Brent England

The Board discussed legislative updates, including the Strong Readers Act and a new recess law that necessitated adjustments to the school calendar. A significant portion of the meeting addressed State Question 844 regarding the ad valorem manufacturing exemption and its potential impact on future school funding. District reports covered summer school activities, facility maintenance, and ongoing construction projects, including roof repairs at Smith Elementary and the commencement of work on the fifth grade center. Additionally, the Board reviewed consent agenda items and proposed meeting dates for the upcoming calendar year.

The Board of Education discussed the annual review of policies and procedures for post-issuance compliance and continuing disclosure obligations. They successfully received and awarded bids for $7,400,000 in General Obligation Building Bonds and adopted the resolution for the issuance of said bonds, including prescribing their form and tax levy. Additionally, the Board approved overnight activity trips for the Varsity Cheer team to attend OSSAA Gameday Regionals and the Owasso High School Boys Basketball team to attend a scrimmage.

The meeting featured special recognitions for recipients of the Odyssey Angel Award and the Oklahoma Arts Excellence Award. Administrative reports covered updates on legislative sessions, including bills regarding the school calendar, the Strong Readers Act, retirement/rehire policies, and teacher salary increases. District operations reports provided updates on security enhancements, end-of-year events, infrastructure and construction projects, the addition of elementary art programs, and the assessment of district facilities following a hail storm. Additionally, recruitment and retention efforts were reviewed, including results from recent job fairs and plans for upcoming teacher contract negotiations.

The Board approved a supplemental contract with the Stacy Group for architectural services related to a track facilities project at a cost of 6% of the total construction costs. Additionally, the Board authorized a sponsorship agreement with QuikTrip for exclusive rights to a sporting event for a fee of $21,000. The Board also held a discussion regarding a potential date for a special meeting in September.

The Board of Education participated in professional development training led by the Oklahoma State School Board Association, followed by team-building activities. During the superintendent and board discussion session, the board reviewed the 5 Voices, communication strategies, and Continuous Strategic Improvement plans. They also reviewed and established goals and discussed meeting dates for the upcoming year.