Okawville School Board Hears FFA Report
By Jill Moon
The West Washington County School Board met on July 23.
FFA Advisor Joshua Berg presented an annual report to the board that cited a seven student increase over the year before.
Berg also reported an increase in female participation which he thought, “a good thing,” and that 2 agriculture classes counted as science credits.
Berg’s handouts included a report from the Illinois State Board of Education that cited Agriculture as IL’s largest employer.
Under the umbrella term of Agriculture are the fields of Animal Sciences, Environmental Services, Food Services and Natural Resources, to name a few.
Berg also reported a $2000 grant separate from other school grants to buy supplies solely for the agriculture program. He also reported 2 classes in his program that qualified for science credits.
The board approved the bills paid for the month which included the purchase of 10 golf bags for each golf team.
Okawville resident Tony Behrman gave a short presentation asking for the board’s approval of a pool which would cross the school’s property line by up to 6 feet. His property is behind the school. Board members agreed they needed to look at the area in question. Superintendent
Fuhrhop said he would research the liability issues and put the issue on next month’s agenda.
Fuhrhop reported that the old concession stand had received some new paint and looked much better. Board member Brad Luechtefeld presented an estimate for extensive repairs the board thought unnecessary and extravagant.
Board members discussed other ways to fix it up and anchor it. They hoped this would satisfy their neighbors and put an end to further complaints. Board member Kurt Heckert asked about putting up a white vinyl fence to enclose materials needed such as bagged limestone, needed for maintenance during certain times of the year.
The much anticipated green house is ready to be installed, with actual construction beginning before school starts.
In his report Superintendent Fuhrhop said the resurfacing of the gym floors would be finished. Registration days are: Tuesday, August 4th from 8:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. and Wednesday, August 5th from noon-7:00 p.m. The first day for students is Monday, August 17th, 8:05 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Lunch will be served.
Superintendent Fuhrhop reported that the gym floors would be resurfaced and the stripes repainted in the parking lot.
