Susan Barr
Kern Valley Sun

With June 23 being the final Board of Trustees meeting for Kernville Union School District Superintendent Mary Barlow, Trustee Ross Elliott set the tone for the night’s meeting with words of praise and gratitude to Barlow for her years of service.

Barlow is moving on to the Kern County Superintendent of Schools (KCSOS) office in Bakersfield to work as Deputy Administrative Officer Fiscal Crisis & Management Assistance Team, Elliott took the podium and spoke from the heart, saying what a privilege it has been to work with Barlow. He also addressed the positive impact she has had at the District during her seven years at the helm stating, “You’re courageous, you’re innovative, you’re strong and deeply caring. You have contributed greatly to the well-being of the students of this district and to the well- being of this community.”

In her final Superintendent’s Report, Barlow announced the District received a little over $4,400,000 of the $6,000,000 that was owed to it by the state for construction funding. She added, “This eases up the cash flow situation and will allow us to meet our obligations for the project.”

Barlow also reported that the construction itself is on target and stated that MOT Supervisor, Dennis Voller, “Has done a phenomenal job. We have to give full credit to Dennis and his crew for keeping it (construction) all on track.”

Barlow continued with an update on the ongoing state budget situation. “The cuts that we have made are right down to the muscle and bone,” she said. “This is the worst year ever in education. Unfortunately, next year will be even worse.” She clarified that at this time, the district is focusing on trying to save existing jobs, rather than on restoring jobs that have already been cut.

Although the board generally goes dark for the month of July, Barlow stated that it may indeed be necessary for the trustees to meet next month due to the ongoing financial crisis.

Next to speak was Heather Berry of the Camp Keep Committee who gave a lengthy address to the board. She said the group has made significant progress in their fundraising efforts since the May board meeting. Berry stated, “We are beyond overwhelmed at the outpouring of help and cash that we have received.” She informed board members of the various upcoming events that are being held throughout the valley over the summer to raise funds for this year’s sixth graders to participate in the week long Camp Keep experience. At this time the group has approximately $12,500 cash in hand and has commitment for approximately $2,000 more.

There was significant discussion regarding if and when the board would be willing to sign a contract with the camp to lock in a date. The board remained steadfast in their position that they could not sign on the dotted line while there was any possibility that the district would be stuck footing the bill for 75 percent of the total cost if the committee was unable to raise the necessary funds. Board member, Tom Moore added, “It would not be responsible for our District to put its’ neck out when the money is just not there.”

Mary Hanawalt, parent of a sixth grade Wallace Middle School student and past Treasure of the Wallace Elementary PTC was the voice of reason that ultimately allowed the two sides to find something that they could agree on. She suggested that the committee come up with the 75 percent in cash and give it to the district to hold. The district would then have all of the monies in hand necessary to pay the default fee. Her suggestion was met with approval from both sides. Berry admitted that she was in shock because she had not anticipated an agreement would come at the meeting. Moore added, “I applaud all of your efforts and I have confidence that you will succeed.”

At this point, the onus is on the Camp Keep Committee to come across with the funds in a timely manner, only then will the board reserve a week for the students to attend the camp.

Susan Barr of the Wallace Elementary PTC asked for the board’s approval to purchase and present the school with a 4-foot by 6-foot wall mounted school sign. The PTC has been saving a portion of monies raised from fundraising events for the past several years to purchase the sign. It will be used to convey important information to students and parents alike.

At that point, the meeting broke for photos and to enjoy some celebratory cake and punch as part of an impromptu going away party for Barlow. Board member, Mike Hughes presented the long time superintendent with a beautiful engraved glass plaque thanking her for all of her efforts over the past seven years.