USD 234 new board members to take office

Three newcomers will officially take their seats on the USD 234 Board of Education when the panel reorganizes during its regular meeting Monday in Fort Scott.

Michelle Hudiburg, Belynda Davenport and Jordan Witt, who won spots on the board following the April election, are the new faces on the board and will sit in on their first official meeting. The board plans to appoint a new president and vice president after the departure of President Matt Ida and Vice President Jim Womeldorff, and consider approval of various routine midsummer items that are typically part of the board's business as they prepare for a new school year.

"It's an organizational meeting," USD 234 Business Manager Tiffany Forester said. "It's what boards normally do in July as they get organized for the next fiscal year."

The consent agenda for the meeting includes the treasurer's report, bills and claims, designation of the official bank and newspaper, appointment of officers for the 2011-12 school year, and other items.

The three new board members will join current members Justin Meeks, who retained his seat after the April election, Janet Braun, who ran uncontested, Steve Floyd and Ken Rienbolt. Ida and Womeldorff, both longtime board members, were recognized last month for their years of service on the board.

The board is also scheduled to conduct the following business:

* Approve a hearing officer for suspensions and expulsions.

* Consider changes in board policy.

* Consider approval of a resolution to set times and dates for regular board meetings for the 2011-'12 school year.

* Set a date for a special board meeting to review the 2011-'12 district budget.

* Hear a report on the district's participation in the Kansas Learning Network.

* Consider various employment matters.

The meeting is open to the public and scheduled for 5 p.m. Monday at the USD 234 Board of Education office, 424 S. Main St.