Two expelled from PSD

By Staff, 10/13/21 2:25 PM

PRESCOTT – Two students were expelled from the Prescott School District at the October meeting of the Prescott School Board Tuesday night.

Both students were expelled for a calendar year for having drugs on campus.

In other business, the board got good news from the food service department. Students at Prescott Elementary School now have the choice between five entrees for lunch. Two are hot, one is a sandwich, one is salad and there’s a new “Wolfpack” option similar to lunchables. The staff uses the sealer machine purchased last year for it. The “Wolfpack” contains ingredients allowing students to make their own pizza.

For junior and senior high students, there are nine entrees, with a new salad bar and more options for fresh fruits and vegetables. The district is trying to give students in grades 10-12 more to eat, while still following the federal nutrition guidelines. So far, the board was told, the feedback has been positive. Athletes are also getting snacks after school each day.

All the news wasn’t good, though, as the panel was informed it’s hard to get foam trays. Paper plates are being used to help make up the difference. The board was told cafeteria staff members would be going to the McRae School to see if there are any usable hard plastic trays there. Those found in good condition will be taken to PES and PJHS. Buying these trays isn’t an option as they’re $3 to 45 each, if they can be found.

Additionally, the cafeteria’s ice machine has broken down, with a new one ordered. Ice is being brought over in 50-gallon trash bags from the athletic department, with drinks stored in coolers.

The board was told even if trays can be found at McRae, someone will have to be hired to wash them, and it will be hard to find someone willing to work three hours a day.

Getting back to the positives, the board was told the cafeteria is selling about $500 in snacks daily and because of a new program where students eating both breakfast and lunch each day have their name entered in a drawing for a $1 snack. This has generated about 20 more meals.

The board was informed the district’s minority recruitment plan is in place. This is mandated and must be addressed annually. Superintendent Robert Poole said the district has a mentoring program pairing new teachers with experienced ones to help keep the new ones, and para professionals are being hired and encouraged to get certified so they can become teachers. Turnover, though, he said, is an issue.

The board addressed the mask issue and decided the current policy should remain in place, at least until it’s known how making masks optional works in the Nevada School District. At this time, only one person has tested positive for COVID.