maintain the Friday Explorers program presented their second plan to the board regarding finances and resources for the 2018-2019 school year.

The board shared their appreciation for the details in the presented parent plan and voiced their support for the program.

A discussion followed where strong opinions were shared about the March 8 Pathfinder article entitled “Potomac School Friday Program Unresolved.” It prompted comments from board members and parents about comments made by those interviewed that some thought cast a negative reflection on the school.

The board unanimously approved a declaration of support and a commitment to make a plan and continue the Explorers program.

Principal Rouse said he is researching ‘bonus points’ though the 21st Century Grant which may assist the school with funds for Explorers and will have more information at the April meeting.

The parent group has been fundraising and were reassured that collected funds earmarked for Explorers can be saved and held for the next year.

The safety committee reported on safety recommendations for Potomac School. Security cameras were added to the building. Pepper spray and bear sprays are not an option per the school’s health and safety inspections. If deployed, the spray would fog up and out, filling the room and affecting more than the intended target. The discussion surrounding Potomac School safety will continue at the next meeting.

In other business:

• Student Hailey Oien told the board the eighth graders are still raising funds for their trip.

• The board accepted teacher Starla Duggar’s resignation.

• Abby Stitt reported on her coaching training which will aid her at her new Instructional Coach position at Potomac School.

• Potomac resident Jennifer Vogel was recommended and approved for the special education teaching position for the 2018-2019 school year.

• Jennifer Vogel reported on the adult education classes and mentioned a retired Harlem Globetrotter will teach in the upcoming basketball class Monday evenings 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. from May 7 to June 4.

Next regular board meeting will be April 9, 7 p.m. at the Potomac School library.

 

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