Highland School Board Gets Update On New School Computers
Monterey, Va – Over the summer, the school system has made a major improvement in computer resources for faculty, staff and students. Gary Lane, Information Technology Specialist and Gwen Cauley, Instructional Technology Specialist, were able to replace several of the older faculty computers and significantly upgrade the school’s instructional equipment and software. Cauley says the school received three new servers, a new internet filter, and new desktop computers, laptops and netbooks.
She says they also purchased audio-visual equipment for the Agriculture classes. A new online service will give the animal science students access to veterinarians around the clock.
Mr. Wilmore presented his list of field trips to the Board for approval. He also expressed his gratitude to the faculty, staff, students and parents who made the Blue Ribbon award possible.
Sara Harman, Americorps/Vista employee for the school system, Highland Center and Chamber of Commerce, reported to the Board on a School Profile document that she has just completed. She requested that the Board review it, make revisions, and then approve it. The Recorder has offered to make copies for the school.
Continuing a program from last year, the Board approved the use of funds from a US Department of Agriculture grant to the school system to supply fresh fruit and vegetables to elementary school students. The budget for this program for the coming year is $7,699.63.
The Board is looking into replacing the old van used for field trip and sports team transportation. The current estimate is that this vehicle will cost about $35,000.
The Board approved appointment of two substitute teachers, Dara Kinney and Steven Grant; a head cook Rick Osborne; and Mr. Wilmore as Assistant Superintendent of Schools.
Mr. Lane reported to the board that he has received 2 estimates for installation of air conditioning in the computer labs. He is still waiting from the third estimate, but has had no response from the contractors he has sent the bid requests.