Frazer School Board Pauses Enforcement Of Mandatory Attendance Requirement
The Frazer School board held their regular meeting in the school cafeteria Tuesday, Oct. 13. The meeting began at 8 p.m. Following roll call and the pledge of allegiance, the mission statement was read: “Frazer School is dedicated to providing the students with a safe and culturally supportive learning environment where they experience the full cooperation and participation between community, home and school.”
During public comment, Angie Toce Blount and her daughters Kalianna, Alyssa and Dallas Blount addressed the board, explaining their desire to remain in distance learning as the school year continues. The Blounts reported successful engagement with distance learning models and expressed their concerns about returning to school during an uptick in the spread of COVID-19. They told the Northern Plains Independent that they came to the board meeting to oppose a policy proposed by a letter from the school board dated Oct. 5, which was sent to parents, explaining that attendance would be mandatory for all students beginning Oct. 19: “Now that we have returned back to school as of today, Monday, Oct. 5, the option for opt-out is not available. Our opt-out deadline was Aug. 26. The school requires written notification if you are wanting to keep your child home during this time. If this is what you have decided, your child will receive unexcused absents, due to the school board voting to return back to school. Keep in mind our opt-out students are required to return back to school Oct. 19. In regards to high school sports, all MHSA rules and regulations will be followed. If you have any questions, please call the school at 406-695-2241.”
During discussion of agenda item 6B, “Revisit School Reopening Plan,” the board heard comments for and against mandatory attendance, with board members and teachers reporting significant challenges maintaining regular attendance and participation from students at the school. Board members reported that full participation from students has been difficult or impossible to maintain with limited internet connectivity in the community and insufficient supervision. Community members and several board members expressed concerns about the prospect of mandatory attendance, with Toce Blount indicating that her children would be not returning to school in any case. Enforcement of the proposed strategy was not discussed during the open portion of the meeting.
After considerable discussion, the board voted to continue as-is, with students able to opt for distance learning, until a parent survey soliciting input on the subject could be circulated among parents and collected for analysis. Minutes were approved for recent regular and special board meetings. The general ledger was approved, as were claims and warrants.
During action items, the board went into executive session twice for private discussion about staff and student issues.
Student attendance was discussed during the superintendent’s report, with Melanie Blount-Cole reporting that the school is running out of options to maintain a semblance of regular attendance.
A quote and schedule were received and approved by the board regarding cleaning efforts at the school. Blount-Cole said the expenses related to cleaning efforts have been considerable.
The job description for dean of students was reviewed and updated.
