Culbertson School Board Approves Teacher, Coaching Hires

The Culbertson School board held their regular meeting Tuesday, Jan. 18, with trustees Paul Finnicum, Luke Anderson (via Zoom), Mark Colvin and Ian Walker present, as well as school and district representatives superintendent Larry Crowder, Mike Olson, Dave Solem and Lora Finnicum.

Crowder reported that he had received a Montana High School Association Service Award at the annual meeting.

He also noted that the science/ social studies split in fifth grade is going well.

There was discussion of what age level is appropriate for support staff. Policy will be amended to read that support staff will be in the same grade level as the participants, with parenthesis’ language struck.

The board reviewed and discussed policy on district-owned vehicles regarding an activity bus request. Liability exposure was debated. The issue was tabled.

Resignations were accepted from David Helmer, assistant maintenance; and Maddison Avance from Title 1 aide and elementary boys’ basketball assistant coach.

The board approved the reassignment of John Wilson from custodian to assistant maintenance.

Brooks Solem was approved for hire as part-time student custodian for the remainder of the school year, as was Cristina Madera for part-time custodian. Onesti Lapp was approved for hire as Title I aide for the remainder of the school year. Jill McIntyre was approved for hire as kitchen substitute.

April Deen was approved for hire as elementary boys’ basketball assistant coach for the remainder of the season, with Mike Olson and Mark Pederson as high school track assistant coaches. Dave Solem was approved for hire as high school cross country head coach, Brian Manning as high school football head coach and Tiffany Nielsen as high school volleyball head coach for 2022-23.

A key card reinstatement request was reviewed, with discussion on student use of the weight room. Liability exposure was debated. The board approved a key card reinstatement for Tifney Kempton.

The board denied an ATM placement request.

The ice machine was approved for disposal. A replacement was ordered and has been installed.

Notice for public comment for non-agenda items was given. Comment was received regarding the activity cancellations for the week. MHSA proposals were discussed.

The next regular board meeting will be Feb. 24 at 7 p.m.