By ROWENA PLETT

Staff writer

The single payer rate for Centre employees’ health insurance will drop from $436 last year to $417 this year, beginning May 1. Centre has a grandfathered Blue Cross Blue Shield plan, meaning it was in place before the Affordable Care Act went into law in March 2010. The plan was approved Monday by the board of education. It includes prescription coverage.

Much of the meeting dealt with needs and wants pertaining to school facilities. Superintendent Susan Beeson proposed a list of district projects, including new weight room equipment and possible replacement of the weight room/bathroom/concessions building at the football field.

“If it’s a safety issue, district liability is a concern,” board member Jesse Brunner said.

Beeson said a good weight room could attract students.

The board also discussed air conditioning the two gymnasiums. Facilities manager Richard Idleman said one estimate he received was $135,000 for two 20-ton units for one gym.

Idleman distributed a map of possible areas where the parking lot could be expanded. He also showed sections of the roof that need replacing.

Beeson said the board should consider buying a new bus.

Donald Raymer, seventh through 12th-grade principal, requested additional high school boys and girls basketball uniforms.

Athletic director Sheldon Patton produced an estimate for new volleyball systems for both gyms at a cost of $24,000 for one and $22,000 for the other. The systems include judges’ stands, nets, and hydraulic lifts.

Beeson presented a request from teachers for two privacy booths or enclosed chairs that could be used in classrooms to help students avoid distractions.

A robot lab costing $3,995 includes two headsets that would allow students to explore the world.

Beeson said the business department could use a 3D printer and heat press to create a student business.

An architect was present who explained how his company could create a master plan for the district.

A representative of a lighting company presented an audit he had done of the schools’ lighting and the savings that would result by replacing current lights with LED lights. Other audits are being solicited.

Beeson reported that district spending is slightly lower than last year at this time. End of year transfers last year totaled more than $1,175,050.

She said she likes the idea of having a plan.

“We have a lot of money and a lot of deferred maintenance,” she said. “With a plan, you know what you are working on and can see your accomplishments.”