The Alba-Golden Board of Trustees recognized Michele Glidewell at the regular board meeting Monday. Glidewell is entering retirement after 26 years in public education.

Altogether, she accumulated 33 years in the education field with 18 years at Alba-Golden Schools.  Superintendent Cole McClendon specifically cited Glidewell’s exhaustive work with the curriculum over the past year as meriting special acknowledgement. 

The board took the next steps toward receiving the Elementary and Secondary School Relief Funds (ESSR) programmed for Alba-Golden. A resolution passed unanimously which codified public hearings into the fund administration, thus ensuring transparency in how the funds are spent. 

Business Manager Brenda Kelley briefed the board that the normal budget workshops have been delayed pending more information on the timing of the ESSR grants. In an answer to the board, she stated that the ESSR grants, once received, will be handled as a part of the school’s budget.

The board approved four hirings: Deitra Bizzell and Megan Smith in the directorship of curriculum, instruction and assessment and Brittany Hall and Mike Moore as assistant principals.

Ag-science teacher Richard Lovorn petitioned the board for approval to conduct an out-of-state trip for the FFA chapter officers. The board unanimously approved the trip for nine officers and two chaperones to Broken Bow, Okla. for a team-building exercise.

In administrative matters, the board also codified the latest recommendations from the Texas Education Agency. Of note, the updated procedures include the designation of leave coincident to a child’s birth, adoption or placement as non-discretionary leave. 

Lastly, a two-year student insurance policy with The Gentry Group was officially accepted by the board. The cost of the contract is $13,500.