Crew members praised for ‘a phenomenal job’ in working on summer Lowell School District projects

By DEAN REA/Correspondent/The Herald — Lowell school board members praised the work of crew members Monday night for their work this summer on dozens of projects, including completion of the athletic field’s “crow’s nest,” installation of security cameras and upgrading Lundy school’s restroom floors.

The summer crew of custodial and maintenance staff members is led by Jason Pickett, director of maintenance, operations and transportation.

“Maintenance is doing a phenomenal job,” Supt. Johnie Matthews said while describing how a sprinkler system is being automated. Board members joined in praising the work that has been completed and is under way on more than 40 projects.

Matthews also reported that his current policy regarding the ever-changing COVID-19 landscape would be to “get back to normal as fast as we can.”

He would “highly advise” wearing masks, but would make it optional for students and teachers. Federal regulations require people who ride buses to wear masks.

Sworn in to serve two-year terms as board members were Mike Galvin, Dionne Plahn, Suzanne Kintzley, Jim Chapman and Jason Prenevost. Board members selected Galvin to continue as chairman and Plahn as vice-chairperson.

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the board returned to its regular meeting place in Lundy school but will continue to broadcast meetings live on Facebook. Details appear on the district’s web page.

Appointed to the budget committee were Matt Wendt, Jim Martini, Jeremy Caudle and Lon Dragt. One position is vacant.

The board also dealt with a number of routine financial and policy issues.