Bob Null mentioned there is just one ad on the Falcon Professional Development Web site and encouraged other businesses to participate. Tom Cline advised the attendees they are continuing to gather support and information on helping to institute a disaster preparedness plan for the area.The October feature speaker was Dr. Steven Hull, superintendent of Falcon School District 49. Hull discussed the challenges and pressures all school districts face trying to meet the criteria for the “No Child Left Behind” program, instituted by the Bush administration.He also talked about changing the school district name from the current School District 49 to something more inclusive of the entire district. FPDL members asked about the future of the business alliance and questioned the district’s willingness to open its doors to the community. Hull assured everyone that the business alliance (formed a few years ago to bring business and D 49 together to establish relationships and programs helpful to both) would continue. As a first-year superintendent, Hull also ensured the FPDL members that he would address issues related to the district’s past reputation of not following through with community members and their requests.Jim Ozburn, owner of the Falcon Food Store, suggested that D 49 incorporate a community center as part of a new school or remodel plan if the mill levy passes. Hull said he would pursue the idea.Hull also discussed growth and the developers’ fees for schools, cautioning that those fees are still inefficient to meet the needs of the district.The next meeting of the FPDL is Wed., Nov. 2 at 7:30 a.m. at the Falcon Fire Protection District firehouse. Visit the FPDL Web site at www.fpdl.org or e-mail President Tom Cline at thomascline@msn.com for more information.
