Board of Education Salutes Departing Administrators

By Robert Carter
At its meeting on June 11, the Norfolk Board of Education recognized the departure of Botelle’s principal and superintendent at the end of the school year.

The board thanked Principal Peter Michelson and Superintendent George Counter for their service to the school and dedication to its betterment.

In the public comment period, Turi Rostad presented a new brand for Botelle. The sixth grade has chosen to create a mural as their gift for 2014. Rostad, who will be helping the sixth grade class, suggested that the brand would give the sixth graders something to paint on the gymnasium wall.

The school uses two different illustrations of eagles: one on the new sign at the front of the school and one on the gym floor. The new brand would unify the images of the two eagles. No decision was reached and discussion of the brand will continue at meetings next year.

In his superintendent’s report, Counter informed the board that the school would likely be declaring a deficit of about $30,000 to Norfolk’s Board of Finance this year.

Reports from the standing committees were then heard, beginning with the sustainability and safety committees.
The idea to develop a sustainability committee came from Ann DeCerbo, who stressed that the school should look into ways of attracting more students. The school currently offers tuition options for out-of-town students and has accepted some at the pre-kindergarten level.

DeCerbo believes that by working with Colebrook and other surrounding towns the school will be able to attract more students and generate more income for Norfolk.

The safety committee reported on numerous initiatives the school has taken to increase its security. Among them were a protect-in-place drill, which Michelson said went very smoothly on its first test, and the posting of a list of personnel who may be able to provide security for the school.

The school will also be improving security on every door in the building. New locks and sensors will ensure that all doors are closed and secure at the appropriate times.

With regard to technology, next year the school will continue to invest in iPads for students and teachers. The iPads, which connect to Smartboards, will be used for the many educational applications in the online App store. The goal is to help students develop their technology skills.