BY STACI WILSON

The Elk Lake School Board approved the purchase of a natural gas powered emergency generator at its Monday, Oct. 20 meeting.

In the event of a power outage, the generator will supple the electric needed to run the pumps for the new boiler so the school buildings will remain heated.

The generator will replace a much smaller one – equipment that is about 30 years old and nearing the end of its lifespan, according to board members.

Cost of the generator is $67,542, purchased from Spectrum Electric. Because Susquehanna County Career and Technology Center’s building “A” will also utilize the equipment, 10 percent of the cost will be covered by SCCTC.

The conversion of the school from propane to natural gas is expected to be completed by Jan. 1.

The elementary school received a grant from the Community Foundation to purchase paint for murals that tie in with the school-wide effective behavior program initiative.

A “Meet the Author” night, featuring seven local authors will be held Nov. 6; and the K-Kids Cancer Awareness event will take place on Saturday, Nov. 8, 10 a.m.-noon, with a survivors’ walk. Proceeds raised benefit will go to the South Auburn Relay for Life team.

In the high school, Haunted Hallways will be held Saturday, Oct. 25, noon-3 p.m.

Principal Brian Mallery told the board that “Fist Bump Friday” is underway as a means to “promote unity” in the school.

The high school play, “Princess Whats-her-name” will be performed on Nov. 7-8 in the auditorium.

During the SCCTC board meeting, held immediately following the Elk Lake meeting, the board approved the hiring of Christine Gibbons as a part-time, half-day paraeducator.

Susquehanna Community School District will be billed for the one-on-one aide provided to the student.