Gail E Becker

This media briefing details progress on Goal number three of the 'Every Student Future Ready Strategic Plan,' which is centered on creating a sense of safety and belonging in all schools. Key initiatives highlighted include the completion of secured entrance implementations across all district buildings and the ongoing project to install universal classroom door locks in secondary schools, enabling staff to secure any classroom from the inside. The document emphasizes strengthening schools through intentional choices and facility improvements.

The document details the oath of office proceedings for newly elected officials. The introductory remarks included congratulations to the individuals for winning their elections and acknowledged their significant commitment to serving the community's students. The main focus was administering the oath, requiring participants to swear support for the Constitutions of the United States and the State of Kansas while faithfully discharging their duties as school board members.

The meeting began with the ceremonial oath of office for newly elected members. A public hearing was held regarding the advisability of closing Chester E. Lewis Alternative Education Academy due to unsafe conditions, followed by public comment. Recognition was given for National School Board Recognition Month, highlighting various student and faculty achievements in music programs, including SCMEA honor musicians and award-winning music faculty. State athletic achievements were also recognized, including placements in girls cross country, girls golf, and soccer tournaments. A representative from United Teachers of Witchah expressed thanks to outgoing board members, congratulated new members, and discussed recent movement on educator concerns regarding workload, compensation, and notification expectations. The agenda also included updates on SEIU matters and the opening of the public communications segment.

This document presents a comprehensive recommendation for a school closure timeline, integrating community and staff feedback. It details findings from structural inspections, current facility needs based on building age and condition index, and incorporates K-12 enrollment projections extending to SY 2032. The document outlines proposed school closure dates under scenarios both with and without a bond proposal, and summarizes actions related to a capital improvement plan.

This document reports on the progress of Wichita Public Schools' 2024-2029 "Every Student Future Ready strategic plan," which aims to prepare each student for life, college, and career readiness through an innovative educational experience. The primary focus is on the strategic goal of increasing the high school graduation rate from 79.2% to 85% by 2029. The report proudly highlights the early achievement of this target, with a graduation rate of 85.1% by 2025, and details the significant gains made in closing success gaps across various student subgroups, providing specific graduation rate data for 2023, 2024, and 2025.