Summer is still in full swing, but the Murray County Central School Board is already making decisions regarding the upcoming school year.
During the July 14 School Board meeting, Superintendent Joe Meyer presented the transportation contract for the school with Ludolph Brothers.
Meyer stated the school staff and Ludolphs came to an agreement in one meeting, which he called ‘very productive.’ The Ludolphs were looking for a long-term commitment, whereas the school needed to reduce transport days from 175 to 168. The contract that was approved Monday is for 6 years, with about $30,000 in cost reduction.
There was agreed upon increases of 1.5 percent for this year and 2 percent for next year. After that, negotiations for cost increases will be made in 2-year increments.
Contracts were renewed with several administrative and teaching staff, including contracts with High School Principal Jacob Scandrett and Elementary Principal Patrick Freeman.
Board accepted resignations from Davina Ethridge, Secondary English, and Caitlyn Harmsen, National Honor Society Advisor, along with resignation from Junior High Football Coach Scott Mansch.
Freeman gave an update on elementary school business, stating back-to-school workshops are being planned. Throughout workshop week, training will be completed for the LETRS program and on AI.
Scheduling and bus pick-up times are being finalized. Because of the extended school days, 5th and 6th grade students will make 5 classroom switches during the day, up from 4 switches in the past. Bus pick-ups will move to 3:05 p.m. at the elementary school on regular days, with parent pick up at 3:15.
Freeman said they will try that schedule for the first few days and see how it goes.
The Boosterthon Fun Run Fundraiser will take place this upcoming school year, with a goal of raising $40,000. Funds go toward the student elementary account, which helps cover costs for field trips and student enrichment activities.
At the high school, Scandrett said they are working on filling staff positions, as well as workshop week. The CEO program was reviewed, with three students representing MCC this year.
At the administrative level, Meyer said there were minimal policy additions or changes after the Legislative Special Session concluded. Summer cleaning and waxing of floors continues, and the LED lighting project should be completed by the first week of August. Portable AC units for rooms at Central have been ordered and will be installed.
The board approved a $10 per day raise for substitute teachers and paraprofessionals, and brought the hourly wages of kitchen subs up to $14.75.
Activity participations fees were raised from $60 to $75, with a family max of $375. Seasonal activity passes will also go up to $50 for students, $90 for adults and will be free for senior citizens.
A special election to increase individual student revenue for the operation referendum will take place November 4, 2025. If approved by the voters, revenue authorization per pupil would go from $625.69 to $1,310.69. The increase would be authorized for 10 years and does include an inflationary element. If there are no other elections scheduled for that day, the combined polling center would be at the Senior Center in Slayton.
According to Meyer, there has not been an increase in the operating referendum since 2006.
Donations were accepted from First Presbyterian Church, First Reformed Church, TC Energy, Jerry Braun, Murray County Future, Murray County Medical Center, MCC Academic Wing, Chandler Coop, Denver Foundation, Hadley Lions and Kim Holm Insurance.
