HOISINGTON — The Hoisington School Board learned at its regular monthly meeting that the district’s finances are in very sound financial footing according to the 2010-11 audit report by Ken Beran of Adams, Brown, Beran and Ball.

Beran congratulated the school on the great improvements in the last five years in the finances.

In other business, the board approve spending $12,500 to help pay engineering fees for the study needed for the Safe Routes to School grant. The city of Hoisington is paying the remainder, also $12,500.

The grant will include curriculum, sign age and a committee will set up priorities. In addition, all curbs on the route will be made handicapped accessible.

New trustees were named to the foundation board. They were Brad Tajchman and Joan Schmidt.

The board approved two non-staff drivers. Superintendent Bill Lowry gave a report on the status of the school’s vehicles, and the board endorsed the trade-in of a suburban for one with less miles.

The principles will begin walk-through in their teachers classes every two weeks. Superintendent Bill Lowry plans to be in every classroom at least once.

The district received a $600 Pay It Forward grant. It is intended for students who have a one-time need. The intent is that they repay it at some point if they can.

In addition, the school has applied for a $43,000 grant for reducing teen drinking. It would apply to the county, but Hoisington would take the lead on it.

Also, the elementary schools have received a fresh fruit and vegetable grant where students are encouraged to try fresh produce that they have never tried before.

Principal of HMS Pat Reinhart said that Hoisington Middle School is studying anti-bullying, and October is RESPECT month.

HHS is in the process of adding MTSS for student sin the high school.