001And I am calling the meeting to order at 7:01. If everyone would like to rise for the pledge of allegiance, please stand with all. Yes, it is. While Mr. Melon works on that, I would like to have uh Miss Kathy Nelson please step up to the um microphone up front, please. And thank you. There we go. Now we have it. on the agenda this morning. >> No, she's not. >> Um, I wanted to make sure to make a big deal out of this. Um, in probably November, I had the opportunity to, um, we work with the Indiana Thespians, which is, um, a big organization throughout. It's actually an international organization. We work with the Indiana Thespians. We have a chartered theater troop through the Indiana Thespians. Every year we have a convention in Indianapolis that
002I take um usually it's in Indianapolis that I take students to and they have a series of awards that we can nominate people for. One of those awards is an outstanding administrator. And so in November this year we um got together and I nominated Dr. Buffington. We wrote up a a wonderful nomination and found out about two weeks before we went down she was chosen as the winner. And this is a state uh nominated award. So there were nominees from all over the state that were sent down by schools. Um and I have um I sent her the clip of uh uh Do we have it? >> Yes, we do. >> Oh, yay. I was so glad. I was hoping somebody would get that. So, can we play it? >> Yes. >> Our superintendent has
003been supportive of the program I started as a third grade teacher, moved to director of technology, then assistant super and has been superintendent for over 20 years. When she saw the dedication I brought moving to this district, she quickly stepped in line to show us the book. She made it customary for the district to cover royalty and script cost for all shows so that students got the experience of plays and musicals every year. When the talk of a new high school started in 2006, she made a state-of-the-art performing arts facility a reality, not just a dream. She allowed the PA staff to sit around the table with the architects, letting us share our dreams and told them to make it happen. When they said it could be done, she said, "Find a way." She made
004them listen to us. She has shown up to all but two productions and that I have directed over a span of 28 years. All but two. She make she also makes it a point to come backstage prior to congratulate the kids in the team. I feel validated and appreciated by her every second of every day. When I need her, she is there. From Hobart High School, the outstanding administrator award goes to Dr. Peggy Dson. Now, we had a little weather event at the end of the month, and so the it was supposed to be one weekend in January, and then it got moved uh to the next weekend, so she couldn't come down to receive it. So, we had some of our students um uh take it for her, but we were able to surprise
005her um after I found out. We were so excited that we got into cahoots with Becky and Beth at the office, and Becky made a really nice certificate for her. And so then we I don't know what scheme they told you to get over there, but she came down to the theater on stage and I had a bunch of theater kids and some band kids and choir kids down on stage and she walked in thinking she was going to do something else and then all these kids came flying out of the uh out of the wings and out of the curtains and she didn't know quite what to think and so we were able to surprise her that way as well when we told her what we had done. So just to kind of highlight
006what maybe you didn't hear at the beginning, you know, I've been in this district for 28 years. It's hard for me to believe that. And um never once have I felt unad unappreciated by this woman. Um when the when the new school was a thing, she allowed us and I know Dean can attest to this. She had us sit across from these architects and there was one thing in particular that they kept telling us it can't be done. We looked at the plans. We're like we didn't want it this way. This is what we had at the middle school. We didn't want it this way. And we said Chesterton, they did it this way. We want it that way. And she looked at those architects and she said, "Talk to Chesterton. Find out how they
007did it. that's how they want it and they listened to her and we got it the way that we wanted it. And so, you know, she's she's missed maybe two productions in those 28 years that I've been here. It's it's just amazing. Um I look at my uh other co-teers throughout the na throughout the state of Indiana. They don't have this kind of support that we are lucky enough to have. And so, you know, we had to kind of go behind her back to get here because I know she doesn't do this for herself. She doesn't brag about herself a lot, but we brag about her. And I'm sure the te music teachers in the district and Mr. Wolf in the district, they would agree that she's most deserving of this award. It says um
008you know for uh an outstanding min administrator by the Indiana Thesbians, but we know it's just for her support of performing arts in general. So on behalf of the Indiana Thespians, I actually present your will real award to Dr. Peggy Buffington for outstanding administrator by the Indiana Thespians. Well, first of all, um, thank you for coming. And another surprise, um, I did not know why I was coming to the high school. I'm sorry I cried a little bit, but thank youful. I wasn't expecting something like that. I will say and pulled off a high school for because I know what the BS are for and they're like we don't know we just made it you have to go and like they're like in my office saying you got to go and I'm like I'm trying.
009And so then I come through and then you're like in that little hallway like come this way and I'm like I what I'm doing here. I don't even know why I'm giving an award. They just gave me like >> I told you it was for the the girls who were the queens for >> Yes. award's award. They're like just go. I'm like this is so unorganized. I'm not like this. And so anyways, I get there and then the kids all come out and um it was just a complete surprise and I can't I can't say enough that I I appreciate so much that you would think to do something like that, but the joy is truly all mine. Um, you know, I've had the pleasure of being at two of our performances in the last
010two weeks that were just outstanding. And I can't say enough about our theater department here, the theater system coming up and our choir programs and just how people feel when they're in the audience and they're seeing our kids perform the last. It was so good. But of course I always go backstage and say it was my favorite. Every single one of them is my favorite. Um, and I just see kids in their element having joy and something they love. And we could not do it without the amazing teachers and that we have that passion and helping kids. I always tell sometimes when you look at the elective classes, that's the one reason why school And so the joy that they bring is beyond what I can explain. You know, when I think about just what
011do we all do in leisure? We like music. We like to go to shows, right? And we can do it right in our backyard. It's so good. And when I'm sitting with senior citizens, particularly at the high school, and I know for elementary and middle school, you know, it's a lot of grandparent days, etc. But, you know, I do every performance with the senior citizens and you have to be there to see how happy they are and the quality that they impressed with our and it's their house, you know what I mean? And I always provided this environment so that we can have what we have and they're truly grateful and they feel like this is their school, too. And I want them to feel that way. But our performances are so good and I
012am just so proud of it. And I know it's not me, it's you guys. And so, you know, accept this award and thank you so much because I would never guessed on something like this. I truly but I accept it on behalf of all of you because you are the people that make it happen. And yes, I am your biggest cheerlead at Joart's performance this past week and you in the comment about the amount of hours that creating those costumes and then you know I'm just looking over one of the voices in particular at veterans performance was just angelic not believe that one of our students sing but you know they all have talent and it's so young now and it's so good and then I'm watching our technical ours and they've learned it all
013at the ranks. I know your summer camps help, but just the people that do those things are just so cool. And when they know you're coming to their performance, it's even better. You know, going backstage like break or if I'm there back and your group is doing their prayer and they're holding hands or whatever, get ready to go on and then just talk with them afterwards and they feel so confident in what they did and feel good about it. That's all a person needs to see that it's successful. And I wish people could see that from my lens when I see the before and after. It's heartwarming special. Well, speaking of shows, we always seem to have a show coming up. But as you can see, I'm kind of repping for our next one. Next
014Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, we have Romeo and Juliet. Um, and it is actually Romeo and Juliet with uh kind of a modern uh l through kind of a modern lens. These kids are doing amazing with Shakespeare. our target audience kind of um our freshman most about about a hundred of our freshmen are um advanced freshmen actually study the show in their English classes. Maddie uh Sullivan um the English teacher who teaches it has jumped on board and has been helping me with it. Um and um it's going to be pretty, as the kids tell me, lit. Um it's going to be pretty awesome. So um you have they've used a couple other words too. Um I gotta figure out the vernacular because it changes like every week up here. They tell me I think
015I'm cool and then suddenly I'm my my Annabella who's a sixth grader is like don't use that mom that's not cool anymore. So I have to be careful. But um anyway it is a really cool adaptation and kind of way we're targeting it towards that kind of teen level. Um and these kids are handling it beautifully. Uh scenically Chris Connor and Ron and Matt Henosski and our our tech adults have outdone themselves have created something spectacular. Uh board members, you'll get to see Grace on stage this uh with this show. We pulled her on stage uh not up in the balcony this time. She'll see her on stage as Balthazar and a couple other different things helping move those sets around. Um and it's truly going to be beautiful to look at as well as
016here. Um these kids are just really it's come together quite nicely. Now trust me, we got about 40 hours worth of rehearsal over the next week here. Um but um I think we're going to have something to be really proud of. So come and support us next weekend if you have the time. Thank you. >> Yes. And thank you Kathy for for doing this and I will cherish it. I really do appreciate it. I do want to say um just with Matt Frankowski and the whole crew, the tech crew, um the last senior citizen performance with Dean Wolf, it was hysterical. I'm sitting in the back and uh Grace, I believe you were the one that said and don't leave at the end of the show. because there's going to be a light show and
017we just sat there and it was a light show people and I felt like wow um it was two for one and we had a great time and so if you're missing the performing arts in our schools you are missing a lot because it's good entertainment. It really is. I should say good. It's excellent. Um so I always tell Kathy at the end of her show Broadway in Hbert. Um, and so for those people that went to see Six in Chicago and I was able to talk to them and I said to them, "So what was the difference?" And our costumes, our dance, our choreography, and just everything. Um, they said, "We were we were better." And I said, "I bet you were. I didn't go see six in Chicago, but I don't know how
018you could be better than what you were. It was that good." And so, um, let's ever forget how important of a role it plays. That's why we support it, right? That's why we support it. It's important in people's lives. So, thank you to all of you that are out there. I greatly appreciate you. All righty. Thank you, Mrs. Nelson, for getting that. Appreciate it. Uh, on to the next item agenda is the approval of minutes. board. >> I'd like to make a motion that the board approve the executive session and the regular session minutes of February 19th, 2026. >> We have a motion and a second. Is there any discussion? If not, please place your vote. Thank you board. And that passes 70 financial reports and we have none. Ladies, you are lucky. Are there
019any comments on the agenda items from the audience at this time? Thank you. Next item on the agenda is the personnel report. >> In your packet, you have a copy of the personnel report for March 5th. Um, and you also have the ECA assignments that are a part of this personel report as well. Action is requ. >> We have a motion and a second. Is there any discussion? If not, please your vote. And that passes 70. Thank you, board. Next item on the agenda is the recognition of a student and the recommendation to accept a donation to Joan Martin School. Dr. Buffington. >> Yes. And we have some incredible audience members here tonight. Um that was all um part of this performance at Joy Martin School. Um and again it's what a great night to
020have all of our performing arts teachers here. Um for the most part I see most of them out there. Um but tonight we're recognizing uh first of all one of our students. Um I don't know Mrs. Clemens. Would you like to tell the story? You could tell it much better than me. You can. There's a microphone right over there. >> Yes. >> And we'll call up the other part of this. >> Okay. So, my name is Tina Clemens. I am a co-sponsor of the Joan Martin set design club that designs all of costumes and sets that are um done with the performances. and I'm a co-sponsor uh with Jamie Edwards and um Nate Lacne and Rodney Clemens at Join Martin for their regular drama club performances. So this year at the very beginning of set
021design, we sat in my classroom watching other productions of Finding Nemo and we started talking about what do we build? How do we do this? What do we do on our as we call it tiny stage, right? How do we make that come to life? And I made a comment one afternoon um at set design and said, "Wouldn't it be so cool if we could find a way to just make these costumes come to life and have a live digital stage? Wouldn't it be cool? We can't make that happen, but wouldn't it be cool?" And the kids are like, "Yeah, that'd be so cool. Why can't we do it?" And I'm like, "Well, we don't have the equipment. We'll figure it out. Something always comes about." Well, that something is this young lady next to
022me. And bear with me because I can't ever make it through the story without tears. So this is Ila Williams. Ila came home after that day and talked with her parents who are sitting there in the audience and she looked at her dad who owns a digital production company and said, "Dad, Mrs. Clemens really wants to have a live digital stage. Is there a way for you to make that happen?" And her dad said, "Absolutely." So a few weeks later, Ila comes in, hugs me like she does every morning in the in the building, and she says, "Good morning. My dad's coming to set club today. I'm okay. I don't know why, but okay. And she walks away and I go talk to Miss Craig and I'm like, "Well, Mr. Williams is coming this afternoon
023and I'm not really certain why, but we're going to find out." And she's like, "Okay, just let me know." So, in walks this kind gentleman in my classroom that afternoon and he says, "Um, let's talk about your show." And I'm like, "Okay, well, this is what we're looking at." And the kids are going to design their costumes and we'll bring them to life, but it's their ideas. Um, and they're going to work on set. And he's like, "I'm not certain that you know what I do for a living." And I'm like, "Nope, sure don't." He says, "Let's take a walk." So, we walk to our stage and I show him our stage and the space that we have. And he says, "Well, I'm going to tell you, my daughter asked me to help you make
024that dream of yours come true." And I'm going to do that. Of course, I lost it and cried. And he told me his incredible story from childhood through now. Um, and what he does for a living and all the amazing things and said, "I'm just going to make that happen on your stage for you." Um, and he did. And um and it all started with this young lady right here. So I asked Dr. Buffington to bring us here so that I could present her to all of you as well as her incredible family, but definitely a father. Um because as well as he's cheering up as much as I do, we've talked about it. Um it's great to dream. It's even better to be reminded that you can dream big and and they did that
025for me this week. So big thank you. I love you. I'm so proud of you. Um and I'm very grateful for you. This is Ryan Williams. phenomenal. A lot of people don't see at the high school. It's up in the equipment. I'll ask the board to accept the value of it. It was almost $25,000 and you'll see that >> too late. teachers that are sitting in the backd is what we're about for others and the best possibly 25,000 bless. recognition of your extraordinary generation. performance. I know a lot of time You want me to use your phone? I think he has a GPS. >> Oh, wait. Hold on. Hold on. There you go. Here comes the baby. And obviously Edwards back with all performance. >> I think she should get two weeks off of the
026homework. Do not listen to him. >> I'd like to make a motion that the board accept the $24,315 donation for the Finding Nemo Junior from Ryan Williams. >> We have a motion and a second. Is there any discussion from the board? >> It was beautiful. Thank you very much. The play was really amazing. Um I would say through two performances it was it was great and you really tell the difference. We've been through a few years there and it made a huge difference. Thank you very much. >> I'm a little I'm a little biased so I >> did send him a picture of the performance I was at that he wasn't at and I said she's so cute. >> Mr. Williams, thank you um not only for your time and your effort, but for your
027talent >> and really sharing that with kids so that someday, you know, you're passing the torch to them. So, thank you. >> They have all said it very well. So, I will just say thank you, Mr. Williams, just for everything. Um Mrs. Williams, thank you for participating with us as well. Even if it is as an employee, we are so thankful for your services as well. We don't want to leave her out. All right. And it's all that passes 70. Thank you, board. >> Thank you so much. >> And our next item on the agenda is the March in is music in our schools month. Mr. Melon has a video for us. >> And I think we're gonna um we're gonna kind of go with the resolution first to celebrate. >> Thank you so much
028for coming tonight. >> Mr. Porus, if you could read that resolution, please. >> Yes, we have a resolution from the associated resolution number 2026-4. Music in our schools. We could ask the audience, would you like us to read the whole thing? >> They're all saying it's good. >> I will be sending this out to everyone though because it's all true. Just want to make sure that you don't feel slided out there. Okay. >> All right. Are you ready? >> Yes, ma'am. >> Did you want to vote on that first or? >> Um, yeah. Let's go ahead and vote on that first. I need a motion first, please. to make a motion that the board adopt resolution number 2026-4 celebrating March as music in our schools month. >> Second. >> We have a motion and a
029second. Is there any discussion by the board? >> If not, let's place our votes so that we can see the good stuff. >> Thank you. >> Okay. David Cosby. >> Hi. Rogers. >> Hi Stewart Schultz. >> Hi. >> Thank you board. 70. >> Yes. Very exciting. So every single when it approaches the month of March um I'm planning the board agenda with Pat and I always try to reach out to the performing arts people who wants to come and perform um who wants to show what we've got. in our schools and I think they know it's coming but I didn't even have to ask this year and so they came to me and said um we would like to come and and showcase now I can't say enough about these people they're just they're amazing
030um and um I want to call them up Audrey Kelly Jamie Dean Kathy you can come on up too if you want and then we have a special performance um that we're going be having by our state gold winner here, McCoy Swanson. And I am just like super excited about this. Of course, you know, he's a percussionist and I've always wanted a drum roll here. So, we're working on it, right, McCoy? Um, the drum line is getting larger. I could just say that. Um, you can tell Lauren Tel I said that, Kelly. Um, but I I just love watching our kids perform. So, come on up. And you play the or do you want us to play that first and then you come up? It's up to you. Play it first. Okay, let's roll. Heat.
031Heat. And there's the lineup of the remaining performances that we have going on for the rest of the school year. And I'm going to call up all of our instructors and let them um talk about a few things that they would like to talk about. I I really just don't even know what else to say except for I'm always mesmerized by what you do with our kids. So come on up and and share some more with us because we love having you here and recognizing that this is a month that that we get to celebrate you. And I'll have my assistant help me I just want to make sure everybody's in the camera. Okay, I'll be reading this certificate of appreciation which is presented to Audrey Amsler. In recognition of your outstanding dedication to music
032education and your unwavering commitment to student growth and excellence during music in our schools month, we proudly celebrate the passion, expertise, and inspiration you bring to your classroom each day. Your leadership strengthens our schools, enriches our community, and transforms the lives of students through the power of music. Thank you for your continued service and impact. Signed by Dr. Buffington, Mrs. Guthrie, Mr. Porus on the 3rd on the 5th of March. >> So, could you give it up for Audrey? It's a very large drum line and it gets better and better. I love the grades in the high school. Brandon Deak or director and let me just say new mom and putting the performance together like she did with this crew here. It doesn't go unnoticed all the hard work that you did and we're so
033proud of you. Let's give it up. And so the elementary performance again to put their performance on. I was definitely blown away last spring. And um you signing their own music, singing to one school was playing the ukulele, the other school was singing while they were playing. It was just amazing. And you miss out if you don't go see it. I just love it. And of course, you know, all the perman and let's make sure that she gets this. And I want to just say like the floor is yours, but thank you for all that you do for kids. So, thank you for all that you do. I'm gonna turn the mic over to you and then you'll be able to hear the floors. This is a good one. Okay. Do you know what I'm
034gonna say? >> Okay. So, Shu Jing came up to me in eighth grade, last month of school, and she says, "I want to be in band." And I was like, "Okay." And she wanted to do it her freshman year. And of course, Lauren was like, "Oh, I I don't know. Like, how is she going to do this?" Like, and I said, "She's top 15. Trust me, she's got it. She'll be great." So I said to Shu Jing, "Here's Quinnland and Fabish's phone number. If you can get an instrument, we'll make it work." She came back in on Monday. She had a clarinet. I said, "Great. Sign up for band voice and choice, and I'll help you get going." She and I did a bunch of Zooms over the summer, right? Some little lessons. And by
035the time we came to school, she was rocking. And the next year, her freshman year in symphonic band sat like I think what, like higher chair-wise than most of our other clarinets that have been playing since sixth grade. And she stayed in band, right? And she's just she's a rock star. So >> yeah, you know, and I do want to say this, and if you didn't catch what people We have great kids. It's easy when you have good kids and great administration. Yes. And and this video was Audrey. She's a rock star. >> Everybody, >> she's a rock star. We all >> Yes, we do. >> Um I just wanted to refer to the best communities award um that we received from N last year. We found out at the end of the school year
036last year and a big part of that was and administrative support and making music from K. And that is not something that happens in every district. It's not something that happens in every district in our region. Um, and every time I go to a conference or some kind of professional development event with other music educators, I am constantly reminded how amazing it is to work with these people and to work with Dr. and have such a supportive school, community, parents, students because that is not the norm. And quite often when budget cuts are on the line, music is one of the first things that gets cut and that is not happening in. And I think that is so just telling how much our community continues to support music access for all kids. It's so important
037in all aspects of our lives, not just to appreciate beautiful music, but to meet beautiful And so we're just grateful for this opportunity that you help provide support. >> Okay. experiences that she had for veterans, senior citizens. And so, you know, just making us performance. Oh, by the way, student this really isn't focused much as Rogers and I used to teach these notes. I would read the kids. That's one of the things Yes. And you can thank Audrey for that because she know I'm constantly Well, I think what it does everybody listening online All right. So, there's a piano. some high school. I will employ it. Yeah. a pretty cool brother who also is a perfectionist So if you know the piece for this so excited Thank you for taking that on because amongst all
038your other responsibilities, right? And then you just ended up loving it. part of my job. Like I said, day. All right. So, so McCoy, obviously you weren't using music. Um, how long did it take you to memorize that? >> Just a month. >> Do you ever feel like like, "Oh, I missed it." Or All the time. >> All the time. And so like, okay, I have to ask because I didn't hear any imperfections, but so like what did they mark you down a half a point for? >> Yeah, they said >> Yeah, me either. And I wasn't even there. So, >> okay. Well, that was just beautiful. And thank you asking him to come here because >> it is and I love how you describe and celebration of music in our school. You're excellent in
039music. You are definitely >> McCoy, I have a question while we're getting ready. How so? You have to practice a lot. How do you fit that in your backpack? >> Oh. Okay. So then I have a follow-up question then. So does your dad rap with you when you play that instrument? >> Oh, that's a great question. >> That is a good question. >> No. Oh, okay. >> Now I'm kind of disappointed. Dr. This is a And then I think when you saw the video together that was intentional when we built the high school we said we're going to have exactly what the Boston And we're gonna make it look good. >> If you aren't aware of this, I run into him all the time here and it's because piano was good too. >> Yes, the
040piano was good too. And I know you guys spend tons of time, so don't feel like you need to stay. >> Yes, that was my next comment that if you have homework to do, you may please leave. >> All of them in the back have homework to do. >> Yes, you can go ahead and go unless you want to stay for the rest, but that's totally up to you. >> Yeah. Thank you so much for coming tonight. >> We appreciate it. >> All right. Our next item on the agenda is the superintendent's action regarding the youth and government um overnight conference. >> Well, this is a a rare instance where we did not receive an overnight trip request and uh we've been doing this for years, youth and government, and somehow someway we never received
041the packet for you to approve. Now obviously um I approved this at the last minute and so board action will be requested to ratify my actions of uh approving the overnight trip for our youth and government which took place from February 27th to March 1st. So I am asking the board to ratify my actions. I'd like to make a motion that the board ratify the action of the superintendent for the 2026 youth and government overnight extended student trip to attend the HS model conference as presented. >> Second board. We have a motion and a second. Is there any discussion? >> I'm just I'm gladful. >> Right. And you know we a change in like leadership and things like that. And so we we've got it we've got it clear now. >> Sometimes these things happen.
042>> Yes. There we go. 70. Thank you, board. Our next item on the agenda is an overnight extended student trip for the Hoverbert High School HOSA, which is the future healthcare professional state leadership conference. >> All right. And so, board in your packet, you have a request um that um is recommended by principles and myself. And this for Alexander, Tiffany Parish, and Sarah Collins. And for teachers, for our HOSA club, and our HHS EMT students to attend the HOSA future healthcare professional state leadership conference. They will leave on April 15th, return on April 17th. This is a huge conference. Um, and they get to meet with other health care professionals. And I could not endorse this more. They always come back and they have wonderful experiences being able to to meet and greet and collaborate
043with other healthcare uh professionals. So I it is my pleasure to bring this to you and request uh board approval. >> Like to make a motion that the board approve the overnight extended student trip for Hbert High School students to attend the HOSA state leadership conference in Indianapolis. Second >> we have a motion and a second. Is there any discussion? If not, please place your vote. And that passes 70. Thank you, board. >> Our next item on the agenda is the IDOE grant um title 4 grant acceptance. >> In your packet, you have a copy of the grant award letter for title. Uh Dr. and very thankful for that. And um we've been using title 4A um for uh and the amount is 50,71 uh25 and we use that grant um year after year to
044provide for the social worker that we have at the early learning center. And so we're very thankful for this opportunity to have that grant and I would ask that the board accept and approve that grant. I'd like to make a motion that the board accept the title 4 part A grant from the Indiana Department of Education and authorize the superintendent or her designate to execute any necessary documents for the grant. >> Board, we have a motion and a second. Is there any discussion? If there is not, please place your votes. And that passes 70. Thank you, board. Our next item on the agenda is the recommendation to accept the awarding of the bid for new network equipment and support renewal for existing network equipment. >> And we're going to turn that over to our director
045of IT services, Mr. >> Uh yes, good evening, board. So, this is uh the continuation of the uh board item we started back on December 18th. Um we had four vendors p give us five different um uh quotes. The most cost effective um not only was it the cheapest but also the most cost effective overall was a bid from a company called SHI. Um and that's the highlighted one here. The uh total project uh projected budget that I had for this was about 1.2 2 million and this came in at 1.05. So we're under um you know what we were expecting to be have to spend which is a good thing because we're trying to save money. Um and here's my kind of tabulation sheet. Um price being the most important piece of all uh
046that we use to evaluate all of this. >> All right. And so just to refresh everyone's memory on what is um is where the government reimbured us and based off of our poverty levels on how much reimbursement we get. Um, and Russ I think are sitting at 60% reimbursement. >> No, we're still at 80 the last time around. >> Um, so this project um the we'll get approximately $620,000 reimbursement from the feds for this overall project. So even though right now it's looking like just over a million, we're still getting another 600 back. >> And that's what's import for you to realize. So when we're looking at federal programs and they want to make cuts, there's no way schools will make it with their internet service without even I bring this up so that you
047can see we're not going to really spend 1.1 million. We will get that money back um as a part of the reimbursement and the filing of this. Um Russ does an amazing job with this and obviously um I'm happy to see that the and the bids came in under what weeded and then of course we can welcome the reimbursement back. >> So with that are there any questions? Uh well um I'd like to make a motion along with Russ that the board um accept these bids. um they're the lowest most responsive bidder and authorize uh the superintendent or my design in this case for us to execute the documents to carry that make a motion that the board accept the lowest responsive bid and authorize the superintendent or her designate to execute any necessary documents.
048>> Second >> board we have a motion and Second, is there any discussion? >> I'd just like to thank you for putting together the tabulations that you do with the explanations about why and the scoring. It does make it a lot easier to understand and takes a lot of strain off. >> Yeah, if you really want, I can show you the, you know, all the math that I did to get to this point. >> I I will say >> I appreciate what you do because it does make it very easy to see what and why. He did lament over this. I mean, you know, when you're when you're going over bid packages and you know, did they did they quote everything that you asked for? >> And you know, it's just so much detail and
049you know, Russ is a detailed person. They on one of the bids, they actually left something off um that we had requested for Veterans Elementary and of course Russ caught it immediately. And so you're summarized version of the things that Russ went through. And um that's what you know, we're very blessed to have Russ. He's very he's very dedicated, hardwork, extremely um talented when it comes to this and we're just thankful for all the hard work. >> Google Sheets does all the math for me. I don't have to do that. >> I will agree with you on that. He does need Google to do the math. Right. I agree with you. Brilliant. But let's let the spreadsheet do the math. >> If there isn't any further discussion board, if you would place your votes, please.
050>> Thank you. And that items passes 70. Thank you. Next on the item agenda is the recommendation to accept the terms of service agreement for internet services and that would be Mr. Melon as well. >> Uh so this is also a continuation previous item back on the 18th. Um, this is our new internet service provider that will start in uh July. And for technical reasons, they didn't have the agreement ready. Um, there's a process they have to go through to actually be able to produce the agreement. Um, so this is the agreement for that. Mr. Longer has had a look at it and it kind of fits the normal stuff. Unless you have any comments about that. Y explain why they have language in their contract modification necessary. There are a couple bills It's a
051pretty long thing. I don't know if you really want to see all of that. a while. >> All right. Um board, your pleasure to >> make a motion that the board approved the terms of services agreement with SurfNet Services and authorize the superintendent or her designate to execute the agreement. >> Second. >> Thank you board. Is there any further discussion? >> If not, please place your vote. Thank you. >> There it goes. >> There we go. 70. Thank you, board. And thank you to Russ as well. Our next item on the agenda is the registration. for in district students and non-resident information as well. Dr. Buffington, >> in your packet, you have a copy of uh registration which you'll see that we're starting to register our students for next school year. And uh this is
052just a process that we need to have. Are you coming back so that we can see what our numbers are? And um as you know, we do have some uh lower birth rates that looking at. And then on top of it, you also have uh school choice. And so that does affect us uh in terms of our ADM and our staffing and what we're able to budget for. And so, you know, where people are like, do we really have to register? We really do need to know if you're returning. And so, this is part of the process and it's pretty easy. They just have to go into Skyward and revalidate all of that. Which, by the way, that's really important because If you don't update your information and you change your cell phone number and
053we can't get a hold of you, that's really not a good thing. And so, um, we want to know if you're coming back and update your information for us. And then what you have, um, is our nonresident enrollment. And, you know, last year, um, we thought we have enough spots for about 200 students. And so, you know, we have limited spots. Um, we put those ratios out on our website on what's available. Um, but non-residents can apply and we'll take a look at where we have those teacher student ratios and if we're under, that's when we take in nonenrollment students, better known to all of you as open enrollment. And so again, I want to stress there's not a lot of spots, but there are open spots. U if you were to ask me where
054are those spots right now? Kindergarten is one of those things that's very hard to determine. Uh I can say uh kindergarten kickoff, she had 120 students come to kindergarten kickoff, which we've never had 120 uh this early. That was a pretty good sign. And um obviously many people want their children to come to our high school and it's the early college and so um you know I have to watch those numbers very carefully and I do that with Chris King and Danielle Adams that is the director school counselors here there are a few spots in all of the grade levels but when I'm telling you it's limited it is limited because you have to have a balance between does it force you to hire somebody by letting more people come here and that isn't the
055goal we're trying to maintain our budget and what is the threshold that um we can have to bring in non-resident students. Um keep in mind once they become open enrollment unless they violate one of the criteria that you see on the non-resident application there um they're they're invited back, right? They get to stay. And so it was good for us. We took in about 70 non-resident students uh open enrollment last year and um a good chunk of those people are staying. I would say probably I don't know 60 maybe are staying and others have moved or gone on but you can see why that creates limited spots because you had 70 that stayed or 60 or so. And so, um, this is an opportunity for people to turn in their application and we review every
056application and we'll let them know if there's a spot for them, um, as our enrollment is completed and we see where the numbers land. So, for you, >> we did not lose. >> No. Um if if we did bring somebody in and they did not meet one of the criteria um which would have been attendance um if they would have had like a drug violation, a weapons violation or physical altercation that caused serious harm. Um those would be some reasons why they couldn't come back. Um and and if you were to the Joy Martin performance, they had an open enrollment student on stage. Um, they want to be here and so we really did not have problems with open enrollment students. They were thankful to be here. Um, some of them just kind of move.
057Um, I maybe had a couple that did some violations that broke the agreement and um, we had to let them go. So, um, we'll see. You can't break the rules. You want to be here, you have to abide by rules. Thank you for that information. And the next item on our agenda is school information. And that again is Dr. In your packet board. You have copy of our weekly agendas with our staff and the brick center. And you also have our cafe monthly newsletter. >> All right. Thank you for that. And our next item is the upcoming activities and events. Well, uh, we're in I read testing season and I'm just very hopeful for our second and third graders that that they are performing well on that test and they have a couple more tries
058if they don't make it this time around. Um, I think publicly, you know, my position on that, I think it's very punitive at third grade if they don't pass it. Um, and how many times they can be eventually held back and I'm in disagreement with that but I don't make the laws and rules for that. I can say one of the things that I'm extremely concerned about with I read they're going to be doing cut scores on I learn um and re you know changing whether you the levels of how you pass and what level you're at and we probably will not get final scores for iLearn until in July at the end of July. Now, one of the criteria for um for being able to be exempt um from being held back is did
059you pass the I learn math test. We won't really know that because we're not going to get I learn scores. Now, the state has said go back and look at their checkpoints. And so, if you go back and look at their checkpoints, were they were they passing on the checkpoint? And What if I can confidently say they passed all three checkpoints in math and I put a child in fourth grade and then all of a sudden they didn't pass the math I learned with the new cut score. It really poses a problem. So are you telling me I have to put a student back in third grade? There are just some things that I know it's not a perfect world. Um but that is not right and you will know that I will advocate for
060what I believe is right and make sure that we're we're vocal about what we're seeing here. I think one of the other things that I would just say if the state truly believed that there was a problem with people promoting kids that did not pass I read in third grade because the way it was usually the way the law was written they would just they could go on to fourth grade, but they would have to receive instruction in third and fourth grade reading. What is wrong with that solution? That's a perfect solution. When you are dealing with students that are retained, you automatically are looking at potential dropout and it's because of their age, right? And so like they don't think that they belong here and And I'm not for social promotion, don't get me
061wrong, but we also have kids that are already graduating when they're 19 years old. So if you hold back a third grader two times, you potentially are looking at a 20 year old that that's just not going to fly here. And so I mean, we will do everything in our power to make sure that kids pass. We definitely need parents to understand there are repercussions to not passing that test. And and so We'll pull out the stops. We'll do everything that we can. And we had we had a very good pass rate last year um with some students multiple tries and us really honing in on data on what portion of the test they did not pass. But I'm an advocate for kids and I don't want to see kids hurt by decisions like this
062that data coming in late and I certainly don't agree with holding a child back two times. I agree to give them more instruction to get them where they need to go. Um, and I'm hoping that we just do well on it. So, um, you have received the online registration information. Uh, we had our workshop last night for raising mentally healthy kids. Um, it was a great workshop and all test day. I am so proud of Danielle Adams, Debbie Matthysse, and um Shelby Morgan, who is one of the counselors here at the high school. It was one of the smoothest all test days that we've ever had here. Uh we ended up putting two proctors in a room, um which made things much easier for us here. And then of course, um I had a team
063of teachers besides Dr. we were the instructors for the live learning uh for 9th, 10th, and 12th grade. And so, um, that provided relief for us to double up on proctors. And I'm just going to say it was a team effort. Um, but those three individuals really made the schedule and registration and all of that really important and um, it was a very smooth day. I will say this, I wish our students would take that test a little more serious. they don't and uh and it kind of reflects poorly on us no matter how much we tell them how important it is. Um I I need them to take it serious. So I hope that they did. Um on March the 7th uh our JOTC's and bands orchestra have a mattress fundraiser. Then of course
064March 12, 13th you have the Shakespeare Romeo and Juliet coming to the theater. March 14th I know um they pass a little bit more about it, but our bingo fundraiser for HF. And then um you can see on March 15th, that is when we do the Romeo and Juliet with our senior citizens. Spring break will be upon us. And then save the date in April for our maker and showcase. Spring break, right, girls? >> They will need it by then. >> I know. All righty. Thank you for that. And our next item on agenda is comments. So, Dr. Buffington, you may start those. >> Well, I can say what a what a great night to have all of these folks here tonight. And just um thank you to all that go to the performances and
065see um how hard our kids work and how gratifying it is. And so, um a great night to to celebrate music in our schools month with all of the people that were here tonight. So, very proud of that. There's just there's so much to be proud of and um I could just go on with all of it. And I I in particular want to just say, you know, like we have two student board reps here that that represent you well and they represent the student body well, but they are just outstanding individuals and I can't say enough about them from how they serve. I know I've said this in the as the year goes on and it's slowly like coming to a close um they will be missed so much and I'm just looking forward
066to seeing what they will accomplish. I'm extremely proud of you, Grace, for persevering these last two weeks. They've been pretty rough on you. Um she has had multiple interviews for scholarships. we've been prepping for it and and we'll find out in a couple of weeks what happened with that. Um I am proud of her. She's worked hard on it. And then when I just I think about all that you do too. Um both of you are involved in so many different things, but how you serve other people is just incredible to me. And I I want to say how proud we are that you serve in this position. And um your leadership doesn't go unnoticed. And I hope that other people want to emulate the way you are. So, thank you for everything you do.
067And that's all I have. >> I hope you don't mind. Just a box of popcorn is your pay for the year. >> I I would prefer that you like stop by her mom's restaurant and get those little cinnamon rolls. Those would be really special. Just kidding. His popcorn is really good. >> Mr. I always said earlier the band I think that there's a and I could ask the girls, but you know, when kids go to state or some wild accomplishment, we have the parades here um during a power hour where we march through the hallways and the band and the cheerleaders actually need it. And I I think that it gives other students a perspective of not just who is being recognized for going down to compete, but they get to see our band um
068more often. Um because they're in the hallway, they're performing and thank you, Mr. Longer. One of the scariest things she grew as a resultally This district supports known for appreciation for those things. There's a program like a familiar face picture. had a couple of performances down there. She had to do like youth and government. >> Thank you, Mr. Longer. Mr. Um yeah, last week we did have a education foundation meeting. I was actually unable to attend, but I did get some highlights. Um we are still looking for a board president. Um we have believe another new member that's going to be joining us here in March, Michelle Wilson. Know her or not, but we're excited to have another person advocating uh for our group. And as Dr. Buffington mentioned our bingo is upcoming here March
06914th next Saturday uh at the Moose in Hbert. Doors open at 5 o'clock. Bingo starts at 7. Um it's a great event. It's a lot of fun. Uh so know of anybody or come out and join us. That would be greatly appreciated. Um it's one of our biggest fundraisers of the year for the education foundation. Um so hopefully have a great night for them. Um, just wanted to comment on the on the theater and the fine arts stuff. People like I'm a sports guy. I mean, I've been a sports guy my whole life and I'm definitely a big football guy, but it's great to see um talk about like the feeder system and the younger kids as they work their way up. You know, I think about that from my perspective and everything I've done
070with football. You don't realize that it's going on in other things here in the school district and That's amazing to see that our kids have that opportunity to find their niche. Not everybody's a jock, not everybody's an athlete. Um, every give kids an opportunity to find what they can do and what they love to do and uh give them some extracurricular in their life. I think it's it's pretty impactful what we do for our kids. So, say thank you to all the fine arts teachers and people who are pretty. Thank you, Mr. P. Mr. Rogers, you're up. >> I think we missed or I missed it during the uh talking about personnel. We missed the fact that maybe Funkhouser was retiring. >> I think she's been here like 800 years. >> 500 in the pool%
071Yeah. So this is her 40th year and um you know very tough decision you do something that you love but uh she decided that this would be it and you know like very bittersweet um because it's hard for us when somebody's been such a formative person in our in our district. Um but I don't think she'll be a stranger and She deserves to to be retired. I think she'll join your ranks there, Mr. Rogers. But um I'm hoping that she's not a stranger and uh we will definitely give her tons of accolades and send her off when we recognize our retirees. She will be missed on a daily basis, but I don't think she'll >> I can give her some tips. >> Yeah, I bet you can. You teach her how to I'm sure >>
072that's it. >> There you go. >> Like to I'm sure the whole board would like to thank you for all the work you did down state and getting our Congress and legislator straightened out, >> part of the way. I mean like they they were willing to listen and so um you know and I had great support and so um I couldn't have done it without a team of people helping me and um I won't I won't go into who all those people were but um it's a process and sometimes you know when you're legislating and you're trying to make laws for the whole there are individuals that get hurt by some of the laws that you make and so we have to to their attention and um that's what we needed to do. So um
073it definitely was an experience and um we'll do whatever we have to do to make sure that this district prospers and and can be all that it can be without being hurt by pieces of legislation. And I know it wasn't anything intentional. They just don't realize that some of these things happen as a result of some of the laws that So the session is over. Um I I know you will find this hard to believe, but I I am hopeful for the next session. And in the next session, I really hope that they take on Senate and act one in a more formidable way. They just had a very short session and they could not spend a lot of time on it. And now that they're going to see some of the fallout um with
074how many schools are doing referendums and you know when you have schools that are losing a lot of their property tax revenue that's how they pay things that should not be coming out of the education fund. And so when you're and I I will say this utilities are a huge part of all of this right and and they keep going up. And what about casualty insurance? What about cyber security? Uh what about your internet? What about all of these things that are are are operational? Right? And and so if you don't get any any money in your operating budget, you have to take more out of your education fund to pay those. You're only supposed to transfer 15%. And then when I'm asked the question if we could transfer 20%. Well, of course we could,
075but not without cutting programs and staff. And I know they don't want to do that. You know, when you're looking at all of these new diploma requirements, which we we can easily do that here. We have a great early college program. We have great career and technical ed. We have a wonderful ROC program here. Nobody wants to cut programs that are a part of something that you just legislated with new diploma requirements. What about intervening early in math that they legislated last session? What about I read and all these things that you say they have to be retained if we can't give them more services. So I I think it's really important for them to realize that taking more out of an education fun supplement operating expenses is not the answer. And when you have
076schools that are exceeding 50 or 60% loss, which ours is almost 100%, then there should be something that there's a ceiling that they don't let that happen, right? And so that's what I hope for in the next session, that they will look at schools that are so deeply hurt by this that they provide some solution for that. And I think that we brought it to their attention. >> I think it's amazing me to have you always able to find something. If it hurts the kids, something is going on and it's not good for the kids. Somehow you find a solution and I know you have a lot of help on the other side of that table. You don't stop until everything possible has been done. >> Well, I can tell you that a lot of
077partners through the years. Um, you know, you you have to be wellvered with your bond counsel. Uh, you have to have a good relationship with your financial advisor. Um, and then obviously there was other attorneys involved helping me look at legislation. Um, because I don't write law, right? I can look back at law. But those were three significant people that were so instrumental in helping um me to take a closer look at what could possibly be some solutions. Um and then it was just a matter of like hoping that they were receptive, right? And they were. And I'm very grateful for it. >> I think they need us. >> There you go. There you go. And the last thing is congratulations on your award. >> Oh, thank you very much. It was very heartfelt. The
078kids were so excited to give it to me. It was so it was so it was so cute. I had no idea what's going on that day. They just kept pushing me out of the office. Like I don't even have the award. I don't know what I'm doing. And I usually know what I'm doing. So >> they pulled a fast one. >> Thank you, Mr. Rogers. Mr. King. >> Um I just want to thank everybody over there for what you guys do. I know it's a lot of work going through all those numbers, which is why you did it for us. It's nice to have someone who can really take their knowledge and dedicate time to make sure we're deal district for the drama in the band. It's always fun. It's always amazing. I appreciate
079the picture. It made me smile with my work, which is not not very easy to do. >> When she came out, I knew I had to try to snap that picture. as they stated, his daughter was the starfish and she was delightful. It was just so cute. >> So, it was it's always enjoyable and it's always fun to see the kids do that. I think that my favorite costume was the stinger or whatever. >> The huge thing on top of the bike helmet was amazing. Um, I couldn't take my eyes off him the entire time he was on stage. >> You want to know what's really interesting? And I actually told the students this and I'll share this with you real quickly. Um I had bought tickets for a couple of our administrators. They have
080younger kids and it was playing uh this Nemo this version of it was playing at the theater in the round up at the Marriott in in Lincolnshshire. And so, um, I went with one of the directors with their kids and, okay, it was on fall break and Illinois does not have fall break and I was with like a gazillion kids. I could not believe that I was spending a fall break with a bunch of poor kids, right? That weren't mine. If they were mine, it would be a different story, right? Um, so I'm here with the directors and the thing that I told the audience, I saw that by performers at the theater in the And our kids were every bit as good as them. And on top of it, the sets that they were
081doing with the water, you know how they had those fans that looked like waves of water? That was at the theater in the round. And so it was it was very comparable. And um and I just said, "Can you believe that our students were every bit as good as Broadway performers?" Because I saw this be performed by Broadway performers. Right. It's pretty funny. But yeah, the sets that waving water was Yeah, it was >> the way it pop. >> But I enjoy seeing them and the kids have a great time and they're laughing and they're having fun and all the little things that they think they messed up are my favorite parts of everything. They have to call Nigel out from the side. The kids don't hear And those are my favorite parts because really
082seeing the kids having fun and they're going crazy and there's so much going on and they're coming the teachers are coming from backstage hair. You can tell they're sweating from chasing these kids around. It's very enjoyable and from my perspective I really enjoy what they did. And the same with the band we do those things and they perform amazing. Great to see these performances coming out of these kids. Not only have them here, I'll just say I saw it in there. My son had her last And then the last thing I want to say is that I learned and I read I've been coming to meetings for a few years now on both sides and it seems like every single year the target moves every year. If you could plan two years in a row
083to try and really nail something down the target that's just >> Thank you, Mr. Mr. Schultz. I add somewhere. >> Greg did actually go and videotape that and so I don't know how long it'll take for him to process and get it all on a disc or whatever. But I do know that they Okay. >> Me too. >> Yeah, it was really good. >> Just a great person. All those instructors are amazing. I can't imagine any other school system. Thank you, Mr. Schultz. You're up. >> I feel like every time it gets to my turn, I'm always like, I have so much to say. I have so many good things to say. So, I'll try to narrow it down. >> Good job. >> Yeah. I I definitely want to start by saying thank you to
084everyone on our board for the hard work that you put in, especially tonight. I I mean I think the teacher testimonies earlier and the performance that we saw earlier really spoke for itself like as a person that's a part of the performing arts it's a phenomenal experience and truly like as a senior looking back on my four years now like something I'm really going to miss is band you know looking back like Dr. Buffington mentioned earlier, being a part of band or any other part of the performing arts is really an experience like a once in a lifetime experience. You can't put it into words. You know, it's it's one of those risks that you take and it pays off in the long run and it pays off in many ways. And I I'm I'm
085just looking back now, I'm like, wow, if if I could do more band, I I would do more band, you know, so much so that I I want to continue in college. So I just want to say thank you for all the hard work because that that kind of support is is thanks to you you know and I remember like specifically with band like when I think about band I think about you know trying to join my eighth grade year like Mrs. Rlander was talking about earlier and how you know at that time it's like you don't normally start in your eighth grade year >> but Mrs. Raylander sat with me. She worked with me over that summer. Even when I couldn't even get a sound out of my instrument, you know, she sat there
086with me and was very patient with me and, you know, making making sure that we all have opportunities to things like band and the performing arts. That's that's incredible. You know, it's I'm looking back now, I'm like I I'm so glad that Mrs. Rlander took the time to work with me. And I think in itself like that's the testament to the kind of community we've built here. You know, we we help out others and like Mrs. Raylander did. She stayed with me and now four years later here I am still in band. So I I really appreciate you. I I appreciate all of you. Thank you. And and Mr. Longer, thank you for the kind words earlier when you were talking about like I was like, "Oh yeah, this is nice." And I didn't realize
087you were talking about me. I was like I was like, "Yeah, someone got recognized." And I was like, "Wait. But it Yeah. And then this weekend, I mean, uh I I got to go to um the Indiana district leadership convention for key club and youth and government, which was really really cool. U like wrapping up four years on those, too. But even, you know, our community extends so much further than just Hobbert. Like when we go to state leadership conferences like that, like we sweep the awards. Like at conferences where kids from all over the state from all different kinds of schools, you know, some even five times the size of ours, we show up and we sweep the awards at DLC, at youth and gov. I cannot tell you how many times I heard
088them call out Hobbert and I think that's none of that would be possible without our hard work and support. So, thank you. >> You do a great job. You know what I I do want to mention and for if you're a new board member, you probably don't realize this, but I always wanted an orchestra here and Jack Ross, who was a board member, um he um donated money for us to start orchestra. And the band teachers were so afraid that the band numbers would diminish and we wouldn't have a good program. And I think you guys realize that orchestra is very large now. I had to hire another teacher that it's so large. And when you talk about the community supporting and the support that we have, that was an individual that knew that we
089wanted to start that and that we a group of kids that really wanted to play string instruments, right? And his family donated the money to get us started on having an orchestra. So, I wanted to say as we're celebrating music in our schools month, um I would be remiss not to say how grateful I am to Jack Ross and his family, his wife, um lovely people that knew that that was like a goal and they helped us get that started. So, I want to make that's on the record that we thank them because they're a huge part of so going off of what Shu Jing said, it's it's all about the support as um having music be recognized in our school. Performing arts is extremely important. Like Dr. Buffington said earlier, a lot of my
090life skills that I've learned have been through performing and have been through the music world. And even though it's not something I am going to do as a future career, it's something that I want to continue though. And I want to still learn from those experiences. And the fact that I'm able to do that as a high school student is extremely important. And it really has helped me grow as a person. And I know that is true for every single student who is a part of music or performing arts um within our school. And along with that support, one of the things that was actually passed tonight was the overnight field trip for HOSA, which is I'm the president of the state leadership conference is one of those opportunities where you really get to learn
091in a different environment. Yes, we get three days off of school, but we also get to be in a hotel conference room with a bunch of people that have similar interests in us that are going to schools and around Indiana. We get to talk to them, but we also get to do hands-on experience with medical things that we don't usually get to do. For example, last year I had to perform lifting and restraining a dog as my event and then also preparing a surgical site on a dog, a fake dog, but it was definitely an experience that I didn't get anywhere else. And it has definitely allowed me to grow professionally and it's super important that students in our school get to experience things like that. So, the fact that you guys are so willing
092to hear and approve these types of activities are extremely important to me and I know are important to the other students of this district. >> And for the record, she's going into veterinary science. So, when she's working on animals, there's a reason why everybody, it's not just animals down there. >> Thank you, Mr. Por. >> Uh, yes. So great example of our music by also noticing music which was awesome after only a month practicing the song between half >> I'm with you what Um, thank you very much for bringing out the bids, going over all the information that we brought in to correct the network and the internet for our school system and then your presentation was easy to understand. So, thank you so much. brought up instrument. And I just thought it was so
093beautiful to see them interact. >> You can maybe tell him that tomorrow. It was just so beautiful to witness the way they work together. The other thing that I really appreciated was the statistics that were powerful. They're usually very high achievers. They understand time management. They understand hard work. They all have work ethics. You know, they're vying for chair positions and you know they memorize their chords. They're just dedicated, hardwork students. It teaches it teaches a lot of self-disipline. >> I agree. Just like sports do, but music and the arts actually use a different part of your brain that think about our music teachers. I remember when I was a senior in high school sitting I was on the second floor and came in and we were all like he's young to think you know
094I look at all the things that he has done for this whole says that it's truly a gift for a lot of students. A very good person. I do have the pleasure of see He does. >> All right. Thank you. Congratulations on your award. Um I got Mrs. Spoon over there helped me keep it on the over there. She's fantastic. >> Yeah, my office. I'm like, >> they're good. They're good secret keepers. >> Right. Oh, it Well, it worked. It worked. So, so your office is a great secret keeper. >> I know. And you know what's really weird about all of this? I usually know everything. >> And the thing I helped pull it off. I love it. >> I did not know about coming here. with the B app and I did not know
095about this. So, you guys are really getting good. >> Oh, see, I'm glad I pulled that off. >> Makes me nervous. >> And as Mr. Rogers said, um you go above and beyond and not just in regards to performing arts, but for all kids, as evidenced by what you did with our legislators who just don't seem to get it or know any better. And it wasn't just for our kids. It was for every kid in every district that's going to be affected by this. and we can't say thank you enough for that. Um the heart for kids lies with you and you pass it down to the rest of our staff and our family and we are so appreciative of that. Um secondly, Mr. Melon, thank you for your hard work and making it look
096easy for the rest of us. Um and uh to McCoy and and his over there a month that was the first thing I thought of actually when he came up here was I was like where is the sheet music? It was And I don't I know nothing of band and I'm like Dave down there. I I have athletes as children and so I know nothing. But I'm thinking where's the sheet music at? I did notice that. And he said a month and and from what I understand I think that's pretty much is that not a great feat to only take a month to learn that. I think that's pretty fantastic. Um, and Miss Roylander who just gives to the high school kids as an accompany. Don't ask me to say that word. Um, to just
097donate her time and her talents for the high school children. That's wonderful. And, uh, that's very much appreciative. And Miss Nelson, who's been here forever, uh, constantly just pulls off these fantastic performances with these kids. Six was phenomenal. I would totally see it again, but only if it was here. >> Only if it was here, right, Grace? And um she does a phenomenal job, not just with high school kids. Um when my daughter was young, she took on Whiz Revas and had I don't know how many Munchkins, but they were all elementary kids and there had have been 30 of them, my daughter being one. And I I'll never forget the looks on her face when they got real close to where the um pit is. Would always get real big. be afraid that the
098kids would fall in the pit. And um she just she takes on challenges and she's phenomenal at it. She pulls it off without a without a hitch. And um I'm so thankful that our kids have her, that they have our facilities, that they have the other um the orchestra, the band, um just the opportunities that we're able to provide here are like none other. And we just I'm just so thankful for that. So with that, I'm going to meeting. >> There we go.