West Carroll Schools See 5 Percent Enrollment Increase

ATWOOD (August 7) — The West Carroll Special School District board met Thursday evening for the regular monthly meeting with all board members in attendance.

The board approved the compensation portion of the contract for Director of Schools Preston Caldwell. The new package offers a three percent increase in pay and an adjustment in benefits to match the rest of the district employees. However, Caldwell’s insurance premium is being moved to salary, as Caldwell has declined the insurance package through the district.

The cost difference to the district per year for the new contract is $2,926.60. The change from insurance to salary will also save the district money, as the cost of insurance typically increases from year to year, while Caldwell’s salary will not increase with insurance premiums.

The package also offers a performance incentive for scoring a 3 or higher on his evaluation.

“I feel like this helps the accountability factor that he has to the school. I like that, and he does as well,” Board Chairman Williams Robinson stated about the incentive requirements.

The board approved the compensation package for the director of schools’ new contract with a 5-0 vote. The final contract will be presented at the September board meeting.

West Carroll Special School District has seen a five percent increase in enrollment for this school year. Caldwell spoke during the meeting about the positive changes that the system has made that have led to the increase in enrollment numbers.

“This growth is a reflection of the hard work and dedication of the entire West Carroll team. From our outstanding school board members and central office staff to our dedicated administrators, faculty and support staff, it takes a unified effort to build the kind of educational environment that draws families in and keeps them engaged. We are also incredibly thankful for the continued support of our local community, which plays a vital role in our district’s success,” Caldwell said.

Caldwell also highlighted the success of the Pre-K program at the primary school in laying a solid foundation for the youngest learners, the academic growth seen at the elementary school in recent years, and the robust ACT awareness and preparedness program at the high school.

“West Carroll is on the rise, not just in numbers, but in the quality of education and opportunities offered. Whether it’s through academics, the arts or hands-on learning, West Carroll is preparing students not just for tests, but for life,” Caldwell said of the system. “Our growing enrollment is a testament to the trust our families place in us and the quality education we strive to deliver every day. As enrollment continues to grow, one thing is clear: Great things are happening at West Carroll.”

The board took time to discuss funding for athletic programs at West Carroll from the school system. There were questions from various board and community members about funding and where money goes from gate and fundraising. Caldwell presented data to show the funding given to each sport and what each sport brings in from gate revenue and fundraising.

Caldwell promised to give further attention to athletic funding and look closer into how to improve retention for coaches in the West Carroll Special School District.