By Julie Johansen
The October Emery School Board meeting began with a work session, where the declining enrollment town hall meetings were discussed. The center method seemed to be the most favored method, though other options were discussed.
Four elementary principals from Orangeville, Castle Dale, Huntington and Cleveland were in attendance. Their main request was that a decision be made as quickly as possible to allow the teachers and staff to move on with the current year and prepare for any coming changes.
Board members also questioned Tracy Rowley, Emery School District Transportation Supervisor, about busing situations. He replied that it would do away with several courtesy runs and probably increase busing funds.
Board president Tracey Johnson began the regular session by welcoming Trent Huntsman from Westland Construction to give his update on the construction at Emery High and Ferron Elementary. He stated that they are closing out on the project at Ferron Elementary as it has been occupied for two months now. They are just working on a “punch-list” as requests are made.
At Emery High, the north west parking lot is ready for asphalt and should be covered next week. Phase two is well underway and much of the underground work is done. Concrete slabs are beginning to be poured as materials are arriving daily.
Johnson then informed the board about the Data Privacy and Security Risk Analysis. His report showed the tech inventory, data access, interactive TV and rewiring of all the district buildings. He showed how thousands of attacks hit the security system each minute. Johnson assured the board of the firewalls and backup programs installed in case of a disaster loss.
Next, a Summative Testing Review was presented by district supervisors Yvonne Jensen, J.R. Jones and Doug Mecham in which data was reported for the 2021-22 school year. The grades for the schools included six “C’s,” three “B’s” and one “A.” These grade were based on achievement and CTE scores.
ACT scores were also reported. The national average ACT score was 20.8 and Utah’s average score was 20.6. Emery High averaged 19.2 and Green River High’s average was 17.1. Higher enrollment scores need to be at least 24. These scores are considered for improvement and data analysis. The Teacher and Student Success Act (TSSA) framework review was also reported to the board by district supervisors. Each school’s plan was read and explained. All schools seem to be using funds effectively.
The following names were approved for hiring following backgrounds checks and approvals: Kalani Rhodes, kindergarten aide at Huntington Elementary; Elysa Suwyn, PE aide at Huntington Elementary; Toni Kropf, part-time custodian at Canyon View Middle School; Kadie Allred, girls’ basketball at San Rafael Middle School; Rachel Hallows, girls’ basketball assistant coach for Emery High; and Kayden World, wrestling assistant at Emery High.
A principal report was given by Jenny Gagon, Canyon View Middle School Principal. She stated that at a recent school retreat, the faculty and staff set four goals that they are working on at the school. They include engaging students in more reading, using the Alex program at school only to increase math scores and mastery, working to increase attendance to 90% (currently 88%), and working on low achievement grades and mastery. They want students to be proud of themselves. She was assisted by language arts instructor Ashley Hawkins.
To conclude, Chandler Peacock requested permission to take six to eight students to New Mexico in November for the auto shop competition. The action was not on the agenda, meaning no vote was taken, but the item will be addressed at the meeting next month.
