The Dawson Springs Board of Education will be taking applications for a new board member after officially accepting the resignation of Vicki Allen during Monday afternoon’s meeting.
Superintendent Leonard Whalen said Allen’s resignation took effect on July 21st and expressed his gratitude for her dedicated service to the district since 2002.
click to download audioThe board also authorized advertising for the board seat left vacant by Allen, with the term set to end on December 31, 2026.
In other action, the Board selected Wes Ausenbaugh to serve as the Board chair and Meredith Hyde as vice chair.
During the chief academic officer report, Whalen, standing in for Larry Cavanaugh, mentioned that one focus for the upcoming school year is preparing for the integration of artificial intelligence.
click to download audioAs part of the superintendent’s report, Whalen shared that Phase 1 documents for the safe room have been submitted to Kentucky Emergency Management in Frankfort. He explained that state officials will review the documents before forwarding them to FEMA.
Whalen also explained that he’s hopeful the district could receive part of the state’s General Fund surplus announced by Governor Andy Beshear last week, to help cover costs for the district’s safe room project.
click to download audioHe also reported that nearly all positions in the district have been filled, with just a few remaining that they are still working to finalize.
Whalen also addressed the temporary modifications planned for Riverside Park to accommodate the high school and middle school softball teams—a measure unanimously approved by the Dawson Springs City Council at a special meeting last week. He stated that he reaffirmed the Board’s support for this temporary arrangement and emphasized the need for the City Council’s backing.
click to download audioCurrently, he said they are waiting for the City Council’s attorney to coordinate with the school district’s attorney so all necessary documents can be signed and the project can begin.
Additionally, Whalen shared that there is plenty of preparation underway before students return to school on August 19, with staff beginning their opening day on August 18.
