Eric Burr

The board meeting included celebrations for the Arkansas City High School Jazz Band and recognition of top staff members. Adams Elementary presented on its fine arts program. Key business items included the approval of the JAG program, the creation of a Construction Manager at Risk committee for facility projects, and approval of a lease-purchase agreement for new school buses. The board also authorized an RFP for South Athletic Complex shade structures, approved new staff laptops, and renewed KASB membership. Additionally, the board reviewed job descriptions, student attendance data, updates on state legislation, and held executive sessions regarding personnel and negotiations.

This document details the 2025 bond proposal for USD 470 Arkansas City, requesting $52,725,000. The proposal focuses on two main areas: middle school additions and renovations, and comprehensive infrastructure upgrades. Infrastructure improvements include replacing aging HVAC systems, water and sewer lines, and roofs, as well as updating access control systems.

The meeting encompassed various operational and administrative approvals. Key actions included authorizing the purchase of network infrastructure upgrades, Chromebooks, and interactive classroom projectors, along with the adoption of the 2026-27 school calendar. The board accepted an anonymous donation and approved the 2026-27 Head Start grant application. Additionally, the board initiated a request for proposals for a new phone system and discussed forming a committee to evaluate construction management services. Personnel updates were extensive, including the appointment of a new superintendent and an assistant superintendent of business and operations, alongside various hirings, resignations, and retirements. The meeting also included reports on the Local Option Budget and updates on the student handbook review process.

The meeting included several key items. Roosevelt Elementary provided its winter building report, highlighting positive academic growth and student leadership through the Student Council, along with staff efforts in family engagement. Personnel updates noted several resignations, retirements, and one hiring for an interim coaching position. Other business involved accepting an anonymous gift of $1,000 for ACMS student welfare. The Board held an executive session regarding the ongoing superintendent search. Significant actions included approving the selection of a Construction Manager at Risk for upcoming bond projects, updating KASB Policy KN concerning the complaint process to clarify non-retaliation language, and approving Policy GBK-R for administrative leave guidelines. Additionally, the Board approved updates to the Driver's Education program to align with national safety standards and award elective credit. A Request for Proposals was approved for issuing technology hardware, including Chromebooks and laptops, for the 2026-2027 school year. Updates were received regarding plans to explore a district-operated virtual learning option for 2026-2027, planned bus replacements via the Kansas Bus Purchasing Program, and planning for the Summer 2026 program. The Board also received a final update on the superintendent search process.

This strategic plan outlines core values and beliefs regarding students, leadership, staff, families, and stewardship. It focuses on five main goals: fostering a culture of success through enhanced teaching and learning, cultivating student well-being, developing a highly qualified workforce, ensuring operational excellence with modern facilities, and strengthening partnerships with stakeholders to improve student outcomes.