Board changes bus policy

The Wahkiakum School District Board of Directors acted on a variety of issues at its monthly meeting October 20, including backing off on a restrictive policy about non-team members riding buses to extra-curricular events.

In September, the board heard reports about the practice in which children of coaches or friends of staff or the bus driver accompanied the teams on bus trips. The board said the practice should end.

However, last Wednesday, three bus drivers presented a case for allowing the practice. They said drivers need flexibility to bring spouses and children along. Restricting access would mean that some of those drivers wouldn't be able to make the extra-curricular trips, they said.

"If only those without children can go, there is a burden on the other drivers," said Ryan Frank.

After discussing the matter, directors agreed that non-team passengers could ride buses after drivers or coaches got approval from supervisors.

"If problems arise, we'll reconsider," said Superintendent Bob Garrett.

Theresa Libby, principal of Wendt Elementary and Thomas Middle schools, reported that students had earned $7,400 by selling gift wrap. About half of the money stays in the school and is used to pay for the Missoula Children's Theater, playground improvements, and Pacific Science Center visits.

A math curriculum team has started meeting to look for ways to meet the needs of students, she said. They will examine a curriculum that the district may adopt in the future.

The elementary and middle schools will hold parent conferences November 17, 18 and 19, she said.

Wahkiakum High School Principal Dan Casler reported that the school is going to install a new scoreboard in the gymnasium. The scoreboard will cost around $12,500, he said, and he hopes it will be installed by the first boys' basketball game.

The high school will hold an assembly November 1 called Street Smart. Sponsored by Anheuser-Busch, it focuses on prevention of drunk driving by teens.