Board of Ed. tables talk of grad date

Published 12:56 pm Thursday, April 12, 2018

As Kentucky teachers continue discussion of more “sick outs” in protest of the recent pension reform bill, the Clark County Board of Education opted to table its discussion and vote on the revision of the 2017-18 calendar and graduation date during its special meeting Tuesday.

Several students and parents were present to hear the discussion of the item.

George Rogers Clark Senior Class President Hagan Wells represented GRC’s student body to make the case for leaving the graduation ceremony during the weekend of June 1-3. Wells said it is easier for family to come on weekends, and those dates would be better for the volunteers participating in Project Graduation.

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Wells also said some universities, including Eastern Kentucky University and University of Louisville, have orientation dates the week of June 4-8. Some students are also leaving for military basic training that week. He also mentioned 4-H camp starting and possible vacation plans.

Another 30 students have already paid and prepared for a trip Europe, parent Beth Riley said. Riley said it would be a hassle to reschedule international plans, and families have paid more than $4,000 for students to attend the trip.

Board member Judy Hicks made the motion to table the item because members Michael Kuduk and Gordon Parido were not present.

Board member Ashley Ritchie also expressed concerned of more potential days missed because of teacher protests.

The Scott County School District cancelled school Friday for a “sick out” as many teachers plan to rally in Frankfort.

The board will discuss and vote on the calendar revision in a meeting Tuesday.

The board also mentioned the district will be working with the Kentucky Department of Education to conduct maintenance on the district-wide email system today and Friday. During this time period, teachers, staff and students will not have access to their email.

District staff and school staff will not be able to check or respond to email until Monday, April 16. Therefore, it is recommended communication be done directly with the teacher and/or school as this maintenance process is being completed.

About Lashana Harney

Lashana Harney is a reporter for The Winchester Sun. Her beats include schools and education, business and commerce, Winchester Municipal Utilities and other news. To contact her, email lashana.harney@winchestersun.com or call 859-759-0015.

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