ACSD Board of Directors honors Scott Melcher for his 20 years of board service, holds annual organizational meeting during December session
by Brianne Grimstad
The Allamakee Community School District (ACSD) Board of Directors met for its regular monthly meeting and annual organizational meeting Monday night, December 15 at Waukon High School, beginning with the regular monthly meeting. Board member Beth Shafer was absent. For long-time board member Scott Melcher, this was his final meeting in the capacity of an ACSD school board member. He was thanked for his 20 years of service to the school district in that capacity.
Under the Consent Agenda, the board approved the previous meeting minutes, bills and financial reports. During the Communications time of the meeting, there was a presentation on the Waukon Middle School STEM Best Awards. Staff members Ciara Snitker, Ben Rausch and Kelli Olson explained what the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) program is and that the Middle School had received its initial reward in 2022, using that funding to purchase some 3D printers, robotics kits, calculators, basic supplies and other items for the STEM program.
They also explained how they have partnered with local businesses so students can see how the technology they teach their students about is used in the workplace. Recently, they received another STEM Best Award grant. They would like to purchase some more 3D printers, robotics, drones and supplies. They also thanked their local business and community partners, which include Waukon State Bank, Reel Core, Veterans Memorial Hospital, Benzing Surveying and the Allamakee County Sheriff’s Department.
During his Superintendent’s Report, ACSD Superintendent Jay Mathis thanked Scott Melcher for his service to the school district and welcomed new board member John Palmer, who was later sworn in during the organizational meeting. Mathis also noted that the end of the first semester is coming up, winter sporting seasons are in full swing, and staff and facilities are ready for the winter season. He also touched on the annual Allamakee County Hazard Mitigation Plan review, noting that every five years the plan is updated, but explaining that there have been no changes made from last year to this year.
Waukon High School Principal Jen Garin noted in her report that the Construction class is hanging drywall for the student-built house project. They have also been able to get a start on the Career and Technical Education (CTE) shed. Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) students participated in the Veterans Memorial Hospital Foundation’s Christmas Fantasy and FBLA District Leadership Conference, as well as assisting the PSST (Parents Supporting Students and Teachers) group with their holiday sales.
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