School Board to act on safety enhancements

FRANK TAYLOR

Managing Editor

School Board members are expected to take action on proposed safety modifications at Lincoln County Schools during the board’s monthly meeting on Wednesday.

The last several meetings, including a recent special called session, have focused heavily on preventing attacks by armed intruders, a concern aroused by December’s massacre at a Connecticut elementary school.

Proposals include renovations to entryways that would prevent unauthorized access, key card readers for access to most doors and additional surveillance systems. Board members have asked for cost estimates on each school, with putting a vestibule-type system in place to limit access being a priority wherever such a system is workable.

Although there have been some discussions about details, including which options would be most effective and ensuring that changes don’t hamper fire safety, board members have demonstrated a broad consensus in favor of the upgrades.

While final costs were still being calculated at the most recent session and the board is likely to get a firmer figure this week, available excess bond funding is expected to be adequate to cover the cost of the upgrades without additional taxation.

Also on Wednesday’s meeting agenda:

• The board will discuss approval of a calendar option for the next school year.
• The board will consider issuing a request for proposals to fill the position of board attorney.
• The board will weigh proposed regulation changes.
• Members will take action on two proposed changes to building work orders.
• Members will vote on modifying the ongoing construction project at the West Lincoln High School track.
• The board will be asked to approve budgetary adjustments as a result of mandatory expenses.
• Student transfers recommended for approval by staff will be considered.
• The board will also receive reports on school facility requests and construction projects.

The Lincoln County Board of Education meets 6:30 p.m. Tuesday at the board office on North Generals Boulevard in Lincolnton.