The USD 214 Board of Education met February 9, to address a full agenda of district business, building reports, financial matters and policy considerations.
The board approved minutes from the January 12 and January 13 meetings, as well as the High Plains Education Cooperative meeting. A transfer of $2,929,538.04 from the General Fund was approved to cover district expenses and services.
Building Reports Highlight Student Data and Concerns
Administrators from each building presented updates, with much of the discussion centered around FastBridge assessment data and student performance indicators.
At Hickok Elementary, staff reviewed how students are identified as high risk and noted broader concerns across Kansas regarding literacy and other academic challenges.
Sullivan Elementary presented performance data and highlighted observable growth among students. Administrators also shared ways parents can use assessment information to better support learning at home.
At Kepley Middle School, FastBridge data continues to be used to provide deeper insight during Parent-Teacher Conferences and guide academic interventions.
Ulysses High School administrators reviewed FastBridge results and discussed continued efforts to educate students on how GPA impacts scholarships and post-secondary tuition costs. Upcoming Parent-Teacher Conferences will focus in part on students’ future plans. It was also reported that the high school tennis courts sustained surface damage, which has been submitted for repair under warranty. Additionally, after a former student inquired about missing trophies and plaques, discussion was held about potentially redesigning a space to better recognize alumni achievements.
Across the district, board members discussed the increasing number of at-risk students and concerns regarding school safety in light of recent statewide school shutdowns due to threats.
Audit, Technology Purchases and Policy Review
Under new business, representatives from Medill & Thooft presented the district’s annual audit report. A recommendation was made to ensure deposits are made in a timely manner. The audit was approved by the board.
The board reviewed three bids for laptops and desktop computers for the high school, as well as three bids for replacement Chromebooks that are now out of warranty.
A Policy LITE Agreement with the Kansas Association of School Boards (KASB) was approved for a one-time cost of $9,500. The board also reviewed a Professional Development Plan covering 2025–2030.
The first reading of the 2026–2027 school calendar was presented. The proposed calendar includes 182 teacher contract days and 164 student days, with students finishing the school year on the 20th.
Cooperative, Donations and Personnel
The board reviewed Elkhart USD 218’s request to leave the High Plains Education Cooperative. The request was not approved, and Elkhart will remain within the cooperative.
Donations to the FFA program and the high school library were acknowledged.
In personnel matters, discussion included the school nurse position and an assistant track coach position.
The meeting concluded after covering the scheduled agenda items.
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