SIKESTON -- Sikeston R-6 Board of Education members approved Tuesday replacing damaged equipment at the Sikeston Field House during their regular meeting held at the newly renovated Middle School Library.
Superintendent Steve Borgsmiller said district officials are 99 percent sure the equipment -- sound board and lighting system -- at the Field House were damaged by lightening.
"Based upon the damage we have, it has to be lightening, but we can't prove it," Borgsmiller said.
Instability of the equipment was key in deciding to solicit bids for a new lighting system and sound board, Borgsmiller noted.
"One moment it would work and the other it would not," Borgsmiller said about the equipment, which was installed in the early 1990s when the Field House was renovated.
The district solicited bids for the replacement of the sound board, which would include a 48-channel console, installation, service and warranty. Bids were received from Sound Decisions in Paducah, Ky., of $9,150 and Hi-Tech Communications in Sikeston of $6,936.
Three bids were received for the lighting system. A bid of $26,775 was received from Sound Decisions; $24,355 from Jim Renner Stage Service LLC in St. Louis; and $22,690 from Hi-Tech Communications.
The board awarded both bids to Hi-Tech Communications.
Also during Tuesday's meeting, the board awarded a bid for the replacement of the technology vehicle -- a twice-refurbished 1987 Ford panel van.
"We kept it breathing and it hasn't had its last breath, but it's down to the point where we were going to spend much more money than what the vehicle is worth," Borgsmiller said.
The district received two bids for the purchase of a mini cargo van for the technology department. Morlan Dodge bid $16,749 for a 2006 Caravan, and Sikeston Motor Company bid a 2006 Freestar for $15,830. The board awarded the bid to Sikeston Motor Co. All motions included amending the district's budget accordingly.
In providing the board with an update on the guidance and counseling report, Southeast Elementary counselor Kim Maclin and Fifth Grade Center counselor Julie Bohannon said having a counselor at each building is really beneficial.
"It helps us to provide developmental guidance programs in grades k through 12 and also increases our assistance in the area of special education," Maclin said.
The Web-based Special Education Automated Software program has been implemented, added Dr. Larry Bohannon, assistant superintendent of professional development and secondary education.
Bohannon noted visitors to the district's Web site, www.sikeston.k12.mo.us, can now view progress of the construction of new math and science center. Updates will be made periodically.
Sikeston High School cheerleaders were also recognized with certificates for earning second place at the Missouri Cheerleading Coaches Association championship.
Borgsmiller noted school will not be in session Monday in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. School Board Recognition Week is slated for Jan. 23-27.