NRHEG School Board
By REED WALLER
Staff Writer
A bid from Strategic Equipment & Supply of St. Cloud for New Richland cafeteria equipment was approved at last Monday’s regular meeting of the NRHEG School Board, held at the Ellendale Media Center. The quote was $9,280.
Equipment included in the purchase were two 5-well hot-foot buffets, steam table pans, a 12” food slicer, a manual can opener (“Long overdue” commented Supt. Kevin Wellen), compact power mixer, backguard and extra oven rack, and two tray and silver carts.
Wellen observed that some of the new kitchen equipment and scheduled renovation may make the food service more labor intensive. “Now we have students serving themselves to some extent,” he said.
The Facilities Committee will be conferring with the construction manager on construction and funding ideas.
It is expected that the new arrangement will provide more walking space in the area.Wellen added that some of the cost of the new equipment could still be covered by grant money.
Kitchen personnel reorganization was discussed. A District Food Service Supervisor position will be created, at class 7. The Supervisor will be responsible for things such as negotiating with a prime food vendor and maintaining conformity with new food service rules from the State. Head Cook position will be eliminated, and a Lead Cook and an Assistant Cook will be hired for New Richland.
There was discussion about how frequently the Food Service Supervisor should be on-site. Board member Michelle Moxon wanted to see her visiting at least once a week. Supt. Wellen suggested that the situation be evaluated for the first month to see how much is required.
iPad Tech Fees and Insurance
Wellen recommended a “reasonable” tech fee of $20 for student iPad users.
“This gives students the ability to take technology home to a home that may not have it, for $20.”
“If they can’t pay (the $20 fee),” said Wellen, “the iPad stays in the school. They can still use it, but they will have to come early and stay late.”
An optional insurance plan was also envisioned, with a $25 premium and a $50 deductible covering damage not under warranty.
Donations/Grants
Two donations were received as a result of grants from Maple Island Park Association. One was for $400, for an iPad for Title I use, and the other was for $1,350, for a pitching machine.
Inspection
After adjournment, board members toured the Ellendale building to survey progress on the installation of the new windows.