School Superintendent Dr. Sean Alford welcomed teachers on their first day back to classrooms across the County as they prepare for the 2015-16 school year at a Board of Education meeting Tuesday.
"I was able to visit some schools today, and it was nice to hear a little noise in the hallways," said Alford, who spoke at his first regular School Board meeting after presenting his first 100 days entry plan at a special meeting Aug. 4.
"It's certainly nice to have the teachers back, and I hope we'll have a great week of preparation and some professional development, allowing them an opportunity to get into their classrooms and get ready to teach students Monday."
Alford said he expects U.S. Rep. Joe Wilson, R-S.C., to visit Aiken High School at about 1 p.m. Aug. 25. He is expected to visit classes and meet with teachers and staff.
Wilson also is expected to sponsor a community reception and town hall meeting at 6 p.m.
During business items presented by Board members, the trustees approved the reappointment of Clarence Jackson to the Area 1 Advisory Council.
The Board also approved the reappointment of Darrell Blocker and Karen Key and the appointment of Mark Stone, Crystal Morlan and Michelle Burns to the Area 2 Advisory Council.
The board approved a change order for the installation of artificial turf for the football field at North Augusta High School in the amount of $145,178.
The amount includes storm drainage at the bleachers, unsuitable soils on the field and rerouting water lines from under the field.
A change order is work that is added to or deleted from the original scope of work of a contract, altering the original contract amount or the completion date.
Board members heard a report of minority purchases for the fiscal year that ended June 30. According to the report, the District spent $156,095 during the year with nine minority vendors.
The Board also approved a custodial pilot program with Augusta Janitorial. The District is seeking a comprehensive custodial program that will assist with improving the cleanliness and upkeep of facilities.
The pilot program is at two elementary schools, one middle and one high school.
An Aiken native, Larry Wood is a general assignment reporter.