East Helena school board approves policies, personnel actions in Feb. 9 meeting
Author: Rachael Brug, Staff Reporter
East Helena School Board Approves Policies, Personnel Actions in Feb. 9 Meeting
Rachael Brug
Staff Reporter
The East Helena Public Schools Board of Trustees met Feb. 9 for a regular meeting that included routine approvals, updates from district leadership on enrollment and instruction, and action on policy and personnel items.
Board Chair Scott Walter called the meeting to order at 5:31 p.m. Following the Pledge of Allegiance and roll call, trustees approved the agenda and moved through a consent agenda that included approval of prior meeting minutes and the district’s claims and warrants.
No members of the public offered comment during the public comment period.
District updates
Superintendent Dan Rispen reported that district enrollment remains stable compared to projections. He said staffing levels have been adjusted to match enrollment needs and to maintain appropriate classroom coverage.
Rispen also highlighted ongoing professional development for staff, describing a focus on instructional consistency and student achievement growth. He said training efforts are aligned with district goals, including literacy and standards-based instruction.
In addition, Rispen told trustees the district is monitoring state-level legislative developments that could affect school funding and policy. He said the district will continue tracking proposals and provide updates as needed.
Facilities and long-term planning were also part of the superintendent’s report. Rispen said maintenance priorities are being evaluated with an emphasis on proactive planning to reduce the need for emergency repairs.
Principal report
Brandon Crusat, principal, provided an update on academic progress and student support initiatives. He said literacy efforts remain a priority, with intervention systems being implemented to provide targeted support for students who need additional help. Teachers are reviewing student data regularly to guide instruction and monitor progress.
Attendance was also discussed as an ongoing focus area. District leaders said overall attendance is steady, while staff continue working with families to address chronic absenteeism when needed.
School climate efforts were highlighted as well, including student recognition programs and community-building activities intended to support a safe and positive learning environment.
Business and activities
Business Manager Laura Boltz reviewed current fund balances, budget projections and upcoming financial obligations. She reported that expenditures are tracking within budget expectations and revenues remain consistent with projections.
Boltz said the district is also watching inflation-related cost pressures, including utilities, transportation and supplies. She emphasized conservative budgeting and continued fiscal responsibility as the district moves through the year.
Activities Director Shaun Murgel reported strong participation in winter sports programs and said scheduling adjustments have been made as needed due to weather and facility coordination. He also noted positive sportsmanship reports and thanked coaches and volunteers.
Murgel said the district continues monitoring academic eligibility to support students both in the classroom and in extracurricular activities.
Board action
In old business, trustees discussed policy revisions that had been tabled at a previous meeting and voted to approve the policy revisions as presented.
In new business, trustees reviewed personnel recommendations and approved personnel actions as presented.
Trustees also discussed upcoming calendar items, including district events, committee meetings and legislative updates affecting schools.
The meeting adjourned at 6:42 p.m.
