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The Jan. 23rd school board meeting covered several topics of interest to Butler County.

This month is School Board Recognition month across the country.

Superintendent Joseph Eiland spoke highly of the good job and good character of each member of the Butler County Board of Education.

Eiland then awarded each member a certificate for their service.

Each member received several gift baskets from fellow members as well as some of the teachers who value the board’s work.

“You learn a lot from listening,” Eiland said.

Listening is what Eiland stressed at the meeting.

He listens to the recommendations presented to him from not only board members and teachers, but parents and citizens of this county alike.

He then acts on those suggestions for the best interest of the students he cares so much for.

Career Tech was discussed, as well  teaching adaptability to students and the importance of financial literacy.

Eiland spoke of the progress Georgiana High School is making in their graduation rate. 

This school currently leads in Butler county with an overwhelming 91% of its seniors applying for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid or FAFSA, better known as the Pell Grant Program.

This program allows most students to apply for financial aid for college; whether a two year, four year or technical degree.

Eiland also updated the attendees on the many things going on in the district.

He spoke on the flood damage to the gym and reminded people that the board was in negotiations to get that fixed.

“The potholes in the driveway around the high school have been fixed. The city brought a truck up here and just fixed them. We didn’t even have to ask,” Eiland said. 

He thanked the city of Greenville for their kindness and hard work.

Speaking of hard work, Eiland said, “This year, we only have 18 seniors who are not currently ready for graduation. That’s down from 90 last year.”

This is clearly due to the hard work and effort put forth by the teaching staff, along with the student’s willingness to learn.

One of the topics the board covered was the discussion of the contract offer that was made to Michael Collins, the new principal at McKenzie School.

“It’s actually two contracts,” Eiland said.

One is a six month probationary contract and the other is a three year contract.

“It’s finally done. The Principal came over today and signed it,” Eiland said.

The superintendent then asked Collins if he’d like to say a few words.

“I really appreciate the opportunity and the amazing support everybody has given me since I got here,” Collins said. “Thank you for the opportunity and I’m going to do you proud. I promise.”

With that, Collins was welcomed into fold.