WRV receives $20,000 in grant

The White River Valley School Board received a grant check from the Greene County Foundation in support of its machining program Thursday evening.

Cam Trampke, executive director of the Greene County Foundation, presented the $20,000 check, stating the organization is pleased and excited to see the program starting in Greene County.

“I think we’ve all known for many years that vocational training has been somewhat limited, and with the demands in the workforce today, this is just the kind of thing that needs to be happening,” Trampke said. “I’m thrilled to see WRV stepping out there and starting the program and getting the job done.”

WRV superintendent Bob Hacker stated the board will continue to search for programs for the betterment of students.

“I certainly thank the Foundation, but I thank the board for having the vision and stepping a little outside the box in order to take care of our students,” Hacker said. “I appreciate the support of the community.”

The board also received presentations from the boys’ and girls’ cross country teams regarding their seasons and preparations for the semi-state competition, as well as members of the upcoming musical “Grease.”

The board heard a presentation from WRV High School principal LeAnne Kelley and youth minister Tyler Hodson regarding the Teen Life Program, which will aim to counsel students through conversations amongst themselves. The free program will last for eight weeks and meet once per week. No further action was taken, with Hacker stating he wanted the board to have more time to discuss and a decision is anticipated to be made at the November meeting.

In other business, the board:

• Discussed the need for snow removal bids for the high school campus. Bids can be made to Hacker at the administration office.

• Heard a report from the programs committee. The committee discussed the demise of the acceptance of the general education diploma, which will reportedly affect 257 schools across the state. Hacker stated the schools will eventually be evaluated based off of overall performance and receive federal grades as a result.

• Heard an update from the high school grades committee, which met for the first time this month. Concerns were brought forth by committee members, which Hacker stated he will research and take back to the committee.

• Held discussion regarding the 2018-2019 calendar. No action was taken.

• Approved of renewing life insurance from Principal Group. There was no rate increase this year.

The WRV School Board will next meet Thursday, Nov. 16 at 7 p.m. at WRV Middle School.