Written by Assistant Editor Jerry Lindsey

The Monday, December 18, 2023, edition of the Morrison School District Board of Directors offered a presentation of projects that would potentially upgrade the curriculum and improve facility security.

Members of the Morrison Alumni Association, Tonia Prombo and Alex Williams, presented a proposal for building a greenhouse on the south lawn of Morrison High School.  This 14’ X 48’ glass structure would be utilized for education of Greenhouse Management, Horticulture, Floriculture, Food Science, Hydroponics, and Aquaculture. Management of the fundraising projects available with such a facility would be assisted by the FFA Alumni Association. Due to grant funding request eligibility, a Board decision to move forward must be made prior to Sunday, December 31, 2023.  If approved, construction would begin in the spring of 2024 at an estimated cost between $25K- to-$35K. Most of the funding will be supplied by grants and FFA Alumni fundraising projects.

In an additional presentation, Bob Sondgerroth presented the cost and effects of securing all school classrooms with “Flip-Lok” products. Such secondary, locking devices offer each room a security device to prevent the intrusion of uninvited visitors who could threaten the occupants. Each security device carries a cost of the product (approximately $250) plus installation, per door. No purchasing decision was made by the Board of Education.

In other action:

Resignations Accepted: a) Dolce Eastlick (Paraprofessional at MHS); b) Hilary McDearmon (long-term sub at MHS); c) Sarah Perry (Paraprofessional at Northside Elementary.)

Hires Announced: Emma Sitzmore (8th Grade Girls Basketball Coach.)

Action motions unanimously approved:

  1. a memo of understanding with the Morrison Support Staff Association regarding the use of sick leave
  2. approval of the 2023 District Tax Levy
  3. approval of the updated District Risk Management Plan
  4. creation of an activity fund for the MHS Madrigal production
  5. hiring of Tonia Prombo as 5th Grade Girls Basketball Coach for the 2023-24 season.

The next Morrison District School Board Meeting is scheduled for Monday, January 22, 2024, at 6:30 p.m.