USD214 Approves New Curriculum Purchase

The USD 214 school board approved the purchase of curriculum materials for English Language Arts and science for Sullivan Elementary School, Kepley Middle School, and Ulysses High School, during their meeting April 12.

The curriculum components were chosen based on criteria set by the district, piloting and feedback by district teachers, and input from parents. Key considerations included comprehensive and systematic scope, ease of use for students and staff, and Spanish language options.

“What we’ve seen is an alignment with all of these when we talk to each of these groups,” said Kevin Warner, assistant superintendent and director of student learning.

The approved curriculums will cost the district $533,094 and last five or six years, depending on the curriculum. Staff at the middle school and high school recommended purchasing only digital curriculum where possible to best meet student needs and avoid the cost of printed workbooks and other consumables.

The board decided to look into hiring a consultant to assess district technology use and identify ways the district can use technology to meet student needs.

“We spend a lot of money each year on technology,” said Corey Burton, superintendent. “We can bring our own ideas to the table, but an expert opinion could help us get the biggest bang for our buck.”

The board is considering a restructuring of enrollment fees. Burton said the current list of fees is long and potentially confusing for parents and students.

“Parents don’t always know what the fees will be because they don’t know what classes their kids will end up taking,” Burton said. “This will make things simpler.”

Proposals include a simple $30 technology fee, to be paid before students are allowed to check out Chromebooks, as well as a $20 class fee at Ulysses High School. This would not include fees for specific classes in which students create and take home projects, such as woodworking or metal working.

The board intends to discuss fees at its May meeting.

The board approved purchasing a new bus for $139,187. The bus seats 53 students and is handicap accessible. The board also approved purchasing a Chevy Equinox for $29,100.

The board approved its yearly contract with the Kansas Association of School Boards for $12,928, as well as an additional $2,750 for legal support.

The board accepted a $14,542 from Grant Conty’s Opioid Settlement fund to be used for drug education and prevention.