South Harrison Board Receives ESSER 3 Projects’ Update
South Harrison Superintendent Dennis Eastin gave South Harrison School Board members an update regarding their In-person and Continuity of Services Plan and projects that will be funded with ESSER 3 funding during a meeting Monday night.
South Harrison will use some of the ESSER 3 funding for 12 camera systems that have arrived. The installation of those systems will be delayed due to a labor shortage. They are projected to be installed in January. The potential hiring of a Social Worker to offer mental health support to families and students was also included in the plan approved for the district. South Harrison’s district is still studying the feasibility and effectiveness of such a position. Extra tutoring being paid with the federal funding is being offered after every school day except Friday. The district is also lining up speakers to make mental health presentations. South Harrison is still in the bid process for the flooring project that will be done in the South Harrison Elementary School. That work will be done when the school year is completed in the spring.
South Harrison’s board opted against a Test-to-Stay Option for those quarantined due to COVID-19. That decision is consistent with other Harrison County schools. The option would require an individual that was identified as a close contact to immediately take a Quick Test administered by trained school personnel, be tested two more times during a quarantine period, and require the student to wear a mask during competitive events. It would also expose the school to liability.
Superintendent Eastin reported that South Harrison’s insurance group will likely switch entirely to a Blue Cross Blue Shield carrier. There may be a cost savings coming with that move.
South Harrison’s board reviewed the school district’s Transportation Plan. The superintendent mentioned during the discussion that the district will apply for grant funding for an electric bus. Superintendent Eastin mentioned that he would only be interested in obtaining an electric bus if the electric bus can be completely funding with grant money. An electric bus is projected to cost $360,000. 10 electric buses will be grant-funded within the state.
South Harrison’s 2022-23 Construction Technology Project was approved. A ranch home will be constructed for Sam and Linda Anderson at a property just outside of Bethany.
