The Hastings School Board held its last regular meeting before the start of the new school year on Wednesday, August 19th. ISD 200 Superintendent Tim Collins informed the board on his actions that anticipate increased enrollment in the district this year.
Collins explained where part of that increase comes from.
In more news, a technical support issue created problems with 600 learn pads, wireless teaching tablets, that had been secured from a vendor last year. After negotiations, the vendor has credited the district for the defective equipment and the board will go ahead with purchase of 360 mini iPads to be used in elementary buildings. The purchase is made possible because of a technology fund, Superintendent Tim Collins updates the balance of that fund.
A related upgrade will be made in the buildings as well. The board learned that the High School actually had the least number of wireless access points in relation to the building size. That will change soon.
The access points make it possible to utilize networked resources from every section of the building.
The Board also discussed information on a vote to insure per-student funding. Superintendent Tim Collins describes action on a recent funding vote.
The school board is also experiencing new latitude along with its responsibilities. Superintendent Tim Collins explains some key changes.
Changes in the way a school board can make decisions are supported by current legislation.
Budget decisions are difficult with factors such as declining enrollment, inflation and increased costs but lack of federal followthrough in regards to promised funding for special education costs incurred at local levels challenge school boards to recoup those costs. Superintendent Tim Collins gave his view on that practice and the effects on their budget.
