Superintendent Lively given Exemplary rating in annual evaluation
Jun. 17—Somerset Independent's Kyle Lively once again received a positive report card from the Board of Education, as board members gave Lively an Exemplary rating on his annual evaluation.
The evaluation was for the most recent 2023-2024 school year. An Exemplary rating means that the superintendent exceeds the standards, according to the evaluation summary.
Board Vice Chair Scott Gulock read out the board's evaluation during Monday's special called school board meeting, saying, "The Somerset Independent Board of Education looks forward to continuing to work closely with Mr. Lively as we continue to evaluate our current goals and set forth new goals, along with developing our strategic plan for the 2024-2026 school years. The board believes our superintendent will continue his strong commitment to the success of our entire school district."
Lively likewise offered a statement after receiving his evaluation, saying: "I am thankful and privileged to work alongside a selfless board that puts students first in all their decisions. Each member dedicates countless hours of their personal time to improve our system daily.
"This positive evaluation is a reflection of the hard work going on districtwide by everyone at Somerset Independent Schools. We have a tremendous school system composed of great students, caring parents, and dedicated educators. It takes each person doing their part to ensure that all students are successful. I am grateful for the positive feedback and we as a district will continue to pursue avenues to continually improve and grow Somerset Schools for the betterment of our students."
Also at Monday's meeting, the board approved the dates for both the kindergarten registration and registration for students entering in at any grade level.
Districtwide summer registration will be held July 17 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., while kindergarten registration will be July 23 from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
The board also approved the purchase of a new school bus for the district during Monday's meeting, but the discussion highlighted the way current inflation has hit manufacturing and industrial sectors.
Board members approved the purchase of a 2026 Thomas Built 78-passenger bus, but even with making the motion to approve, Board Member Jay Tuttle asked if he was correct in seeing that the cost for the new bus was much higher than the previous one purchased.
Transportation Director Tim Ham confirmed that the price of a new bus has gone up $33,000 in a year.
He added that the one purchased last year cost the district $167,000.
Carla Slavey can be reached at cslavey@somerset-kentucky.com
