The unanimous decision came alongside the approval of the student transportation routes.

The board also recognized a Rock Bridge track and field athlete and eight teachers of the year at the meeting.

A new member also joined the board Monday. Dr. Tom Rose was one of nine candidates for the position.

"We're very pleased to have Dr. Rose join our Board of Education," said Dr. Phyllis Chase, Superintendent of Columbia Public Schools. "He brings a lot of community experience, and most of all commitment to kids."

Other issues discussed at the meeting were graduation numbers, summer school, and buses.

Columbia Public Schools graduated 1,180 students this year. This number is up 43 from last year. Summer school for the district begins June 12.

The district is installing GPS systems in the school buses in order to make bus routes as efficient as possible. The board also discussed ways to optimize bus routes with the increasing gas prices.