Following discussion, the board voted to approve the following purchases:

• The request to purchase student iPads and cases to replace those that were purchased about four years ago, with newer models.  
• The request to purchase new lab computers to replace those that were purchased about six years ago, with newer models.
• The request to purchase two International/Collins school buses totaling $165,958, including trades. 

In other business, Foster presented a quote for elementary school roof drainage improvements. Insley Roofing surveyed the situation and proposed down spouts to tie into the existing drains to draw water way from the building. The project would cost $28,700.  After discussion, the board voted to approve the quote as presented.

In his superintendent's report, Foster gave a legislative update – Hold Harmless, Performance Awards, Consolidation, ISTEP, and changing the “Rule of 85” were all discussed.

Foster also reported that the building project continues and is moving forward. Classrooms are switching again and the restrooms in the Middle School/High School are moving forward. Student storage at the elementary school was discussed.

The superintendent gave a financial report for the period ending Jan. 31. All funds had positive balances. Foster answered questions about claims. 

The board approved the following personnel matters:

• Gerry Pratt was for a Middle School Wrestling Assistant position.   
• Abigail Hanson to fill an open instructional assistant position at the Elementary School.  
• Rachel Foster, Elementary School Instructional Assistant, submitted her resignation. 
• Cheryl Rausch, Bus Driver, submitted a request for an unpaid leave.   

High school teacher Jeremy Wegner submitted an out of state field trip request to take his physics class on a tour of the Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory in Batavia, Ill. This physics laboratory specializes in high-energy particle physics. The school board approved the request.

Varsity wrestling coach Cody Hook submitted an overnight field trip request take one wrestler to semi-state competition in East Chicago and state competition (if he advances) in Indianapolis.  After discussion the board approved the request.

The first reading on School Board Policy Section 612, Free and Reduced Lunch Second Audit, and Section 613, Fixed Asset Capitalization was presented for discussion. The second reading and approval will be at the March meeting.

Susie Schultz gave a brief description of her job responsibilities as instructional coach. 

Principal Reports:

Jill Collins presented upcoming events at the elementary school:  Pennies for Patients; RIF read-in, a school-wide convocation, and family fitness are all planned.

Middle school principal Ryan Dickinson reported that high school councelor Mrs. Daily held freshman orientation. Middle school counselor Mr. King will now meet with every 8th grade student to help prepare them for their freshman year. Data days were reported, along with assessment dates and program updates.

High school principal Rick DeFries gave committee meeting updates. The high school is working on a Facebook page to share and promote activities at the high school. High school activities were also shared: wrestlers to sectional, regional, and semi-state, and girls’ basketball – Winamac is hosting regional. Alliance Bank Junior Board of Directors recently held a food drive.

Board Comment:  Mr. Wegner was commended for taking students to Illinois. Everyone was thanked for their patience concerning ISTEP. Committee members were shared and thanked – Technology Committee:  Mr. Rausch, Mrs. Johnston, Mr. Bennett, Mrs. Heims, and Mr. Foster; Bus Committee:  Mr. Armstrong, Mr. Tetzloff, Mr. DeMarco, and Mr. Foster.  Mrs. Schultz was thanked for her work.