By Steve Stiffler
The Engadine Consolidated Schools Board of Education addressed financial, security, and transportation matters at its May meeting as the district prepares for the end of the school year.
During his report, Engadine Superintendent Andrew Alvesteffer said approximately $39,000 in kitchen funds must be spent on cafeteria related improvements, while another $53,000 designated for security and mental health initiatives must be used by the end of September.
Planned kitchen upgrades include replacing gas ovens, purchasing new tables and vending equipment, installing a code compliant drinking fountain, and potentially installing a new cafeteria floor. Security upgrades would focus primarily on expanding the camera system throughout the school with 16 additional cameras to improve coverage around playgrounds and blind spots. Remaining funds could be used for door replacements.
The district recently had two school buses out of service for repairs, which prompted the board to authorize the purchase of a fifth bus to modernize its fleet.
“We were in danger that we weren’t even going to be able to pick up kids with two buses and three routes,” Alvesteffer said.
With new emissions standards scheduled to take effect in 2027, it was felt that purchasing a new bus now would allow the district to avoid transitioning immediately to newer engine requirements that could increase mechanical issues and maintenance costs.
“I recommend that we don’t wait and be the new guy and find out that the new emissions law is absolutely terrible,” board member Jason Koerner said.
The district currently operates two 2019 buses and two 2022 buses, with delivery of the new vehicle expected to take seven to nine months.
The board formally recognized bus driver Becky Freed with a card of thanks for busing students to nearly all sports activities during a time when the district was short on drivers.
“Our sports busing program existed this year largely because of this woman,” Alvesteffer said.
The board also approved spending up to $17,000 for a new lawn tractor and up to $20,000 to complete the football field bathroom project. Alvesteffer said he is pursuing a $10,000 Greymont grant to offset construction costs.
