Shawnee Mission School District

The board meeting included a superintendent's report highlighting student graduation achievements, milestones for transition and Project Search programs, and an academic spotlight on Rosland Elementary School. There was an update on the upcoming cell phone policy and the instructional framework for technology use in classrooms. Additionally, the meeting served to recognize and celebrate the legacy of Dr. Neil's 32.5 years of service. Board reports were provided regarding the Shawnee Mission Area Council, the Shawnee Mission Education Foundation, and the Leadership Shawnee Mission program.

The committee meeting focused on several infrastructure and capital projects, including updates on the Early Childhood Education Center, the combo turf field at West High School, and various summer aesthetic and mechanical improvements at multiple school sites. Additionally, the committee discussed the benchmarking of career tech centers to inform the development of a new career technical education campus, long-term plans for elementary school rebuilds, and the potential creation of a centralized professional learning conference center. The meeting also addressed future athletic and performing arts upgrades, including turf field replacements, athletic complex lighting, and sound system improvements, alongside ongoing safety and security initiatives.

This document outlines the implementation schedule for Strategy 4 of the district's Cycle II Strategic Plan. This strategy focuses on ensuring the intentional and innovative use of relevant technology throughout the district to achieve its mission. Key initiatives include supporting teaching and learning with research-based technologies, developing a curriculum and instructional technology team, auditing current instructional technology use, and creating developmental guides for age-appropriate technology usage. Additionally, the plan emphasizes adopting an evidence-based framework and providing ongoing professional learning and resources to ensure all employees and students are equipped to utilize current and future technology effectively.

The board meeting featured a student presentation from Highlands Elementary regarding their schoolwide mailbox project and a superintendent's report highlighting ReadAcross SMSD, outstanding achievement recognitions for students, and examples of real-world learning initiatives. Additionally, the superintendent addressed educator appreciation, the upcoming Sun Meals summer program, and high school commencement preparations. Individual board reports included a PTA update and a detailed debriefing on a recent trip to Washington D.C. by the Kansas Association of School Boards, which focused on federal education advocacy, the structure of the U.S. Department of Education, and legislative priorities.

This document outlines the high school program planning guide for the 2026-2027 academic year, designed to assist students in making thoughtful decisions about courses, experiences, and pathways. It aims to prepare students for college and careers by focusing on personal growth, skill development, and the acquisition of Market Value Assets (MVAs). The guide supports students in exploring areas of interest and career trajectories, aligning with the district's strategic commitment to student success through authentic learning opportunities.