George Calhoun

The Curriculum Monitoring Committee focused on supporting the district's strategic pillar regarding student success pathways. Key discussion topics included reviewing the committee mission, establishing a framework to support data inquiry within the district, and identifying the necessary resources such as dedicated time, templates, and reporting tools. Additionally, the committee reviewed and approved a new unit curriculum document.

The Finance Committee discussed the 2025-2026 Budget Revision 3, noting increases in revenue from investment income and grants, alongside expenditure increases for bond payments, technology, security, and capital improvements. The committee also reviewed the 2026-2027 Preliminary Budget, addressing revenue uncertainties and expenditure increases related to salary and benefit adjustments, insurance premiums, and capital improvements. Furthermore, the committee evaluated ending fund balance percentages against established target ranges, reviewed current short-term investment strategies with MOSIP and MOCAAT, and received an update on the CSD Insurance Trust and anticipated rate changes.

The committee evaluated the current state of athletics and extra-curricular activities in the district, focusing on identifying areas for growth and improvement. Key discussion topics included addressing facilities, scheduling organization, athletic trainer coverage, and concerns regarding coaching staff compensation and staff morale. The committee recommended several initiatives to the board, including increasing K-5 enrichment activities, implementing K-5 music performances, improving facility accessibility and capacity during upcoming remodels, and creating a Youth Activities Director or Assistant Activities Director position to support program growth.

The committee meeting focused on reviewing progress toward strategic plan goals, specifically related to staff working conditions and resource management. The committee conducted a site visit and tour of the newly renovated library, classrooms, restrooms, fitness facilities, and offices at Rogers Middle School, culminating in a ribbon-cutting ceremony to mark the completion of these facility improvements.

This document outlines the Affton School District's commitment to ensuring a strong future by maintaining strong schools and a strong community, despite financial challenges. It reaffirms the district's mission to prepare competent, capable citizens through rigorous and customized learning, supported by a vision focused on innovative teaching, character development, and equipping students with 21st-century skills through programs like Project Lead the Way and CAPS. To address declining assessed valuation and increasing enrollment, the district is proposing Propositions I and N to secure funding for teacher retention, program protection, deficit elimination, transportation, property value maintenance, and facility improvements to support modern learning environments. Both propositions are presented as essential for the long-term financial health and continued excellence of the school district.