Serving the High Plains

Schools approve application for relief funds

The Tucumcari Public Schools board approved an application to receive $417,300 in coronavirus relief funds during an emergency meeting Thursday.

Superintendent Aaron McKinney said the money would be used to buy Chromebook computers for all of the district’s approximately 950 students.

He said the district favors Chromebooks because teachers can restrict certain websites with them. They also are ideal for remote learning, which remains a possibility when the school year resumes this fall because of the virus.

Other funds from the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act will be used to buy personal protective equipment for employees, thermometers to screen potentially ill people and specialized cleaning equipment for the buildings.

McKinney said the funds would come in two installments — one before the district fiscal year ends June 30 and another after the 2020-2021 fiscal year begins July 1.

The board approved the measure unanimously.