Einstein’s board of directors voted to apply for an i3 grant, which if awarded would allow the group to take over a failing school next year.

The board approved a motion allowing Principal Shawn Toranto to hire a grant writer for up to $4,500 to write the i3 grant.

“It’s wonderful to be considered and caught up in a complimentary situation,” said board member Chuck Gasho.

Toranto said the school would likely receive its school performance score from the state next week.  She predicted Einstein will receive a ‘B’.

Board president Ryan Bennett said a meeting earlier in the month with Recovery School District Superintendent Patrick Dobard and Toranto went well.  Toranto and teachers had asked for the board’s help to expedite repairs after Hurricane Isaac damaged the building.  In response to a request from the board, Dobard visited the school to view the conditions of the facility.  The day Dobard visited the school received its roof patch, Toranto said.

Executive Director of Capital Improvements for the RSD, Rodney Painting, said construction on the school’s permanent roof will likely begin in February.  The patch was completed to prevent any additional damage during the bidding process.

The board is now down to three members after the resignation of Suzanne Evangelista.  Bennett will likely appoint three additional members before the next meeting.  The board requires seven members in its bylaws.

Members Bennett, Gasho and Laurin Jacobsen were present.  The meeting ran from 6:10 p.m. to 7:20 p.m.  The next meeting will be held Oct. 30 at 6 p.m.