WESTBROOK, Minnesota (STPNS) --     WWG  —  Superintendent Loy Woelber talked about the boiler project. He said things are coming along very well, and Doug Lee is pouring the pads for the new boilers. An additional Capital outlay of $16,000 had to be approved for Asbestos removal from the old boilers and tile removal in the  main computer lab.

    Keela Bakken, of Harris Energy Services, will be at the July school board meeting to update the board on the boiler project.



    Woelber also told the board he had received correspondence from the state about recent legislation.

    He said, “tucked in one of the bills from the last legislative session was a mandate requiring all students between seventh and twelfth grades to have a first aid training class.” Woelber indicated it was not specific as to the actual requirements of the bill.

    Also the legislature approved schools to use Animal Science in place of Chemistry for fulfillment of graduation standards for science. Again the state has not come out with specific requirements for this initiative.

    Athletic Director Leo Theisen spoke to the board about adding another coach for volleyball. Only in recent years the board reduced the volleyball staff to two coaches due to lower numbers. Now the numbers are projected to be 33 for next season. Other sports have three coaches when the numbers get over 30 kids. The board voted to add a C squad coach.

    The board discussed whether to hire a part time Elementary Phy Ed coach, or possibly use elementary teachers.  Woelber noted there were three very well qualified teachers strong in Phy Ed  in the elementary.

    The board approved a resolution establishing dates for filing affidavits of candidacy for the Westbrook Walnut Grove #2898 School Board from July 31, 2012 to August 14, 2012 at 5 p.m. at the district office. Four board members are up for re-election: Gene Kronback, Marvin Kleven, Tim Helmer, and Bruce Jorgenson.

    Kerry Knakmuhs presented a quote for insurance on buildings and contents of the district. The quote was $55,558 which is 3 and 1/2 percent over last years policy. Knakmuhs told the board they could save about $1,500 a year if they raised their deductible from $1,000 to $2,500 a year. Looking at past experience Knakmuhs recommended they raise the deductible. The board voted unanimously to approve the quote with a $2,500 deductible.

    The board approved Technology Protection Measure and Internet Safety Policy and Procedures #524.

    The board renewed the superintendent’s contract. Noting it will continue with a 50-50 contract with Tracy Area Schools. Westbrook Walnut Grove will hold the contract with the  Tracy Area District reimbursing the Westbrook Walnut Grove District for the superintendents time.

    The board approved the hiring of a secondary Social Science instructor Jennifer Stevenson. Stevenson also has a drama background which will be helpful to Principal Bill Richards.

    The board approved a preliminary budget of expenditures $6,290, 821 and revenues of $5,698,403. Additions include Pay increases for next year, $550,000 boiler project and changing superintendents time from 40 percent to 50 percent. Additional revenues;

Small school formula, K-3 literacy funding.

    The board also approved a 2.85 staff average pay increase for 2012-2013 school year.

    The board  directed Woelber to obtain quotes for bread and milk products for 2012-2013 school year.

    The health and safety budget of $35,132.26 was approved for the 2012-2013 school year.