Francis Howell School District

The Francis Howell School District's Strategic Plan outlines a roadmap to guide its work through 2030, structured around four main pillars: Teaching and Learning, People and Workforce, Finance and Operations, and Safety and Security. The plan aims for the district to be recognized as a top-performing institution, an employer of choice, fiscally sound, known for graduating well-rounded students, celebrated for its culture and morale, and trusted by the community by 2030.

The Board meeting focused on addressing significant fiscal challenges, including a major state funding loss. A primary discussion topic was the proposed transfer of 12.5 cents from the debt service levy to the operating levy to provide ongoing revenue for the district. The Board also discussed the potential negative impact of Amendment 5 on local education funding, with community members urging the Board to take a formal stance against the amendment. Additionally, the Board approved an SRO agreement with the City of Fallon and a personnel report, both of which involved recusal from a Board member due to a conflict of interest.

The board convened to formally approve a lease purchase agreement with Clayton Holdings LLC, an action necessitated by the impending expiration of current financing rates. The board also approved the meeting agenda before adjourning the open session.

The board discussed several operational and administrative items. Key topics included the transition to a new platform called Diligent, the presentation of a vision plan for the upcoming five years, and patron comments regarding the recognition of Pride Month and the impact of insurance cost increases on staff. The board also reviewed and approved a consent agenda, purchases, a facility use rental rate increase, alternative transportation service contracts, meal and a la carte price recommendations, and the second part of a staffing plan.

The board meeting included a moment of silence for a student, followed by the pledge of allegiance. Key agenda items included a review of the strategic plan, a spotlight on progress, and numerous recognitions of student achievements. Recognitions were presented for the Francis Howell High School Golden Girls dance team for their national championship, as well as students honored for perfect ACT scores, National Merit finalist status, Missouri Scholars 100 recognition, AP Scholar with distinction awards, STEM awards, and early college program graduation.