View the 11.10.2025 meeting agenda on BoardDocs
Overall Summary
The Spring Hill Board of Education met Nov. 10, 2025, to review major updates on district finances, bond construction, and sustainability initiatives. Board members received a clean annual audit, heard encouraging progress on the 2025 bond projects, and discussed long-term energy savings from the district’s solar array system. The meeting also included several approved action items and concluded with an executive session regarding personnel matters.
Public Participation
A parent addressed the board regarding an incident involving their child with special needs on a First Student bus route. The parent explained that the child became extremely upset after a substitute driver allegedly ignored requests for help during an unruly situation on the bus.
The parent expressed frustration about the lack of communication and transparency from First Student, which conducted its own investigation and reported no issues. They asked the board to review the incident and consider revisiting the district’s transportation contract to establish stronger communication and accountability measures for families.
Good News, Recognitions, and Announcements
Director of Communication and Engagement Scott Peavey recognized members of the Spring Hill High School FFA chapter for their recent achievements at state and national competitions.
FFA representatives shared highlights from their trip to the National FFA Convention in Indianapolis, where students participated in leadership events, workshops, and competitions showcasing agricultural education and career readiness. Members expressed appreciation to the board and district for their continued support of agricultural programs, which provide hands-on learning opportunities and leadership development.
Board members commended the students for representing Spring Hill Schools with professionalism and enthusiasm. President Nicole Melius thanked the group for their dedication, noting that their success reflects the district’s strong emphasis on career and technical education pathways.
The board also extended appreciation to the FFA sponsors and staff who helped prepare students for their competitions and coordinated the national trip.
Bond Update
Executive Director of Operations Marc Williams presented the November bond update, reporting visible progress across the district’s elementary sites. Construction fencing and signage are now installed, and the district remains within the approved $12 million budget for the three elementary projects.
Roof bids totaling approximately $5.7 million were set to open that week, managed by Garland Company with certified contractors. Williams said he anticipates bringing the results to the board for approval in December. HVAC bids will be issued in early December, with board review expected in January.
The high school’s Career and Technical Education (CTE) and commons additions have extended design phases, with the bid process planned for May and June 2026. Williams noted this will not affect construction timelines. He also reported permit delays with the City of Olathe that temporarily prevented placement of job site trailers but said a resolution was expected soon.
Supplemental Salary Schedule Study
Peavey and Spring Hill Education Association representatives Elizabeth Moore and Rebecca Boomgarden presented an update on the Supplemental Salary Schedule Study.
The committee spent the past year reviewing and redesigning the district’s supplemental pay structure to improve fairness and competitiveness for coaches and activity sponsors. The proposal introduces a tiered system and experience-based steps similar to neighboring districts.
The draft will continue to be refined and is expected to be part of SHEA negotiations during the next master agreement process.
Finance and Audit Report
Sean Gordon of Gordon CPA presented the fiscal year 2025 audit, issuing an unmodified opinion—the highest rating available under regulatory accounting standards. The district reported nearly $22 million in cash on hand as of June 30, 2025.
The audit reviewed receipts, expenditures, and long-term debt, including the district’s transition to new First Option Bank credit cards. Gordon commended Director of Finance Nathan Holder and staff for maintaining strong internal controls and compliance.
The audit also included a single audit review of federal special education grants, which likewise received an unmodified opinion, confirming all federal requirements were met.
Energy and Sustainability
Director of Facilities Kyley Delphia provided an update on the district’s solar array system, highlighting a 36–38% reduction in annual electricity costs since implementation. Annual savings total between $113,000 and $116,000 compared with pre-installation averages.
The solar project—funded entirely by Evergy—has a 20-year agreement with an annual district cost of about $103,600, covering all maintenance and equipment replacement. Delphia noted that while the district could purchase the array after five years, doing so would shift maintenance costs and was not recommended.
Action Items
Way Church Long-Term Facility Use – Approved unanimously (7–0) as presented.
199th Street Project MOU Addendum – Approved unanimously (7–0).
Board Management Platform – Version 2 with a $1,500 transition allowance. Approved unanimously (7–0).
Superintendent Search Firm – Tabled for further review; board members will schedule a special meeting if needed for interviews. Tabled (no vote count required)
Consent Agenda – The board approved routine items, including minutes, bills, and personnel recommendations.
Board Member Reports
Board Member Doug Hull shared his experience attending a career fair at Emporia State University with district staff, describing it as a valuable opportunity to engage with future educators and university leaders. He also praised the district’s Unified Bowling team, calling the event “a rewarding experience” and commending coach Ashley Mars for building an inclusive program that continues to grow. Hull offered to volunteer as a driver if needed to ensure every interested student can participate.
He also reported on the Prairie Creek Elementary Site Council, noting improved traffic flow after modifications to the school’s pickup circle, 93% parent participation in fall conferences, and preparations for the school’s Veterans Day celebration with 60 veterans expected to attend. Hull highlighted Principal Mrs. Skibbe’s expanded student leadership team program, which gives fourth- and fifth-grade students volunteer leadership roles throughout the school.
Board President Nicole Melius echoed Hull’s praise for the Unified Bowling program and shared her attendance at the City of Olathe’s State of the City Luncheon, where the district was recognized as one of Olathe’s “superior school districts.” Melius also attended the Spring Hill Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner, hosted by Board Member Sharon Mitchell, and commended the event for demonstrating strong community and business support for local schools.
Board Member Jon Chitwood reported ongoing work to develop new career and technical education (CTE) partnerships with local employers to strengthen workforce readiness opportunities for students.
Superintendent’s Report
Superintendent Dr. Link Luttrell gave a brief report highlighting upcoming Veterans Day programs across the district and encouraging board members to attend. He commended students and staff for their preparation and noted the importance of honoring veterans through meaningful school ceremonies.
Luttrell also recognized the conclusion of a successful fall sports and activities season, praising both middle and high school students for strong performances in athletics and fine arts. He said winter sports practices were beginning and encouraged continued community support for student activities.
Executive Session
The board entered executive session to discuss personnel matters of non-elected personnel. No action was taken following the executive session.
📄 View the 11.10.2025 meeting agenda on BoardDocs
📝 View the official minutes from the 11.10.2025 Board Meeting