Marian Hessler

The Superintendent provided reports highlighting the achievements of various sports teams, specifically the boys volleyball team's state championship. Updates were provided regarding the YMCA summer day camp, facility maintenance progress, and upcoming election information. The Board discussed public concerns regarding library book content, clarifying the district's policies on monitorable reading material and legal proceedings. Board members expressed their appreciation for support staff including bus drivers, custodians, and maintenance teams.

The meeting included the approval of bills and the Kent ISD 2026-2027 budget, alongside a second reading of various district policies and bylaws. Human resources updates highlighted staff retirement recognition, mentor programs, and ongoing principal interviews. The budget update noted the completion of a preliminary audit and upcoming revenue estimation conferences, while the curriculum update covered the conclusion of elementary testing, ongoing high school AP testing, and planning for summer programs and the 2026-2027 instructional calendar. The superintendent provided reports on staff appreciation, nurses week, and local district art events.

The board meeting covered a budget update, including the timeline for preliminary and final audits, and a curriculum update from the Sex Education Advisory Board which recommended no changes to the reproductive health curriculum but suggested new goals regarding parent notices, teacher training, and opt-out tracking. The curriculum report also highlighted success in the Michigan Student Voice Survey and detailed the upcoming state testing schedule. The superintendent's report included planning for the next academic year, updates on construction projects, and acknowledgment of various partnerships between the school district and the community, including awards for literacy and student art initiatives.

This Annual Education Report for Bushnell Elementary provides key information on the school's educational progress and strategic initiatives. The school is committed to providing high-quality learning for every student daily, with a focus on targeted interventions for students with achievement gaps and disabilities. Strategic priorities include continuous improvement goals informed by various data sources, leveraging the Michigan Merit Curriculum and Academic Standards, and implementing a Positive Behavior Intervention Support System (PBIS) within a comprehensive Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS). The plan emphasizes frequent progress monitoring, fostering student success in essential content and skills for postsecondary experiences, and developing the whole child through strong family partnerships and a focus on respect, responsibility, and safety.

The meeting included a curriculum update regarding master schedules, state assessments, and the transition to spring sports. The Superintendent's report highlighted the successful second trimester, achievements of student athletes in winter sports, and recent accomplishments of the FFA chapter. Additionally, the report covered contract negotiations with bus drivers, upcoming roof bids for Murray Lake, and the status of construction at Cherry Creek Elementary. Board members discussed various school activities, including the high school musical and potential service projects.