January is acknowledged as “School Board Recognition Month” in Kentucky. At Bellevue Independent Schools we are fortunate to have five board members who are invested in our students, staff, and the community. These individuals collectively make decisions and are responsible for maintaining strong, effective budgetary oversight, promoting high standards for students and staff, and providing safe, well-managed school facilities. They establish policies and procedures to effectively run and guide the district in ensuring the vision and mission are being followed through.
Although board members are eligible to receive a per diem for each meeting, each member declines the funds allowing the money to be utilized in other ways to promote student learning. Being a board member is time intensive as they must prepare for meetings each month by reading reports and reviewing budgets and must be accessible to their constituents. They support our students and staff at many extra-curricular events and provide much guidance in their areas of expertise.
The sacrifices of board members Ms. Julia Fisher, Ms. Jenny Hazeres, Mr. Dan Swope, Ms. Jenn Owens, and Mr. Brandon Cowans are many and do not go unnoticed. They champion for public schools and most importantly, the students of Bellevue Independent. Whether they are preparing for board meetings, attending trainings, or calculating budgets, these members are always willing to serve our students, staff and community with integrity, honor and deep commitment.
As Superintendent, I see the selfless work board members do on behalf of the Bellevue Independent School District. I am thankful to work with a great board and appreciate each member for the role they play in our district. We are blessed with committed and caring individuals who have no other agenda other than making sure our students and staff have the best place to learn, work, and grow.
Additionally, I am grateful for Gage Morton, our student representative, who provides the board with a report monthly and contributes a unique student perspective to many topics. He gives up his time to attend the monthly meetings and has a great attitude when it comes to serving his community and school. We are proud of Gage and know he has a bright future.
When you see one of our board members at a school event or around the community, be sure to give them a handshake, or a pat on the back along with a hearty “Thank you” for all they do.