Community volunteer outlines plan for 'Friends of Siren Schools'; board pledges support

Wayne Cobal addressed the board during special appearances and described efforts to organize a 'Friends of Siren Schools' nonprofit that would allow community members to give to the district with tax incentives. Cobal said he has recruited several community members interested in serving on the nonprofit's board and planned to meet again in the second week of May for further guidance.

Cobal said he had met with a representative of a regional foundation (transcribed as "St Cy Valley Foundation") and discussed thresholds and investment advantages; he stated a fundraising goal that would allow access to a larger foundation pool (the transcript references raising $110,000). Cobal asked the board to be aware of and supportive of the effort as he organizes the nonprofit; several board members expressed appreciation and asked for updates.

Following the presentation, the board voted to show official support for the Friends of Siren Schools and to assist Mr. Cobal in establishing the nonprofit. The board also accepted a donation from North States for the lunch program and an estimated $500 in art supplies from a local family, motions the board moved and approved as part of the business meeting.

The board asked that Mr. Cobal provide further updates as planning continues; the transcript does not record subsequent detailed bylaws, incorporation steps or an exact timetable for filing nonprofit paperwork.