By Rich Wicks | Times Vedette
At the joint meeting of the Adair-Casey and Guthrie Center school boards on April 16, discussion was held regarding bids received for the Adair-Casey elementary building roof project. Six bids were received with the lowest bid being $280,508 from McKinnis Roofing from Omaha.
There was concern that the bid is considerably less than the other bids received, and that the McKinnis bid total is even below another bidder’s listed expenses. Board members clarified that they are not required to accept the lowest bid but instead are to accept the “lowest responsible bid.” There was also discussion of using in-state contractors when able. The bids are good for 60 days, beginning April 15.
After discussion, the board voted to table the awarding of a contract. The board will consult with legal counsel on the issue, and a special board meeting may be set to consider awarding a contract.
Superintendent Josh Rasmussen said it is possible the low bid is an indicator of an economic slowdown in which contractors have fewer projects. He said that could potentially save the district significant funds, which then could be put toward other projects.
Belle Fagan presented a summary of the senior trip to Washington, D.C. She and 30 other senior students recently completed an eight-day educational trip where they visited various landmarks and historical sites.
Principal Tandem Eischeid told of a problem with a freezer over spring break.
“I have to give a huge shout-out to Guthrie Center Quality Meats. They loaned us a trailer…we moved all of our food in there for about three days until the freezer got fixed,” Eischeid said. “I asked him how much, he said ‘nothing.’ ”
Superintendent Josh Rasmussen updated the board about legislative matters.
“There is also a cell phone restriction that is coming to all schools,” Rasmussen said. “Currently, the Department of Education will have some sample policies for us, which we will look over as an administrative team, and then we’ll bring those policies to the board.”
Curriculum Director Karla Mahaffey spoke regarding her recommendation for an elementary literacy curriculum. She said the districts aim for at least 80% proficiency of students.
“We’re not there, and we need to get there,” Mahaffey said.
Mahaffey explained the curriculum she recommends is called “Wit & Wisdom.” No board action was taken at this time.
The Guthrie Center School Board approved the replacement of baseball bleachers. The new bleachers will have wheels so they can easily be moved and used at other locations, too.
Upcoming dates/events noted included a two-hour early out on April 18 and no school on Monday, April 21. There will also be two-hour early outs on April 30 and May 14 for Professional Development. Commencement is set for May 18.
The next regular board meeting will be Wednesday, May 21 at the ACGC High School media center at 7 p.m. The public is welcome.