View the 10.27.2025 meeting agenda on BoardDocs
Overall Summary
The Spring Hill Board of Education met Oct. 27 to review updates on bond-funded construction projects, state assessment results, technology progress, and district finances. The meeting underscored two key themes: strong academic performance and continued fiscal discipline amid budget pressures. Directors reported that construction bids are coming in well under budget, but leaders also acknowledged that state aid declines and inflationary costs are tightening long-term operating margins. Superintendent Dr. Link Luttrell commended staff for academic and operational achievements, while the board discussed ensuring transparency and sustainability as the district grows.
Good News, Recognitions, and Announcements
Director of Communication and Engagement Scott Peavey introduced the district’s three eighth-grade volleyball teams from Spring Hill, Woodland Spring, and Forest Spring middle schools — all of which finished in the top three of the Frontier League Tournament.
Peavey also recognized the Spring Hill High School Marching Band and Color Guard for their second-place finish at the Kansas State Championships, a major improvement from last year’s 18th-place result. Band Director Tristan Bartley and Color Guard Coach Megan Weaver thanked the board for its continued support. Board President Nicole Melius praised the programs for their growth and school pride.
Bond Project Updates
Executive Director of Operations Marc Williams and Newkirk Novak Construction Partners reported that bids for three elementary school additions totaled $9.7 million, approximately $3.5 million below the $12.8 million estimate. Project Manager Spencer Brown attributed the favorable results to strong subcontractor participation and market timing. Williams noted the bid includes a $300,000 emergency responder radio allowance required by new safety codes. The board unanimously approved the DLR Group contract amendments and the Newkirk Novak bid package. Williams said the district remains on track for groundbreaking in early 2026.
City Partnership on 199th Street Project
Alysen Abel of the City of Spring Hill presented an update on the 199th Street improvement project between Ridgeview and Renner. The district approved temporary and stormwater easements to facilitate construction. Abel noted the project bids came in $1 million under the engineer’s estimate, with six contractors participating. The project is expected to enhance safety and traffic flow near district campuses.
Prairie Creek Playground Proposal
Williams outlined the plan to replace the aging Prairie Creek Elementary playground, originally installed in 2005. The project’s total cost is estimated at $430,000, to be split over two fiscal years. A matching grant will fund half of the new structure, priced at $174,784, with the remainder and surfacing costs funded through the district’s capital outlay budget. The board requested full specifications, including site maps and adaptive play features, before final approval in November.
Technology Department Update
Director of Technology Billy Terry presented a year-end report highlighting the department’s workload and modernization efforts. Over the summer, his team replaced all classroom projectors districtwide, distributed more than 3,200 iPads, updated PA and camera systems, and resolved 1,000 support tickets in August alone. Terry emphasized the department’s reliance on student tech workers and praised their reliability and skill. Board members thanked the department for managing a growing workload with a small team and a limited budget.
Student Assessment Report
Director of Teaching and Learning Kristen Zuck presented the second phase of the district’s state assessment report. Results show major gains across all grade levels in English Language Arts, Math, and Science. Spring Hill High School reported a 23% increase in math proficiency, compared to a 7% statewide rise. Spring Hill Elementary improved 21% in ELA. Wolf Creek and Dayton Creek each gained nearly 20% in science, and Spring Hill Middle School achieved a 31% jump in science proficiency. Zuck credited consistent instructional alignment, data-driven planning, and professional development for the district’s strong performance. Board members commended the results and discussed strategies to sustain momentum.
Board Management Platform
Assistant Superintendent Dr. Josh Robinson led a review of potential replacements for BoardDocs, which will be discontinued in July. The committee recommended the Assembly platform, a web-based system created by the Georgia School Boards Association. Robinson said Assembly offers modules for meeting management, policy tracking, and internal communication. Board members requested additional details on cost, implementation timelines, and contract options before final approval in November.
Superintendent Search
Board President Nicole Melius reported that attorney Greg Goheen issued an RFP for superintendent search services to eight firms with Kansas experience. Responses are due Nov. 7, with board review scheduled for the Nov. 10 meeting.
Finance Report
Director of Finance Nathan Holder presented the district’s first comprehensive monthly financial report, introducing a new format designed to improve clarity and accountability. Holder confirmed that bond project expenses remain on schedule and capital expenditures are within projections, reflecting strong bid management and cost controls. However, he also provided a realistic picture of the district’s fiscal outlook: • State aid declines continue to pressure the operating budget, reducing local authority and impacting the Local Option Budget (LOB) and capital outlay reimbursements. • Inflationary costs for utilities, food, and labor have increased faster than the state funding formula. • Nutrition Services expenditures are rising as federal COVID-era reimbursements have expired. • Special Education funding remains uncertain, with the district covering a growing share of mandated costs. Holder said the district is maintaining stable reserves but warned that sustained expenditure growth could outpace revenue if state funding levels remain flat. He emphasized ongoing monitoring of fund balances and noted that future strategic planning will need to address both operational efficiency and long-term debt management.
Other Business
The board agreed to consolidate safety handbook policies into the classified and certified staff handbooks for future review and reference. A legislative priorities discussion will occur during the next work session to prepare for the 2026 legislative session. Routine contract renewals and consent items were approved unanimously.
Action Items
Action Item 1 – Approval of Amended DLR Contracts.
The Board approved amended contracts with DLR Group, the district’s architectural and design firm, reflecting updated costs and HVAC design scope for the three elementary school addition projects.
Motion by: Jon Chitwood Second by: Keith Ewing Vote: 7–0 (approved unanimously)
Action Item 2 – Approval of Bids for Phase I of Bond – Classroom Additions.
The Board approved Phase I bond bids for classroom additions at the three elementary schools, as presented by Executive Director of Operations Marc Williams and Newkirk Novak Construction Partners.
Motion by: Sharon Mitchell Second by: Jon Chitwood Vote: 7–0 (approved unanimously)
Action Item 3 – Approval of Enterprise Lease Agreement.
The Board approved the Enterprise vehicle lease renewal, allowing the district to continue its existing fleet lease agreement for operational vehicles.
Motion by: Jon Chitwood Second by: Keith Ewing Vote: 7–0 (approved unanimously)
Superintendent’s Report
Dr. Link Luttrell commended staff, students, and families for continued progress across academics and operations. He highlighted strong partnerships with community organizations and said the district will collaborate with regional districts and KASB to develop a shared legislative platform emphasizing local control and predictable school funding.
Board Member Reports
Members shared site council updates and noted positive community engagement during fall events, including Career Day at Spring Hill High School and Spring Hill Education Foundation’s State of the District breakfast.
Executive Session
The board entered executive session to discuss personnel matters of non-elected personnel. No action was taken following the executive session.
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📝 View the official minutes from the 10.27.2025 Board Meeting