Dierks School Board Approves Merit Pay, Football Field Upgrades and New School Bus

The Dierks School Board approved several personnel, facilities and financial items during their regular monthly meeting Tuesday.

Board members reviewed School Choice applications, noting that 42 students will be transferring into the district while two students will be transferring out.

The board approved a merit pay resolution under state law, awarding $2,500 each to teachers Cassie Kirby and Greg Faulkner.

Board members also approved a resolution allowing district administrators to transfer any 2000 fund balance exceeding $692,000 into the building fund after required categorical and restricted funds are deducted.

In other business, the board approved a $46,800 change order for football field renovations, including $30,000 for additional fencing and $16,800 for a new sidewalk.

The board also approved the purchase of Triton Ultra Sensors from KLC for $10,881.68 to comply with Eli’s Law, as well as the purchase of a 2027 Thomas 77-passenger school bus through Midwest Bus Sales. The bus will be financed over five years at an annual cost of $36,944.

The board also approved school insurance through the Arkansas School Boards Association for the 2026-27 school year, including $8,378.15 for vehicle coverage and $240 for mobile equipment coverage.