Members of the Wetumpka High School Theater Guild were called to the front of the Elmore County Board of Education meeting last month — and for good reason.
“We won another best in show, which is two years in a row and three in the last five,” WHS guild director Jeff Glass said. “It is really an unprecedented run for this group right here.”
Glass noted the accomplishments of the group and included individual accolades, one of which was best set design.
“It is really remarkable because they do not have a proper theater,” Glass said. “They go around the state and are recognized for being good.”
In addition to recognizing student achievements, the board approved some technology upgrades throughout the district, including new laptops and other technology improvements.
Most of the $1.9 million expense is funded through federal e-rate programs. It will allow all devices to be similar, operate similar and be on up to date, faster and more secure networks.
The bid allows the purchase of 950 laptops for teachers and bookkeepers, 300 laptops for counselors and those working with IEPs, eight power user laptops, 75 LCD monitors and 200 docking stations.
Additionally, the board approved changing software for the transportation department that aids in updating bus routes as students and attendance zones move. The new software from Transfinder will save the board $6,000 per year, offers better customer service, more frequent updates and works better with maps from 911 and emergency management.
In other action the Elmore County Board of Education:
• Approved February financial statements.
• Approved minutes from the Feb. 17 meeting.
• Approved facility use agreements for Holtville and Stanhope Elmore high schools.
• Approved an athletic supplement for Millbrook Middle School track judging.
• Approved the personnel action recommendations.
• Approved a 17 Springs cooperative agreement.
• Approved a lease agreement with Alabama River Region Arts Center.
• Approved a new Child Nutrition Program bid for chicken with about a 40% savings over the previous bid.
• Tabled bids for a cargo van, pickup truck and truck body for maintenance.
