MEEKER | Meeker High School has been named a 2020 Best High School by U.S. News & World Report, Superintendent Chris Selle told the Board of Education on Monday.
“By earning a national ranking in the top 40%, Meeker High School achieved status as a U.S. News Best High School and gained eligibility to display a U.S. News-trademarked 2020 Best High Schools award “badge.”
In other news from the school board meeting, the Class of 2020 responded to a survey about prom and graduation. Overwhelmingly, the 46 seniors approved the idea of a “drive-through” graduation event that would abide by public health guidelines. Discussion is underway to figure out how to make that happen and make sure this year’s seniors receive the recognition they’re due.
“It’s a tough situation,” Selle said. “None of us like any of these ideas. I think it’s fair to say, but I hope our kids and parents understand we’re doing the best we can and want to make sure we recognize those kids as best we can.”
Additionally, 62.5% of the senior class said to cancel prom this year, as opposed to a virtual option or delaying the event.
Selle told the board that at this point, the district’s budget is in a good place, but “cuts are coming.”
The economic impact of COVID-19 on the state’s economy is anticipated to have a negative effect on school budgets statewide. “I think we’re OK right now,” Selle said of proposed salary increases, “But I don’t know about next year or after that.”
As teachers enter the last month of the school year teaching online, Selle said he anticipates a “decline in student participation as the weather warms up and the novelty [of distance learning] wears off.”
Overall, however, the district has seen a minimal number of students who are not responding to their teachers or engaging with the district. They will continue efforts to reach out to those students.
By Niki Turner | [email protected]
