Lansing School District

The meeting featured a summary of the Junior Board's achievements, including participation in Robert's Rules of Order training, an Eversaw leadership trip, and planning for district-wide events. The board recognized youth interns and board members involved in the Lansing SAVE program, which provides post-secondary savings accounts and financial education to students, and awarded capacity-building grants to high schools. Additionally, a presentation was provided on the 2026-2027 budget planning and financial outlook, highlighting the district's revenues, expenditures, and measures taken to address a structural deficit.

The board meeting featured a recognition ceremony honoring a staff member for 40 years of service. Reports were provided covering district surveys, open house events, and upcoming board meetings. Committee updates included a review of financial statements and the approval of monthly expenditures, as well as upcoming policy and student achievement committee discussions. The interim superintendent reported on a community engagement forum, the pilot launch of a cell phone pouch system at a high school, and celebrations for teacher appreciation and school nurse day.

The board conducted an interview with a superintendent candidate, Jessica Benavides. The candidate shared her professional background, including her experience as a principal and central office leader, her focus on instructional leadership, student achievement, and her commitment to fostering a warm, inclusive, and culturally competent school environment. Key discussion topics included managing improvement initiatives, strategies for visibility and accessibility, leading diverse groups toward consensus, and learning from past professional challenges.

The board meeting focused on the interview of a superintendent candidate, Dr. Delsa Chapman. The candidate discussed her 29-year history within the school district, her experience with magnet programs, strategies for improving student achievement, and her efforts in expanding career and technical education opportunities. Additionally, the candidate addressed the concept of cultural competence and how to support staff and students during periods of national social unrest.

This document outlines the 'Securing the Pathways' plan for the Lansing School District. It is a three-mil, ten-year financial plan designed to address critical infrastructure challenges in older schools. Key objectives include enhancing safety through the implementation of keyless entry points and electronic security cameras, as well as repairing or replacing aging infrastructure such as roofs and boilers to improve air quality and reduce energy consumption. The ultimate goal is to ensure that district funding and resources are primarily directed toward supporting student learning.