EATON — According to Debby Barnett, Preble County Educational Service Center Preschool Supervisor, there has been an increase in referrals for the preschool programs.

Barnett gave her monthly report during the ESC Board meeting on Wednesday, Feb. 27.

There are 54 IEP students and 78 “typical student population” for a total student count of 132. The preschool is continuing to see an increase of referrals for evaluation. There are currently 20 children in evaluation and six in screening, for a total of 26 potential students.

According to Barnett, this may lead to the necessity of an extra classroom. Shawn Hoff, Assistant to the Superintendent, has been asking county superintendents to keep them in mind and search for room in their districts.

ESC also held its Teachers Helping Teacher’s Preschool Collaboration day on Feb. 8. According to Barnett, the day was a success.

In other business, Hoff reported on calamity days and the status of the ESC. He shared, they have currently missed eight full days and had one two hour delay, for a total of 50 hours missed. If the ESC misses another full day or has three two hour delays, it will have to start making up hours. Staff is already having to make up time.

He also reported on Professional Development days the ESC has been hosting for area administrators.

The next Educational Service Center Board of Education meeting will be held on Wednesday, March 27 at 5:30 p.m. in the Educational Service Center.