by Turner Russell

The Atlantic Community School District held a board meeting at the high school on Monday night. English/ELL Director Brielle Cerven presented progress to the board. The Atlantic Community School District Treasurer Mary Beth Fast also gave a presentation to the board discussing various budget items. The board approved several financial statements as well as a plan for “outside funding” for next year’s swim team.

Cerven presented first, explaining information about Atlantic’s EEL program. Cerven said, “59 teachers deal with our ESL students on a weekly basis,” and also noted that, “our program has been very successful.” Superintendent Dr. Michael Amstein commented on Cerven’s work, saying, “In the last couple of years I’ve been happy to see them involved in extra curricular activities.” Amstein also said, “I certainly give you all the credit for getting that done.”

During the superintendent’s report section of the meeting, Amstein said, “Willy Wonka was an impressive performance. I’m constantly amazed at the amount of talent that Atlantic has. Atlantic students, as far as musical and acting talents, are on par and I’m really proud of the kids and the great shows that they continue to offer.”

While the budget for Atlantic schools was being discussed, Amstein said, “It’s sad when you don’t know what amount is going to be available for school funding,” referring to waiting on the legislature to respond to the board with financial information. Fast said, “I know we’ve done everything we can to improve the situation.”

According to Amstein, the board has two possible school calendars prepared for the 2015-16 school year. Activities director Matt Alexander said, “Either one of the calendars we have we can make work.”

The board members also voted in favor of allowing the swimming program to raise its own funding for next year.