Tompkins makes presentation to School Board

On Monday, Feb. 10 the Tehachapi School Board was treated to a presentation by Tompkins Elementary School Principal Cherie Belcoe and some of her students. Fifth grader Kayla Winchell explained her award-winning science project to the board. The project involved the effects of salt, sugar and sand on the melting of ice. Fourth grader Clair Schmidt also presented her science project exploring the effects of spring water, tap water and salt water on plants. Both of these students will be presenting their projects at the next level of competition in Bakersfield.

District Community Liason Liz Hartgrove introduced volunteer Chris Hobbs and her T.E.A.M. (Tompkins Enrichment Academic Mentoring) after school dance program. The children delighted the board with several dance numbers that included both coordination and exercise.

Also of interest was a presentation of the Comprehensive Safe School Plans by Chief Administrator of Instructional Services, Traci Minjares. The plans focus on safety and disaster preparedness practiced by all Tehachapi schools and the central office.

She explained that each school has a Disaster Shed containing items such as water, cots, first aid and potties. She showed the board a sample disaster cart containing caution tape, pen and paper (for a scribe), vests, a map of shut offs and a list of every student at the school with contact information. Each school has this cart which is kept inside the school and easily accessible. Following the presentation, the board unanimously approved the plans.