Natrona County school board members Monday discussed possible topics they'd like to address at their work sessions in the coming year, including evaluations for the superintendent and board.

Trustee Rita Walsh also urged the board to start its conversation about neighborhood schools again and to look at redrawing school boundaries.

"I really believe that neighborhood schools are important," Walsh said. "I believe it's in the best interest of our students. The community supports it. I really think it should be a priority when enrolling."

Trustees also heard progress updates from superintendent Joel Dvorak, and staff members from curriculum and instruction, human resources and facilities and technology.

In other business, the board accepted a $100,000 grant from the Department of Health and Human Services for continuation of the Drug Free Community Support Program. The grant was awarded by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.

The district works with the Natrona County Prevention Coalition and Mercer House on the grant, said Mike Bond, executive director of curriculum and instruction.

"We really have renewed that partnership," Bond said. "[It] impacts all schools and all students in some way."

Trustees also accepted $21,221 from the Joint Powers Board and $600 from the For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology Team. The funds are for FIRST Lego League Robotics activities and expenses.

Trustees did not vote on a recommendation to use up to $12,000 of Board Priority Excess Debt Service Funds to help pay for the Natrona County High School track storage building.

The recommendation will be on the Jan. 26 meeting agenda, according to Dvorak.

Reach education reporter Jasa Santos at (307) 266-0593 or at Jasa.Santos@trib.com.