The Henryetta Public Schools Board of Education held its regular meeting on Monday, with a packed agenda addressing important district matters. Among the key topics discussed were staffing adjustments, updates on district facilities and approval of new class accounts.
— Department Reports & Maintenance Updates The meeting began with reports from various departments, providing updates on ongoing activ- ities and district progress. The Maintenance Director outlined current projects and highlighted efforts to improve school facilities, ensuring they remain safe and functional for staff and students alike.
— Indian Education Policies & Procedures Approved
One of the highlights of the meeting was a public hearing, where tribal officials and parents of Native American students were given the opportunity to discuss the school’s Impact Aid Program. Following the public hearing, the board reviewed and approved the Indian Education Policies and Procedures for the 2024-2025 school year, ensuring the district remains responsive to the needs of its Native American students.
— Financial Matters & Activity Accounts
Financial reports and encumbrances for both the 2023-2024 and 20242025 school years were reviewed and approved by the board. Minutes from previous meetings held in September and October were also approved without issue.
A notable discussion during the meeting revolved around activity funds and new class accounts. Superintendent Jason Price addressed a request from a parent to create a freshman class account, allowing students to begin fundraising earlier in their high school careers. This request was approved, with the understanding that similar accounts for sophomores might be added in the future to maintain fairness. Board members emphasized the importance of coordinating fundraising efforts to avoid competition between different grade levels.
The board also discussed classroom capacities, particularly for the younger grades, stressing the need to proactively address classroom sizes to ensure student and teacher safety. Board members agreed that these adjustments would help maintain an optimal learning environment across the district.
The board voted to change the class size for Pre-K from 30 to 22; and the number of first grade students from 80 to 100.
In addition, the board approved a proposal to hire two part-time custodians to help address staffing shortages in the custodial department. This decision was seen as a cost-effective and flexible solution compared to hiring a single full-time employee.
Under New Business, the board voted to approve a sophomore account for the district.
A recap of agenda items approved:
• Fundraisers for 24-25
• New Activity Sub-Accounts for 2425. Henryetta Education Foundation (HEF), Accessibility Balanced with Life Skills and Education (A.B.L.E.), and Ninth Grade account
• Activity Fun Fall Budgets Transfers: Football $5200.00, Softball $4,000, Cheer $2,000, Cross Country $2,500, MS Cheer $500 for a total of $14,200.
• Knight Vision as a Communication Platform for 24-25
• Class Size Compacity for the 24-25
• Surplus Item(s) from Maintenance Department
