By ROWENA PLETT

Staff writer

Because of a large increase in students enrolled in the Kansas Online Learning Program, the official enrollment at Centre Unified School District is 341.

At least 85 students were enrolled in the virtual school program on Sept. 20, compared with 25 students one year ago. Total head count one year ago was 276.

Richard Idleman, director of operations for IServe, reported on updates at the football field. New perimeter posts and ropes have been installed, and goal posts and the flagpole have been repainted. He announced that three fire alarms were vandalized on Sept. 30.

Idleman said a Kansas patrol officer told him that U.S. 77 is often used for drug runs between Junction City and Wichita and that 13 drug busts had occurred within a one-mile radius of the school in recent months.

This led to a discussion about school security. Idleman suggested installing a new key system and security cameras. The issue will be revisited at the November meeting.

After a discussion about problems with a mower purchased in spring from Dixon Corporation, the board approved a motion directing Superintendent Jerri Kemble to write a letter to the manufacturer requesting a replacement.

Linda Ogden met with the board regarding issues with alcohol in the district.

“Do you want to be a part of finding a solution?” she asked.

She suggested a multi-pronged approach would be most effective and could include handing out fliers to parents and youth, taking a community survey, and bringing speakers into the community.

“It seems like changing the views of parents would be most effective,” Steve Jirak said.

The board decided to work toward forming a diverse group to serve as a task force in addressing the problem.

FFA students Theo Kassebaum and Carrie Carlson requested approval of an end-of-the-year trip to Worlds of Fun in Kansas City for members who participate actively in FFA activities during the year. The board approved the trip and the use of a school bus.

Mark Heiser was appointed as chief negotiator on the negotiations committee. He will be assisted by Jeff Bina and Terry Deines.

The board met with Kemble in executive session for 10 minutes to discuss personnel. No action was taken following the session.

Kemble announced that Theo Kassebaum was honored Sept. 28 at a banquet in McPherson as a Kansas Honors scholar. Shane Methvin also received the honor but was unable to attend the banquet.

Kemble announced a school assembly at 2 p.m. Thursday. Military personnel who served on the USS Eisenhower will give a presentation.