In a busy meeting on January 13, the Roland Public Schools Board of Education approved the date for the sale of building bonds, made new hires and renewed contracts, and were given updates on the aftermath of a December fire.

The board began the meeting by making significant personnel decisions, including the hiring of a new maintenance director, Halston Tabor, and two new staff members, Jerry Mayes as a maintenance worker and Jasmine Wyers as a school-based social worker.

In addition, the board approved contract renewals for Superintendent Lori Wiggins and Assistant Superintendent Angie Goode, and accepted the resignation of maintenance worker, Robert Giesler.

The board approved the upcoming sale of $1.095 million in General Obligation Building Bonds, setting the date for Feb. 10. This decision marks a crucial step in the district’s ongoing efforts to fund new construction proj- ects and upgrades.

Additionally, the board approved a variety of financial items, including encumbrances for the General Fund, Building Fund, and Co-Op Fund, as well as monthly activity reports. A purchase request for a district truck was also approved.

Superintendent Wiggins provided an update on the Dec. 26, 2024, fire that destroyed several buses, noting that the district is moving forward with the insurance claim. The board authorized Wiggins to proceed with purchasing replacement buses.

The board approved a new policy that prohibits tobacco use on district property. Additionally, they granted approval for the Roland Youth League to use the middle school cafeteria for baseball sign-ups later this month and in February.

The board also was informed of a “307 request” for Alternative Education from the auditor to adjust the district allocation to the full allocation of $42,714, in conjunction of receiving the actual form from Wilson, Dotson and Associates. The board members voted to unanimously approve the agenda item.

Following a motion, the board unanimously voted to table the Board of Energy audit report until next month’s meeting.

Superintendent Wiggins also provided updates on district activities and the community’s response to the recent winter storm. The meeting closed with the presentation of certificates and gifts to the board members in recognition of their service.

This news story is based on the unofficial minutes from the board meeting and could be in error if the minutes are changed prior to adoption.