Mandy Welch

The Communications Plan for the Rolla School District outlines comprehensive strategies to enhance communication for the 2026-27 school year. It addresses four main areas aligned with the district’s CSIP plan: Academic Success, Climate and Culture, Leadership, and Support Services. The plan aims to foster a positive school environment, ensure all stakeholders receive timely and relevant information through diverse channels, strengthen community engagement, and support the district's mission of providing excellent educational opportunities. Key objectives include expanding communication platforms, promoting student and staff achievements, increasing volunteer participation, raising early childhood education awareness, and ensuring ADA compliance for public-facing communications.

The meeting included the acceptance of staff retirements and a presentation on agenda items. The Board approved the consent agenda, including an East Central lease agreement. A long-range facilities update was provided, highlighting progress at the early childhood center, the completion of a football field, and construction updates at the concession stand and Mark Twain site. Several potential change orders for construction projects were reviewed and approved. Additionally, an overview of the fiscal year 2027 budget process was presented, covering operating revenues, tax rate assumptions, and upcoming budget milestones.

The board accepted retirements and received a presentation from the Phelps County Community Foundation regarding a donation for the early childhood center. The consent agenda, including a district-wide portrait contract and lease agreements for the early childhood center, was approved. Updates were provided on the progress of various facility projects, including turf installation, concession stand and press box renovations, and plumbing work at Mark Twain Elementary. The board authorized several change orders for the field projects and approved budget amendments for fiscal year 2026. A legislative update was provided regarding state property tax, foundation formula funding, and income tax ballot measures. Finally, a comprehensive review of the early childhood program was conducted.

The board meeting primarily focused on recognizing student achievements across various academic and extracurricular programs. Awards were presented for excellence in teaching, student scholarships, mathematics competitions, and career and technical organizations including FBLA, FFA, Skills USA, HOSA, DECA, and TSA. Additionally, the Teens Teach Prevention program was highlighted for its efforts in providing peer-led substance abuse education to junior high students to promote wellness and addiction-free living.

The City of Rolla's recently adopted Comprehensive Plan outlines five major implementation priorities to guide future development and enhance community well-being. Key strategies include revitalizing downtown Rolla, establishing a community gathering space, and fostering strategic partnerships for economic and community development with institutions like Missouri S&T and Phelps Health. The plan also focuses on addressing transportation infrastructure needs to facilitate growth and enhancing the quality of life for residents and visitors through initiatives like improved housing and code enforcement. The overall vision is to proactively grow the community and make it better for both businesses and citizens.