Members of the Wayland Board of Education Monday night held its last regular meeting before the Tuesday, May 2, bond election.

School officials couldn’t resist the opportunity to showcase “the good things happening in our schools” once again, repeating the glad-handing of winter sports teams’ successes. This time the WHS robotics team received attention, as well and the Wayland Junior High School music programs.

The robotics team gave a demonstration of some of what it was required to do at the state competition at Saginaw Valley State University earlier this month. The team members showed great pride in qualifying for state in only their second year of existence.

Board Trustee Janel Hott remarked, “They put so much effort into this… I’m proud of them all.”

Trustee Cinnamon Mellema also praised the efforts of the adult coaches and students.

Showing off musical skills were three different ensembles. A string quartet played “Integrity” under the watchful eyes of instructor Karen Nofsinger and those in attendance. There also was a clarinet duet and Cassandra Borr and Savannah Weber performed a flute duet.

Board and audience members were shown the school district’s video on the bond issue to be voted on May 2. Proposal I will be for 1.98 mills, totaling $34 million to build a new elementary school, add a wing to the junior high and make improvements and Proposal II, for 1.77 mills and $21 million, will focus on constructing a new swimming pool to replace the faltering 42-year-old facility, expand the band room, machine shop and robotics program.

The board also discussed new policies, one in particular that would extend a waiting period between 10-day suspensions and expulsions to allow administrators and boards more time to decide on on how best to proceed with the issue. The period will be referred to as long-term suspensions for up to 20 additional days.

PHOTO: Cassandra Borr and Savannah Weber performed a flute duet for Wayland Board of Education members before their meeting.