Summer Update

I decided to do a summer blog so it would at least look like I’m keeping up with our web page. I would have to say that it has been an extremely busy summer so far. There used to be a little down time to pause and reflect on the year, clean out some old files, and get ready for the new one. Now, however, it all seems to keep going.

Anyway, here’s what has been happening in USD 373. We appear to have all staff hired at this point; we have not filled approximately 18 vacancies in the past two years. We are glad, however, that we were able to fill essential positions for next year. Payment from the state continues to lag behind both for special education and general fund payments; at least they do arrive. With the change in contract, there will be one less conference day next year, making our contract 192 days rather than 193. I will convene the calendar committee during the report week and we’ll make a change recommendation which will then go to the board for approval. I doubt that the change will alter the calendar in a significant way.

The board reorganization is tonight which will set things in place for the coming year; new officers, committee assignments, revised district goals go into effect. As usual, it promises to be a challenging year, but the wonderful thing is that our staff continues to meet whatever challenges we have before us.

We will be having our culminating activities for Railer 125 the first weekend in October, including an open house showcasing the completed bond projects. It should be a great weekend centered around homecoming activities. I encourage you to participate. Thanks for your continuing support of USD 373. Please let me know if you have thoughts, comments, etc.

John Morton