JACKSBORO, TN (WLAF) – Campbell County Director of Schools Jennifer Fields had some good news for the school board on Tuesday night – new cases of COVID-19 have nearly vanished from Campbell County schools.

“COVID numbers have dropped significantly,” Fields reported. “The number was at zero but a couple of positive tests came in today.” This may be the latest sign that the recent surge fueled by the Delta variant has run its course. The approval for school age children to receive the vaccine should offer additional protection for both students and staff as the Winter flu season approaches.

In keeping with the good news spirit at the meeting of the board of education, a representative of TRANE was on hand to present the board with a check in the amount of $8,683. It was for the latest savings on energy costs associated with the TRANE heating and air system in schools that includes solar panels to supplement traditional energy sources.

The remainder of the monthly board meeting dealt with mostly routine business. The board approved a couple of budget amendments including one to add $4,437 to the maintenance budget from an insurance recovery. They also approved a board policy setting requirements for advance course registration and discussed the legal limitations on dealing with student assault incidents.

The board was told that simple fights between students can only be referred to administration with assignment to alternative school as a result. The law allows arrests by law enforcement only in cases where weapons are involved or severe bodily injury results.

After a half hour delay, while the board met in executive session with attorney Dail Cantrell concerning an undisclosed legal matter, they adjourned with Chairman Johnny Byrge asking that the board change its meeting time due to the time change. For December, January and February, the school board monthly meetings will begin at 5 pm instead of 6 pm. (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 11/11/2021-6AM)