Board meeting roundup: safety advice, FBG update, upcoming meetings and Bags of Hope fundraiser

The Janesville School District Board of Education heard several non-action items during its Aug. 8 meeting, including a safety message, a Finance, Buildings & Grounds update, scheduling of upcoming meetings, and a community fundraising report.

Board member Carl gave a safety message urging drivers to keep hands on the wheel, maintain sensor equipment and software updates, and be aware of limitations of automated features in adverse weather. "Drivers should be ready to intervene when necessary," he said, noting sensors struggle in snow and ice and that software updates and maintenance are important.

A committee update reported on preliminary implications of the recently signed state budget, the status of capital projects referendum work (expected to be wrapped up by the end of the month), and ESSER-funded work at Franklin Middle School being done in two phases (one half of the building this summer; the other half next summer).

The finance Buildings & Grounds committee will meet Tuesday, Aug. 15 at 4 p.m. at Franklin Middle School. The Board will meet Tuesday, Aug. 22 at 6 p.m. at the Educational Services Center with a board workshop to follow on strategic planning.

Denise described Bags of Hope fundraising plans: an Oct. 12 concert at the Janesville Performing Arts Center at 7 p.m. featuring Rod Tough Curls and the Bench Press, plus a Pampered Chef sales fundraiser through the end of the month with 30% of sales earmarked for Bags of Hope.