The Teutopolis Board of Education approved a new attendance policy at Monday’s meeting. The policy adds language that allows school administrators to require a doctor’s note if a student misses more than five days in a quarter. Administrators would be allowed to evaluate, on a case-by-case basis, if the policy needs to implemented. Teutopolis Superintendent Bill Fritcher said the goal of the policy is simply to keep kids in school.
The measure passed by a 5-1 vote. Board member Troy Ozenkocki voted no on the new policy, citing possible costs to families. The board did specify when the new policy would go into effect, but did say that parents would be notified ahead of time.
The board also approved the purchase of a new school bus for the price $76,196, possibly minus around $1,800 on the trade in of an older bus. The new bus is a 2016 model with 9,200 miles on it and will be purchased from Midwest Transit.
A bid of $8335 to Habing Furniture in the Unit Office. Discussion was also had on purchasing a new boiler for Teutopolis Junior High School. Superintendent Fritcher had received several possible options from Merz Heating and Air Conditioning, but was directed by the board to gather more quotes. There was also discussion on possibly financing upcoming roof maintenance for the Junior high and high school, however the board decided that it would be best to cover those projects from the district’s working cash. Bids could go out for the major roof repairs as early as next month.
The board also tabled further discussion on signing a contract with online platform provider Apptegy. The company provides web services and mobile apps for school districts. The board was receptive to the idea, but directed Superintendent Fritcher to gather more information on the company’s track record before making any decisions.