A last minute agenda item at last night's Rockford School Board meeting is approved unanimously.

The board voted to approve a one year contract extension with the Rockford Education Association. Superintendent LaVonne Sheffield says the decision means the commitment to students comes through action and not just words.

Contract talks with Rockford teachers were not supposed to begin until next month. The board also approved a contract with the District 205 food service workers. The board previously approved an agreement with teacher paraprofessionals.

Meanwhile, a mentoring program at the District's Leadership and Learning academy will continue.  The board voted seven to nothing on a 40 thousand dollar contract with Shoresh Learning. It's been providing services at the academy to help students who have had discipline problems. There were concerns about certification, however board member Bob Evans says he was informed that there are no certification requirements when it comes to mentoring contracts.  Evans added the district has contracts with other religious organizations and if any religious philosophy is taught then the contract is considered void.