HOWARD TWP. — East Knox Supt. Steve Larcomb stressed the need for improved cellular reception due to safety concerns, calling it an “urgent necessity.”
The recommendation comes with renovations and additions to the 6-12 grade building, according to the board’s agenda Thursday night.
“The project needs to be started and completed as soon as possible,” the agenda reads. “The lack of reception creates a significant hindrance to communication in the building, including communication in the event of an emergency.”
It also qualifies as an improvement for the security and protection of school property, the recommendation reads.
Cell phone service wasn’t an issue before improvements were made to the high school building, Larcomb said, adding the reason behind the lack of service is because of the new metal roofing, which is blocking cell service.
The project can’t exceed $103,400 with assigned contractor Torrence Sound Equipment Co.
The board approved the project unanimously.
The board also hired a second school resource officer, after going into executive session. Larcomb noted the current environment and the importance of safety for students and staff were the reasons behind the additional law enforcement presence. East Knox hasn’t had a second school resource officer before, the superintendent said.
The board also:
- Approved contractor Carson Fence to make fence repairs at the East Knox football field, totaling $5,151.68.
- Approved the textbook purchase from McGraw-Hill for Glencoe Health textbooks for the Jr./Sr. High School, totaling $7,541.14.
- Approved the agreement with Tri-County Educational Service Center for Medicaid School program coordinating for the 2022-2023 reporting year.
- Approved a three-year contract with Waste Management for trash services for the 35-yard compactor. Base rate of $310 with additional varied cost based on weight and fuel surcharges.
- Approved a five-year contract with Otis Elevate Co. for elevator service and inspection services at the Jr./Sr. High School for a monthly cost of $175.45.
- Approved the overnight field trip to West Springfield, MA for FFA for the Eastern States Exposition Forestry Career Development Event on Sept. 14-18, 2022.
