Altamont School Board Holds November Meeting

Altamont school board members Monday heard the latest from high school principal Jerry Tkachuk on the impact of a change in their grading scale two years ago.

Tkachuk said the change was made to assist higher performing students competing for scholarships and college applications. He reported that in the first quarter, the district had 68 students and 108 grades labeled "D" that would have been a "F" two years ago, and also had 138 students and 263 grades labeled "A" that would have been a "B".

Tkachuk shared that 55 band students are committed to the Memorial Day Parade trip to Washington, DC next spring. He said students would be "furiously fundraising" and seeking donations to cover the cost of the trip. He also reported that the Student Council hosted area Student Council members from Effingham, Teutopolis, Altamont Grade School and ALIS for a guest speaker on leadership, and shared that the Art IV students have done mascot painting on the pillars.

Board members heard from Altamont Educational Support Personnel Association members who introduced their new officers, and heard from district resident Craig Jackman who spoke in support of the high school volleyball coach. There was also a presentation from elementary students on Wildcat United, a new anti-bullying club.

Superintendent Jeff Fritchtnitch shared that several used Chromebooks were purchased for parts; the estimated fiscal year tax levy was approved with a final vote on the levy at the December meeting; and the Board took action on personnel moves. Jackie Genaust was employed as custodian, Sara Province was hired as junior high Scholar Bowl coach; Scott Klingler was employed as junior high volleyball coach; a retirement letter was accepted from Janet Roedl as a cook; Kassie Bullard was granted a leave; and a resignation was accepted from Kelsey Leitschuh Richardson pending a replacement. The Board also approved a maternity leave for Rhiannon Bohehm; and the Board approved a policy regarding bullying.