In other business, there was much discussion on a wind energy project that is under consideration by the school board. The board held a work session prior to their meeting to interview design criteria developers and to discuss the project. A sequence of 12 action steps was outlined if the board decides to pursue the project. No action was taken on moving forward on the matter.

Also in other business, elementary principal Tony Brose thanked the board for proposing the addition of another section at the kindergarten and second grade levels. He said the teachers and parents are appreciative of the smaller class sizes. He added that the transition went smoothly as the new sections were added.

The board officially approved the transfers of Sally Sharpe from guidance to teach second grade, and Kellis Gutwein from Title I to kindergarten.

The board accepted the resignation from Erin Couch from the Cooperative School Services, and approved the employment of Gina Hierlmeir as eighth-grade volleyball coach and Dawn Sutton as Title I instructional assistant. Maternity leave requests were approved for Michelle Potter from Cooperative School Services, and Kellis Gutwein.

High school principal Don Street reported on homecoming activities, the Sept. 15 health clinic at the school, and progress reports to be sent home Sept. 17. He announced that Thomas Proud was named volunteer of the year in Jasper County. He helped at a Rensselaer nursing home during the summer.

Middle school principal Kay Beasey reported that the sixth graders has a “fabulous time” at their camping trip. She added that the staff has been meeting to complete its PL 221 School Improvement Plan.

Mellon reported to the board on the progress to repair the school track. A company will bore the track in different locations to determine the condition of the base.

Field trip requests were approved for the FFA to attend the national convention in Indianapolis; for the student council members to attend an event at Garrett High School; and for the WCHS choir to perform at the Francesville Fall Festival.

Conference requests were approved for Kristen Mellon and Ben Modlin to attend the 2010 Indiana ACTE & ETEI state convention; and for Don Street to make AdvancEd district visits in Ishpeming, Mich. And at East Noble High School.