NEWELL-The school calendar for 2024-2025 was brought to the attention of Newell School Board members at the most recent meeting held December 11, 2023. Tentatively, school will begin August 19, 2024 and end with graduation May 24, 2025. Because Christmas falls on a Wednesday in 2024, the Christmas holiday vacation will possibly be two weeks, from December 23 to January 2. There will be more discussion before the final calendar is approved.
Superintendent Kirkegaard made a proposal to encourage those who are considering to not return to the 2024-2025 school year to notify the school board by February 2024. Teachers who are in at least their fourth teaching contract year for the Newell District and not planning on returning for 24/25 SY will be paid a stipend of $1,000 if notification of resignation is received prior to February 2, 2024.
Superintendent Kirkegaard emphasized that the proposal was not encouraging anyone to resign. He explained that by accepting early notification, rehiring would be a more efficient process.
Support staff who are at least in their fourth year and are not planning on returning will also be paid a stipend of $500 if notification is received prior to February 2, 2024.
Kirkegaard also mentioned the possibility of a four percent increase in State Aid to schools.
The Board discussed at length an outstanding bill from Woebler Excavating from work done earlier this year. More than $76,000 has been paid toward the work done on the west corner of the high school building, but an additional amount of $20,775 was billed for work that needed done to complete the project. Another estimate of $6,100 was presented, but not billed as such.
The Board members approved the additional $20,775 since it was invoiced. However, pending more information, the $6,100 estimate will wait until a later date for whether it is approved.
Fourth grade teacher, Philamer Avila, resigned Monday effective immediately. Michelle Stockard will take over as fourth grade teacher.
Newell School is still in need of a Middle School Boys Basketball coach and a Middle School Track coach.
At the present time, fall football for the high school is being discussed. Newell has had difficulty recruiting enough students for a team. Steve Schoenfish told the Board that he will continue to pursue the right course for the football season.
Interview dates for superintendent were tentatively set for December 22 or 28, awaiting notification of the superintendent candidates. A special Board meeting will be called on one of the dates.
