By JAN LARSON McLAUGHLIN
BG Independent News
After 11 months of not being able to speak at Bowling Green Board of Education meetings, the public will have that opportunity next month.
The board agreed Tuesday evening to continue with virtual meetings, but offer a time for public input online.
Since the coronavirus hit last March, school board meetings have been held virtually – like school classes – leaving no possibility of parents making their pitch in person for students to return to their school buildings.
The board discussed various options at Tuesday’s meeting for accommodating public participation. It was decided that giving everyone viewing a Zoom link could be a “nightmare” since the meetings often have high viewership. On Tuesday, more than 170 people listened in.
Prior to COVID, the board of education held meetings in the lobby of the Performing Arts Center. But that space would not allow for enough people, since the social distancing requirements must be followed.
The auditorium could accommodate between 125 and 175 people, Superintendent Francis Scruci estimated. And the board could sit down front. But some board members were hesitant to attend a public meeting – even if it’s socially distanced – until they receive both doses of the COVID vaccine.
It was decided that the board would continue to meet remotely, and allow people to speak if they sign up for a “waiting room,” and wait their turn. Those speaking must have a camera on, state their name, and limit their comments to three minutes. It was not determined how many people would be allowed to participate.
More information will be available prior to the regular board meeting in February.
In other business, Scruci recognized the retirements of two employees and resignation of another.
Karen Glenn is retiring after 17 years as an intervention specialist at Crim Elementary. Carole Fitzwater is retiring from her position as food service manager at Crim.
Dirk Conner has resigned as head football coach and athletic director.
Also at Tuesday’s meeting, the board recognized four students who placed in the Wood County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office Safety Kids Calendar Contest. Winners included seventh graders Lyndon Stygles and Katherine Judson, sixth grader Samantha Kozey and fifth grader Amelia Bryant.
