From the Mount Pleasant School Board Meeting

There was a full house for the Mount Pleasant School Board meeting Monday evening.  Three different people addressed the Board during Citizen Comments.  Mike Richtman shared his concerns that student participation in school activities is declining.  He urges the school district leadership to define what programs are about and assess the programs to make sure kids are having the best experience possible.

Sarah Johnson asked the Board if the monthly meetings could be live streamed and then could a link be posted so busy parents who can’t attend in person can access the meetings.

Senior Will Davidson spoke, thanking the School Board for allowing him four years ago to swim with the Burlington High School swim team. Davidson recently competed in the State Swim Meet.

Jessica Howard, once again, addressed the about her concerns with grade-alike elementary buildings saying the emotional factor is a bigger consideration that the academics or logistics and that such a change will affect many students emotionally. She had previously share her concerns at a recent Board work session.

The School Board tabled a vote on approval of a grade-alike elementary configuration until the March meeting.   Supt. John Henriksen made the recommendation that the board commit to the change and table the vote with the idea that the change wouldn’t happen until the fall of 2024. That would allow more time to plan and carry out the various aspects of change. Mr. Henriksen also said he has spent the last month meeting with  and listening to the concerns of staff and parents.   He said he feels the opportunities created by grade-alike buildings out weigh any concerns about logistics or social emotional affects.

After a public hearing on the proposed school calendar for next year, the School Board approved the calendar with the changes…..making every Friday an early out day and scheduling spring break for the second week of March.