Eric Rhodes

The board conducted a reorganization meeting involving the disbanding of the previous board and the administration of the oath of office to new members. The meeting focused on the election of officers, resulting in the selection of a President, Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurer. Additionally, the board established the schedule for future meetings.

The board approved various financial items, including the payment of bills and a budget amendment. New service contracts were awarded for mowing and trash disposal. The board decided to move forward with CCR Roofing for a roofing audit and insurance claim process. They also authorized the development of a Request for Proposal for comprehensive technology services. Furthermore, the board approved the 26-27 program of studies, increased the board's contribution toward employee health insurance, and adopted salary schedule adjustments for both certified and classified staff. The meeting concluded with reports from school principals and a closed session to address personnel matters, including resignations and new hires.

The board meeting covered several key administrative and operational items. Discussions included presentations on the Parents as Teachers program, review of banking bids with a decision to remain with Metz Bank, and the selection of DSWA as the independent auditor. The board approved the use of Arvest Purchasing Cards, established summer building hours for staff, and authorized the hiring of summer help for the elementary school. Principal and superintendent reports provided updates on student enrollment, standardized testing, upcoming curriculum purchases for mathematics, technology infrastructure replacements, bus maintenance, and site improvements including driveway gravel. The board also handled personnel matters in executive session, including resignations, transfers, and new hires.

The board meeting covered a wide range of administrative and operational items. Key discussions included the presentation of the amended FY25 budget and the FY26 budget, approval of 2025-2026 meal prices, and finalization of 2024-2025 bus routes. The board reviewed and approved several special services contracts for physical, speech/language, and occupational therapy for the 2025-2026 school year. Additionally, the board addressed the 2025-2026 AMI plan, the development of a 5-year Comprehensive School Improvement Plan (CSIP), the creation of a new mentoring handbook for teachers, and a updated professional development plan. Other business included obtaining bids for parking lot gravel and receiving updates on new equipment and bus acquisitions. In closed session, the board handled personnel matters including resignations and new hires for various coaching and support roles.

The meeting addressed tax rate information, covering funding allocations for buses, debt for air conditioning, and books, as well as rising teacher costs. The board voted to set the 2025-2026 tax rate at 5.2597%, a decrease from the previous rate of 5.35%.