The fifth grade teachers submitted a staff development grant application for Investigating Mysteries: Mystery of Mysteries, What Makes a Good Mystery? Trish Skahan explained the course would teach fifth graders to do research, discover elements of a good mystery novel and ties into the graduation standards. As part of the course, mystery author Mary Casanova will hold a three-day residency at the elementary school working with the fifth graders. The board approved the grant application.
The board received a request from the Paynesville Education Association to extend the deadline for the grievance concerning the Early Childhood Family Education teachers and their desire to be part of the bargaining unit. The board tabled a decision until the Feb. 25 meeting in order to obtain a clarification from the PEA.
In other business, the board authorized Superintendent Howard Caldwell and his secretary Donna Ahrens to assist the board clerk in preparing the upcoming school board elections on May 20. Terms up for re-election this year are Dean Hanson, Fern Roberg and Debora Glenz.
€The board approved a resolution establishing the dates for filing an affidavit of candidacy for the board of education. Filings will be open from March 11 to March 25.
€The board approved changing the Feb. 25 meeting to 2 p.m. in the middle school media center. This will enable the board to meet with the Youth Advisory Council.