USD 214 Board of Education met March 9, approving district bills totaling $2,087,161.25 and hearing reports from students and administrators during the regular meeting.
Following the usual opening formalities, the board approved the meeting agenda and consent items before hearing a presentation from students regarding a new podcast initiative at the school.
Student Podcast
Initiative
Students shared plans for a student-run podcast designed to help bring the student body together while also providing a way to connect with the broader community. The project has been developed through brainstorming sessions among students and staff and will feature episodes released twice each week.
To help support the program, the district accepted a $5,000 grant from the Grant County Community Foundation that will assist with equipment and production needs.
Building and
Administrative Reports
During building reports, administrators provided updates on activities and programs across the district.
Sullivan Elementary shared information regarding an upcoming conference, while Kepley Middle School reported on developments in its wrestling program and the JAG-K program.
At the high school, Principal Mr. Rietchek was absent while attending a ceremony in Topeka where he received recognition as Assistant Principal of the Year. Mr. Coffey reported on the Kansas State Assessments (KSA), explaining how the testing system measures student success and how staff are working to prepare students adequately.
The assistant superintendent’s report included updates on district technology initiatives, including the use of digital signatures for district documentation. Additional discussion focused on Career and Technical Education (CTE) programming and ongoing work to improve student accountability measures for at-risk students.
Administrators also discussed proposed state legislation that would limit or remove cell phone use within schools.
Superintendent’s Report
Superintendent Dr. Applegate reported that a formal plan to address issues with the Kepley Middle School kitchen will be presented at next month’s meeting. Proposed improvements include increasing ventilation and replacing the current dishwashing equipment.
Board Discussion and Other Business
Board member Ms. Gee expressed condolences on behalf of the school board to The Ulysses News following the passing of Amanda Wallace-Murphy.
Board members also discussed concerns regarding ongoing legislative decisions that could impact funding for special education programs throughout Kansas.
Dr. Warner introduced the concept of a ThoughtExchange program designed to gather community feedback regarding school bond discussions. The proposed program would cost approximately $63,000 for a three-year contract and would include a community survey component.
The board also discussed participation in the Kansas Association of School Boards (KASB) Legal Assistance Fund and future planning related to the growing impact of artificial intelligence in education.
Approvals
During the meeting, the board approved several items, including:
● Acceptance of the $5,000 Grant County Community Foundation grant for the podcast project
● The USD 214 Professional Development plan
● The district’s proposed school calendar
● Previous board meeting minutes
The board concluded the meeting with a 20-minute executive session before adjourning.
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