Some slight changes to the student handbook are on the way in South Coffeyville.

 

At last night's meeting, the school board approved the attendance policy in the upcoming handbook. Superintendent Daryl Pruter says there's no distinction between an excused and unexcused absence as far as the state is concerned. He says the new policy will do a better job of keeping track of absences.

 

Pruter says there will be a committee to examine absences if a child exceeds the limit to determine if alt-ed days are needed. The board also discussed changing the hat policy but decided to leave the policy in place, meaning students will still not be allowed to wear hats during school.

 

The board also discussed potential new requirements at the state level, including the elimination of processed foods in school lunches and Oklahoma State Superintendent Ryan Walters' plan to require public school districts to pay for lunch for all students. School staff say that directive would cost South Coffeyville $11,000 a month. More guidance is expected from the state on these issues.