Arkansas City Unified School District 470

The Board meeting included several recognitions, such as congratulating students elected to regional positions and staff members receiving awards. Key actions included the approval of the sale of General Obligation Bonds, Series 2026, which resulted in an interest rate lower than projected. Several policy updates recommended by the Kansas Association of School Boards were approved, covering topics such as the Use of Artificial Intelligence, Religion in Curriculum, and the Bullying Plan. Other business involved approving committee assignments, authorizing an RFP for E-Rate Category 2 network equipment, approving non-CTE course changes for the upcoming school year, reviewing legislative activity, and reviewing conceptual designs for secure entry improvements at two elementary schools. The Board also approved one-year contract extensions for all building administrators and held executive sessions regarding non-elected personnel and a complaint.

This community assessment for USD 470 Head Start meticulously gathers and analyzes data on the conditions, strengths, and barriers impacting children and families in Cowley County, Kansas. The findings are intended to inform the program's strategic planning, service delivery, and continuous improvement efforts. Key program planning priorities emphasize family engagement, fostering partnerships with community resources, supporting health and family well-being, and leveraging data collection for continuous improvement to ensure school readiness through quality programming. The overarching goal is to prepare children for school success and strengthen families.

The Board reviewed cost scenarios for the former Ark City Medical Clinic property and approved extending an offer of $460,000 for the property, along with approving a comprehensive renovation option to convert it into a combined district office and technology facility. Funding is expected to come from bond funds and capital outlay, benefiting from over $3 million in savings due to a lower bond interest rate; plans also include selling the current district office to offset costs. The Board also discussed superintendent search services, reviewed proposals from four organizations, and subsequently approved contracting with ESSDACK/Greenbush for the search, with Dr. Chad Higgins serving as lead consultant on an estimated 8 to 12-week timeline. In other business, a constituent addressed the Board regarding the Radio Lane property and other district-owned properties.

The meeting included recognition of the Board of Education for School Board Recognition Month. Key actions involved authorizing district administration to proceed with selling the remaining bonds after January 15th, with expectations of a lower average interest rate. Several policy updates recommended by the Kansas Association of School Boards (KASB) were approved, covering topics like Executive Session recording, association memberships, and graduation requirements, while others, such as Artificial Intelligence use and Controversial Issues, were tabled. Personnel actions included accepting resignations/retirements and processing several reassignments and new hires. Other business involved accepting several generous gifts to support district programs, holding an executive session regarding the superintendent search, authorizing an application for continued Head Start funding, and approving the purchase of four district vehicles and a new forklift. The Board also received counsel regarding the constitutional risk of including prayer at meetings, reviewed updated job descriptions, and reviewed proposed non-CTE course changes for the next school year.

The Board recognized Chris VanGilder, Arkansas City High School Band Director, for an award. An update was presented on Arkansas City High School, highlighting student success and engagement. The Board amended the agenda to include a third executive session, accepted a donation for the Warm Hearts Fund, and heard from Rev. Tim Milby about reviving the baccalaureate service for seniors. Outgoing Board members were recognized. The Board approved the issuance and sale of General Obligation Bonds, Series 2025, reviewed a request regarding a baccalaureate ceremony, and approved the district's updated School Action Plan. They reviewed updated priorities in the district's Strategic Plan, approved updates to middle and high school courses, and reviewed KASB's December 2025 policy updates. An update was received from the Calendar Committee. The Board discussed the former clinic property on Radio Lane and held executive sessions to discuss non-elected personnel and administrative contracts. The Board accepted Dr. Ron Ballard's retirement, approved extending contracts for Assistant Superintendents, and approved holding a special meeting on December 22.