APS Superintendent Dave Rabbideau gave a speech in the new entrance way and secure office, paid for with the Safe, Warm, and Dry Bond, which was approved by voters in March 2020.

“Ella White received the majority of work this summer,” Rabbideau said. “I think somewhere around $6.1 million of work, so it was fast and furious and extensive.”

Rabbideau thanked the community for the bond and said there is more work to be done now that the district is moving into stage two of the bond.

The ribbon was cut by a student and everyone seemed pleased with the work that was done, including a secure entry, new boilers, plumbing upgrades, a new roof, ceiling repairs, a new parking lot, updated lighting, water conservation measures, and upgraded controls, which allow the building to operate more efficiently and cost effectively.

News Photo by Barbara Woodham Superintendent Dave Rabbideau making a speech before the ribbon curing at Ella White Elementary School.

During its meeting, the board discussed several policies and approved and adopted nine. Also adopted, but still not unanimous, was the emergency COVID-19 vaccination, testing, and face-covering policy.

Multiple members of the board voiced their opinions on the emergency policy and stated that they feel they have no choice, but to adopt it.

They urged the community to write letters to their state and federal representatives with any complaints.

A small group of community members voiced their opinions concerning the policies among the crowd. Shannon Vivero, a parent of three APS students, said she is fighting to get her children deemed exempt from mask wearing.

She called for the district to hold a vote of parents of APS students to see where the parents stand on the issue collectively.

Before policy discussion, the meeting got a touch of Christmas spirit and began with Principal Thomas Berriman, dressed in a full Santa suit, participating in a play with a group of students.

The play was, “You Can’t Catch Me, I’m the Gingerbreadman.”