They are not going to call it “Summer School” for K-5 students but “Summer Literacy Camp” instead, partly because of funding and duration, partly because of approach.  Winn Parish School Board heard about this in early (due to Memorial Day next Monday) committee session.

“It’s a big scale-back,” admitted supervisor Bridgette Bartlett.  “It’s a funding issue.”  The traditional view of Summer School is a near-mandatory program for at-risk children who might not be moving to the next grade level.  But “we really don’t hold kids back these days,” she said in response to an inquiry.

The plan is for a shorter program, said supervisor Nancy Crain.  “No so much will there be students sitting at desks in a classroom  listening to a teacher but more centered on activities.  There will be a focus on literacy.”  Additionally, the Summer Camp won’t just target low-achieving readers but all students.  With a student mix of reading skills in this setting, those who struggle will have achieving peers they can look up to.

The board heard that the plan is not a “requirement” but an “opportunity” which they hope parents will see and sign up their children.  Sessions will be housed at Winnfield Primary School with principals parishwide rotating oversight duties.

Committee discussion also led to the recommendation that hooded sweatshirts will not be allowed as part of the dress code next year.  Lacey McManus told members she has spoken with principals who support this move.  By the board taking action at its June session, it gives parents enough time to “not buy” for fall.

Discussion indicated that part of the problem is security.  Supt. Al Simmons pointed out that while the security scanning devises used at schools can detect prohibited items like cell phones, other problem materials are easily concealed in the hoods.  

The panel session also heard about an ongoing water leak problem at Dodson High School that causes problems in the parking lot.  A question for the board will be adding $19.000 to the current ball field & parking lot contract for a study of the source of that leak.