Dear Columbus Cougar Families and Columbus Community,
Happy Wednesday! The following is a brief summary of the September 8, 2026 school board meeting. Please note that this is provided to keep our community informed and transparent, but it does not serve as official board minutes.
Next Board Meeting: Moved to October 20th at 6:00 PM to accommodate trustee scheduling conflicts.
Thank you to Julie Hanley for attending last night's meeting and introducing herself to the board.
Out-of-District Students: Approved 4 students (1 elementary, 3 high school). Board Chairman Jay Baum will sign the forms before sending them to the students' resident districts for signature. Per 2023 legislative requirements, the resident district will then be invoiced for tuition costs.
Committee Reports: The Safety Committee will meet every other month at 7:15 AM, starting the first Wednesday of the month. The Technology Committee will also meet at 7:15 AM on alternating months. Other active committees include School Nutrition (currently scheduling), School Calendar, School Policy, Contract Negotiations, and School Facilities (currently scheduling).
AASA & E-Rate Updates: Discussions covered potential FCC changes or the elimination of E-Rate (the federal discount program for internet, phone, and telecommunications). The public comment period has been extended into October for anyone wishing to submit concerns.
Federal E-Grants Discussion: CTE / Carl Perkins ($11,000): $2,000 is allocated for teacher professional development, with the remaining funds supporting the Business program this year (VoAg next year, followed by FCS). Title I ($125,000): Covers salaries, benefits, and curriculum resources for Title I staff. Without federal funding, these costs would fall on the general fund.
Bus Barn Construction: Work remains on track for a December completion, though current progress (electrical and interior work) is less visible. Contractor Gen 7 of Columbus is doing a very nice job.
Class of 2029 Presentation on a Memorial Tree: The board approved planting a memorial tree in memory of Easton Jones on the north side of the high school gym near the street. Maintenance will finalize the exact spot and the tree will be planted this fall.
8th Grade High School Sports Participation: Following roughly an hour of public comment, the board will be working on developing a formal policy and procedure. A first reading will take place at the October 20th meeting.
New Substitutes Approved: Annie Campbell and Brigit Herceg were approved as substitute teachers, pending background checks.
Athletic Co-op Agreement: The district will visit partner schools (Red Lodge, Joliet, Park City, and Absarokee) to refine the co-op agreement in place for softball, baseball, and wrestling. A first reading is scheduled for October. This agreement has been around for several years.
Spring Levies: Initial discussions began regarding potential General Fund and Technology levies for next spring's school election. The board will decide whether to run one or both levies later this fall to ensure public transparency and awareness.