Discusses building use; table SRO contract

Gore’s Board of Education gathered at 6 p.m. on Dec. 11 to address key matters affecting the school district. Board President Lester Keathley presided over the meeting, with members Jeremiah Perryman, Cody Sloan, Gary Cunningham, and Ryan Hoog in attendance.

The meeting commenced with unanimous approval from the board members to approve Consent Agenda items, covering a range of financial considerations including general fund purchase orders, building fund purchase orders, and bond fund purchase orders.

The board then heard from Monte Battles regarding an easement request on the old Ski Hut property. However, no formal action was taken based on the concerns raised during this segment of the meeting.

A significant decision was made when Sloan presented a motion to approve a building use request for the Scrap Quilters, allowing them access to the Lower Elementary gym from March 21-23, 2024, complete with key-holder privileges. The proposal received unanimous approval from all board members.

Controversy arose when the board tabled discussions on the School Resource Officer (SRO) contract with the Town of Gore, deferring any decision for a later date.

Principals James Bliss and Tonya Pugh then presented their reports, providing insights into the latest developments within the school.

Subsequently, Superintendent Lucky McCrary delivered his report, updating the board on various aspects of the school’s functioning, which included updates on construction and the district budget, discussion on new athletic program buildings, the softball light project, Lower Elementary Campus Smart Tech Project, and a bond planning meeting for 6:15 p.m. on Jan. 9, 2024.

The board then proceeded to enter into an executive session to conduct the annual evaluation of McCrary. Following the closed-door discussions, Sloan announced the return to open session, confirming that no votes were taken during the executive session minutes compliance announcement.

In a pivotal moment, Sloan proposed a motion to approve the employment contract of McCrary for the 2024-25 school year. Cunningham seconded the motion, and all board members unanimously voted in favor, securing McCrary’s continued leadership.

This news story is based on the unofficial minutes from the board meeting and could be in error if the minutes are changed prior to adoption.