On Monday, Oct. 27, 2008, the Monroe school board:
• Voted to purchase three Toyota Corollas for $16,334 from Ruda Chevrolet-Toyota-Scion in Monroe. The board looked at analyses of the cost to purchase and operate several models of vehicles to be used by Monroe Virtual School teachers who travel extensively throughout the state to meet with students and parents. Virtual school teachers were asked to test drive a Corolla and Ford Focus. Virtual School Principal Cory Hirsbrunner said that while the vehicles were comparable, the school recommended the district purchase the Corollas. Business Administrator Ron Olson said the Corollas cost a little more, but were less expensive to operate. While the resale value was not factored in, the Corolla also does not depreciate as much in value. The board also noted the vehicles are manufactured in California.
• Approved hiring an additional Exceptional Behavioral Needs Assistant to work with autistic students at Northside Elementary School. In keeping with the national trend, there has been a significant increase in the number of autistic students enrolled in the district. Director of Pupil Services Joe Monroe said in the 11 years the district has had an autistic program, the number of students enrolled has increased from one to 29. The additional position is needed because three new students and one returning student have come into the district. There is money in the special education to fund the position, which will be about $37,500 for wages and benefits.
• Voted to purchase three Toyota Corollas for $16,334 from Ruda Chevrolet-Toyota-Scion in Monroe. The board looked at analyses of the cost to purchase and operate several models of vehicles to be used by Monroe Virtual School teachers who travel extensively throughout the state to meet with students and parents. Virtual school teachers were asked to test drive a Corolla and Ford Focus. Virtual School Principal Cory Hirsbrunner said that while the vehicles were comparable, the school recommended the district purchase the Corollas. Business Administrator Ron Olson said the Corollas cost a little more, but were less expensive to operate. While the resale value was not factored in, the Corolla also does not depreciate as much in value. The board also noted the vehicles are manufactured in California.
• Approved hiring an additional Exceptional Behavioral Needs Assistant to work with autistic students at Northside Elementary School. In keeping with the national trend, there has been a significant increase in the number of autistic students enrolled in the district. Director of Pupil Services Joe Monroe said in the 11 years the district has had an autistic program, the number of students enrolled has increased from one to 29. The additional position is needed because three new students and one returning student have come into the district. There is money in the special education to fund the position, which will be about $37,500 for wages and benefits.