Laurel School Board recognizes students during April meeting

Last month’s Laurel School Board meeting, which took place April 15, included recognition of three groups of students. The recognitions were to continue with this month’s meeting, scheduled to take place on Wednesday.

First up were the North Laurel Early Learning Academy’s top readers for I Love to Read Month. A total of 13,951 books were read by the students, an average one book a day during the month of February.

The board also heard from students and teachers from the Laurel High School Mock Trial team. This was the first year Laurel has had a team in the competition. Students took part in four trials over two days.

“Our kids showed up and they did so well,” said Laurel High Principal Trina Giles.

Teachers and students from the Inclusion Club also presented to the board. The advisors are Ameena Jumarally and Jenny Hastings and student members are  Karsyn Pete, Ty Jefferson, and Brynnen “Buggy” Thompson.

The club is the driving force behind inclusion week, which is celebrated first week in March. Other club activities include Special Olympics bocce ball, Super Hero Day, and unified track and field.

Following the financial report, which included a projected deficit of around $876,000 for the year (the district has $4 million in funds including $2 million in reserves), Superintendent Dr. Shawn Larrimore stated that the district will have two opportunities to pass a referendum next year. The district was unable to pass one this year. Larrimore added that if a referendum does pass during the 2026-27 school year, the district will face drastic cuts during the 2027-28 school year.

Among the student groups slated to be recognized during this Wednesday’s meeting are: Laurel High School wrestling team, Laurel High School Wizard of Oz cast, and the Circuit Court 3 Award winners.