Ben Anderson

The board received a presentation on alternative instruction programs and an update from the Superintendent regarding the integration of artificial intelligence in schools and the potential financial impacts of pending state legislation. New business included the approval of an OSBA participation agreement and the acquisition of ELA and Science curriculum materials from SAVVAS Learning Company for kindergarten through 9th grade. Additionally, the board approved updates to district policies and discussed upcoming agenda items for future meetings. The session concluded with an executive meeting regarding personnel matters.

The special session meeting covered routine organizational items, including the approval of the agenda and a review of board norms. A key discussion point was a Board Leadership Training session presented by Emily Omohundro, Ed Counsel. The session concluded with the Board moving into an executive session to discuss matters related to hiring, firing, disciplining, or promoting particular employees.

The meeting agenda was approved, and the consent agenda, which included the payment of bills and financial statements, was approved. Student recognition was given to several members of the Softball team for their All-State accomplishments. Key reports included updates from the Superintendent regarding the Holden Scrapheads Robotics team qualifying for State competition, presentations by Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) students about community service, a presentation on K-5, MS & HS curriculum materials from SAVVAS Learning Company, review of budget priorities survey results, and the K-12 library/media services report. The Technology Director also presented updates on digital citizenship and work order processes. New Business items included the approval of budget adjustments, adoption of the 2026-27 School Calendar (contingent on salary schedule increase and waiver request), setting the graduation date for May 23, 2027, approval of Summer School dates, acceptance of the CTE Grant proposal, and approval of a bid for classroom interactive panels. Executive sessions were held to discuss personnel matters (hiring, firing, disciplining or promoting particular employees) and a financial matter.

Key discussions during the meeting included the approval of the agenda and consent agenda items, such as the payment of bills and financial statements. Student recognition was given to three Holden High School football players for All-State accomplishments. The board received communications regarding retiree insurance. Reports were presented covering the district guidance program, including Academics, Social Emotional Regulation, Career Exploration, and Crisis Intervention Plan procedures, as well as highlights from the Bright Futures program. The Superintendent's report covered the MSBA Board Report Video, personnel updates for the 2026-27 school year, and curriculum and instruction updates. New business involved approving the three candidates for the upcoming April board election who will be sworn in at the reorganization meeting, setting tuition rates for the 2026-27 school year for PreK and K-12, and approving a wage increase for non-certified substitutes to align with the Missouri minimum wage increase. Policy reviews for MSBA policies were conducted without requiring immediate action, except for the first reading of an update. The agenda for the next meeting was reviewed, and the March board meeting was rescheduled due to spring break. Two executive sessions were held, one following the next scheduled meeting and one immediately following the current meeting to discuss personnel matters (hiring, firing, disciplining, or promoting particular employees).

This professional development plan outlines the district's commitment to continuous teacher growth and refinement of skills to ensure all students are prepared for post-secondary education or marketable skills upon graduation. The plan focuses on five major areas: Technology Integration, Professional Learning Communities, District Continuous Improvement, Team Collaboration on Curriculum Development, and Behavior Intervention Support Team & Trauma-Informed Strategies. It details objectives, strategies, and action steps for each focus area, aiming to enhance instructional practices and student achievement.