By HOLLY GASKILL
Southern Wells’ first school board meeting was largely beginning-of-the-year formalities, but the board did take a moment to recognize the successes of the district’s STEM and FFA programs.
Makayla Bailey, STEM teacher, spoke about her classes with the board, highlighting the ways she’s implementing STEM building blocks for elementary students. For example, Bailey has students learn the fundamentals of coding through video game exercises.
To support the STEM program, Mary Solada of Paddlefish Solar presented a $1,000 donation to the program. Paddlefish Solar also donated $500 worth of general school supplies for the district.
Later on, members from the FFA showcased their knowledge of parliamentary procedure, running through a mock meeting discussing where the members should take a trip. Board member Andrew Pursifull said he had enjoyed seeing the students learn more about the process and was excited to have them back.
Given the opportunity to reorganize board leadership, the school board members largely retained their previous leadership and committee appointments. Todd Fiechter will continue as board president, Chad Roush as vice president and Delora Schneider as secretary.
Superintendent Trent Lehman recommended the board raise their annual stipend to the state’s maximum, $2,000, and the board unanimously agreed to maintain their $1,500 stipend.
Lehman later announced Sunday, June 2, as the Class of 2024’s commencement exercises.
Other items were:
• Briann Emshwiller was hired as an elementary special education instructional assistant.
• The board recognized donations from Blackburn Romey, Bluffton Dental Clinic and Family Ford of Bluffton for prom, and Wells Veterans Inc., Family Ford of Bluffton and K&R Gas Services.
• The physics class was permitted to travel to Cedar Point on May 6.
• The following fundraiser requests were approved: the Music Department’s fish and chicken dinner April 1-13 and the annual mattress sale Sept. 14.
holly@news-banner.com
