Mark Withers

The board reviewed assessment data, facility and grounds projects, and the science program evaluation. The board approved the Curriculum Associates Invoice and the Pediatric Place contract for the 2025-2026 school year. Discussions were held regarding the WEMO Football Conference and the APR. The 2024-2025 Audit and the MSBA Policy update 2025D were approved. Reports were given on EL and JH/HS enrollments and attendance rates. The board then moved to a closed session to discuss personnel matters.

The meeting included discussions on the staff Christmas event based on survey results, an evaluation of the Math Program, and approval of several agreements including the ACH Origination Agreement, an Athletic boys golf Co-op with Butler, a Speech Service agreement from Aubrey Siegismund, the Strathman Education Service Agreement, and the Interstate Studio contract. The administrative reports covered enrollment and attendance rates for both elementary and JH/HS levels, achievements in FFA Trap and AC Football, and updates on the county-wide hazard mitigation plan and donations received for music education and nursing supplies.

The meeting included discussions and presentations on various topics, including the US Naval Academy Summer Seminar Program, Imagine Learning (Edgenuity) Contract for the 2025-2026 school year, staff Christmas plans, program evaluations, and the senior trip to Pensacola, Florida. The board also approved the turf tank proposal with the condition that Optimist agrees to contribute to the purchase. Administrative reports covered updates on homecoming activities, classroom activities, JH/HS enrollment and attendance rates, picture day, EL current enrollment and attendance rate, FFA Food for America, and three- and four-year-old screenings.

The Appleton City R-II Schoolwide Program Plan focuses on supplemental instruction in math, reading, and English Language Arts across various grade levels. It emphasizes the use of systematic reading programs and assessment tools to address student needs, particularly in phonics and mathematics. The plan aims to strengthen the academic program by implementing strategies aligned with the Dyslexia Mandate for the state of Missouri and providing individualized learning programs to address learning gaps. Additionally, it includes activities to improve students' skills outside academic areas, prepare them for postsecondary education, and provide professional development for teachers in phonics, math instruction, and virtual learning.

The meeting included the introduction of new staff members and discussions on several topics. The board appointed a Special Education LEA representative and approved the Special Education Compliance Plan. Updates to the Student Handbook were discussed, and certain items were tabled for the September meeting. Meal prices and bus routes for the 2025-2026 school year were approved, along with contracts for Apptegy, Takeoff by IXL, and HUDL. Policy Update 2025C was also approved. The Superintendent reported on the successful first week of school and the positive impact of the new cell phone procedures. The High School Principal noted an increase in enrollment, and the AC Steel Band's invitation to perform at the MMEA music conference was announced. The Elementary Principal discussed the Elementary Literacy Teamwork Vision and goals for improving student literacy.