Summary

The Board of Education meeting opened with a roll call and agenda approval. Superintendent Dr. Link Luttrell highlighted several achievements, including the district's Kansas Teacher of the Year nominees: Dustin Kirkpatrick of Spring Hill Elementary and Carrie Smith of Spring Hill High School. He also recognized the varsity cross-country team's performance at the Nike regional and national competitions. Additionally, a spotlight video featured retired art teacher Susan Warner, who now serves as a crossing guard at Prairie Creek Elementary School.

The board reviewed the 2025-2026 course guides and discussed updates to the strategic plan. Leah Good presented on real-world learning opportunities, noting 370 Market Value Assets (MVAs) earned by 338 students in various pathways such as digital media, restaurant management, and agriculture. Board members also shared reports on recent school events and conferences.

The meeting concluded with updates from the superintendent, including plans for community engagement and upcoming holiday programs.

Recognitions

Dr. Luttrell announced the district’s Kansas Teacher of the Year nominees for 2026: Dustin Kirkpatrick, a teacher at Spring Hill Elementary, and Kerry Smith, a teacher at Spring Hill High School. Both were praised for their contributions to student success, innovative teaching methods, and dedication to their content areas.

Cross-Country Team Achievements

Dr. Luttrell celebrated the varsity cross-country team’s success at the Nike national competition in Portland, Oregon. The team placed 14th nationally out of 22 teams, with Logan Beckman leading the team as the 42nd individual finisher.

Special Recognition to Above and Beyond Staff

Susan Warner, a Crossing Guard for Prairie Creek Elementary and Woodland Spring students, was awarded a Standing  Ovation by her peers and parents for going above and beyond and making students feel safe, loved, and welcomed. A feature video was played and can be found here: 

Strategic Plan Update

Leah Good provided an update on Market Value Assets (MVAs) as part of the district's real-world learning initiatives. She reported that 788 MVAs were attempted in the previous year, with 370 earned by 338 students across digital media, restaurant management, and agriculture pathways.

General Board Updates

Multiple board members reported attending the KASB conference and various school events, including Candyland at Spring Hill Elementary, a multicultural night at Dayton Creek Elementary, and the Beauty and the Beast musical production at the high school. 

Action Items

Board approved Course Guidelines for various grade levels.

Special Thanks to our Amazing Students!

A very special thank you to our students who provided supplementary food for the Annual Board of Education Holiday Party that followed the December 9, 2024, meeting. The Culinary Arts department provided the salad, sides, and desserts for approximately 75 people. The Horticulture students designed the centerpieces for the event.