The Guthrie Center School Board met Monday in regular session.

The meeting began with Superintendent Dennis McClain signifying that May is School Board Appreciation Month.

“Thank you for all your guys do, especially this year. We know it’s been a trying year and a lot things you guys have had to make tough decisions about and stay informed on.”

The Board then approved the recommendation by Guthrie County Public Health Director Jotham Arber to make wearing masks against COVID-19 optional for the rest of the school year and to continue to provide a virtual option for board meetings. It was also mentioned that a vaccine clinic will be happening at the elementary, as well as the middle/high school for those 12 and older to receive a vaccine on May 20th. A link to schedule an appointment can be found below. McClain mentioned when asked about providing remote options for families for next school year, he said they will review that topic over the summer and have a recommendation before the start of the next school year.

The Board then tabled its decision on renewing the district insurance policies, pending finalized cost estimates. They also approved an amendment this year’s calendar, as well as next year’s calendar, to include early dismissal at 11:30am for all students on the last day of school. Additionally, the Board heard a technology update, approved the list of this year’s high school graduates with 50 and a 1.91-percent increase in salaries for both classified staff and administration.