(CAMERON)  More than 100 people, most of whom are concerned parents, teachers, and citizens, calling themselves Cause For Kids, packed the Cameron School Board meeting room last night, to question the board about progress in their cause. 

The group, which has grown in numbers since confronting the board in February, compiled a list of questions that were presented to the board by spokespersons Pam Green and Mike Shelton.  Green told KMIL News she felt the efforts of the group were beginning to make a difference.  (Audio)  Green said another concern is grading issues that have come up in the high school.  (Audio)

Long-time Cameron ISD counselor and teacher Ann Maler spoke on behalf of the group, expressing her love of the community and the school, and her desire for improvements.  Mrs. Maler concluded by stating to the board “you want parent involvement, now you have it, what will you do with it.”

The group has formed 3 committees, a Grievance Committee, a Code of Conduct committee, and a Salary committee.  The committees will report their studies to the group at a meeting March 20^th at Grace Church. 

Board President Gene Vaculin said he felt the group is getting answers and the administration is working hard to provide solutions.  (Audio)

In a closed session last night, the board considered teacher contract renewals.  4 teachers were not recommended for re-employment with the district.  They are Mike Temple, Jr. High History Teacher, and 3 high school teachers:  Rita Mina, the Physics teacher, Math teacher Eric Romberg, and Spanish teacher Carlos Piliado.  Vaculin said the rest of the teachers will receive new contracts and stressed that all teachers are subject for re-assignment.  (Audio)

During an open forum last night two people signed up to speak.  Melanie Reed encouraged community oneness while Cameron ISD teacher Barbie Ryza (pictured left) questioned the legality of the town-hall like discussion and the committee formed when the Cause for Kids group met with the board during the February Board meeting. 

In other business last night the board appointed Roy Martinez as Election Judge and Ella May Burnett As Alternate Judge for the May 3^rd School Trustee Election.  The board set March 20^th at 9 a.m. to draw for places on the ballot, and set May 6^th at 7:30 p.m. to canvass election returns. 

The board approved textbook recommendations as presented, approved a resolution against vouchers.  Superintendent Maxie Morgan said the Legislature will again consider the system, that most districts in the state are against.

The board also approved two budget amendments and one bill over $25,000 to Oncor Electric for the relocation of Electrical lines on 12^th Street.