District 8 Pays Ancillary Employees; Provides update on COVID-19 at Special Meeting

"I feel like I'm in a sci-fi film," District 8 interim superintendent Beth Zietz said near the end of the meeting. She and everyone involved in the Williams County District 8 school board had no idea that such an unprecedented event would befall the young board, who have been together for less than a month.

Zietz provided some updates on school education following North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum's announcement that schools would continue to be closed "until further notice." She started by announcing 6 staff members would be in self-isolation due to travel concerns. She adds that work is currently being done to get online access for students who currently don't have it at this time. She also stated there are enough chromebooks to allow 1-on-1 teaching with students in District 8. Zietz and members of the staff have been working on online educational plans, which she promises will be "engaging." She says a trial run has been done with some students who "loved the idea."

District 8 does not have a food service plan ready at this time, but Zietz does expect to have food served by next Wednesday at the latest. She has also brought up the idea of working with those in District 1 to streghten their efforts. She says an announcement should come tonight on their plans; she informs the board that "all students can be served and reinbursed" thanks to President Donald Trump's latest relief effots.

The board also voted unanimously to approve pay for ancillary employees up to April 3rd. President Dawn Hollingsworth said these employees are "Looking for a sense of security." Vice President Chris Jundt added that its "critical" to take care of these employees.

Finally, the board moved 4-0 to approve March 9's minutes. Myles Fisher abstained because he was not there for the meeting.

The board plans on holding another meeting Monday at 1pm.