By BARBARA PROFFITT | September 14, 2022

The USD 346 board met for the budget and revenue neutral rate hearing at 5:45 p.m. on Sept. 12. Superintendent Shawn Thomas reviewed state assessment result handouts and how Jayhawk students performed in comparison to the rest of the state in Math, English, and Science assessments. Some obstacles USD 346 faces include an increasing number of at-risk students and funding for special education being short each year. To address these obstacles, the district will continue to focus on smaller student-teacher ratios. Within the current budget request, we have taken steps to have something more manageable with the addition of interventionists and an additional teacher at Jayhawk Elementary this year. The district also wants to make sure that the mental health and social-emotional health issues are addressed by continuing to offer support to students facing more than just standard academic concerns.

Thomas recommended that the board pass a resolution to exceed the 2021- 2022 Revenue Neutral Rate. A motion to exceed the 2021-2022 Revenue Neutral Rate was made and seconded, the board approved the motion and then made and approved a second motion to adopt the 2022-2023 budget as published.

The school board then opened their regular monthly meeting and approved the consent agenda, which included minutes of the last meeting, bills and payroll, and all current out-of-district requests.

The board then heard from Kerry Coffel regarding a program at the elementary level which is teaching students responsibility for self by rewarding responsible choices, such as attending school each day, turning in work on time, etc.

Junior high and high school Principal Bob Beckham spoke of illness in his schools and reminded all the rule of thumb is that if the student is running a fever, even low-grade, keep them home.

Elementary principal Mark Proffitt spoke on the lunch program and the difference it is making for kids who are making healthy choices by utilizing the fresh fruit and veggies available.

Genea Bruner reported on the accreditation process, noting that this is the final year of the process and adding that Jayhawk is above average in all required areas.

Superintendent Shawn Thomas reported that students in the STARS classes are doing well; even attending STARS classes on the Friday prior to Labor Day, when USD 346 had no school.

Dawn Carlson, JLHS Art Teacher and Theater Sponsor, spoke to the board about the needs in the auditorium for new curtains, floor repairs and upgraded sound and lighting. The matter was tabled for further discussion at a later date.

The board then entered into an executive session for personnel matters. Following executive session, the board approved the transfer of Chris Felix to kitchen manager at Jayhawk Elementary.