The Meridian Community Unit School District #15 Board of Education met for its regular meeting at 6:30 p.m. on Monday, April 20, at the district office. The agenda included routine approvals, new business items, and personnel considerations, along with updates highlighting student achievements and district operations.
Following the call to order and an opportunity for public comment, the board reviewed administrative reports from district leaders, including updates on academics, athletics, maintenance, and building-level activities.
Under new business, board members reviewed committee updates from recent athletic and curriculum meetings. They also considered several action items, including approval of a facility request for post-prom activities, adoption of the proposed 2027–2028 school calendar, and a decision regarding roofing bids for the elementary school.
The roofing project generated discussion, as bids came in significantly higher than anticipated. The lowest bid exceeded initial estimates by more than $100,000, leading to a recommendation to reject the bid and revise project specifications in hopes of securing more competitive pricing.
The meeting also included discussion topics such as a district budget update and the latest PRESS Plus policy revisions.
Following executive session, the board took action on several personnel matters. The district welcomes Matthew Hutchinson (high school math), Hannah Smith (high school special education), Aiden Etchason (high school English), and Jaimie Horve (high school secretary). Additionally, the board approved winter coaches for next school year including Alison Bickel (HS cheer), Kyle Woolington (HS girls basketball), Justin Allen (HS boys basketball), Rachelle Wells (MS girls basketball), and Jess Smithers (MS boys basketball).
Academically, students have completed state assessments, and curriculum teams continued alignment work across grade levels. Schools are also preparing for end-of-year events, including concerts, awards ceremonies, and graduation, which was scheduled for May 23.
District reports highlighted a busy and successful spring season across Meridian schools. Athletic programs were underway, with softball posting a strong 10-3 record and baseball competing at 6-7. Notably, senior Shelby Renfro has broken the school’s career hits record, surpassing the previous mark of 188.
Superintendent updates noted plans for summer programming, with elementary students participating in enrichment activities and older students utilizing credit recovery options.
The next regular meeting of the Meridian Board of Education was scheduled for May 18 at 6:30 p.m. at the district office.