Despite a few technological hiccups, the Rio Rancho Public Schools Board of Education held its meeting online Monday, recognizing the hard work from information technology, safety and security, and facilities workers during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The response by counselors, bus drivers, custodians, office staff and administrators has been extensive. Although home bound, students are still provided an education.

Rio Rancho Public Schools main office.
(File photo/ Rio Rancho Observer)

Teachers work full-time with online lessons and assignments. Chromebooks have been loaned to the students without computers.

Students are also provided breakfast and lunch, which are prepared beginning at 6 a.m. and delivered throughout the day. Bus drivers and security officers have bagged, handed out and delivered the meals.

And, finally, before- and after-school and childcare workers have continued their services for families of first responders and health-care providers.

For their hard work, the school board discussed ways to recognize these workers. One proposal included nominating outstanding individuals to the New Mexico School Board Association for special recognition. The decision to nominate those individuals was unanimous.

Other items that were discussed and/or voted on during the meeting were:

• Approval of plaques for the new Shining Stars Preschool and the soon-to-be-opened Joe Harris Elementary.

• Ratification of NMSBA Student Achievement nominations.

• Nominations for NMSBA scholarships.

• Approval of the recommendation allowing use of the Edgenuity online class for assessments required for graduation for spring 2020 only and use of district-created assessments in future years.

Since the meeting was held online, there was no public comment. However, the public will be able to comment at future meetings via calls to the receptionist or e-mail.

Until further notice, all meetings will be online. The RRPS Board of Education’s next meeting will be held April 27.