Jennifer Blinzler

The meeting commenced with the approval of the agenda. Discussions during the consent agenda included the approval of bills totaling over $12.4 million, which was noted to be higher due to election costs, planning for potential bond projects, and the purchase of a tractor, plows, and a mower. Approval was also sought to let bids for window replacement at Three Trails Elementary School, contingent upon a bond passing in April. The Superintendent's report highlighted the district achieving 80.5% on its Annual Performance Report (APR), marking three consecutive years of growth, and noted plans to present detailed APR data in December. Other topics included exploring board management software, results from the culture and climate survey, and a review of enrollment numbers which showed a decrease of 161 students, attributed partly to an increase in homeschooling and decreased kindergarten enrollment. New business involved the approval of the 2026 legislative priority platform, which included amendments regarding evaluating the 4-day school week and clarifying constitutional references. The board also approved election guidelines for the April 7, 2026, election, accepted a quote for one propane-powered school bus funded through a DNR Diesel Emissions Reduction Act grant, and approved updates to the local plan for compliance and assurance statements (notably extending the age range for Young Children with Developmental Delay services to age seven). Finally, discussion occurred regarding changes to the Board of Education manual.

The meeting involved two primary presentations. The first was a detailed financial update, which covered fund balance status, projected deficit spending of approximately $9.5 million (planned due to salary raises), and significant concerns regarding potential revenue losses. Key financial concerns included an anticipated 20% cut in federal Title funds next year ($1.2 million loss), an expected $0.5 million loss in Prop C revenues due to lower enrollment, and projected local property tax losses totaling $11.55 million over three years stemming from the commercial property cap (15% AV loss) and residential property tax assessments caps (15% AV loss). The total potential revenue loss projected over the next three years exceeds $14 million. The second presentation focused on the comprehensive emergency operations plan (EOP) as it relates to Senate Bill 68, aimed at standardizing emergency management processes across the state. Discussions highlighted prevention strategies such as visitor management systems and anti-in locks, the need for ongoing communication with state agencies, and the importance of extensive, hands-on staff training for preparedness, response, and recovery components of the EOP.

The session, titled "July 21, 2025 Board Retreat AM Session," focused on introductory segments where members shared personal backgrounds, current life situations (family, careers, personal values like faith, calm, and peace), and hopes for the retreat. Key themes expressed by participants included the desire for improved communication skills, gaining new perspectives and insight, working closely together, being supportive and kind, and making the best decisions for the district's children, especially given forthcoming major decisions and new leadership.

The meeting commenced with the approval of the agenda. Key discussion points included policy review regarding public comment periods and allocation of time. The board addressed significant fiscal concerns related to county asset valuation changes and proposed state legislation (HB 1766 and HB 2709) that could result in substantial revenue losses for the district. The Superintendent also provided updates on ongoing bond presentation efforts and active recruitment initiatives by Human Resources. New business involved the approval of the Independence School District Emergency Operations Plan. Furthermore, the board approved the transition of the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) to a new provider, Comsite, emphasizing a five-year rate guarantee and transitional support for staff. Finally, the board approved the acceptance of the project AM MSA, Hearts Safe Schools Grant, which provides funding for 69 AED units across 27 Title I schools, and subsequently approved the Fiscal Year 2026 Budget Amendment, which covered carryovers, department adjustments totaling over $3.6 million, and reclassified capital technology purchases.

The Executive Session meeting addressed discussions permitted under Missouri Revised Statutes (RSMo) sections pertaining to personnel matters. Specifically, discussions involved actions related to the hiring, firing, disciplining, or promotion of particular employees where performance or individual merit was discussed, as well as individually identifiable personnel records pertaining to employees or applicants for employment. The only listed agenda item following the call to order was a motion to adjourn.