The Atlantic School Board Wednesday night approved a request from Superintendent Dr. Michael Amstein for No School next Wednesday, Feb. 15th, so that students, parents and district patrons can attend the State Team Wrestling Tournament in Des Moines. Amstein congratulated Athletic Director Matt Alexander for pulling off a very special night Tuesday, with two Varsity basketball games and a hosting a Regional Wrestling Dual, that involved the use of a spotlight on the local wrestlers. Amstein also congratulated Wrestling Coach Tim Duff on putting together a great season and moving the team onto the State Tournament.

In other business, the Atlantic School Board discussed an amended Board Policy pertaining to Student Conduct, with regard to what is a “Dangerous Object.” Superintendent Mike Amstein said the discussion with the District’s Board Attorney followed an incident at one of the District’s facilities.  The Board also discussed a Negative Balance Policy, with regard to the District School Lunch Program. The Policy addresses lunch accounts when a student owes $10 or more. Amstein said the District is fortunate that for the past couple of years, the District has been operated in the black and didn’t have to dip into their General Fund to make up the difference. He said donations have helped to cut the cost and cover students who are behind in their payments, and the Policy simply ensures the District meet Federal and State mandates. Both times the Board waived the second reading of those policies, and approved the changes.

The Board also tabled action on approving the purchase of a 2017 Chevy Suburban from Karl Chevrolet in Ankeny, for $31,938. Transportation Director Dave Eckles said he went out for a quote through a State bid contract. Eckles said even though the vehicle would be purchased through another dealership other than Deter Motor Company, Deter’s could have their nameplate affixed to the vehicle. The School Board, though, was strongly in favor of giving the local dealership a chance to try and match the bid price. If the Board eventually elects to go with the State bid, it will take three-to five weeks for the vehicle to arrive.

The District’s 2005 Suburban was totaled during an accident in Dubuque on January 10th. The 2005 vehicle will be repurchased by the District for the salvage value of $1,050, and repaired. Eckles said he thinks it can be made road worthy again. The old Suburban would only be used as a staff vehicle, however, and not to transport students.