Ste. Genevieve School District R-II

The Board of Education conducted its reorganizational and regular meeting, focusing on the swearing-in of new members, election of board officers (President, Vice President), and appointment of delegates. Key discussion topics included the review of board policies, presentation of a legislative resolution honoring a deceased community member, an overview of school financial long-term planning, and updates on superintendent reports concerning kindergarten enrollment, graduation logistics, and early childhood programming. Additionally, the meeting recognized a board member for receiving a professional development certification and highlighted student achievements.

The meeting included reports on artificial intelligence in schools and available training resources, as well as legislative updates concerning property tax legislation and school finance. The board held a recognition segment for school board recognition month. Additionally, the superintendent reported on school board elections, kindergarten registration, and upcoming assessment schedules. Presentations were given on early childhood education programs, student achievements, and various classroom initiatives including math flex groups and student-led conferences.

The meeting included the formal swearing-in of a school director. Key discussions revolved around the Missouri School Boards Association (MSBA) monthly report, which detailed Governor's proposal to phase out the individual income tax and Senate Bill Three concerning property tax caps for taxing jurisdictions, noting potential long-term financial implications for school districts. Superintendent reports covered recent activities including a visit from State Representative Ryan Wolfen, student activities during snow days in January, and health and safety programs in February coordinated with the St. John County Health Nurse, covering topics like winter safety, parking lot safety, and car seat checks. Enrollment figures were reviewed, showing an increase in Pre-K enrollment due to the new early childhood center, and stable K-12 enrollment. Other topics included the annual school board election reminder for April, School Board Recognition Month in March, kindergarten registration dates, notes of appreciation, celebrations for the 100th and 101st day of school, School Counselor Week recognitions, an Olympic kickoff event, and the first robotics competition held at the district, where student teams received awards.

The document records a recognition event, specifically the 2025-2026 Hall of Fame Ceremony. The primary focus was honoring two individuals, Mr. Terry McDaniel and Mr. Russ Tombs, for their significant contributions to their professions and the St. Genevieve County R2 school district. Mr. McDaniel's recognition highlighted his extensive career as a teacher, principal, and long-serving member of the SGR2 Board of Education, emphasizing his advocacy for public schools. Mr. Tombs was inducted into the Dragons of Honor, recognized for his 31 years in education, including roles as a math teacher, coach for multiple sports, and school counselor, with a specific mention of his leadership in developing DragonFire and strengthening graduation traditions. Both honorees gave acceptance speeches acknowledging the importance of recognition, perseverance, and education, and thanking their families and colleagues.

The meeting began with the approval of the agenda, followed by the MSBA monthly report which discussed the 2026 legislative session preview, focusing on key topics like open enrollment, expansion of charter schools, and tax issues, including property and income tax concerns related to funding streams for public schools. The Superintendent's report noted that the annual school board election concluded without an election, saving the district money, and announced dates for kindergarten registration. The board approved the amended substitute teacher salary schedule to meet the new $15 per hour minimum requirement. A draft of the proposed 2026-2027 school calendar was reviewed, highlighting changes such as the start date of August 24th, adjustments to Thanksgiving break, the timing of spring break relative to Easter, and the embedding of 36 hours for weather makeup days. Finally, an instructional program presentation was given on various high school Family and Consumer Sciences (FACS) courses, including Child Development, Nutrition and Wellness, Housing Environments Design, and World Foods, along with updates on the successful performance of the SECLA club.