The Poplarville School District Superintendent recognized several administrators for their hard work at Monday’s School Board meeting.
Finance Director Samantha Sandifer received an award by the state auditor’s office for her work. Merritt said she has brought distinction to the district for a number of years and is proud of her accomplishment.
He also honored Sandifer, Board Clerk Laurie Darman and Administrative Assistant Conchetta Heath with special recognition for their dedication to the district.
Sandifer said the recognition is not just for the administrative staff but also for the teachers and students of the district.
In other news, Merritt said he is meeting with members of the Mississippi Board of Education Tuesday to discuss options concerning the merger of the Lumberton School District.
Recently, both the Lamar County and Lumberton School district’s school boards passed resolutions stating Lamar County would voluntarily absorb the Lumberton School District and continue operation of those schools for both Pearl River County and Lamar County residents.
Merritt said he hopes to speak with officials to “see if we can’t make our own proposal.”
Merritt expressed concern for Pearl River County residents who could be negatively affected if Lamar County ever decided not to keep Lumberton schools open.
In personnel matters, the Board voted to allow Poplarville School District Technology Coordinator Steve Seal to promote the District’s existing network manager to the position of network administrator in light of the previous district engineer’s resignation.
Seal said he would also hire an additional technician to help with the workload, but at a pay rate that would save the district about $15,000 annually.
The Board also voted to advertise for a district dyslexia therapist.
“This is something that our kids need and our District needs,” Merritt said.
In a separate matter, the Board accepted a bid of $10,240 for a hunting and fishing lease on 16th section land, pending a 30-day period where the current leaseholder has the opportunity to match the bid.
Due to some students intentionally and repeatedly damaging school electronic equipment, Merritt proposed the district adopt an equipment damage liability fine policy for any intentional damage.
Both students and staff would have to report any malfunction to their assigned equipment, outside of normal wear and tear, to the District’s technology coordinator, Merritt said.
The Board approved the new policy.
Before adjourning, the Board entered into executive session to discuss two student matters.
The next meeting will be held on May 8 at 6 p.m.