The West Central Valley School Board met in regular session Wednesday.

Board Member Christine Stiles informed the rest of the Board that she will be leaving the Board following the July meeting. After the meeting, Stiles told Raccoon Valley Radio that the departure is due to a move from Dexter to Stuart. Since the Board structure is divided into residential districts, she would not be able to keep her seat as would a member “at-large.” She also said she has enjoyed her time on the Board and is disappointed it has to end early. The Board will have the option to appoint a new member before a special election would be necessary.

During the meeting the Board revisited parking lot resurfacing options at Dexter Elementary. Board President Harry Light was in favor of the concrete option, as he thought it would last longer. However, the majority of the Board felt the approximately $10,000 in savings for asphalt was too much to ignore. The Board approved asphalt resurfacing for $35,181.25 without tree removal. There is a separate option to remove the trees for $1,330. The Board also approved a 65- passenger bus purchase from Thomas for $83,368, a van sale for $1000, and the sale of two freezers for $50 total.

During the meeting the Board also heard several presentations, including: district insurance options from the Iowa Association of School Board (IASB) Safety Group and the Iowa Public School Insurance Program (IPSIP), the Robotics Team, and FFA students. During public forum, former West Central Valley High School Principal Debbie Wilson urged to Board to consider constructing an auditorium at the high school. An auditorium project was planned ten years ago, but was ultimately scrapped due to financial constraints. First Grade teacher Lori Cook also thanked the Board for their dedication in honor of Iowa School Board Awareness Month.

Incoming senior Jacob Jones was also present as he was recently selected as the student body liaison to the Board.