Melissa Shelley

The Board discussed public concerns regarding school bus seat belt renovations and grant opportunities for compliance with state law. The meeting included the introduction of an interim superintendent and administrative reports regarding current daycare, high school, junior high, and elementary school activities. Key actions included the approval of library book purchases, the appointment of an adjunct faculty member for 4-H, revisions to board policy concerning T-TESS observations, the approval of teacher contracts, and the authorization of a significant purchase for a daycare camera system and technology equipment. Additionally, the Board approved administrative stipends and the purchase of real estate on Broadway following an executive session to discuss personnel matters.

The Board meeting focused on the 2025-26 budget and tax rate adoption, including M&O and I&S tax rates. Key actions included approving salary schedules, the district improvement plan, the student code of conduct, and cafeteria pricing. The Board also addressed compliance with state legislation concerning armed security officer exceptions, the formation of a school library advisory council, and student personal communication device storage. Further items included the approval of emergency operations plans, hazard mitigation plans, fuel bids, and various contractual agreements for student attendance credits and regional service contracts.

The board discussed administrative reports covering bond construction, summer school programs, student enrollment, and upcoming athletic events. Key actions included the approval of the 2024-2025 district budget, tax rates for maintenance and operation, and interest and sinking funds. The board also delegated contractual authority to the Superintendent for state education code compliance, approved the student code of conduct, awarded a fuel bid, updated cafeteria pricing, and appointed the Hansford County Tax Assessor-Collector. Additionally, the board approved various educational and policy items, including a teacher appraisal calendar, concussion oversight team members, a staff development waiver, and revisions to board policy regarding academic achievement. A bid for asbestos removal was awarded, and discussions were held regarding campus student handbook revisions and insurance payments.

The board meeting featured a public presentation regarding 2025-2026 ESSA funds and federal programs. Administrative reports covered bond and school updates, a CTE grant, drone equipment, and construction bids for a daycare and music room. Key actions included approving the addition of the Board President to the bank signature card, extending the depository contract with Western Bank, adopting the 2025-2026 teacher appraisal calendar, and approving continuing education training. Furthermore, the board finalized the Teacher Incentive Allotment spending plan, approved changes to the high school student handbook regarding tier points, and authorized policy update 125. The board also held an executive session to discuss personnel matters.

The board received administrative reports concerning construction progress, district competitions, and updates from the high school, elementary, and junior high principals regarding student enrollment and various campus activities. Key actions included approving policy update 126, rescheduling the annual teacher incentive allotment disbursement, authorizing updates to the high school GPA tier structure, and passing budget amendments for both the current and upcoming fiscal years. Additionally, the board approved funds for sewer line repairs and discussed the upcoming school board meeting date, the implications of HB 103 on bond election results, and reviewed financial revenue and expenditure reports.