Philip Landers

The meeting included the approval of the financial report. Key discussions centered on personnel matters, resulting in the approval of a high school teacher's retirement request. The Superintendent reported on receiving statements of qualifications from potential Construction Managers for the New Elementary School Project, outlining upcoming meetings to determine the final list, discuss square footage, and explore cost-saving measures like early ground preparation. The tentative agenda for the January 2026 meeting was also reviewed.

The meeting included a training session for the CACFP Preschool Snack Program. The board approved the financial report. Key discussions centered around the recently passed Millage extension, which, combined with building fund balances and state Partnership Funds, will finance the construction of a new elementary school. The architect presented a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) document for Construction Management Firms, advising on the process for selection and potential design modifications based on input. The board received recognition regarding the High School's academic achievement test scores, resulting in financial rewards and plans for staff bonuses and student rewards. The board adopted the Proposed Budget of Expenditures with Tax Levy for the Fiscal Year Beginning July 1, 2027, to June 30, 2028, proposing a total school tax rate of 39.0 mills. An out-of-state trip for the Middle School History Club to Washington, D.C., was approved. Recognition was given for achievements in Volleyball and Cross Country, including team and individual honors. The board tentatively set the date for the next meeting in December.

The meeting addressed the results of the Certified and Non-Certified elections to the Personnel Policies Committee. The board discussed and approved the purchase of a new air-conditioned school bus. The board recognized academic achievements, including statewide awards in growth for all districts. The board also discussed and approved a request to alter a current contract to two days per week for the remainder of the year. The board approved a Legal Transfer Approval of a Kindergarten student to Batesville and voted to increase the credit limit on the school Bank of Cave City Visa credit card. Additionally, the board approved the distribution of a bonus to all contracted employees in November. The board also acknowledged the State Tennis Results and Volleyball team's performance.

The board meeting included the Annual Report to the Public, featuring presentations on student enrollment, staff updates, academic achievement, and progress toward School Level Improvement Plan goals across elementary, middle, and high school programs. Discussions covered curriculum, assessments, extracurricular activities, and school improvement plans. The meeting also addressed the district's facilities and master plan, including a potential safe room at the high school and plans for a new elementary school, along with associated funding and millage extension considerations. The board approved the Annual Financial Report and Budget for the 2025-2026 school year, the Special Education Budget, personnel recommendations, and a resolution to allow the district to do business with Moore Family Farms. Other actions included approving an out-of-state trip for the FFA and participation in the DHS snack program for pre-school.

The board discussed the new Arkansas State Captive Insurance Program, which replaced the Arkansas School Boards Risk Management coverage for property, and approved the premium payment. They set the date for the Annual Public Meeting and Regular September Board Meeting. The board also approved the 2025-2026 State Statements of Assurance and discussed legal transfer approvals and denials. The Food Service Team was congratulated for receiving the Lunch Trailblazer Award and the Breakfast Trailblazer Award. Recommendations related to personnel were approved, including making a co-head coach for Volleyball, accepting a resignation as lunchroom worker, and amending a contract. A handbook change regarding the College Credit Scale in GPA was approved, and a resolution allowing the Superintendent to serve as a mentor in the ADE Mentoring Program was also approved.