School Board Recap March 12, 2024

The Excelsior Springs Board of Education met on March 12, 2024, to address a range of initiatives and celebrate achievements within the district. Highlights from the meeting included the recognition of exceptional staff and the approval of educational and operational plans meant to enhance student experiences and academic outcomes. For those unable to attend or wishing to revisit the discussions, a full replay of the meeting is available via the YouTube link provided above.

Recognitions

Classified Employee of the Month: Brenda Reed, a lunch assistant at Cornerstone Elementary, was honored as the March Classified Employee of the Month, recognizing her dedicated service.
Deputy Superintendent, Mark Bullimore said Reed was recommended by numerous staff members for her outstanding contributions to Cornerstone. Colleagues lauded Reed for going above and beyond her daily duties. She is known for treating students, staff, and family members with the utmost respect, always ready to lend a helping hand with a smile on her face. Her dedication and positive attitude have made Cornerstone Elementary a better place.
School Board Appreciation Month: In line with Governor Parson’s proclamation of March as Missouri School Board Appreciation Month, the Excelsior Springs School District’s board members received MSBA Certificates of Recognition for their committed service to the district’s staff and students.

MSBA Delegate Report

MSBA Board Report Video: The board watched the March MSBA Board Report video, keeping informed on state-level educational developments.

Cabinet Reports

Academic Services Report: Dr. Miller highlighted the upcoming Kindergarten Registration, initiatives to enhance Literacy at the Secondary Level, and provided an update on Full Time Virtual Students.
Human Services Report: Dr. Everett discussed the 2024-2026 Clay County Children’s Fund Grant outcomes and the upcoming Annual Federal Programs Meeting.
Operations Report: Dr. Bullimore’s report included updates on the Website Refresh, Free Breakfast and Lunch availability during March/April, the integration of Job Corps Interns, a Student Attendance Update, and hosting the upcoming Chamber of Commerce Luncheon on March 20th.
Superintendent Report: Dr. Tomlinson shared updates on the New Tiger Stadium Scoreboard, the Energy Program’s efficiency improvements, and outlined Summer Plans including School, painting updates, and new parking lots.

Discussion / Action Items

Elkhorn Elementary Building Report: Dr. Harris provided an overview of the school’s Building Improvement Plan, academics, climate and culture, memorable moments, and leadership. Students Max and Summer shared their experiences with the Student of the Month Program and recited the Elkhorn Elementary Pledge.
Approval of Elkhorn Elementary Boundary Change: The board approved adjustments to Elkhorn Elementary’s boundary lines as proposed by Dr. Tomlinson, affecting several communities. The move is expected to affect approximately 25 households. An open house for affected families is scheduled for March 14th.
Approval of Food Service Contract: The board approved a one-year contract with Aramark Food Service for the 2024-2025 school year, including options for renewal, as presented by Dr. Bullimore and Ross Rea.
Approval of Canvas Learning Management System: An agreement with Instructure for the Canvas learning management system was approved, as presented by Dr. Miller.
Approval of School Calendar Update: The 2023-24 school calendar was amended to designate April 15th as a regular school day, a change from the previously scheduled student day off and potential staff professional development day, as recommended by Dr. Miller. This change moves the last day of school from Monday, May 20, 2024 to Friday, May 17, 2024.

See the summary supplied by the school district below which includes recent employee resignations and hires.

The ESSD School Board meets on the second Tuesday of each month at 6:30 PM at the Support Services Building in Room 8, 113 Line Street in Excelsior Springs, MO. Meetings are live-streamed courtesy of the Simmons Sales Team, Platte Clay Electric Coop, and the Excelsior Springs Hospital to the Excelsior Citizen Facebook Page, Facebook Group, and YouTube channel. Board of Education agendas and documentation can be found at the ESSD website.