Dieterich School Board Considers Additional Classroom Space

Dieterich school board members Monday spent time reviewing a facility assessment report prepared by The Upchurch Group at the December meeting. There was much discussion regarding the need for additional classroom space due to increasing enrollment.

The report identified several options for expansion as well as cost estimates. Superintendent Cary Jackson said the issue will continue to be a topic of discussion in future meetings.

The Dieterich board accepted the resignation of Callaway Campton as volunteer coach; approved a maternity leave for aide Jayne Oaks, effective February 14 through the end of this school year; and approved an extension of the expiration date of the Families First Coronavirus Response Act until March 31. The act provides paid leave to employees who are directly impacted by an absence due to COVID-19.

Board members discussed insurance rate increases and options for bidding policies in the upcoming year; learned that another round of elementary and secondary school relief funds will be allocated to school districts across the state to assist with unexpected costs that have risen in response to the pandemic; and renewed membership in the Effingham County Chamber of Commerce.

Dieterich board members heard that District Librarian Mary Richars received a grant on behalf of the district through the American Library Association in the amount of $3,000. The Transforming Communities grant is awarded to purchase new library materials, have a school conversation, and provide classroom materials to assist in addressing the social-emotional development, growth and learning of all students. The Board also approved the purchase of 10 interactive flat panels from TROX for $19,704.92 through the state's Digital Equity Grant; and approved the Category 2 E-Rate network recommendations from Quality Network Solutions. Approval of the recommendations does not tie the district into an expenditure, but provides the opportunity to apply for E-Rate funds for the project.