WESTBROOK, Minnesota (STPNS) --     WWG — Earlier this winter the board, after an extensive study, rejected a plan as too expensive for the district to invest in.

    Last week the board, after pursuing a more conventional plan with Harris Energy Services, gave the nod to implement a plan that will replace outdated boilers in both main campuses of the district.

    Superintendent Loy Woelber recommended the board go ahead with the boiler project. He told the board the project could be spread over the next two fiscal years. It is now apparent the requirement for dual heat in the Walnut Grove site will not be needed. That will reduce the cost by several thousand dollars.



    The total cost of the project for both sites will be between $520,000 and $550,000. The board felt the improvements will help secure the future of the district for many years to come. The board approved the measure unanimously.

    Representatives Cathy Baumann, Sue Herding and Mark Takle, of the JO volleyball teams, spoke to the board about using the gym on Wednesday evenings.

    Woelber read policies from several area districts.  Several districts do not allow any activities after 6:00 p.m.  on Wednesdays. Others allow use on a rental basis, setting it apart from school sanctioned activities.

    Baumann said “this is the only night they can practice with spring sports in progress.” She mentioned the kids pay to play in this program. Herding said “the community center will not work because of the low ceilings.” She also told the board they have girls from other schools participating in the program. Baumann told the board they have gone from three teams last year to five teams this year, so it is a popular program. The program only runs from April through May.

    Baumann was asked whether or not it was a problem with the “traditional” church night?

    Board members felt since it is not sponsored by the school they can’t dictate when they practice.

    Baumann said, “we do not allow any of our players to practice on Wednesdays if it interferes with religious or other school obligations like play practice. We simply will not let them practice if that is  the case.”

    Senior Class Chaperone Carter Ross said, “I felt the class trip is a real asset to the school, and it is very educational and inspirational for the kids.”

    Ross also gave a report on the golf teams. He was happy to get a new group of 7th and 8th grade girls. He is hopeful that they will stick with it so that eventually the girls will be able to compete as a team.    

    He expects the boys team to continue their dominance in conference competition.

    Principal Paul Olson is investigating a Grab and Go breakfast program for the high school and junior high. Meals can be purchased for as little as $1.03 per meal plus 24 cents for milk. To make it work, it would take nearly full participation. There is some federal money available. He will pursue it further.

    Olson said “Walnut Grove will again host the summer lunch program beginning May 29.”

    Anna Larson placed 5th out of the top 12 in the Regional Spelling Bee in Worthington on April 14.

    Junior Class advisor Leo Theisen told the board they have about 21 out of the class of 39 who have said they are planning on going. The trip would be similar to the New York, DC trip just taken by this years seniors.

    The Athletic Awards banquet will be May 11 at the Westbrook Community Center.

    Theisen was selected to the Section Committee.

    The board approved the following measures:

    • Authorized the board to start planning  with the FLY early start consortium for three more years.

    • Capital Outlay budget of $337,448 for 2013-14 school year.

    • Membership in the MSHSL for 2012-2013.

    •Greater Minnesota Family Services employee to the Walnut Grove building for a $10,000 fee.