PAW PAW – The Paw Paw School Board met on April 16 to discuss several topics.

The board is seeking bids for tree removal and stump grinding for dying trees on school grounds. They are also seeking bids for replacing the garage roof on the east side of the school building.

In other news:

Samantha Ladson led a group of seniors in detailing the experiences they had on their class trip to Cozumel. They expressed gratitude for the opportunity for this experience. As Ladson explained, some of the students had never been out of the state of Illinois, or tasted the ocean. They were given a private tour of the Mayan ruins by a Mayan man. They were able to see how a different culture lives, and what they value.

The students had a fundraiser, and proceeds were donated to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis, Tenn.

Permission was asked of the board,

Since there are still funds remaining in the Senior Trip Account, it was requested to use the extra money for the whole class to go to Great America on May 12.

Jeff Svendsen requested approval for students to attend the FFA convention June 12-14, and permission to use the bus.

Ms. Leonard and Mr. Hoelzer gave a presentation of the proposed Paw Paw Creed, encouraging positive behavior and choices in all students, staff and visitors. When details are complete, a behavior matrix will be posted throughout the school.

Tiffany Duncan and Scott Hardwick, of Trane Comprehensive Solutions, presented explanations and options for improving the school’s infrastructure, and reducing energy costs while improving comfort.

Junior Class sponsor Jenny Oros informed the board of final plans for the Junior Prom, “Winter Wonderland,” to be held April 28. It will be in the golf cart building on Wheeler Street. Catering will be from Olive Garden. Final decorations are being completed in the next week and a half.

It was stressed by the board that, in order to attend the Prom, students must assist in decorating and any other needed assistance. Those Juniors who do not participate in preparations will not be allowed to attend the Prom.

Oros also asked permission to hold a sale on Sunday, April 29, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., at the school, to sell the decorations.

The PTO inquired if the school would be willing to pay for pea gravel for the new playground. The board passed the motion to pay for the pea-gravel.

It was decided that school board meetings for the 2018-2019 school year will be held at a new time, 6 p.m., beginning with the July 16 meeting.

The Redhawks traveling basketball team has asked for permission to use the high school gym for summer practices.