School Board proposes new sidewalks to increase student safety

COLUMBIA  — Approval of a small construction project at Monday's Columbia School Board meeting could mean a big improvement in safety.

Currently two sidewalks outside Blue Ridge Elementary School end abruptly. The sidewalk is a problem because students have been stepping into the street at the gap, said Blue Ridge Principal Tim Majerus. The sidewalk is an improvement proposed by GetAbout Columbia and would be built with federal money.

Construction for the new sidewalk has to be approved by the board. The board will meet at 7 p.m. Monday at the school district's administration building, 1818 W. Worley St..

Monday's meeting opens the discussion about the selection process for a permanent superintendent.

Interim Superintendent Jim Ritter will give details about the first day of school, and Hickman High School social studies teacher John Deken will be recognized for receiving the James Madison Fellowship from the James Madison Memorial Fellowship Foundation of Washington, D.C.