Summary

The Board of Education meeting covered various topics, including veteran recognition, approval of the agenda and consent agenda, good news and recognitions, facility assessments, facility usage plans, and a sound system replacement for Spring Hill Middle School gymnasium. Superintendent Dr. Link Luttrell highlighted the district's academic and facility maintenance achievements. The district was commended for its robust state assessment and civic engagement performance. The facilities maintenance team was acknowledged for implementing energy curtailments that resulted in cost savings. The boys’ cross-country team was also celebrated for winning the state title and making history at the Nike Cross Heartland regional competition.

The board reviewed the facility assessment plan presented by DLR Group, which included recommendations for building improvements, additions, and enhanced programming. Facility usage, focusing on high school access, was discussed at length. The board also approved purchasing a new Spring Hill Middle School gymnasium sound system. The meeting concluded with board member reports and the superintendent’s report.

Opening and Approval of Agenda

The meeting began with the recognition of community veterans. The board conducted a roll call and approved the agenda. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited and reminded of the district's mission and vision.

Consent Agenda Approval

The board approved the consent agenda, which included minutes approval, personnel matters, copy paper purchase, Spring Hill High School athletic conference movement, Narcan agreement, and reorder of U.S. history and civics documents.

Good News, Recognitions, and Announcements

Dr. Luttrell presented several accomplishments, including

 academic achievements, facilities maintenance recognition, and athletic success. The district was recognized for outstanding performance in state assessments and civic engagement. The facilities maintenance department was acknowledged for implementing energy curtailments that resulted in cost savings. The boys' cross-country team was celebrated for winning the state title and making history at the Nike Cross Heartland regional competition.

Discussion Topics:

Strategic Plan Update

Dr. Erin Smith, Director of Teaching and Learning, presented an update on the district's performance in state assessments compared to peer groups. Spring Hill ranked highly among Johnson County schools and led in performance among neighboring counties in math, English language arts, and science assessments.

BIST (Behavior Intervention Support Team) Presentation

Mrs. Cindy Dziadosz presented information on the BIST program, which provides behavior intervention support for teachers and buildings. The program focuses on grace and accountability, using common adult language and responses to behaviors. The board discussed the implementation of BIST across different schools and its alignment with other programs like Leader in Me.

Auditor’s Report

The District is required by law to have an independent audit done annually. Sean Gordon with Gordon, CPA, will share a summary of the 2023-2024 audit results. The audit encompasses not only district-wide procedures such as accounts payable and payroll but also looks at the building-level activity funds and petty cash accounts. This year, there were two single audit pieces: the Special Education (IDEA) Cluster and ESSER funding. 

Course Guides 2025-26

Mrs. Kristen Zuck presented the 2025-26 Course Guides for Elementary, Middle, and High School. At the December 9, 2024, regular meeting, the board will be asked to approve them.

Facility Assessment Plan Update

Mr. Josh Erhart and Scott Pashia with DLR Group presented an update on the facility assessment plan, which included recommendations for building improvements, additions, and enhanced programming. The board discussed the need for a prioritized list of maintenance needs and a clear timeline for implementation.

Facility Usage Plan Discussion

The board discussed the facility usage plan, focusing on high school facility access. They discussed potential exceptions for specific groups and the need for legal guidance on permissible usage policies.

Sound System Replacement for Spring Hill Middle School

Mr. Phill Elliott, Director of Technology, proposed replacing the sound system at Spring Hill Middle School. The board approved the purchase and installation of the new system.

Board Member Reports and Superintendent's Report

Board members shared updates on recent site council meetings and Veterans Day assemblies. Dr. Luttrell provided a superintendent's report highlighting upcoming events and opportunities for leadership programs.