Du Quoin Dist. 300 board transfers Denise Hirsch to DHS front office vacancy

The Du Quoin Board of Education will transfer Du Quoin High School athletic secretary Denise Hirsch from the athletic director's office to fill the vacancy in the high school's front office created by the retirement of Patty James.

It was one of a handful of employment actions taken by the board on Thursday evening.

The board employed Robin Kaufmann as Middle School Volleyball Coach for the 2012-2013 school year.

The Board employed the following as 21st Century before and after school program personnel: teacher Larry Alvarado and aides Judy Beckham, Robin Roach, Michelle Bradley, and Cindy Heape, The board also authorized the administration to employ additional personnel as program needs increase.

Board members Day, McPherson, Rice, Valier, Vancil and Ward were present at the 6:30 p.m. meeting. Member Brock was absent.

The Superintendent shared the recognition of students and staff as submitted by the building principals.

Dr. Roger Pirtle, a parent in the district, spoke to the board expressing a concern with a change in the requirements for Volunteer Foundation Academic Awards program for students in grades 4-8.

The program is sponsored by the Volunteer Foundation (formerly the Rotary Club) which sets the criteria for the selection of students for program awards. Dr. Pirtle felt the District should explore another program to reward academic achievement of all students. The administration was directed by board president Larry Valier to examine this idea for further consideration.

Paul Lunsford, district architect, gave an update on the progress of the final phase of the high school construction project. All of the original building has now been demolished. All of the concrete footings and floors have been formed and poured for the area that will include administrative offices, nurse's office, etc. have been poured. The last of the demolition debris will be removed in the coming days. The last of the work is scheduled for completion by May 1 with a possible dedication during the week of spring District 300 Foundation banquet. After discussion of the project, the board approved the payment of bills and submissions for the project including temporary financing of final phase.

The Superintendent shared with the board preliminary information regarding the 2013-2014 school year calendar. At this time the DEA calendar committee is formulating three calendar options that will be utilized in survey of the district staff.

Dr. Kelly shared items related to school safety and security the board will need to consider. The district routinely updates security procedures, software and access plans in the district.

Board president Larry Valier appointed himself and board members Vancil, Rice and McPherson to the board negotiation team for upcoming collective bargaining sessions with the DEA. After an executive session, the board adjourned at 8:15 p.m.