Summary

Dr. Link Luttrell, Superintendent, recognized the Board of Education members for National School Board Recognition Month, highlighting their volunteer service and oversight of the district's operations.

DLR presented updates on the Facility Master Plan and bond recommendations, discussing potential school improvements, including HVAC upgrades, classroom additions, and CTE expansion—ballot language proposals for a possible $60 million bond issue, and discussing financing options and legal requirements.

Dr. Erin Smith, Director of Teaching and Learning, presented instructional materials pilot proposals for various subjects, detailing the review process and timeline for implementation.

Mark Meek, Spring Hill Middle School Principal, presented the Purple Star application initiative to serve military families in the district better.

The board also discussed legislative priorities, public participation guidelines, and various administrative appointments.

Organizational Elections and Policies 

Board members discussed the statutory requirement to review officer elections and organizational policies every January. Options for aligning this process with the school year were debated, with a consensus to maintain elections and organizational decisions in July for consistency. A motion to amend the agenda for resolution approval was unanimously passed.

Recognitions and Achievements 

Dr. Luttrell highlighted January as National School Board Recognition Month, honoring board members for their service to the district’s 4,000 students, 600 employees, and $95 million budget. Each board member received a certificate of appreciation and a framed photo of the district building.

Brock LaPlante, a secondary educator, was celebrated for receiving the prestigious Kansas Horizon Award, marking him as one of 32 educators statewide to be honored for excellence in teaching. Additionally, a $13,000 donation from Seats Manufacturing’s charitable arm was announced, supporting STEM initiatives through Project Lead the Way.

Community Engagement and Early Education 

A video showcasing the district’s Early Learning Academy highlighted its pivotal role in preparing students for kindergarten, particularly those with special needs. 

Facility Master Plan and Bond Discussion 

DLR Group presented updates on the district’s Facility Master Plan, emphasizing its role as a living document for long-term planning. 

Recommendation from the Community Engagement Committee. Key recommendations include:

• CTE Addition and Commons Expansion at SHHS

• Additional classrooms at elementary schools: SHES, TSES, PCES

• HVAC upgrades at SHES, SHMS, SHELA

• Roof replacements at HSES and SHMS

Projected costs for these initiatives total approximately $63 million, and discussions included a proposed May 13 special election to approve a $60 million bond. Board members expressed concerns about balancing future growth, capacity needs, and fiscal responsibility while maintaining transparency with the community.

Good News and Maintenance Excellence 

The board commended the district’s maintenance staff for their efforts during a recent winter storm. Led by Kyley Delphia, Director of Facilities, the team worked tirelessly to ensure schools were safe and operational.

Action Items

Board approved the recommendation for the Director of Human Resources and the recommendation for the Director of Special Services. 

Next Steps 

The board will continue deliberating the bond proposal and facility plans, with decisions expected by the end of January to meet election office deadlines. A follow-up meeting is scheduled for late January to finalize resolutions and ballot language.