The Columbia School District held its monthly school board meeting June 4, with discussions gearing toward the upcoming school year.
The list of proposed school board meetings was presented, but no decision was made. However, the next three meetings have been scheduled for June 25, July 12 and July 28.
The board approved new logos for the school district.
First Southern Bank received the approval for the depository bid.
The dress code policy for the district was revised to include: “Beginning with the 2020-2021 school year, approved Wildcat wear may be worn on any day.”
The remainder of the dress code is the same as previous years with polo-style or button down shirt in solid white, navy or black.
Only approved Wildcats hoodies may be worn for students in kindergarten through eighth grade. From ninth grade through 12th grade, no hoodies are allowed. Pants and shorts must be khaki (tan), navy or black. Shorts cannot be higher than three inches above the knee.
Chip Bilderback was approved to transfer from the athletic coordinator to the director of activities for the upcoming year. Filling his spot as athletic coordinator is Michael Novinski.
Hires approved include:
- Timothy Carter, part-time chief operations officer;
- Karen Crum, Columbia High English teacher;
- Stephanie Kerley, Columbia Primary special education teacher;
- Rachel Stogner, Columbia Elementary fifth-grade teacher;
- Sherry (Elizabeth) Anderson, Columbia High teacher assistant;
- Deborah (Lynn) Hayden, Columbia High guidance secretary/bookkeeper.
Resignations approved include Kelsey Branch, Jefferson Middle secretary/receptionist, and Deanna Knowles, Columbia High English teacher, both effective May 22.
On Tuesday, Columbia High Principal Braxton Stowe posted on the school’s social media page a letter regarding graduation that stated: “Due to these current guidelines, we cannot make an official announcement for the Class of 2020 commencement ceremony scheduled for Friday, June 26, at 8 p.m. at Gardner Stadium."
It further said, “It is our sincere hope that the outdoor capacity limit will be lifted, and we can host our graduation ceremony on June 26.”
The state is under a "Safe Return" order that only allows 100 people at an outdoor gathering with proper social distancing because of the continued threat of the coronavirus. The order is set to expire on June 15, but Gov. Tate Reeves could extend it.
