View the 12.08.25 meeting agenda on BoardDocs
Overall Summary
The December 8, 2025 meeting of the USD 230 Board of Education covered a wide range of significant district updates and actions, including major facilities projects, financial reporting, board member recognitions, and personnel decisions. Key approvals included contracts for new roofs at Spring Hill Elementary and Spring Hill Middle School, early procurement of electrical equipment for upcoming HVAC upgrades, and the replacement of the Prairie Creek Elementary playground. The board also voted to extend Superintendent Dr. Link Luttrell’s contract through June 30, 2028, providing continuity and stability as the district prepares for a future superintendent search. The meeting additionally featured recognitions of outstanding staff, farewell reflections from outgoing board members, and updates from across the district.
Public Participation
During public comment, community member Liz Howell expressed her appreciation for outgoing board members, acknowledging their years of service, leadership, and dedication to Spring Hill Schools.
Good News, Recognitions, and Announcements
The district recognized Nick Stiles, Network Engineer, with the December Core Value Award for World-Class Staff. Director of Technology Billy Terry shared reflections on Nick’s twelve years of service and his essential role in supporting technology systems across the district.
The board also honored outgoing members Keith Ewing, Nicole Melius, and Sharon Mitchell. Colleagues and Superintendent Dr. Link Luttrell offered remarks celebrating their leadership and contributions. Each outgoing member shared personal reflections, highlighting experiences from their years on the board, the district’s growth, and the importance of collaborative, student-centered governance.
Facilities Updates and Bond Projects
Roofing Projects Approved
Director of Operations Mark Williams presented recommendations for full roof replacements at Spring Hill Elementary School and Spring Hill Middle School. After reviewing bid details and construction timelines, the board approved:
Spring Hill Elementary: Premier Contracting – $2,651,812
Spring Hill Middle School: Delta – $3,765,467
Together, the projects total just over $6.4 million, coming in under the $7 million bond budget. Construction will begin this summer and continue into early fall, with work sequenced to minimize disruption.
HVAC Electrical Equipment Change Order
To keep the district’s HVAC upgrade schedule on track, the board approved a $184,800 change order to purchase electrical switchboard equipment with long manufacturing lead times. Though tied to the upcoming HVAC project, the early purchase ensures availability for summer installation and prevents project delays.
Prairie Creek Elementary Playground Upgrade
Principal Jennie Skibbe, district staff, and Prairie Creek’s Student Leadership Team presented the proposed replacement of the school’s nearly 20-year-old playground. Students played an active role in the design process, identifying priorities such as inclusive equipment, expanded climbing structures, more swings, and updated safety surfacing.
The full project cost is $440,437.15, and the district qualifies for a matching grant that requires approval before the end of the year. While some board members expressed concerns about timing, budgeting, and long-term capital planning, the majority supported moving forward to ensure safety, equity, and timely grant eligibility.
Financial Update
Director of Business and Finance Nathan Holder provided a financial update showing that district revenues and expenditures are tracking closely with prior-year levels. Capital outlay spending continues to follow an intentional pacing strategy to rebuild reserves. Nutrition Services and the Special Reserve Fund remain strong, while Special Education spending is trending slightly higher than expected and will continue to be monitored. Board members expressed interest in additional forecasting tools to enhance financial transparency.
Board Member and Superintendent Reports
Board members shared updates from recent building site councils, district activities, and the Kansas Association of School Boards (KASB) conference. Superintendent Luttrell highlighted upcoming initiatives and expressed gratitude to outgoing board members for their service, leadership, and commitment to the Spring Hill community.
Executive Session and Contract Action
The board entered executive session to discuss personnel matters. Following the session, members voted to amend the Superintendent’s contract, extending Dr. Link Luttrell’s service through June 30, 2028.
Board Member Doug Hull emphasized that this extension supports a smooth and stable leadership transition as the district prepares for a future superintendent search. Dr. Luttrell had previously planned to conclude his tenure at the end of his contract in June 2027; however, with three newly elected board members beginning service in January 2026, the Board determined that providing an additional year of continuity would give the incoming full seven-member Board the necessary time to collaborate, align priorities, and conduct a thoughtful, community-informed search process.
The Board will continue developing a comprehensive Superintendent Succession Plan, with additional details to be shared as the process moves forward.
📝 View the official minutes from the 12.08.2025 Board Meeting