Students and teachers alike may find a few changes when they head back to school Aug. 10.
At its regular meeting last week, the board of education presented information on a number of new programs and staff members, including a change in the Local Wellness policy.
At last week’s meeting, the board removed one restriction in the policy that dealt with treats or physical activity being used as a reward or punishment. The inclusion of that items had raised questions among primary and elementary principals regarding school accountability for treats brought in by guardians. The policy currently says, “All foods and beverages made available on campus during the school day shall be consistent with the current U.S. Dietary Guidelines for Americans.”
Cell phone use
The school board changed its policy regarding cell phone use. Effective this coming year, students will be allowed to use cell phones on school buses and, in the case of a critical emergency, during school hours. In the past, cell phones were not permitted on the school buses or at school.
Catching up in math
OCHS will start this year with the implementation of Ramp-Up to Algebra, a program designed for students entering high school two or more years behind in mathematics. The program’s Web site says that after taking the course for a year, students will be ready to enter Algebra I the following year.
Mark Cooper, director of federal programs for Owen County Schools, reported that Owen County is one of only 13 districts in the state using this new program. On the Ramp-Up Web site, Frank Kincaid, superintendent at Lee County schools, said Ramp-Up has given schools within his district “a focus on what’s important.”
Employee retirement savings options
Invited to the meeting by Superintendent Mark Cleveland, Charlie Edwards presented information about the Kentucky Deferred Compensation Plan. Essentially, he outlined a plan where the school district would match, up to a certain percentage, the money its employees save in a 401k retirement plan. If the employee is still employed by the district after a set amount of time — generally five years — the money is made available to them.
“If an employee — certified or classified — is still with you after five years, they are more than likely going to stay as long as you want them,” Edwards said.
Approximately 11 percent of school employees are currently enrolled in the program.
Edwards explained that the program could serve as an excellent recruitment tool to find and keep the best and brightest teachers.
“Owen County is the northern-most county in the state that has considered the deferred compensation plan,” he said, therefore giving this small community an edge over larger school districts like Boone or Kenton County. “This is a powerful tool for attracting good teachers.”
New special education director
The new director of special education was also introduced.
Susan Burress came to the district from Spencer County where she served in a variety of positions at the elementary level.
Burress currently resides in Bardstown with her family, but is planning a relocation to Owen County. “I look forward to working with the district and meeting the community,” she said.
Delle Blair, the outgoing special education director, said she is confident Burress is the right woman for the job.
“We were looking for a match for Owen County. She brings a very fresh perspective,” Blair said.
A new position for an elementary and primary gifted/talented resource teacher was also established at the June 19 meeting.

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