Van Buren Discuss Limiting Short-Term Labor Contracts
The Van Buren County School Board wants to consider limiting short-term employee contracts, concerned about the potential costs. Some of the contracts are for employees who have already retired. Board Member Barry Austin said he does not have a problem with the deals if the school system needs them. However, Austin said the keeping retired […]
Funding Could End Van Buren’s Communities In Schools
The Van Buren County School Board discussed concerns Wednesday night about future funding for the Communities In Schools Program. The nationwide program works directly with students to ensure they have the resources and support they need to succeed. Van Buren County’s program continues to have trouble coverings its cost. Board Member Barry Austin said while […]
Van Buren Approves To Upgrade High School Sound System
The Van Buren County School Board has approved upgrading the Van Buren County High School sound system. Several board members complained that the current sound system was in poor condition and often had issues for events like graduation. Career and Technical Education Director Jamie Lowery said the sound system will come with six new speakers, […]
School Board Approves Roof Repairs At Elementary, High School
The Van Buren County School Board Wednesday night approved roof repairs at Van Buren County High School and Spencer Elementary. Both roofs have multiple leaks. School Board Member Benjamin Grissom asked why, saying the roofs have too many issues for such a fairly new roof. Director of Schools Katina Simmons said a contractor suggested the […]
Spencer Elementary HVAC Units Need Replacement
The Van Buren County School Board will take bids to replace HVAC units in the Spencer Elementary gym. Principal Amanda Binkley said the units have a long history of disrepair. “Off and on, there’s actually one of the units that works most of the time, and there are four in there,” Binkley said. “The seven […]
Van Buren Approves 25-26 Budget With Salary Increase
The Van Buren County School Board approved its 2025-2026 fiscal year school budget Wednesday night. Director of Schools Katina Simmons said teachers will receive a $2,400 salary increase, and hourly staff will receive a $50 increase for each year they have worked for the school system. Simmons said the new budget will have a limited […]
