Bronaugh R-7 board talks finances, changes banks

Nevada Daily Mail

At its March meeting, Bronaugh's Superintendent gave a positive financial report and the board approved a change in banks.

"We are several percentage points ahead of where even I had hoped to be," said Superintendent Dr. David Copeland. Receipts from the assessed utility and state transportation taxes along with Title One were higher than budgeted. Plus we were able to obtain $242,000 of uncollected funds from last year."

The board was surprised to learn of the sudden need to switch banks. "Great Southern, our present bank, sent us a notice that they will no longer serve public schools. The notice gave us less than 60 days in which to make the switch," said the superintendent.

Board President Ryan Linn, an account signatory, arranged a 30-day extension to give the Bronaugh district time to find another bank.

After contacting area banks, U.S. Bank, Arvest and Heritage banks submitted bids, which were opened at the board meeting. Arvest and U.S. Bank had substantial fees and so the board unanimously voted to accept the bid from Heritage Bank, which did not have any fees. The changeover began the next morning.

Along with Principal Jordan Dickey and Superintendent David Copeland, six board members heard from social studies teacher, Josie Martin, finishing his first year. He reviewed his classes in history, social studies and psychology.

Athletic director and physical education teacher, Darrell Dodson represented the local teachers' association. He thanked the board and administration for their openness and faculty support and then reviewed sports.

"We had 12 girls out for volleyball," said Dodson. "Our girls basketball team made it to the semis while the boys made it to the district finals. We have 15 boys out for baseball and I am trying to get a practice softball field. We also have 20 out for track with some going to Liberal to practice on their track."

"While this is a rural area," said Dodson, "many students are not physically fit. And so in P.E. we go through what I call a 'farm work out.' At first some complained but now all report being more coordinated and able to run and lift more."

Principal Jordan Dickey said attendance is important for two reasons. "Students can't learn if they're not here and some school revenues are tied to our average daily attendance. We are working to get and keep in contact with families with chronic absence problems."

She told the board the academic team took first place at the Golden City meet, the school took third in math relays and that it hosted the conference spelling bee.

Copeland told the board there would be no increase in the health insurance premiums for next year, no summer school but they have revived the Parents as Teachers program that had been shut down last year.

"There are three things we need to look into, said Copeland. "The first is teacher salaries. We pay just $300 over the state minimum base."

"Second," reported Copeland, "we need to upgrade our phone and intercom systems. And third, in case of a dangerous storm, we do not have adequate shelter at the school or nearby. At some point, we will need to construct a safe room."

By April's meeting the spring election will have taken place. "Since one board member's term is expiring and he has chosen not to run again," said Copeland, "I want to thank this board for your support and passion for this school. You really make a difference!"