The Anderson School District One Board, with a bare minimum quorum of four members, recognized students with perfect ACT scores, heard an update on the building program, and authorized the re-funding of bonds that could save the District $3.2 million.
Forty-one students from across the District were recognized for having perfect scores on Math and ELA.
During her instruction report, Jane Harrison, Superintendent of Instruction, recognized each of them. Harrison also reported that the District had a 91.9 graduation rate, which already exceeds the state goal of 90 percent by 2035. District One has met that goal for the past five years, she said.
School Report Cards recently released show the District has nine excellent schools, two good and two average. The District’s three middle schools all received an excellent rating for the first time, with Palmetto Middle receiving the excellent rating for the first time. Palmetto Middle was also recognized for being a “School To Watch”.
District One ranked third in the state for grades 3-8 on SC Ready ELA and Math scores. The District was fourth in the state on Science and second in the state on Social Studies, Harrison said.
Palmetto Middle Principal Jason McCauley and Spearman Elementary Principal Jason Lesley were also recognized by the board for recent successes at their schools.
Five new teachers were hired with open contracts. Superintendent Robbie Binnicker said the District was fortunate to be able to make the hires before there are openings. “When we find exceptional people to be able to hire them before there is an opening is great.” Binnicker also reported that the auditors are working on the annual audit and will be wrapping it up in several weeks.
District One Financial Director Travis Thomas told the Board that building projects underway include the two middle schools, secure vestibules for four schools, architectural design for upcoming projects including work at Powdersville High School which includes a new multi purpose room and press box renovations. Security updates are also being done at all schools he said. The practice field at Wren Middle has been completed along with roof work at West Pelzer elementary.
Dr. Kelly Pew reported that the number of meals being served through the District One nutrition program continues to increase with more adult/teacher meals being served. She said a new food cart program at Wren High is working well and the District is applying for a grant to purchase mobile carts for Palmetto and Powdersville High Schools.
Dr. Pew attributed the increase in meals being served to new menu items and better products.
Acting on the recommendation of Superintendent Binnicker, the Board approved a resolution authorizing the re-funding of bonds not exceeding $27.5 million from the 2008 referendum. The 2010 Build America Bonds can be refinanced March 1 of 2020. and could potentially save the District $3.2 million dollars. according to the bond attorneys. The savings are based on a reduction of the interest rate from 3.85 percent to 2.24 percent.
Superintendent Robbie Binnicker updated the Board on the building program.
Anderson School District One Board updated on building program
