District plans to receive feedback about what graduates need

An upcoming program designed to ensure students are graduating with skills to be successful was one of the topics Tuesday during a relatively short meeting of the Webb City R-7 School Board.

Allison Pope, assistant superintendent of instructional services, said parents and former students are being surveyed for their opinions about the education provided by the district.

And on the morning of Friday, Sept. 27, business and community members are invited to attend a feedback and discussion session about what graduates need to be ready to join the workforce or for college.

The program, Portrait of a Graduate, will be held from 7:45 to 8:45 a.m. Friday, Sept. 27, at the Webb City Student Services Center, 1000 N. Webb St.

Pope also discussed the upcoming professional development day for staff on Friday, Sept. 20. No classes will be held.

The board will hold an annual special meeting at 5:15 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 22, to review assessment data and receive presentations from staff members representing each building.

In other action, the board:

• Approved a cost estimate of $35,000 to move the new storm shelter at Mark Twain Elementary School and provide ADA access. The current location is considered too close to power lines.

• Was informed by Josh Flora, assistant superintendent of business operations, that the city is requiring the sidewalk in front of property the district has purchased on Madison Street across from Webb City High School to be fixed. He added that the city is offering to pay half the cost.

• Was informed that construction of the batting cage and storage structure at the softball field is nearly complete, and that remodeling construction is underway at the bus barn.

• Approved the district’s annual assessment plan.

• Approved the local compliance plan for special education, based on the state model.

• Approved the amended fiscal year 2024 budget.

• Accepted the resignation of Allie Hampton as a school psychologist. It was explained that she has been driving to Kentucky on weekends because of family needs. She was waiting to resign until Kayla Cullers, director of special education, could find a replacement for her.

• Offered a contract to Laura Weaver, under the critical shortage policy, to fill the open position left by Allie Hampton. She has more than 30 years of experience in education and was most recently the director of special services for Diamond.