Excelsior Springs School Board Meeting Highlights – February 13, 2024

Watch a replay of the Feb. 2024 BOE meeting on the Excelsior Citizen YouTube Channel.

Excelsior Springs School Board Meeting Highlights – February 13, 2024

The Excelsior Springs Board of Education convened at the Support Services Center on February 13, 2024. Key actions included unanimously adopting the meeting agenda, approval of previous meeting minutes, and consent agenda items such as financial reports and construction invoices. The board approved resignations, substitute list revisions, and several contracts and agreements. Notably, Kim Curtis was recognized as the Classified Employee of the Month. Discussions encompassed academic services, with approvals for safety enhancements and Career Center expansions, including a new Sports Medicine/Physical Therapy program.

Classified Employee of the Month: Recognition of Kim Curtis, District Social Worker.

In recognition of her exceptional dedication and service, Deputy Superintendent Mark Bullimore proudly announced Miss Kim Curtis, the District Social Worker, as the Classified Employee of the Month. Miss Curtis is lauded for performing the work of multiple individuals, tirelessly addressing the diverse needs of all students, securing resources for the community, and playing a crucial role in enhancing mental health support within school buildings. Her unparalleled commitment to the Excelsior Springs community, students, and parents has made a significant, positive impact. Congratulations to Kim Curtis for her outstanding contributions.

Cabinet Reports

Human Services Report

The Human Services report detailed recent initiatives and accomplishments. The district closed its application window for the 24-25 Clay County Children’s Fund Grant on March 8th, with plans to share details about their application next month. A district-wide Panorama Survey, the second of three Social/Emotional Learning Surveys for the year, achieved over 99% completion, with results to be analyzed and shared during upcoming professional development. The report also highlighted the Character Strong Pilot in elementary schools and improvements in 504 Plan processes by the counseling department for enhanced support and consistency across schools.

Operations

The Operations Report for February 2024 highlighted several key areas within the Excelsior Springs School District. Safety and security saw the implementation of the Raptor Alert system across all buildings and an update on safety film applications. Food Services conducted finalist presentations and interviews for the Food Service Management Company (FSMC) on January 31st, with subsequent Board of Education action on the bid expected at the March BOE meeting. Attendance figures showed year-to-date improvements across all schools, with notable increases at the Middle School, High School, and Career Center, reflecting the district’s continuous efforts to enhance student presence and engagement.

Superintendent Report

The Superintendent’s report focused on strategic financial and operational plans for the Excelsior Springs School District. It highlighted intentions to enhance staff compensation, maintain comprehensive health benefits, and explore the efficacy of a 4-day school week. The report also detailed the district’s budget, noting a goal to uphold a 20% reserve by aiming for $8,000,000 in reserves against current expenditures and future financial strategies. 

Lewis Elem. Building Report

Principal Jill Comstock reviewed Lewis Elementary’s achievements at the board meeting, highlighting improved attendance and academic performance across various grades. A standout moment was when student leaders Marina and Kyle showcased the Student Council’s fundraising efforts, culminating in donating to the local animal shelter.

FY 2023 Audit Presentation

Brad Steele from Westbrook Accounting presented the Excelsior Springs School District audit report. The report covered financial performance, compliance with regulations, and recommendations for improvement. Details of the audit outcomes, including the district’s financial health and operational efficiencies, were discussed, providing a comprehensive overview of the district’s fiscal management and accountability practices.

Academic Services Report

Melissa Miller presented the Annual Academic Performance Report, focusing on year-over-year comparisons of formative strategies, data teaming interventions, and curriculum adjustments. Key topics included implementing LETRS training, regional rankings related to free/reduced lunch percentages, and academic growth metrics in ELA and Math. The report also addressed challenges such as attendance, staffing, and legislative impacts on education, alongside comparisons of district performance in core subjects and strategies to enhance academic outcomes.

Approval of Safe Haven Defense Safety Film & Agreement

Dr. Mark Bullimore presented the approval for installing Safe Haven Defense’s bullet and riot-resistant security laminate on selected windows and doors at Cornerstone, Elkhorn, and Early Childhood Center. The project, costing $199,240.73 through the TIPS cooperative agreement, is fully funded by a $200,000 DESE safety grant.

Approval of Career Center Fiscal Year 2025 Enhancement Grants

Ben Rubey requested approval for local district matching funds for Excelsior Springs Area Career Center’s Carpentry and Construction and HVAC programs, alongside funds for a new Physical Therapy/Sports Medicine program. The request includes purchasing a new table saw for Carpentry, updating HVAC equipment to meet industry standards, and buying athletic treatment tables for the new program to enhance student safety, efficiency, and preparedness for their future careers. The proposed enhancements were detailed with costs, estimated reimbursements, and the net cost to the district.

Approval of Career Center Program Expansion

Ben Rubey proposed the introduction of a Sports Medicine/Physical Therapy course at the Excelsior Springs Area Career Center, responding to significant student interest and local demand. With over 150 students expressing enthusiasm for the program, the course aims to provide comprehensive insights into various sports medicine fields, hands-on experience, and the opportunity for students to earn industry-recognized credentials. This initiative is aligned with the center’s goals to expand offerings in growing fields and guide students towards promising career paths.

Approval to Move June School Board Meeting

The Excelsior Springs Board of Education rescheduled the June meeting to Tuesday, June 25th, 2024. This adjustment aims to ensure the presentation and approval of final budget numbers coincide with the conclusion of the fiscal year, facilitating more accurate and comprehensive financial planning for the district.

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