By Theron Larkins
Staff Writer
WOODLAND, Maine — The Woodland Union 122 school board met on Monday, March 10, in the Woodland Consolidated School’s library for the union’s regular meeting. The meeting’s 6:30 p.m. start time was quickly followed by the acceptance of the previous month’s budget.
Not much had changed on the school’s budget through the month of February, however, one board member did point out the revenue report for the cafeteria was up. Principal Susie Schloeman explained that she believes this is due to a grant the school received, enabling them to purchase a new flavored ice machine the kids seem to really be enjoying.
Next on the agenda were monthly reports including an important announcement during Principal Schloeman’s briefing.
“We had a lockdown today,” said Schloeman, in regard to the security exercise the Woodland students participated in, as preparation that may safeguard the school and its students should any emergency incident take place.
“I asked the Aroostook County Sheriff’s Department if they could send an officer into the school to watch how we conducted the lockdown, and see if they had any input,” said Schloeman.
The one thing the sherrif’s office did suggest was that the school should acquire a lock for the door at the main entrance
“The officer highly recommended that we be able to secure the building’s front door and begin using some type of buzzer system. Along with a camera, the buzzer would be used to help faculty recognize and assess any visitors who may be trying to enter the building.
“Without this type of safety precaution we’re just sitting ducks, waiting inside that door,” said Schloeman. “We may be a small community school, but we’re certainly not immune from anything.”
The idea of a buzzer entry system and the placement of a camera at the front entrance of the Woodland School is one the board will not make any sort of final decision on right away. However, they will soon be making inquiries into the different options available for such a security measure.
Lastly, Superintendent Roland Caron accepted the resignation of bus driver/custodian Arthur Jones, who will be leaving a bus driver’s position open, during a time when they are not easy to find.
“It’s hard to find people who have their bus driver’s license, so it’s a tough spot to fill,” said Caron.
Information on the filling of any bus driver positions, or any progress made regarding security at the school will be further discussed at the next regular school board meeting, taking place on Thursday, April 17 at 6:30 p.m.
