(Atlantic) The Atlantic School Board held a brief meeting Wednesday evening before its board retreat.
The board heard a presentation from journalism student John McCurdy about a new publication called The Lance, which will debut this Friday. McCurdy said the printed literary magazine will feature student art, photography, writing, and other creative work. The publication will be released quarterly.
McCurdy said he got the idea for The Lance while attending the Iowa Summer Journalism Workshop.
Funding for the publication comes from the Booster Club.
McCurdy said they are excited to provide students with a creative outlet and a place to share their work with friends.
In other news, the Atlantic School Board received a quick update from SVPA/DCI on the design development for the projects related to the $22.5 million bond referendum passed in November 2025. The project includes improvements and expansion at Washington Elementary, Schuler Elementary, Atlantic Middle School, and Atlantic High School. Due to time constraints, SVPA and DCI officials asked to meet with the School Board next week to go over the schematic design and cost estimates.
The Atlantic School Board approved several action items, including student trips to Costa Rica in the summer of 2028 and the National FFA Leadership Conference in Indianapolis October 20th through the 23rd. Other action items included purchasing a 2027 Ford Transit passenger van through a state bid, and agreements to participate in the Iowa Local Government Risk Pool Commission for fiscal year 2027.
The board also approved:
Resignations & Retirements
Melissa Miller – Preschool Paraeducator
David Wheatley – Regular Route Driver
Derek Handel – Softball Coach
Recommendation to Hire
Jeff Hetrick – Regular Route Bus Driver
Delaney Hinman – Para Educator at Schuler / AMS
Anna Pauley – National Honor Society Sponsor
Kaiden Hatley – HS Wrestling Cheer Coach
Brett Johnson – Head Softball Coach
Spring Sport Coaches for the 2027 season
Caine Page – Regular Route Driver
Jake Olsen – Head Boys Golf Coach
Tony Pross – Head Baseball Coach
Jalon Olson – Assistant HS Girls Wrestling Coach
Oran Perkins – HS Girls Wrestling Coach
Winter Volunteer Coaches for the 26-27 season
Nicole Wills – Para Educator for Transportation
