The Ozark School Board convened on December 19, 2024, to discuss key issues affecting the district, including the recent federal compliance audit and updates on state testing. The meeting began with acknowledgments of the efforts made by district staff, particularly Dr. Wilson and his team, who facilitated the audit process.

A significant portion of the discussion focused on the free and reduced-price lunch program. The district is mandated to conduct a count of students enrolled in this program by the last Wednesday of January. This count is crucial as it directly impacts funding from the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE). The audit confirmed that the reported numbers align with the district's records, ensuring that the funding received is justified.

Board members emphasized the importance of this process, noting that it not only fulfills state compliance requirements but also secures essential federal and state funding for the district. The audit's smooth execution was praised, and the board expressed gratitude for the hard work of all employees involved, including teachers, maintenance staff, and data management personnel.

Following the audit presentation, the board moved to approve the audit as presented. A motion was made by board member Dustin and seconded by Amber, with unanimous approval from the board.

The meeting then transitioned to a second reading of the Missouri School Boards' Association (MSBA) policy, indicating ongoing efforts to ensure that district policies remain current and effective.

In conclusion, the Ozark School Board meeting highlighted the district's commitment to transparency and compliance, as well as the collaborative efforts of its staff in securing vital funding for educational programs. The board's next steps will involve further discussions on policy updates and continued monitoring of compliance measures.