Jeff Crouse

The meeting commenced with the recognition of the BLHS Boys and Girls Wrestling teams for achieving KSHSAA Class 5A State Champions titles. The wrestling coaches subsequently presented out-of-state travel requests for summer and winter camps for both the girls' and boys' programs. The Head Volleyball Coach also presented an out-of-state travel request for a summer camp. Presentations were made regarding the Career Pathways program currently active at Basehor Intermediate School and Glenwood Ridge Elementary. A $450 donation from 4 Seam Baseball LLC for a display board for the BLHS baseball team was reviewed. An update on Bond 2024 indicated construction is on schedule for Summer 2026 completion, with tennis court installation imminent. The Superintendent's Report highlighted the successful first-time hosting of Reality U for eighth graders, the upcoming retirement reception, congratulations to state champions in Girls Basketball and Girls Powerlifting, and the recognition of a teacher awarded a Kansas Master Teacher distinction. Furthermore, requests for bids will soon be issued for additional football stadium bleachers and potential press box improvements.

Key discussions during the meeting included an update on JAG (Jobs for America's Graduates) regarding updated KSDE graduation requirements and Career Development Conferences. The USD 458 audit results were presented, showing that the district met or exceeded all metrics with no major findings. The Board reviewed and approved several donations from the Bobcat Wrestling Club and the New Century Club for specific school enhancements. An out-of-state travel request for the BLHS cheer squad was discussed. Updates on Bond 2024 construction progress were provided, along with a discussion concerning the guaranteed maximum price summary for new tennis court construction. Decisions were made regarding the purchase of new iPads and MacBooks for the upcoming school year. Results from the KSDE accountability report were shared, highlighting the district's continued success in academic standing and graduation rates, alongside a decrease in chronic absenteeism. The Superintendent's Report covered various district events, including a Kauffman Foundation celebration, Kansas Day events at elementary schools, and a BIS STEM Showcase.

Key discussions included the introduction of new board members and recognition of Board of Education Recognition Month. A presentation on the BLMS Career Fair shared student experiences. The Board received an Opaa! Business Review, noting current lunch meal service statistics and low lunch participation rates, and discussed the online free/reduced lunch application process. Updates were provided on Bond 2024 projects, which are on schedule due to favorable January weather. Principals presented first reads of building handbook updates, including clarifications and head lice policy changes, and the Superintendent presented first reads of December 2025 Board of Education Policy updates. The Superintendent's report covered upcoming events, District Site Council meeting details, discussions with legislators regarding the funding formula, particularly Special Education funding shortfalls, and an upcoming work session. Action items included the approval of contract extensions for building level administrators for the 2026-2027 school year, approval of BLHS Course Description Guide changes, approval of a resolution to move meeting dates/officer appointments to July, approval of the 2026-2027 Academic Calendar, approval of several new staff appointments, and approval of several staff resignations.

The Board of Education meeting included a presentation by the BLHS football team and Coach Stallbaumer for finishing 2nd in the State. Updates on Bond 2024 were presented by Josh Weber and Troy Fuqua with Eskie & Associates. Mrs. Morrison presented the BLHS Course Description Guide changes for the 2026-2027 school year and a BLHS boys soccer grant from the Victory Project. Dr. Pretz presented the 2026-2027 Academic Calendar as a first read. The Board approved the 2026-2027 Fee Schedule, BLHS new course proposals, and the BLHS boys soccer donation from Victory Project. They appointed Jared Jackson to fill the vacancy in the At-Large position and approved several appointments and resignations. The Board also approved the retirement of Richard Jennings and others, the termination of Christine Engel, and the extension of contracts with District Level Administrators. An executive session was held to discuss matters related to non-elected personnel.

The meeting included discussions and presentations on various topics, such as the proposal for a trap team at BLHS, an out-of-state wrestling trip to Nebraska, and a Bond 2024 update. The Board also reviewed a donation to BLHS Ceramics, BLHS course proposals for the 2026-2027 school year, and the 2026-2027 Fee Schedule. Additionally, they discussed the BOE Vacancy application and timeline. The Superintendent's Report highlighted the Parents as Teachers program achieving Blue Ribbon Status and the launch of the Beacon Connect Family App. Action items included approving the wrestling travel request, the ceramics donation, the use of the BLHS name and logo for the trap shooting team, and various personnel appointments, resignations, and retirements. The meeting also involved an executive session to discuss matters related to non-elected personnel.