Caledonia Argus

Tool's contract renewed

Posted: 1/28/03

by Andrew Miller
Argus News Reporter

Dr. Jim Tool will return for another year as district superintendent. The ISD #299 school board voted unanimously on January 21 to approve a contract for 2002-2003, which is nearly identical to the contract Tool had in 2002-2003.

Toolís salary in 2002-2003 was $88,200, and in 2003-2004 he will earn $88,294. The only substantive difference is an additional 20 vacation days included in the new contract.

Tool said that he is satisfied with the contract, noting, ìItís essentially what I asked for.î

Hired last year, Tool served as interim superintendent in 2002-2003, after Percy Lingen left the district to accept a similiar position in International Falls.

Grade school closed March 6-7

School has been cancelled at Caledonia Elementary on March 6-7 in order to facilitate the move from its present location to the former high school.

The moving process will commence Thursday, March 6 with the conveyance of desks and furniture to the schoolís new location, and will continue Friday with the transfer of remaining classroom items.

Principal Connie Hesse said that 30 volunteers will be needed to help move each day, and donations of bottled water and cookies are being solicited to help fuel the movers.

Plans for school website underway

Plans to get a school website up and running in the coming year are being discussed by district officials, and talk has begun as to who will design the site.

ìThereís at least a fair chance weíll get it going this year, and next year weíll have more options as to how to maintain it,î said Tool. ìWeíve talked with one of our teachers who has some interest in further development, and the project is subject to ongoing discussion.î

Funds sought for grand piano

Plans to purchase a grand piano for Caledonia middle high/school has prompted a fundraising campaign to cover the costs.

Principal Brian Doty estimated that the piano will cost $25,000, and additional items needed to maintain and display the piano, such as a quilted cover, will up the price to around $30,000.

A committee is being formed to organize the donation process, but those interested in donating immediately can contact Gayle Grippen or Barb Hurley.

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