LISD Board considers plan for potential utility savings

High School principal Matt Garner gives report on the status of Leon High. Paul's Photos The school board met on February 9 with all members present. President Jimmy Beddingfield presided. Minutes were read and approved. Billy Bob Evans asked about the bus repair in Waco. Superintendent Jay Winn said both springs on the bus had broken and the bus was towed to Waco for repairs. Expenses were approved.

Quinn Tolbert from Schneider Electric presented the board with a plan where his company would inspect the buildings and recommend areas where by the school could save a large amount of their heating and air conditioning cost. His company would inspect windows, ceiling, and doors and make recommendations where they could be more efficient in conserving energy. His company has been to Crockett, Jasper, and other schools and has implemented an audit study and the schools have bought into the system. There is no up front cost and his company will guarantee energy savings of 10% or more. After several questions by board members the motion was made and passed that Leon ISD pursue this further.

Michelle Lee, a seventh and eighth grade science teacher, acted as a spokesperson for the Leon ISD teachers. The school board had asked the teachers to come up with a bonus plan. Lee said the teachers at Leon ISD had not had a raise in 3 years and teachers are the most important asset the school has and the teachers believe the school has the money to give bonuses to all the teachers. Lee said the school board can do it but will they do it. Winn said he and the board will consider their recommendation.

The principals gave reports for their campuses and they said attendance was off because of illnesses. The board accepted the resignation of Paula Spruell counselor secretary for 17 years. Winn said she has been an excellent employee and will be missed. The board went into Executive Session to discuss personnel issues.