By GAGE WILSON
for Glasgow News 1
The nearly two-hour Caverna Board of Education meeting addressed issues concerning student safety, future facility improvements and the school resource officer program.
The proposed improvements project would primarily target Caverna Elementary School, with additional attention given to the kitchen area at the high school. Representatives from Double D Roofing were present to answer questions and provide insights into the work.
“This isn’t something that we have done before,” said Caverna superintendent Amanda Abell.
A large portion of the board’s attention centered on quotes gathered for the project by Abell. She said that these were “investigative quotes” rather than official bids, meant to provide a snapshot of anticipated costs.
While the scope of the project is yet to be decided and no action was taken, attitudes were positive on moving forward with the undertaking.
The meeting also addressed the future of the district’s school resource officer program. Currently, Caverna pays $50,000 annually for its SRO, but this figure is expected to increase by approximately $10,000 due to rising benefits costs.
While Cave City has not provided a definitive updated figure, District Director of Student Services Tyler Richardson said the board is exploring alternative options given the price increase.
“We plan to have a discussion with our surrounding sheriff’s offices and police departments in Hart and Barren to see if a potential partnership is available with any of those police forces moving forward,” Richardson said.
Caverna has gathered data from nearby districts regarding SRO costs, with figures ranging from $30,000 to $50,000.
No final decisions were made on the roofing project or SRO program, as both remain in the exploratory phase.
Two board members were also sworn in. Wayne Hatcher, who was re-elected as chairman, and newcomer Jennifer Briggs. Their induction coincided with the board’s farewell to longtime member Glaine Percell. Hatcher thanked Percell and said, “You’ve been a faithful board member.”
The board will have its next meeting on Jan. 9.
Other matters discussed at the Caverna Independent Schools Board of Education meeting can be read here.
