(KNZA)--Security upgrades were discussed when the Hiawatha School Board meet Monday evening.

District Maintenance Director Chris Morey discussed proposed upgrades through Security One Systems.

The first project he brought up was the installation of fire alarm panels at the three main school facilities, along with the ag building and wood shop.  The cost of the equipment is nearly $1,900, with an annual fee of nearly $6,400 for monitoring and testing of the five sites.

It was the consensus of the board to move forward with the project. 

Morey next discussed the installation of additional security cameras in the district.  Proposed was the installation of three outdoor security cameras at the bus barn for asset protection at a cost of around $5,000, and the installation of cameras at the ag building--including two outdoor and one indoor--at a cost of nearly $5,400.

In addition, Morey discussed the installation of key card locks to the entries of the Ag Building and Wood Shop at a total cost of nearly $5,300. The board decided to move them down on the priority list.

Morey also informed the board of another project to upgrade the bus repeater, which will allow the communication radius to go from 15 to 30 miles from the repeater at the bus barn. The upgrade is to be completed before the start of next school year.

Following an executive session, the board approved the hiring of two new teachers for next school year. Evan Brockhoff was hired as an elementary school teacher and Xavier Caparros as a Spanish teacher at the high school.  In addition, Karl Kliewer was hired as a part time math teacher at the high school.  The board also accepted the resignation of middle school math interventionist Sadie Miller. 

At the beginning of the meeting, USD 415 Board President Tom Simmer presented crossing guard Jim Rupe with a Certificate of Recognition.  Rupe was nominated for the recognition by a patron who noted that he's always positive and uplifting, waving and providing a friendly face to everyone driving on First Street.